Upcoming Retreat Dates:

Below are the upcoming retreat periods. You can pre-register or join the group that suits your timing:

1. December 18 -28, 2025 (Music Festival Retreat)

2. January & March 2026

3. March & April 2026 Dakar (soon more info)

1 Retreat Schedule December 2025: Day-by-Day Program

Day 1 – Arrival in Abene

Welcome to the heart of Casamance! Today is all about arrival, settling in, and gently landing in the energy of Senegal. In the evening, we’ll get to know each other and introduce you to the journey ahead.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 2 – Connection with the Village

After breakfast, we take a guided walk through the village of Abene. You’ll visit the sacred Batangworoo tree, explore the local market, and later cook together with local women – a heartfelt cultural experience.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 3 – Coastal Walk and Fishing Culture

Today we follow the coastline from Abene to the fishing village of Kafountine. We visit the beach where local boats arrive, see how fishing nets are repaired, and explore the bustling fish market.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 4 – Meeting the King

We journey to Oussouye to meet the King – a spiritual and cultural leader. We continue to Djeromat and Casa Mulomp. For the adventurous souls, there’s a chance to climb a 25-meter sacred tree.
Overnight stay in Point Saint George.

Day 5 – Island Time on Carabane

We travel by boat to the peaceful island of Carabane. With a bit of luck, we may spot dolphins along the way! A slow day to rest, wander, and soak up the island’s serene atmosphere.
Overnight stay on Carabane.

Day 6 – Island Exploration & Return to Abene

Today we visit Kasuwane and the magical Efrang Islands. After lunch on Carabane, we return to Abene in the late afternoon – reuniting with the village energy.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 7 – Music as Medicine

The final three days are dedicated to rhythm, music, and expression. You can choose to receive lessons in playing the kora – a traditional West African string instrument. In the evening, we visit the vibrant Abene Music Festival.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 8 – Reptiles & Rhythm

We visit the Reptile Farm in Kartong – a conservation and education center focused on the region’s reptiles. In the evening, we dive back into the music and celebration.
Overnight stay in AbeneAuberge Abene Bolong.

Day 9 – Flow & Festival

Today is all about deepening your experience. Continue your kora journey or choose another musical or creative expression. The Abene Music Festival offers another magical night of rhythm, dance, and community.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 10 – Farewell & Departure

A final morning in Abene. We say goodbye – to each other, the land, and the journey you’ve taken. You return home with a heart full of rhythm, peace, and unforgettable memories.

Our day-by-day plan gives direction, but nothing is mandatory. We adjust to the group’s energy and your personal needs.
Note: around the mid-retreat we travel together to the islands and sleep elsewhere (2–3 nights). These travel days and overnights are part of the retreat and therefore not optional due to logistics, safety and the shared experience.

How we keep it flexible

• Morning/Afternoon/Evening blocks with space for rest or personal time

• Optional add-ons (e.g. massage, silent time, creative session)

• Weather-aware: we reshuffle activities if needed

Got a request? Tell us—we’ll think along.

Flexible plan, clear anchors

2 Retreat Schedule March - April 2026 – Day by Day Overview

Day 1 – Arrival in Abene
Welcome to the heart of Casamance! Upon arrival, you’ll settle in at Auberge Abene Bolong and take time to unwind and get acquainted with the surroundings. In the evening, we open the retreat with a welcome dinner, live music, and an introduction to the program ahead.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 2 – Connected with the Village
After a relaxed breakfast, we take a walk through Abene. We visit the sacred Batangworoo tree, explore the local market, and cook together with the women from the village — a warm and authentic encounter with daily life in Casamance.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 3 – Along the Coastline
Today we enjoy a scenic beach walk from Abene to the fishing village of Kafountine. You’ll see the colorful boats, fishermen at work, and the lively fish market where the nets are repaired. A vibrant day full of sights, scents, and local rhythm.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 4 – From River to City
We take a boat trip from Abene to Boune Island, a peaceful haven surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, we travel onward to Ziguinchor, the lively capital of Casamance.
Accommodation: Hotel Le Perroquet, Ziguinchor

Day 5 – Art, Culture & a Royal Encounter
After breakfast, we visit the crafts market and the Afro Alliance Franco Senegal — a creative hub full of art and inspiration. In the afternoon, we travel to Oussouye and visit the King of Oussouye for a unique spiritual and cultural experience.
Accommodation: Campement Aljowe, Oussouye

Day 6 – Nature & Adventure
We head out on an excursion to Djeromait and Casa Mulomp, where adventurers can climb the famous 25-meter-high tree. Later, we travel to Point Saint George, a stunning coastal area where ocean and forest meet.
Accommodation: Le Mantine, Point Saint George

Day 7 – Discover Carabane Island
Today we take a boat trip to the beautiful island of Carabane. With a bit of luck, we might spot dolphins along the way. Once on the island, you’ll enjoy tranquility, sandy walks, and the timeless charm of this historic place.
Accommodation: Campement Helena, Carabane

Day 8 – Efrang Islands & Return to Abene
We explore the lagoons of Kasuwane and the magical Efrang Islands. Around midday, we return to Abene, where we’ll stay for the final days of the retreat. The afternoon is free for rest, swimming, or quiet reflection.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 9 – Celebration & Connection
Today we celebrate our journey together with closing rituals, music, and dance. A joyful evening filled with gratitude, connection, and African rhythm — with live music and local artists to mark the end of this special adventure.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 10 – Farewell & Departure
After a final breakfast, we say goodbye — to each other, to the village, and to everything you’ve experienced. The 10-day retreat concludes today.
If your flight departs later, or if you wish to extend your stay, extra nights at Auberge Abene Bolong can be arranged upon request.

Practical Note on Flights

Depending on your flight schedule, you may need to spend a few extra days in Senegal or elsewhere.

If your flights do not align exactly with the retreat dates, we can assist with arranging accommodation and transport for these days.

Indicative costs:

• Accommodation: €25–€45 per person per night (depending on comfort and location).

• Transport (local taxi or transfer): €20–€40 per ride.

These costs are not included in the retreat price. They are separate from the retreat and must be paid directly to the driver and at the location. Please let us know your preferences clearly, and we will be happy to arrange it for you!

3 VIP Retreat Dakar & Saly: 10 - Day VIP Retreat - Day by Day

Half-board light: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 5 dinners included
Dates: April 2026
Group size: Maximum 6 participants

Day 1 – Arrival in Dakar

Arrival at AIBD → private transfer to boutique hotel (e.g. BOMA or L’Adresse).
Time to settle in and rest.
Evening: Welcome dinner & opening circle “Arriving & Opening.”

Day 2 – Dakar City & Intentions

Morning: Guided city tour of Plateau, Corniche and Kermel market.
Afternoon: Group session “My intention for this journey.”
Evening: Shared dinner with local atmosphere.

Day 3 – Gorée Island (Memory & Healing)

Morning: Ferry trip to Île de Gorée, visit to the Maison des Esclaves.
Afternoon: Journaling & reflection at the Door of No Return. Free time on the island.
Evening: Return to Dakar, light meal & evening session.

Day 4 – Art & Creation

Morning: Visit to Village des Arts and the IFAN Museum.
Afternoon: Creative workshop.
Evening: Free evening to explore the city or enjoy the beach.

Day 5 – Lac Rose Adventure

Day trip: Pirogue tour on Lac Rose + off-road jeep tour through the sand dunes at Lac Rose.
Theme: Surrender & Trust.
Evening: Group dinner & sharing moment.

Day 6 – Bandia Safari & Transfer to Saly

Morning: Departure to Bandia Reserve – guided safari (giraffes, zebras, rhinos).
Afternoon: Lunch at the reserve and transfer to Saly (±1.5 hours).
Check-in at hotel (e.g. Royam Hotel or Lamantin Beach Resort).
Evening: Free time & relaxed dinner at the resort.

Day 7 – Saly Beach & Fish Market

Morning: Beach walk and visit to the local fish market.
Afternoon: Free time.
Evening: Group session.

Day 8 – Somone Lagoon & Joal-Fadiouth

Day trip: Boat tour through the Somone lagoon + visit to Joal-Fadiouth (Shell Island).
Afternoon: Lunch on the way.
Evening: Free time or sunset at the beach.
Theme: Connection & Perspective.

Day 9 – Relax Day in Saly

Free day: Enjoy the beach, pool or optional 1-on-1 coaching.
Evening: Closing fire circle on the beach “What do I take home with me?”

Day 10 – Integration & Departure

Morning: Short meditation, closing session & group breakfast.
Transfer: Private transfer to AIBD for return flight.

Meals – Half-board light

During this 10-day retreat, 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners are included.
The remaining meals are intentionally left open so participants can explore local restaurants, taste Senegalese cuisine and follow their own rhythm.
This creates a beautiful balance between shared moments and personal freedom.

The Concept

This 10-day journey combines culture, nature and personal growth.
You will experience the vibrant energy of Dakar, the history of Gorée, the dunes of Lac Rose and the peaceful beaches of Saly.
Each day offers a mix of guided experiences, reflection moments and free time to relax or explore independently.

Accommodation Options

Because every traveler is different, you can choose the accommodation style that suits you best:

Comfort Package
Authentic and comfortable lodges or boutique hotels. Private bathroom, air conditioning and access to a swimming pool.
Example: BOMA Lifestyle Dakar / Hotel Royam Saly
€2.950 per person (shared room)

Luxury Package
Elegant 4★–5★ hotels with extra comfort, sea view and spa facilities.
Example: Pullman Dakar Teranga / Lamantin Beach Resort Saly €3.350 per person (shared room)

Single room supplement: €750–€1.050 (depending on hotel selection). Flights are not included. Transfers, excursions and all guided sessions are included.

Included

✔ 9 nights accommodation (Comfort or Luxury option)
✔ Daily breakfast, 6 lunches & 5 dinners
✔ All excursions: Gorée Island, Lac Rose, Bandia Safari, Somone Lagoon, Joal-Fadiouth
✔ Personal growth program: intake & evaluation session (45 min), group circles, 1-on-1 moments, reflection
✔ Transfers to/from airport & private transport during the retreat
✔ Local guides, entrance fees & tips

Not Included

✖ Flights to/from Dakar (AIBD)
✖ 3–4 lunches & 4–5 dinners (free choice)
✖ Personal expenses (souvenirs, spa, drinks)
✖ Travel insurance

How It Works

You choose the style that matches your budget and comfort preference.
Both packages include the same program, activities and growth sessions — the only difference is the accommodation level.
This keeps the retreat accessible yet exclusive — you decide how you want to experience it.