Discover why this spiritual retreat is on the rise

Learn from indigenous leaders alongside the Olifants River

Last updated: 7 March 2023

The search for spirituality and meaning has become a priority for many of us. This goes hand-in-hand with an increasing respect and curiosity for indigenous knowledge and spiritual practices - and Tribe In is one of the first to embrace this in Cape Town. 

At this spiritual retreat along the Olifants River, you’ll learn about spiritual practices from indigenous leaders, go on sacred tours and nature walks and experience sound journeys (plus, it’s kid-friendly). 

LEARN FROM INDIGENOUS PEOPLE  

Tribe In prides itself on being a place of cultural and intellectual exchange, where you can learn about spirituality and indigenous healing practices, among other things, from actual tribal leaders. Tribe In’s third event, Tribe In III, will be held 15 - 21 March along the Olifants River (a two-hour drive from Cape Town).

Notable guests include Bushman Piet (this is the name he chooses to go by, and he’s also known as !Aru |Khuisi Piet Barends), a respected leader of the IXam tribe from the Kalahari. He is a storyteller who aims to share knowledge and help preserve practices of the first nations of Southern Africa.

He will be joined by Paje’ Txana Tuwe from the Huni Kuin in Brazil and Peru. The Huni Kuin focus on the importance of reconciliation between humans and nature.

Bushman Piet is a respected leader from the IXam tribe. Credit: Pasithea Projects

JOIN SOUND JOURNEYS, SUNRISE WALKS + MORE    

There’ll be a range of talks, ceremonies, rituals and activities that aim to promote healing and spiritual wellness (most are included in the price, some are separate ticketed experiences). 

Experience a medicine circle with the Huni Kuin or a sound journey with internationally acclaimed artist and vocalist Abe Chimba. Originating from Spain, Chimba’s primal sound blends flamenco, indigenous folk songs, sacred chants, shamanic trance and world electronic music. It’s an enchanting experience not to be missed! 

You’ll also be able to try restorative yoga, or join Bushman Piet on a sunrise walk in the bush. There’ll be discussions on decolonising the mind and reclaiming the true feminine and masculine, as well as excursion walks to sacred sites.

Learn about African dance and movement. Credit: Pasithea Projects

THE LOCATION IS A NOD TO INDIGENOUS HISTORY

Tribe In III will be held at Wolfkop Camping Villages in Citrusdal, alongside the Olifants River. The land was of particular importance to the indigenous people who lived there: It was an abundant and prosperous area with a flourishing ecosystem and elephant population. 

For this reason it was revered, and co-founders Chad Sonday and Kelly Davids collaborated with local elders to choose this spot and pay respect to indigenous history. 

The river itself is also of significance. In many healing rituals and ceremonies across different cultures, water is used to feel refreshed and reawakened. 

The serene Olifants River in Citrusdal. Credit: Pasithea Projects

HEALING HOME: CHILDREN ARE WELCOME    

Healing needs to start at home, and addressing generational patterns and family trauma is a topic of great importance at Tribe In. 

Parents will have the chance to go on a healing journey, while kids enjoy yoga, sound journeys and music performances, nature walks and playing in the river. Plus, it’s a great way to spend family bonding time away from the distractions of everyday life. 

The environment along the Olifants River is spectacular and children will have the week(end) of their lives. Tribe In welcomes children of all ages, from babies to teenagers. 

Kids can play in the river or go on a nature walk. Credit: Wolfkop Weekender 

IT FEELS LIKE HOME    

Chad says that with other spiritual retreats and festivals, he was “searching for a feeling of home”, which he was unable to find. “What makes me feel at home is when I see a diverse gathering of people enjoying a meaningful moment together: a tribe of many colours aligned by a common intention and held together by the frequency of love.” Tribe In is that home - it’s a diverse space where people of all races, cultures, genders and ages can come together to exchange ideas, connect and heal. 

One of the reasons behind this “feeling of home” is the flexibility of the ticket prices, which makes the event accessible to many. All costs are included (besides food) and there are various accommodation options and passes depending on what you can afford. 

Connect with all kinds of people along the Olifants River. Credit: Pasithea Projects 

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW    

Your ticket includes both a pass to the curated experiences and accommodation. 

Guests can choose between a basic dome tent, a spacious bell tent or a villa with shared lounge and kitchenette areas (mattresses, bedding and lighting are included in all three). Prices start at R2 450 and if you buy a sharing ticket, it works out cheaper (includes two passes and accommodation of choice).

Food will be available to purchase at the retreat and will be offered by Seed2Fire, which works with rural communities to educate and empower through food. Meals will be plant-based and made using organic ingredients from local suppliers. There’s also Wi-Fi and reception in certain areas, in case you need to get some work done.  

Whether you choose to glamp in style or just want the basics, there are a variety of accommodation options. Credit: Pasithea Projects

INTIMATE SPIRITUAL RETREAT: WHEN + WHERE 

Tribe In III is happening: Wednesday, 15 - Tuesday, 21 March 2023
Find it: Wolfkop Camping Villages I Citrusdal
Find the full schedule: Here
Visit the website for more information: Here
Book: via the ticket link
Contact on: 0747375517, info@pasitheaprojects.com, @pasitheaprojects 

By Julia Rowley 

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