Yoga retreat with Jana Berger
My journey to South Africa began in 2022, when I visited the Helping Hands animal rescue centre for the first time – an experience that moved me deeply and left a lasting impression. Even then, I knew I wanted to return. And not only that – I wanted to share this special experience with others.
That’s how the idea came about to travel to South Africa for the first time in 2023 with a group of 15–16 participants from Switzerland, Germany and neighbouring countries for two weeks. The response was overwhelming: the group trip was fully booked in its very first year. The same happened again in 2024 and 2025. I have now been there three times – and the next trip is already planned for 2026.
The animal rescue centre is situated in a beautiful, secluded spot surrounded by nature. It is peaceful and offers exactly the space you need to settle in, switch off and fully immerse yourself in the time spent with the animals and the group. The atmosphere there is incredibly relaxing.
The centre is run by Elli, who puts her heart and soul into her work, combining expertise with clarity. During our stays, she is always on hand, closely supporting our group and taking care of all organisational and practical matters. You can tell straight away: she knows the animals inside out and understands exactly what they need.
Over the years, our programme has become perfectly streamlined. We know exactly what is needed and when, and the organisation now runs very efficiently. The journey from Johannesburg Airport to the station and back is always made together by coach, which proves to be reliable and straightforward year after year.
The accommodation is beautifully designed – lovingly furnished and nestled in the natural surroundings. You’re also thoroughly spoilt when it comes to the food: the meals are fresh, varied and very tasty, with vegan options wherever possible. All this is complemented by a well-maintained swimming pool, communal barbecues and plenty of moments spent together, which really bring the group closer.
Alongside the daily work with the animals, we place great importance on ensuring that participants also get to experience the country and its diversity. This includes safaris, group excursions, visits to the dam, meals out and various events. The introduction to the farm and its operations is always particularly impressive – you immediately realise just how much experience and dedication goes into the work here.
Daily tasks are clearly allocated, and it is always possible to respect your own limits: nobody is expected to take on tasks or enter enclosures where they do not feel comfortable. This consideration creates a strong sense of security and trust.
What touches and reassures me most personally is the fact that many participants keep coming back – either on another group trip with me or even later on their own to the animal sanctuary. For me, this is the greatest testament to the quality, depth and authenticity of this experience.
I am incredibly grateful to be able to travel to South Africa once a year, to be part of this special collaboration with Elli, and to see how an idea has blossomed into such a powerful, well-organised and heartfelt journey. And every time, it fills me with joy anew to see how many people set out on this journey alongside me.
Jana Berger, retreat leader from Switzerland
I was lucky enough to spend the last two weeks with Jana on the yoga and volunteering retreat in South Africa, and I found it just sooo incredibly lovely! Jana organised everything with so much love and dedication; she already knew her way around the farm perfectly and was always on hand to answer any questions we had. Every day we spent time with the animals – especially the baby monkeys – helped out on the farm and, to balance things out, practised yoga with Jana. On top of all that, Jana organised other events and gave us insights into African culture, as well as a safari in Kruger National Park. We wanted for absolutely nothing. This trip made a huge dream come true and I can’t recommend it highly enough to everyone! A huge thank you to Jana for everything!!
I had the pleasure of spending two wonderful weeks in South Africa with Jana. The yoga and volunteering retreat was superbly organised and offered the perfect balance of work, yoga and leisure time. Thanks to Jana’s warmth and hospitality, I felt very well looked after. It was a fantastic experience to engage so deeply with the animals and with myself. For me, it was a dream come true – one I would never have dared to pursue on my own. Thank you so much for everything, Jana!
Helping Hands for Wildlife thrives on the support of people who share our vision. #teamvervet brings together people from all over the world who want to take responsibility and make a real difference.
Join us on our journey – together, we’ll give orphaned and injured animals a second chance.