Before you arrive

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before you arrive is here.

01 GETTING HERE

How do I get to Bliss & Stars?

It’s a 4.5-hour drive from Cape Town. We’re 55 km north of Clanwilliam in the Western Cape, 45 minutes of which is on a gravel road. No 4×4 is needed. We meet you at a designated point and bring you in for the last stretch in our vehicle.

If you prefer to drive all the way, you’ll need a high-clearance 4×4 and confidence on rocky ground.

We don’t run transfers ourselves, but we work with a preferred shuttle company and can connect you for the drive from Cape Town or the airport. For a helicopter, we can point you to operators we know. Tell us what you need when you book and we’ll put you in touch.

02 THE PLACE

What is the weather like?

Spring and autumn (mid-August to October, March to May): warm days at 24–30°C, mild evenings.

Summer (late October to March): dry and hot, up to 40°C during the day, 25–30°C at night.

Winter (late May to mid-August): pleasant days at 20–25°C, cold evenings that can drop to 5°C. We get around 150 mm of rain a year. When it comes, it is welcome.

 

We have our own local weather forecast. Check it here.

No. No mobile coverage and no Wi-Fi. There is a WhatsApp number for emergencies, and you’ll be given a number to pass to anyone who may need to reach you.

We use evaporative coolers.

South Africa uses a round 3-pin plug. We have both South African and standard European sockets. Bring an adaptor if you’re coming from elsewhere.

The nearest hospital is in Clanwilliam, 90 minutes away. Our team is trained in first aid. If you have a condition we should know about, please tell us before you arrive.

Unfortunately not. We are in the Cederberg, and the terrain does not allow for it.

03 YOUR STAY

What should I pack?

A detailed packing guide goes out with your welcome letter after booking is confirmed. The short version: we provide biodegradable toiletries, towels, yoga and meditation equipment, headlamps, and water flasks.

Bring clothes for warm days and cold evenings: linen or cotton for the heat, layers for mornings and nights. Add sunscreen, mosquito repellent, hiking boots or comfortable sneakers, a swimsuit, and a hat. Laundry is included, so a small bag is enough.

Arrive no later than 2pm. Leave no earlier than 12pm. If you’re flying out of Cape Town, book your flight after 6pm on your last day. We’ll confirm exact times closer to your arrival.

Ask us. We’ll see what we can do.

04 FOOD & DRINK

What do you serve?

Plant-based and vegetarian food, using organic, local, and seasonal ingredients. No meat, no alcohol, no coffee, no refined sugar. Meals are communal, with views that make conversation optional.

Yes. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are always available. Food allergies and intolerances are accommodated. We don’t cater for lifestyle diets like keto, carnivore, and similar.

05 BEFORE YOU BOOK

Do I need experience with meditation?

No. All retreats are open to all levels. We adjust to where you are, not where you think you should be.

Maximum 10. Usually fewer. This is by design.

Yes. We also run a dedicated Couples Retreat if you’d like something specific to that.

No. The minimum age is 21.

We have four dogs. Yours should stay home.

No. Pace yourself. Participate as much or as little as feels right.

No. We ask all participants to commit to the full retreat, from start to finish. This supports everyone in the group, not just you.

Yes. Get in touch and we’ll walk you through the options.

We run a bursary programme for those who need it. Read about it here.

06 Practicalities

Do I need a visa to enter South Africa?

Check with your nearest South African embassy or consulate before travelling. Requirements vary by country.

The retreat runs in English. South African Rand (ZAR) is the local currency. ATMs are available in Clanwilliam and at Cape Town International Airport.

Please read our Terms & Conditions for the full cancellation policy.