I visited a new breed of safari lodge, where I learned the power of blending wildlife and wellness

Image may contain Fire Flame Bonfire and Person

At San Camp in Botswana’s Kalahari, a seven-day, fly-camping Walk of Ancient Wisdom focuses on the age-old practices of the San Bushmen, dwellers of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans for over 35,000 years. Guided by conservationist Aleksandra Orbeck and Ralph Bousfield, the founder of the romantic Jack’s Camp – perhaps the ultimate digital detox – guests learn about the San people’s ancient hunting and spiritual practices. The experience reveals a way of living in harmony with the natural world that’s made more precious for its increasing rarity.

Image may contain Animal Mammal Panther Wildlife and Cheetah

Our final vinyasa yoga session at Enasoit is held in front of the water hole. The giraffes gather as we do a breathing exercise, a dozen of them walking in slow motion, a languid advance of questing necks. “Move peacefully, respectfully,” Bunting instructs softly. “Feel the connection to self, to each other, to this place.” As we move into warrior two pose she says, “Focus on something ahead of you to steady your body.” At that moment, as if summoned, a starling perches on the grass in front of me. It pauses for a moment, alert, quizzical, before flying off again.

Wildlife & Yoga runs week-long, exclusive retreats at Enasoit from about £8,100 per person. wildlifeandyoga.com; enasoitcollection.com