Wellness Escape to Rwanda's Thousand Hills: A 6-Day Yoga and Sound Healing Retreat

The retreat takes place at Silent Sound, a wellness center run by Michael Bachkhenji, a mindfulness, yoga, and music healing practitioner who has studied in India, modern wellness practices in Germany, and traditions in Lebanon and Syria. Now based in Rwanda, he brings this mix of influences to each session. The program is structured but not rigid, with daily yoga, meditation, and sound healing—often referred to as sound baths—where therapeutic frequencies are used to help release stress and emotional tension.

Each day also includes mindfulness workshops and time for relaxation. You'll have the chance to go on nature hikes with a trusted guide, and there's transportation included for any organized outings. The retreat is kept intentionally small, with a maximum of 8 participants, which makes it feel more like a personal retreat than a group tour. It's suitable for beginners as well as more experienced practitioners of yoga and meditation—Michael tailors the guidance to where you are.

What makes this retreat different from others is the location itself. Rwanda is known for its safety and cleanliness, and the villa sits in a calm, green area called Kibagabaga, just a short drive from Kigali International Airport. The weather is mild year-round, with dry seasons from June to September and December to February offering clear skies. If you're a solo traveler, you'll feel welcomed; the center is used to hosting people on their own and the small group size means you'll quickly get to know everyone. The vibe is healing and transformative, but in a grounded, practical way—there's no fluff here, just good guidance and a peaceful place to stay.

Guests who've left reviews talk about Michael's sessions opening doors of hope and providing guidance. One guest, Salim, wrote that after feeling lost, the sessions were like a beacon that helped see his path more clearly. Another, Inezah, described the stay as incredible and peaceful, noting the hospitality was extra special. That kind of feedback gives you a real sense of what to expect: a quiet, supportive environment where the focus is on your own inner work.

What's included

- 5 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Daily yoga classes - Daily meditation classes - Yoga or music healing session - 1 hour treatment - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Transportation during the retreat - Luggage storage - Parking - WiFi connection

What's not included

- Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional activities not included in the itinerary - Additional treatments - Airport transfers (available for an additional fee)