Workcations are a relatively new and still rising trend at the intersection of wellness, work, and travel. According to an article published by Forbes, working from leisure destinations not only boosts productivity, but improves well-being. It’s a way to break your routine, prioritise travel and create balance.

Whether you’re planning a company conference or retreat, extending a family holiday with a week of remote work, or pursuing the lifestyle of a digital nomad, there are plenty of reasons to include a workcation in your annual planning. What better place to work away from home than a magnificent Big Five Game Reserve? Change up your routine, breathe in plenty of fresh air, and enjoy the luxury of having your day-to-day needs taken care of.

‘You may not be able to unplug completely, but when it comes to feeling rested, a little can go a long way. Simply having someone to prepare your meals, clean your space, and look after your laundry can reduce your mental load and allow you to truly relax when you’re not at your desk. The benefits of being close to nature are too many to count,’ advises the CEO of Lalibela Game Reserve, Johann Lombard.

Lombard is well-versed in bleisure – a portmanteau of business and leisure – travel, as Lalibela has played host to remote workers with a range of requirements. He has understood the benefits of having varied accommodations in strategic spots across the reserve, so that there are options to suit different types of travellers and budgets. Lalibela has also added conferencing facilities to its mix in order to cater to team trips and breakaways.

‘You can shape your stay to suit your needs. Travel solo and recharge your social battery in nature, or take your partner along for a romantic escape that isn’t limited by the number of leave days left on your calendar. Line up your trip with the school holidays and take the whole family along for a trip to remember,’ he says.

Having hosted diverse bleisure guests with distinct working styles, Lombard has ready advice for those who are planning a workation and wish to get all the benefits of a working holiday. ‘Set your working hours and try to stick to them,’ he says, ‘That way you can maximise your off-work time accordingly. Pre-planning means you can relax more when you get here.’

‘Those early morning game drives, slow weekends in nature, and sundowners overlooking the watering hole are what will make or break your experience. The purpose of a workcation is to improve your sense of balance and vitality, and firm boundaries are an essential ingredient in making this happen.’

Lalibela’s various accommodation options have been designed to facilitate that connection. There’s Mills Manor, Mark’s Camp, Tree Tops, Kichaka, Inzolo and Lentaba Lodge to choose from.

Accommodating up to 10 guests, the 5-star Mills Manor is well-suited to families and groups. With fast reliable Wi-Fi throughout the lodge, you can set up your remote desk in your room, in the lounge, or even outside, where you’ll get to peek over your screen to see game throughout the day.