Yoga Retreat Kenya: My Watamu Treehouse Review
- By Bena Roberts | Ethical Safari Specialist for Women

- Apr 30
- 3 min read

I believe in destiny, so I put my pendulum above a map of Kenya and let it fall. It fell into the ocean, but the chain circled Watamu. Two weeks ago, I had never heard of Watamu or the Watamu Treehouse. My turning up for a yoga retreat was a spontaneous decision that made me feel fun, young, fresh, and spontaneous.
I didn’t read the small print. I saw and shot over words such as Treehouse and “no windows”. I mean, this is all marketing speak right? Everyone says they are different and special.
Everyone tells white lies. There is no way, no way NO WAY there would be no windows.

No shit Sherlock.
I got here, and there are no windows! I phoned my older sister, and she said, I am going to be killed by beasts and I should leave immediately and check into the nearest luxury hotel.
I was tempted.
But you know what, I wanted to be out of my comfort zone. I wanted to be different. Even now, writing this on my bed with a view of the ocean and no windows, just a jungle in between us. It is as surreal as it is marvellous.
I am definitely inspired. I feel that I should be swimming again, but my hands and brain took over, and I just want to write. So, here we go.
The Watamu Treehouse Experience: Life Without Windows
It is like a milkshake of excitement, fear, trepidation and pure joy, topped with cinnamon and mangos. It reminds me of the Prince song “Starfish and Coffee.” If you don’t know it, have a listen and you will understand.
Because it's everything you think that it is and it isn’t.
How is Watamu Treehouse different?
I have a fear of mosquitos and this openness was eating into my soul
I have hated yoga all my life, and now I was on my first ever yoga retreat
I moved to Spain and drank like a fish and this is an all healthy, green eco loving place with no alcohol
I booked meditation, yoga, massages, and a bushwalk all at once on a whim without a care in the world.

After 3 nights at Watamu Treehouse for a Yoga Retreat how do I feel?
I had a great time, with great staff who really took care of me.
The only problem was the mosquitos and the open windows.
How to solve these issues. Now, I might sound dramatic. But I survived with only 2 mosquito bites. The first night was easier as the weather was great. During the rain of night 2 and 3, I found it really hard to sleep and woke up every few hours. I think because, I was just not used to the sounds and missed my double glazing.
Watamu Treehouse Survival Guide: Mosquitoes and Noises
At dinner time ask for a mosquito coil and turn the fan on overhead if there is one - Mosquitoes do not like wind. The coil really works
Bring headphones if you are sensitive to noises at night.
Bring a long arm cotton top for dinner outside at night time.
I bought cotton pyjamas, but was too hot, and I slept naked. Which is possible if they spray your room and put the mosquito nets down early enough. They usually do it over dinner, but I requested to have mine put down earlier as the mosquitoes like to come out at 4pm.
I am impressed with myself, that after 4 days in a treehouse, no windows I had two bites. They did not hurt as I took the Vitamin B12 and Ana at reception gave me some cream to stop the itching.
Can I recommend Watamu Treehouse?
Yes.
Si.
Ja.
Por supuesto
I really can. I loved it. I was out of my comfort zone. On the first day I needed a guard and a guide to get me to the beach. Two days later, I put on my big girl pants and did it alone.
I grew with the stay, and you know what, I loved the adventure!!
Does Watamu Treehouse have the off-grid feel for a yoga retreat?
YES!
Your Concern | The Treehouse Solution | The Unique Benefit |
Mosquitoes | Custom nets and overhead fans. | Sleep in a protected bubble with total airflow. |
No Windows | 360-degree open-air architecture. | Direct connection to forest sounds and sea air. |
Yoga Beginner | Inclusive, expert-led retreat sessions. | A non-intimidating start for yoga skeptics. |
Digital Detox | Ecological, green-focused environment. | Mental clarity through a true "off-grid" feel. |



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