For those on a quest for a deeper connection to the spirituality of Sumba, we created a Shamanic Healing Journey. A rare and deep seven-day immersion into the nature, community and shamanic practices of the island.
An encounter with true shamanism
Isolated from the outside world, the Sumbanese people developed their own unique traditional healing methods. Rooted in Marapu beliefs and utilising medicinal plants, these well-preserved traditions shape the essence of each Shamanic Healing Journey. The experience is then intentionally curated for each individual participant on bespoke a basis, with the expertise of our deeply knowledgable holistic wellness practitioners.
An intimate experience reserved for an exclusive number of participants per year, this programme shares the precious gift of traditional Sumbanese healing, while honouring and preserving the integrity of the local people, culture and land.
Journey inward, on Sumba
A place where time slows and the modern world fades away, Sumba is the a perfect setting to step outside the relentless pace of daily life. Here, a new rhythm emerges—one that invites connection, presence, and transformation.
The week-long Journey is conceived to inspire and encourage a shift in perspective, while creating a strong sense of connection with the healing energy of the island. It concludes with a rare and genuine encounter with the local Sumbanese Shaman.
Every journey is completely unique, designed as a bespoke programme that honours Sumba's ancient Marapu traditions. The sacred healing practices have been passed down throughout generations, and form the foundation of your immersive experience.
Guided by your own personal intentions, your journey will be carefully curated to weave together nourishing cuisine, movement practices, spiritual rituals, and profound encounters with local healers and Shamans.
Meet your guide, Kiri Desborough
Expressions of interest are followed by an in depth pre-visit consultation with Cap Karoso's renowned Wellness Director, Kiri Desborough. With a profound knowledge of Sumba and over 20 years of experience crafting deeply personal healing journeys, Kiri brings a wealth of wisdom, compassion, and expertise to every experience.
Kiri’s expertise spans yoga, Pilates, Zentai, Shiatsu, massage, Reiki, ballet barre, and more. This deep understanding of the body informs her holistic approach, ensuring each Healing Journey is an integration of physical alignment, energetic balance, and restoration.
Each experience is mindfully designed under her care, creating a sanctuary for rest, renewal, and self-discovery. Kiri intuitively curates your immersion to meet your unique needs, ensuring a deeply supportive and transformative journey. Step into this nurturing space where Sumbanese culture, reconnection with nature and authentic shamanic healing come together to guide you toward true restoration.
How to apply
Authentic encounters with Shamanic traditions are rare and deeply sacred. A meeting with a local Shaman is not a scripted experience—it is an intimate and profound exchange that unfolds with deep respect for the wisdom keepers who have safeguarded these practices for generations.
We have a responsibility to honour and protect these traditions, ensuring that each encounter is not only meaningful for our guests but also respects the integrity of the Shamans and their world. For this reason, spaces for the Shamanic Healing Journey are very limited, and all applications will be thoughtfully reviewed by our Wellness Director for an intentional and aligned experience.
