Day 1 · Lake Atitlán
Arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City
Group transfer from airport to accommodation
Check-in at The Yoga Forest Retreat Center
Free time
Brief orientation
6:00 pm – Welcome dinner
Day 2 · Lake Atitlán
8:00 am – Morning yoga with Thai
10:00 am – Breakfast
11:00 am – Group departure to San Juan La Laguna
Artisan village tour
Return to accommodation
5:00 pm – Group dinner
Day 3 · Lake Atitlán
8:00 am – Morning yoga with Thai
10:00 am – Breakfast
Free day/optional activity (see add-ons)
5:00 pm – Group dinner
Day 4 · Lake Atitlán
8:00 am – Morning yoga with Thai
10:00 am – Breakfast
11:00 am – Group departure to nature reserve
Half-day experience at Reserva Natural Atitlán
4:00 pm - Return to accommodation
5:00 pm – Group dinner
Day 5 · Lake Atitlán
8:00 am – Morning yoga with Thai
10:00 am – Breakfast
Free day/optional activity (see add-ons)
5:00 pm – Group dinner
Day 6 · Lake Atitlán
8:00 am – Morning yoga with Thai
10:00 am – Breakfast
11:00 am – Group departure to Santa Cruz La Laguna
Half-day mountain hike
4:00 pm - Return to accommodation
5:00 pm – Farewell dinner
Day 7 · Depature
8:00 am – Breakfast
Check out of accommodation
11:00 am – Group transfer to La Aurora International Airport
in Guatemala City
Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Guatemala – travel to Lake Atitlán and enjoy a
welcome dinner to kick off the retreat
We’re thrilled to have you join us for an unforgettable
journey of relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-discovery in Guatemala, nestled
in the picturesque surroundings of Lake Atitlán. Upon arrival at La Aurora
International Airport in Guatemala City, meet your group in the airport cafe,
and once all members arrive, take a private van to your home away from home. We
suggest the latest arrival by 1:00 pm to ensure you have ample time to travel
to your accommodation.
When you arrive at the retreat center, you’ll be captivated by the enchanting
beauty of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by three majestic volcanoes. The attentive
staff will ensure a smooth check-in process so you can settle into your
accommodations and start unwinding right away.
Once you’ve had a chance to freshen up, join us for a brief orientation
session. Our retreat facilitators will provide you with essential information
about the retreat, the daily schedule, and the amenities available at the
hotel. This is also a great time to get to know your fellow retreat attendees,
ask any questions, and share your intentions for the retreat.
The first day culminates with a sumptuous welcome dinner at 6:00 pm, featuring
delectable local cuisine prepared with love by the talented chefs. As you enjoy
the flavors of Guatemala, take this time to connect with the group, sharing
stories and building new friendships that will last beyond the retreat. We’re
honored to have you as our guest and look forward to guiding you through this
transformative journey.
Day 2
Start the day with a morning yoga session, then explore the
charming village of San Juan La Laguna
Rise and shine to the beauty of the lake and the sacred
energy it contains. Begin your day with an invigorating morning yoga session
led by Thai that will gently awaken your senses and prepare you for the
adventures ahead. From here, we’ll enjoy a delicious and nutritious breakfast,
featuring an array of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Once we’re fueled and
ready to go, we’ll embark on an exciting journey to the charming village of San
Juan La Laguna. Here, you'll be taken on a fascinating artisan village tour by
our knowledgeable local guide. Discover the intricate craftsmanship of the
local artisans, including weaving demonstrations showcasing the use of natural
dyes, and marvel at the stunning creations on display in the art galleries.
Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to learn about and sample the
village's delectable chocolate and coffee, both integral parts of the local
economy and culture.
After a day filled with memorable experiences and inspiring encounters, the
group will gather at 5:00 pm for a scrumptious dinner at the retreat. Savor the
exquisite flavors of traditional Guatemalan cuisine as you reflect on your
day's adventures and connect with your fellow retreat participants.
Day 3
Choose your own adventures in Guatemala
After a restful sleep, we’ll meet the group for our morning
yoga session – a time to center, ground, and prepare for another incredible day
at the lake. From here, your schedule is free and clear. Chill at the retreat
or consider booking an optional add-on activity, such as a SUP or kayak tour,
cooking class and beading workshop, or horseback riding excursion. (See
add-ons for pricing and more information.) No matter what you choose,
we’ll meet back up at the hotel for a delicious group dinner and share the stories
from our day.
Day 4
Spend the day connecting with nature through a trip to
Reserva Natural Atitlán for hiking, zip-lining, and wildlife immersions
Today's itinerary is designed to immerse you in the
breathtaking beauty of the Guatemalan landscape while nurturing your mind and
body through yoga, nature exploration, and a memorable wildlife encounter.
Begin your day with a revitalizing morning yoga session, then gather with your
fellow retreat participants for a nourishing breakfast, fueling you with the
energy needed for the day's activities.
At 11:00 am, the group will depart for a thrilling excursion to Atitlán’s
Nature Reserve. Travel together on a private boat and then hop on tuk-tuks at
the dock to reach the reserve (please budget $2.00 USD per person each way, or
Q10 per person). Your arrival at the reserve will be around noon, where an
exhilarating zip-line adventure awaits. Enjoy the adrenaline rush as you soar
above the lush canopy, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
After ziplining, explore the reserve's picturesque walking trails and observe
the rescued monkeys and wild pizotes in their natural habitat. The butterfly
house offers a mesmerizing and colorful experience, providing a glimpse into
the vibrant biodiversity of Guatemala. Plan to head back to the dock around
4:00 pm, and we recommend arranging for the tuk-tuks to return for your group
at this time, paying them the roundtrip fare upon return.
As the day comes to a close, reconvene at 5:00 pm for a well-deserved dinner.
Savor the flavors of authentic Guatemalan cuisine as you share stories and
watch the sunset over the lake.
Day 5
Enjoy a free day at the lake to rest, relax, and explore
Our day begins with a morning yoga session, preparing us for
another free day at the lake. Today, why not connect with the local culture by
participating in one or many optional activities, such as a cacao ceremony,
temazcal, weaving workshop, cultural circuit tour, Mayan ceremony with tree
planting, and more. (See add-ons for pricing and more information.) We’ll
meet back at the hotel at 5:00 pm and enjoy a meal under the setting sun.
Day 6
Explore the Mayan villages and mountain landscape with a
half-day hike to Santa Cruz La Laguna
As the sun rises, we’ll come together for our morning
practice, harmonizing the body and mind with the heartbeat of the land. From
here, we’ll enjoy a wholesome breakfast before heading into the wild for a
half-day hike.
Accompanied by local guides, you'll traverse the mountains that encircle the
lake, soaking in the breathtaking scenery and immersing yourself in the
tranquility of nature. The approximately four-hour hike will begin in San
Marcos La Laguna and take you through Tzununa, Jaibalito, and ultimately to
Santa Cruz La Laguna. Though the hike features small ups and downs, it’s
relatively flat and accessible for various fitness levels.
Upon reaching Santa Cruz, you'll board a public boat back to San Marcos (please
budget Q25 per person). This scenic boat ride offers an opportunity to reflect
on your experiences and appreciate the stunning landscape from a different
perspective.
As evening falls, gather with your fellow retreaters for a farewell dinner.
This is the time to reflect on all that you’ve seen, accomplished, and learned
here in Guatemala, enjoying laughter, cheer, and camaraderie. Grab a glass of
your favorite drink and toast to a rejuvinating lake escape!
Day 7
Bid farewell to Guatemala and say hello to new beginnings…
As we reach the final day of our unforgettable Guatemala
yoga retreat, it's time to reflect on the meaningful connections, personal
growth, and memorable experiences that have enriched your time here. We’ll
enjoy one final breakfast together and some free time before we head to the
airport. Take this opportunity to reminisce about your favorite moments and
express gratitude for the transformative experiences you've shared.
At 11:00 am, the group will embark on the journey back to the airport from San
Marcos La Laguna. With approximately 4.5 hours of travel time, make sure to plan
accordingly and leave ample time for airport check-in (a minimum of 2 hours is
recommended). As you bid farewell to the breathtaking surroundings and warm
culture of Guatemala, carry with you the lessons, discoveries, and personal
growth you've gained during your time at the retreat.
*If you cancel when your spot is confirmed and outside of 60 days until departure, you can receive a trip credit for your down payment minus the $100 cancellation fee.
