Guatemala Yoga Retreat: an Empowering, Magical Adventure with Paisley
Your TourHero
Paisley Parvati Devi is a 500-hour Registered Yoga Instructor, Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor, Multimedia Artist, and the founder of Queer Mystic.
Paisley has travelled internationally and domestically for years, spending time in various Intentional Yoga Communities, and deepening her personal practice. She was privileged to spend 2 months in Guatemala prior to the pandemic, and it is still her favorite country so she felt inspired to bring a group there!
Paisley is a devotee & worshipper of the Goddess within all beings. She has been initiated into the Priestess Arts by several wonderful mentors, and in 2021 she completed her Advanced Yoga Training with the Mount Madonna Institute in Santa Cruz, CA. Paisley has been practicing Yoga for about 11 years, seriously studying the Vedic Sciences of Yoga, Ayurveda, and Tantra for about 6 years, and teaching for about 4 years.
Paisley believes that Yoga, Ayurveda, dance, and all art forms have an immense healing ability to open us to the Primal Divine Energy (adi para shakti) within. She absolutely adores the thriving Mayan culture in Guatemala & all it has to offer, and cannot wait to share it in a format that promotes an authentic experience.
Her sankalpa, or intention, is to offer her own authentic expression, and to cultivate a safe space for others to feel liberated in theirs. She is passionate about empowering others with tools for self-development and self-love. Please join her on this magical journey!
Learn more about Paisley & her offerings on her website: www.youareloved.one.
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Apr 7 – 13, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate-high
Group Size
12
Transportation
Airport & activity transfers
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Wellness, nature, culture, history
Fellow Travelers
Ella
Heidi
Leslie
Emily
Carrie Strayer
Jessica Your Local Guide
Due South Travels is a travel company that specializes in providing unique and authentic travel experiences in Guatemala. With core services that include travel planning and custom guided tours, Due South Travels prides itself on its ability to execute complete in-country travel experiences in an organized, safe, and efficient way. Their team of professional guides and local experts provide personalized attention to each traveler, ensuring that they have a meaningful and unforgettable experience in Guatemala.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Guatemala that will help you connect with your inner child as you explore mystical landscapes and discover the vibrant energy of this unique country. This trip is all about allowing your heart to open itself to new experiences, something that we’ll accomplish through a variety of adventures, ranging from a deep dive into the culture of Antigua to a thrilling hike up Pacaya Volcano.
A focus on wellness via daily yoga, breathwork, and meditation will also help prep us for growth and transformation, as we realign ourselves amidst incredible environments using The Four Agreements as our anchor. From a sacred cacao ceremony to a temazcal experience, you’ll leave this retreat feeling purified and reborn, connected to the land and your highest self. You’ll also give back to the community, as Paisley will donate two water filters on behalf of each participant that signs up for the retreat. Book now to reserve your spot!
Please note: The book The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz will be the required reading for this retreat.
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until December 15, 2023. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by December 15, 2023 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip up until December 15, 2023 for a refund. After this time, no refunds will be given.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour (see our COVID-19 guarantee on the tour itinerary page). We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Your TourHero
Paisley Parvati Devi is a 500-hour Registered Yoga Instructor, Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor, Multimedia Artist, and the founder of Queer Mystic.
Paisley has travelled internationally and domestically for years, spending time in various Intentional Yoga Communities, and deepening her personal practice. She was privileged to spend 2 months in Guatemala prior to the pandemic, and it is still her favorite country so she felt inspired to bring a group there!
Paisley is a devotee & worshipper of the Goddess within all beings. She has been initiated into the Priestess Arts by several wonderful mentors, and in 2021 she completed her Advanced Yoga Training with the Mount Madonna Institute in Santa Cruz, CA. Paisley has been practicing Yoga for about 11 years, seriously studying the Vedic Sciences of Yoga, Ayurveda, and Tantra for about 6 years, and teaching for about 4 years.
Paisley believes that Yoga, Ayurveda, dance, and all art forms have an immense healing ability to open us to the Primal Divine Energy (adi para shakti) within. She absolutely adores the thriving Mayan culture in Guatemala & all it has to offer, and cannot wait to share it in a format that promotes an authentic experience.
Her sankalpa, or intention, is to offer her own authentic expression, and to cultivate a safe space for others to feel liberated in theirs. She is passionate about empowering others with tools for self-development and self-love. Please join her on this magical journey!
Learn more about Paisley & her offerings on her website: www.youareloved.one.
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Apr 7 – 13, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate-high
Group Size
12
Transportation
Airport & activity transfers
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Guatemala that will help you connect with your inner child as you explore mystical landscapes and discover the vibrant energy of this unique country. This trip is all about allowing your heart to open itself to new experiences, something that we’ll accomplish through a variety of adventures, ranging from a deep dive into the culture of Antigua to a thrilling hike up Pacaya Volcano.
A focus on wellness via daily yoga, breathwork, and meditation will also help prep us for growth and transformation, as we realign ourselves amidst incredible environments using The Four Agreements as our anchor. From a sacred cacao ceremony to a temazcal experience, you’ll leave this retreat feeling purified and reborn, connected to the land and your highest self. You’ll also give back to the community, as Paisley will donate two water filters on behalf of each participant that signs up for the retreat. Book now to reserve your spot!
Please note: The book The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz will be the required reading for this retreat.
Timeline
- Day 1 · San Juan de Obispo
- Arrive in Guatemala
- Private/group transfer from airport to accommodation
- ~ 1 hr 30 mins taxi
- Check-in at Casa San Juan
- Free time
- 6:00 pm - Welcome dinner and short orientation
- 7:00 pm - Opening circle for logistics, schedule, and introductions
- Day 2 · San Juan de Obispo
- 7:30 am - Yoga, Breathwork, & Meditation Practice
- 9:00 am - Breakfast
- 10:30 am - Transfer to Antigua
- Antigua walking tour
- 1:00 pm - Lunch (not included in price)
- 5:00 pm - Return to accommodation
- 6:00 pm - Dinner
- 7:00 pm - Free time for rest or optional wellness sessions
- Day 3 · San Juan de Obispo
- 7:30 am - Yoga, Breathwork, & Meditation Practice
- 9:00 am - Breakfast
- 10:30 am - Transfer to Pacaya Volcano
- 12:00 pm - Pacaya Volcano hike (boxed lunch included)
- 3:30 pm - Return to accommodation
- 5:00 pm - Arrive at accommodation
- 6:00 pm - Dinner
- 7:00 pm - Sharing circle & connection exercise
- Day 4 · San Juan de Obispo & San Marcos La Laguna
- 7:30 am - Yoga, Breathwork, & Meditation Practice
- 9:00 am - Breakfast
- 9:30 am - Transfer to Iximche
- 11:00 am - Iximche ruins tour
- 12:30 pm - Boxed lunch
- 1:00 pm - Transfer to San Marcos La Laguna
- 4:30 pm - Arrive in San Marcos La Laguna, 30-minute hike from town to accommodation
- Check-in at The Yoga Forest
- 6:00 pm - Dinner
- Day 5 · San Marcos La Laguna
- 8:30 am - Yoga, Breathwork, & Meditation Practice
- 10:00 am - Brunch
- Free time
- 1:00 pm - Cacao and Fire Ceremony with Mayan Shaman Isaias
- Free time
- 5:00 pm - Dinner
- 7:00 pm - Temazcal
- Day 6 · San Marcos La Laguna
- 8:30 am - Yoga, Breathwork, & Meditation Practice
- 10:00 am - Brunch
- Free day to explore or book an add-on activity
- 6:00 pm - Dinner
- 7:00 pm - Closing circle
- Day 7 · Departure
- 8:30 am - Yoga, Breathwork, & Meditation Practice
- 10:00 am - Brunch and check out of accommodation
- Private/group transfer from accommodation to airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Begin an inner journey while exploring the gorgeous, unforgettable vistas of Guatemala
Welcome to Guatemala! As soon as you land in this amazing country, you'll immediately feel the unique energy that makes it such a transformative travel destination. Upon arrival, you’ll take your private transfer (potentially with other group members depending on flight times) out of the city and into San Juan de Obispo, a charming village that offers us space to slow things down and look within ourselves. Surrounded by lush gardens and verdant hills, you'll feel completely connected to nature as you explore the property and allow your spirit to flourish.
Around 6:00 pm, come together for a welcome dinner and brief orientation to get to know the property. From here, we’ll experience an opening circle, a time go over logistics, our schedule, and introductions to formally meet the group. Finally, after a long but powerfully fulfilling day, it's off to bed.
Day 2
Greet the day with movement and breath before touring the city of Antigua
Good morning! Rise to the sounds of the birds playing in the trees and make your way to the lodge's yoga room. Here, we'll engage in yoga, breathwork, and meditation to help us awaken, release and gain clarity. Use the power of movement and the breath to clear your energy and ground yourself in this beautiful location.
After breakfast, we'll make our way into the city of Antigua for a walking tour led by a local guide. Stunning colonial architecture mixed with modern culture makes Antigua a joy to explore, and you'll fall in love with its vibrant streets and warm, friendly locals. Enjoy free time for lunch and shopping before we return to the accommodation.
With your heart slowly opening to Guatemala's charms, we'll enjoy a calm evening where you can just relax, get in touch with your playful side, and allow your inner child to come out. Indulge in a delightful meal and consider booking an optional activity, such as a massage/Ayurveda session (through Ginger) or an Astrology reading (through Paisley).
Day 3
Trek up Pacaya Volcano and marvel at the power of Mother Nature
Today is a trip into the sublime. After morning yoga, breathwork, and meditation, along with a hearty breakfast, it's off to the Pacaya Volcano for a trek along its gorgeous slopes. This hike, guided by a Guatemalan resident who is well-versed in the land, will take about two hours (with plenty of breaks to appreciate the views, of course), and you'll be in awe at the solidified lava flows and the heat vents that seem to be a window into the passionate heart of the Earth. We'll even have a chance to roast marshmallows over the volcano's heat vents, a totally unique experience that you will surely never forget!
After forming a strong bond with nature, we'll make our way back to the accommodation and reflect upon this once-in-a-lifetime adventure at dinner and in the form of sharing circle. A connection exercise will close out the night, leaving us with feelings of unity, empowerment, and peace.
Day 4
Visit the Iximche ruins en route to Lake Atitlan, one of Guatemala's magical gems
It's time for a change of scenery. After a final morning in San Juan de Obispo, we'll be departing and traveling towards the glassy and gorgeous Lake Atitlan. On the way, we'll make a stop at the Iximche ruins for a tour accompanied by a local guide. Here, you'll feel the unmistakable pulse of ancient spirituality; these ruins were inhabited more than 500 years ago by the Maya, and the extant pyramid temples give a glimpse into their way of life. Tap into the energy that remains in this incredible location before we move onwards to our accommodation in San Marcos La Laguna.
From the town center, we’ll hike 30-minutes to our incredible accommodation overlooking Lake Atitlan. Get settled, eat a delicious dinner, and then fall asleep with the gentle beat of the waves upon the shore as your lullaby. Nothing can offer a better night's rest than a genuine link with nature.
Day 5
Connect with the ancient practices of Guatemala through a cacao and fire ceremony and a temazcal session
It's our first morning in San Marcos La Laguna, and you'll be in awe of how the sun reflects off of Lake Atitlan in the morning. Much like in San Juan de Obispo, we'll begin our day with our morning practices before enjoying a delicious brunch overlooking the lake.
After some free time, we’ll come together for a Cacao and Fire Ceremony with Mayan Shaman Isaias. This sacred ritual held a ton of importance in Mayan culture, and you'll feel connected to their rich history as we cleanse our energy, free our hearts, and release what's holding us back from living the lives we envision. From here, we'll have some free time that we can use to slow things down and truly appreciate the beauty of our surroundings.
Our night culminates in a group dinner, followed by a Temazcal (sweat lodge) experience led by a local Mayan guide. The heat will purify our bodies, leaving us cleansed after a day of spiritual work and ready for a stellar night’s rest.
Day 6
A free day at the lake to rest, relax, and explore
Start the day with our morning practices, enjoy brunch overlooking the lake, and spend the day however you please. This free time is set aside for you to explore San Marcos in smaller groups, shopping in town and connecting with the unique culture that is found here. You're also welcome to take a boat across the lake to visit another nearby community! With your heart as open as can be, just close your eyes and listen to what your intuition tells you. Let your instincts be your guide today – if you listen closely, you'll certainly find what you need from the day. In the evening, we gather in a closing circle to reflect on our experiences and bring together all that is positive. (Check out the array of options available to you in the add-on section below. Please note that any add-ons or other free time activities are not included in the price.).
Day 7
Enjoy a final morning session in Guatemala before heading back to the airport
Our time in Guatemala comes to a close today. We've gone on an incredible journey while discovering new things about ourselves. Our hearts feel incredibly open and ready to accept whatever the world throws at us! After our morning session, enjoy brunch then take your transfer to the airport. With optimism for the future, we’ll fly back home and start a new chapter in our lives. Thanks so much for joining us!
Accommodation
Casa San Juan
Casa San Juan is an accommodation that truly captures the charming, warm spirit of Guatemala. Found in the village of San Juan de Obispo, it offers quick access to the city of Antigua while still offering an unparalleled level of tranquility. A lush garden sits beside a house carefully designed by Guatemalan architect Frederico Jimenez to integrate with the natural environment via patio spaces, large windows, and glass doors. The entire property features a sense of serenity, making it perfect for yoga trips or quiet nights after adventures. Rooms are cozy with a traditional feel, making you feel right at home. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Twin beds.
The Yoga Forest
Discover a haven of tranquility and rejuvenation at The Yoga Forest Retreat Center, nestled in the heart of Guatemala's enchanting Lake Atitlán region. This eco-conscious sanctuary offers an immersive experience in nature, with thoughtfully designed accommodations that blend seamlessly with the lush surroundings. Each room features cozy furnishings, locally-sourced materials, and breathtaking views of the lake and majestic volcanoes.
The Yoga Forest is dedicated to wellness, offering a range of facilities tailored to nourish the mind, body, and spirit. Indulge in revitalizing yoga and meditation sessions in the serene open-air shalas, unwind at the natural spa with rejuvenating treatments, or take a moment to reflect in the peaceful meditation gardens and hammocks. At The Yoga Forest, every aspect of your stay is designed to help you embrace serenity, deepen your connection with nature, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and renewal. Room type: Double occupancy. Room configuration: Twin beds.
Included
- 3 nights at Casa San Juan
- 3 nights at The Yoga Forest
- Shared double occupancy in accommodations
- All activities described in the itinerary
- Meals as described in the itinerary
- One group airport arrival transfer
- One group airport departure transfer
Not included
- Flights
- All food not mentioned in inclusions
- Optional add-ons
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities
Available add-on
Private room upgrade
Book this add-on to upgrade from shared rooms to private rooms at both hotels. This is a perfect option for anyone who wants a bit more alone time during their trip.
Price: USD 320
Sold out
Mayan Ceremony with tree planting (1.5 hours)
Your spiritual guide will lead you up the slopes of Rostro Maya where you will visit a ceremonial altar and learn about the Mayan spiritual practices that have been carried on for generations. One practice that has fallen to the wayside is the planting of a tree after a ceremonial blessing, which asks for bountiful harvests and is an ancient tradition that the guides of San Juan La Laguna would like to continue. This is a unique event where you’ll get to plant the tree after the spiritual fire ceremony and ask for blessings.
Please note: This activity needs a minimum of 3 people to run.
Price: USD 40
Sold out
Cooking class (3 hours)
Learn how to prepare a traditional Guatemalan meal using indigenous herbs, spices, and vegetables, taught by local women. All options can be made vegetarian upon request!
Note: Price includes costs of ingredients.
Price: USD 55
Sold out
Weaving class (3 hours)
Work with a local woman to learn her craft of backstrap loom weaving. You may be able to finish a small project, and of course, take home your work.
Price: USD 30
Sold out
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until December 15, 2023. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by December 15, 2023 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip up until December 15, 2023 for a refund. After this time, no refunds will be given.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour (see our COVID-19 guarantee on the tour itinerary page). We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
- We will also immerse ourselves in a traditional temazcal experience — a traditional Mexican steam bath that is said to promote physical well-being and healing. - Tia Vidal
- Wander the colorful streets and soak in the local culture. - Unsplash: Emil Diallo
- Or go kayaking or paddle boarding on the Lake - Unsplash: Nadim Merrikh
- Set off on a walking tour of Antigua to explore the historic center of Antigua, where you will see famous landmarks, learn about the culture and geography of the region, and delve into the fascinating history of this beautiful city. - Robin Canfield
- The Yoga Forest - The Yoga Forest
- The Yoga Forest - Facebook: The Yoga Forest
- The Yoga Forest - The Yoga Forest
- Optional: Cooking class and beading workshop - Wikimedia Commons: Bruno Rijsman
- Optional: Weaving class - Unsplash: Cody McLain
- Casa San Juan - Casa San Juan
- Casa San Juan - Facebook: CASA SAN JUAN posada-yoga-ayurveda
- After checking in, you'll have some time to stroll the property and its gardens before dinner and a group orientation. - Facebook: CASA SAN JUAN posada-yoga-ayurveda
- Greet your first Guatemalan morning with yoga, breathwork, and meditation in the accommodation's beautiful yoga room. - Facebook: CASA SAN JUAN posada-yoga-ayurveda
- Feel invigorated and alive after our morning practices. - Casa San Juan
- We'll discover an absolutely incredible landscape made up of lava flows. You'll also even get the chance to cook marshmallows in the heat vents! - Unsplash: Dimitry B
- After one last morning session at the lodge, we'll say goodbye to the lovable San Juan de Obispo. - Facebook: CASA SAN JUAN posada-yoga-ayurveda
- We'll stop at the Iximche ruins on our way to the next destination. Breathe in history at this ancient location! - Wikimedia Commons
- Finally, we'll arrive at San Marcos La Laguna, a small community on the shore of the beautiful Lake Atitlan. - Wikimedia Commons
- You'll then have the rest of the day at leisure, allowing you to explore the breathtaking Lake Atitlan area. - Unsplash: Parker Hilton
- Add-on: Private room upgrade - Casa San Juan
- A cacao ceremony is an ancient ritual that will open your heart and activate your senses, leaving you feeling deeply grounded and connected to your higher self. - Rachael Gorjestani
- This ritual will be followed by a sacred fire ceremony, a connection to the Divine through the ‘earpiece of God” - the Sacred Fire. - https://www.theyogaforest.org/ceremony
- Add-on: Mayan Ceremony with Tree Planting - The Yoga Forest
- The beauty of Lake Atitlan is undeniable. - Pixabay: JancickaL
- Welcome to Guatemala! After landing, you'll speed away from Antigua and head to your accommodation located in a calm, charming village outside of the city. - Pixabay: ottogarcia