We will start the day with a hike to a cross at the top of a hill called Cerro de la Cruz (2 miles roundtrip from city center, 300 ft. elevation). This hike take us to a point that overlooks the entire city as well as the massive Volcano Agua behind it.

We will then pack up a lunch and take a private transfer to our home on Lake Atitlan, Saasil Retreat Center. The drive will take about 3 hours. 

Upon arrival you can settle into your room, explore around the property, or grab a snack at the restaurant. 

In the late afternoon we will have a yoga session in the beautiful shala overlooking the lake and set our intentions for the week. 

After dinner, you can head to sleep or enjoy some hang time around the campfire.

We'll start the day with yoga and meditation either on the rooftop shala or the main shala to energize our minds and bodies for a fire element focused day ahead. 

Today will be a powerful day where we will partake in a temazcal experience. A temazcal is like a spiritual sauna— it's a Mayan sweat lodge built out of bamboo where we will sit in the dark, breathing in steam from hot volcanic stones while a guide leads us through chants, meditation, and deep personal reflection. 

It gets intensely hot, but the experience is meant to cleanse not just your body, but your mind and emotions too—kind of like a reset button for your soul. By the time we crawl out, sweaty and reborn, we will feel lighter, clearer, and so refreshed, like we all just let go of something we didn’t even realize we were carrying. (This was a favorite at our last retreat in Mexico!)

After that we will have free time to rest and reflect. And later, we will come together for a group reflection on our experience in the temazcal. 

In the evening we will partake in a Mayan fire ceremony with a Nawal (spiritual guide). This is a powerful, grounding experience where we will gather around a sacred fire, offering candles, herbs, and intentions to the flames. The Nawal leads prayers and shares wisdom based on the Mayan calendar, helping us connect with nature, our ancestors, and our personal path. As the fire crackles and the smoke rises, we can feel a deep sense of release and renewal—like the universe is listening, and we are all exactly where we need to be.

We’ll start the morning with yoga and/or meditation, followed by a nourishing breakfast to fuel the day ahead.

Then, it’s time to play! We’ll head out onto the stunning waters of Lake Atitlán, renting kayaks and paddleboards to explore at our own pace, soaking in the magic.

After some free time to relax at Saasil, we’ll venture to a nearby waterfall, where you can immerse yourself in the healing energy of nature.

As the day winds down, we’ll come together for a gentle, slow-flow yoga session—a chance to unwind, reflect, and let your body fully absorb all the experiences of this incredible retreat so far.

We’ll start the day early—really early! Around 3:30 AM, we’ll lace up our hiking boots and set off on the breathtaking Mayan Face hike, guided by a local expert. Under the cover of darkness, we’ll ascend through farmland and quiet forest paths, making our way to the summit just in time for sunrise. And trust us—it’s worth the early wake-up. From the top, you’ll take in stunning panoramic views of Lake Atitlán, its surrounding volcanoes, and distant villages bathed in golden morning light. It’s truly an awe-inspiring way to start the day! (The hike is moderate, about 4 miles round trip.)

Afterward, we’ll return to Saasil for some well-earned downtime—relax, nap, journal, or just soak in the peaceful surroundings.

In the afternoon, we’ll gather in the beautiful shala for yoga or meditation, moving and breathing at a slower pace to restore and reconnect.

Later, we’ll set out for San Juan La Laguna, a vibrant town known as a "Friend of Peace." Here, we’ll dive into the rich local culture, exploring its colorful streets, learning about its traditions, and enjoying hands-on experiences that bring the town’s history to life. It’s a beautiful way to connect with the spirit of this incredible place.

What you'll experience:

1. Xekaqasiwan Viewpoint: Begin with a scenic boat ride across Lake Atitlán to the San Juan dock, followed by a walk to the "Xekaqasiwan Viewpoint." Admire panoramic views of the lake, surrounding towns, and the

vibrant landscape of San Juan La Laguna.

2. Historic Center: Stroll through the historic center, where colorful murals depict the town’s heritage and stories. Learn about the cultural significance of the traditional attire worn by indigenous men and women.

3. Bee World: Discover the essential role of Mayan women in beekeeping. Learn about local bee species, honey production, and how this practice supports families in the area.

4. Cacao Tour: Visit the Brown Liquor Chocolate Factory to observe the chocolate making process from cacao to the finished product. And of course we'll enjoy a tasting of their delicious offerings!

5. Textiles Tour: Dive into the world of traditional weaving. Watch demonstrations of natural dyeing using plants and leaves, yarn preparation, and weaving techniques by women artisans who rely on these crafts for family support.

In the evening we'll dine out in San Juan to enjoy the local cuisine and night life!