LAKE ATITLAN RETREAT

What is the Villa Sumaya property like? 

Villa Sumaya, located in Santa Cruz la Laguna on the shores of Lake Atitlán, was originally the vacation home of a Guatemalan family. Over time, in addition to renovating the Maya Rose House for style and comfort, the property added a restaurant, a boutique shop, a welcoming courtyard, a hot tub and a sauna, as well as four healing huts where they offer a wide variety of spa services. In 2015, they further expanded by purchasing adjacent land, which allowed a connection between the hotel and the Eco Sumaya Fruit Forest and gain access to an additional 19 acres of lakefront. 

 

What is the weather in Lake Atitlan that time of year? 

October weather in Panajachel and Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, averages daily high temperatures are around 74°F, rarely falling below 70°F or exceeding 78°F. The tropical climate can have rainfall that time of year, primarily at night. 

 

What is the food like at Villa Sumaya? 

Delicious healthy meals are prepared fresh daily. All meals have a protein source (eggs, beans, cheese, nuts, chicken, or fish, etc.). If you are on a high protein diet, it may be a good idea to bring a protein bar per day. 

 

Is the water safe to drink?

You must drink purified water, never from the tap. Villa Sumaya provides unlimited filtered water. Bring your water bottle or buy a Villa Sumaya glass bottle as a souvenir. They do not sell plastic water bottles.

 

Is the Lake Atitlan area safe? 

Yes! Villa Sumaya is located in a remote, rural and incredibly beautiful area near the small village of Santa Cruz La Laguna, Guatemala. The only access to Sumaya is by boat, which ensures that our landscape is quiet and pristine. Our village has virtually no crime.

We will be picked up in private shuttles in Guatemala City Airport upon landing and driven to Panajachel, where we will take a small boat to the retreat center.

 

What's the best airport to fly into?

La Aurora International Airport, located in the capital city Guatemala City, La Aurora is the main airport in the country.

 

What if I'm not feeling good about my current yoga practice? 

There is no yoga prerequisite or requirement. Come as you are. The yoga practice will meet you at your current level. 

 

Do you have any idea what flights will cost? 

While flight costs and fuel costs are ever changing, roundtrip prices around fall 2024 from SFO to La Aurora Airport in Guatemala City would be $400-650. When pricing for the retreat dates becomes available we will let you know more specific prices and will provide suggested flights. 

 

What is the daily schedule? 

Each day includes 2 yoga practices, 3 healthy meals, ceremony and rituals based in indigenous traditions, and plenty of downtime to enjoy the pool, hammocks, beach, and soak in Villa Sumaya's 13-acre property. 

 

Is there a pool? 

Villa Sumaya has a pool, two hot tubs and two saunas. The electric sauna is $30 for a 1 hour sweat with space for 5 people. A lakefront hot tub is available for gas-powered evening soaks (the rate for two hours is $40). At least six hours advance notice is required for an after-dinner hot tub.

 

When is the last day to register? 

Sept. 28, 2025 is the last opportunity. But please don’t wait! You will miss out on your choice of accommodations and the best pricing. 

 

What are the differences of accommodations?

All the room offerings have private baths with showers, patios, and amazing views. Each room description varies slightly. Depending on your sleeping arrangement, room mates, and budget there are options for you to choose from. Click below to see the accommodations, and the registration form has the pricing.

 

Maya Rose

Skyline Bungalows

Lotus House

Ginger & Lotus Suites 
 

How much cash should I bring?

There are ATM machines in towns around the lake but NOT in our closest village, Santa Cruz. It is recommended that you bring about $100 cash to cover incidentals. We cannot change money at Villa Sumaya. All purchases are added to your personal bill. Villa Sumaya accepts U.S. checks, Visa/Mastercard, PayPal or cash (USD or Guatemalan Q).

Many places do accept U.S. dollars but we recommend that you have Quetzales for excursions and shopping.

 

How do I register? 

$400 Deposit reserves your spot. You can make installments or pay it all up front. 

 

I'm ready to go! Do you have a link? 

https://forms.gle/FDE4QWSEkdJiRWe9A