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Sacred Roots Retreat

February 24 - March 3, 2026

Jaibalito, Guatemala

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Hosted By

Charlotte Nieuwenhuis

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7 nights, 8 days

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14 person retreat

Highlights

  • Jungle immersion

  • Indigenous Wisdom

  • International and Local Facilitators

  • Cultural immersive journey in authentic Maya village

  • Cacao ceremonies

  • Maya fire ceremony with Maya Elders

  • Earth-based spirituality teachings and embodiment practices

  • Plant medicine journey with cacao: we will go in-depth into the healing medicine of cacao and her spirituality

  • Visit sacred ancient sites

  • Ancient wisdom

  • Visit to one of the most sacred rivers revered by the Mayas where we will be having a purification water ceremony.

  • The ethnobotany of cacao — plant as teacher, medicine, and ally

  • Teachings on the Maya worldview for deepening your bond with Earth

  • River and lake immersions for cleansing, grounding, and connection

  • Integration circles, storytelling, and stillness — space for weaving it all within

  • Visit a cacao farm

  • Fire, music, and songs

Details

This is more than a retreat — it’s a pilgrimage of remembrance. Step into the sacred lands of Guatemala, guided by the spirit of cacao and the ancestral wisdom of the Maya. From the volcanic depths of Lake Atitlán to the crystalline waters of Semuc Champey, you are invited to reconnect to the earth, awaken your inner guidance, and commune with spirit, anchored in the ancient wisdom of the land and her biocultural heritage. This retreat is for you if you feel the call to: Reconnect with the Earth and your own heart Sit with Indigenous elders and sacred traditions Work deeply with cacao and ceremonial plant wisdom Activate your intuition and inner vision Take a break from digital life and listen to nature’s rhythm This pilgrimage is not like any other retreats — it is held in reverence, reciprocity and respect to the land and people by facilitators who walk the path of ancient wisdom for many years and are embodied in their practice.

Location

Jaibalito, Guatemala

Jaibalito, Guatemala, is a small, tranquil village located on the western shore of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by lush hills and volcanic peaks. Accessible mainly by boat, it offers a peaceful escape from the more tourist-heavy towns around the lake. The village is known for its relaxed, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere, charming lakeside accommodations, and opportunities to connect with local culture and nature. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring the scenic surroundings, all while soaking in the serene beauty of one of Central America’s most stunning lake regions.

Venue

Sacred Garden Yoga Atitlan

5 26 Reviews

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Sacred Garden Atitlán offers an idyllic, serene setting for retreat leaders looking to host transformative experiences. Nestled in the heart of nature, with breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán, the Sacred Garden provides a peaceful, distraction-free environment that fosters deep connection, personal growth, and healing. With spacious accommodations, ample room for both indoor and outdoor activities, and versatile facilities, it is the perfect location for yoga, wellness, and mindfulness retreats. ​ In addition to its natural beauty, Sacred Garden Atitlán offers tailored support to retreat leaders, including assistance with organizing logistics, catering to special dietary needs, and providing wellness services. The retreat center is designed to accommodate groups of up to 18 people, ensuring an intimate, personalized experience.

Free Wifi

Free Wifi

Garden

Garden

Towels

Towels

Housekeeping

Housekeeping

Coffee / Tea

Coffee / Tea

Kitchen

Kitchen

Parking (with fees)

Parking (with fees)

Balcony

Balcony

Bathtub

Bathtub

Bathroom

Bathroom

Accommodation

Shared room

2-person shared room

$2,096 USD / person

Private Room

2 Rooms Left

Private room for 1

$2,419 USD total

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Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Atitlán, the retreat space carries the lake’s powerful, enchanting energy—where nature and culture merge in harmony. Surrounded by towering volcanoes, lush green mountains, and vibrant Mayan traditions, it offers an atmosphere of awe and deep tranquillity. Sacred Garden Yoga Atitlán, just steps from the authentic Mayan village of Jaibalito, provides a peaceful hillside sanctuary with breathtaking views. Family-owned and lovingly cared for, this haven invites guests to align with nature’s rhythms, embrace the wisdom of the Maya, and immerse themselves in a nurturing environment that supports inner renewal and connection. As we embark on a 7-day pilgrimage, we will also experience the lush jungle at a beautiful cacao farm eco-hotel where tree cabins blend in nature — next to the sacred site of Semuc Champey, where cacao, rivers, and wild animals converge. This will be a beautiful immersion into the heart of Guatemala—untouched, magnificent, breathtaking scenery.

Meals

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Meals provided

Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

Diets catered

Vegan · Vegetarian · Gluten-free · Dairy-free · Organic · Nut Allergy Friendly · Diabetic Friendly

Our meals are lovingly prepared with fresh, locally sourced vegetarian ingredients, celebrating the abundance of the land around. Each dish is crafted to nourish body and spirit—colorful, wholesome, and full of vibrant flavor. From farm-fresh fruits and crisp garden vegetables to nourishing grains and legumes, the cuisine is both grounding and energizing, supporting your journey of inner renewal. Meals are served with care and intention, creating moments of togetherness and joy around the table. We can accommodate for any allergies or food preferences. Every bite is an invitation to savor the simple sacredness of food as medicine, honoring both the Earth and the body.

Schedule

The Sacred Roots Retreat unfolds as a seven-day pilgrimage woven with ritual, ceremony, and deep connection to the living Earth. We begin by gently arriving at Lake Atitlán, grounding into the land and planting the seed of intention with ceremonial cacao. From there, the journey carries us into the heart of Maya ancestral wisdom through fire ceremony, before moving into the lush jungle of Semuc Champey where we meet the sacred cacao tree in its native home. Each day opens a new doorway: immersing in cacao’s medicine and history, offering prayers and blessings to the turquoise waters, and learning directly from Q’eqchi’ farmers who tend this sacred plant with reverence. Together we weave animacy, embodiment, and remembrance, integrating the lessons of the ancestors with visions for tomorrow. The retreat closes in gratitude, with community rituals and blessings, carrying forward the seeds of wisdom, balance, and harmony into our lives and beyond General Schedule: • Arrival & Opening → Grounding, intention setting with cacao. • Ancestral Connection → Fire ceremony with Maya elders. • Pilgrimage Journey → Travel into the jungle, meeting cacao in its sacred lands. • Cacao Medicine → Deep immersion into cacao’s history, spirit, and ceremony. • Water Offerings → Ceremony at Semuc Champey, fasting, prayers with water. • Earth & Animacy → Learning with Q’eqchi’ farmers, hands-on cacao work, Earth teachings. • Integration & Return → Community rituals, storytelling, and carrying the seeds home.

Testimonials

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I have been guided through a journey of total immersion that allowed my heart to completely crack open and savor the beauty found in life’s simplicity. Surrounded by the lush abundance of the jungle, this has been one of the most eye-opening experiences I’ve had, especially considering the ease of connection fostered by the warmth of the locals. Charlotte has guided me through many cacao ceremonies, and believe me when I say I would never recommend anything or anyone unless I truly feel it comes from a place of devotion. Devotion to the history and culture, giving credit where it’s due, and above all, giving back to the community.

Amelie McKenna, Canada

I will never see cacao and chocolate the same way. I have travelled over many countries and this was the most significant and authentic experience I have lived in my entire life. The closest to what it means to experience ancestral wisdom and connecting with Indigenous culture. Thank you so much.

Alex, Germany

I had the chance to receive a beautiful transmission on cacao from Charlotte. She shares her deep knowledge with authenticity and wisdom. An inspiring woman from whom I would love to continue learning and receiving cacao teachings.

Emilie Aube, France

What a gift of life it is to be able to meet oneself through the guidance of Mayan wisdom with Charlotte. My connection with cacao and the animals of the Nahuales is deep and nourishing, greatly supported by Charlotte’s presence, which is both authentic and respectful of the traditions. The conscious community surrounding Heart to Earth is kind and welcoming; Charlotte always offers a safe space that allows us to be fully ourselves, sovereign, in all our vulnerability, strength, and beauty.

Marika, Canada

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Host

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Charlotte Nieuwenhuis

Canada

Heart to Earth is a sanctuary for beings to return to the Earth, joining their love and hearts with nature so we may reconnect with our truest essence and truly embrace Mother Earth's gift of life. Fr...

3 languages

English, Français, and Español

Teaching for 2 months

Joined Insight Timer in Nov 2025

What's Included

Accommodation

7 dinners, 6 lunches, 6 breakfast

Transportation between locations

All activities

Journey to Semuc Champey

Fire ceremony with the elders

Welcoming gifts

Cacao ceremonies

Snacks

Translation from Spanish to English for the local facilitators

Reading of your unique nahual before departure

Integration calls after the retreat

Not Included

Flight

Travel insurance

Transportation to Lake Atitlan

Personal expenses

Extra activities

FAQs

Guest requirements

  • To join this pilgrimage, participants are asked to come with an open heart, willingness to engage in sacred ceremony, and respect for Indigenous traditions and the land. A baseline of good health and mobility is recommended, as the journey includes travel through jungle terrain and participation in rituals that may involve fasting, extended time outdoors, and group practices. Most importantly, participants are invited to bring a spirit of reciprocity, reverence, and curiosity — ready to walk in remembrance and connection with the Earth.

Cancellation policy

The remaining balance for the retreat is due 30 days prior to the start date. If this balance is paid earlier than these 30 days, you are eligible to cancel and receive a full refund of this remaining balance, provided you do so at least 30 days before the retreat begins.