Wellness & Yoga Escape by the Pacific in Popoyo, Nicaragua

This retreat is built around a simple rhythm: a morning yoga class, a long stretch of free time, a sunset session, and a shared dinner. The classes vary from Hatha Flow to Vinyasa to Power Flow, so there's variety even within the daily structure. On two afternoons, the schedule opens up for a breathing workshop and a cacao ceremony, and the final evening includes a sharing circle to close the week.

The location is a key part of the experience. Surf & Yoga Nicaragua is a small resort set in tropical gardens, with an almost deserted beach nearby. The yoga shala sits right by the water, so you can hear the waves during every practice. The rooms are simple and comfortable, with natural wood and handcrafted textiles, and there's a pool for cooling off between sessions. It feels a long way from everyday life, even though the airport transfer is included.

What makes this retreat stand out is the mix of rest and adventure. You're not just doing yoga for eight days—you're also going on a real excursion to an active volcano, trying surfing, and riding a horse along the beach at sunset. That combination keeps the week feeling full without being overwhelming. The small group size, capped around 13 people, means you're never lost in a crowd.

The retreat is led by Stéphanie Parent, who has been teaching for over 15 years and has led retreats and trainings in Bali, Costa Rica, and Mexico. She now runs Aura Yoga & Fitness in Gatineau, a studio known for its inclusive approach to movement and wellness. Her teaching blends classical yoga philosophy with a practical understanding of the body, so you'll leave with tools you can actually use at home, whether you're new to yoga or have been practicing for years.

What's included

- 7 nights accommodation - 3 daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) - Snacks, water, tea, and coffee throughout the day - Daily yoga classes (morning and sunset) - Introductory surfing lesson - Sunset horseback ride - Excursion to Masaya Volcano - Cacao ceremony - Conscious breathing workshop - Sharing circles - Airport pickup and drop-off (from LIR, Liberia, Costa Rica) - Professional event photos - Wi-Fi connection

What's not included

- International flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Optional spa treatments (massages) - Childcare services - Extra surf classes or private classes - Laundry service (charged per kg)