Kawoq Forest

Let the forest set the pace

Guatemala San Marcos La Laguna paid

Above San Marcos La Laguna, the climb to Kawoq Forest is part of the arrival: the center sits about a 20-minute hike up a valley, with Lake Atitlán and surrounding volcanoes opening out below. Formerly called the Yoga Forest, it brings an ecological hillside setting together with wellness retreats that may include yoga, meditation, spirituality and plant-medicine practices. There is no single daily schedule to expect, as experiences are organized around individual retreats, so it suits travelers who are comfortable checking the details of a particular stay. Vegetarian meals are a central part of the experience, and the kitchen lists vegan, Ayurvedic, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free options. A yoga studio, sauna and spa give guests ways to spend time beyond formal sessions, while coffee, tea and a café make settling in feel easy. Come prepared for a steep, scenic walk and an unhurried stay above the village.

Highlights

A scenic 20-minute uphill approach from the village
Vegetarian meals with vegan, Ayurvedic and several allergy-conscious options
Yoga studio, sauna and spa on the hillside
Views across Lake Atitlán to the surrounding volcanoes

Good for

yoga practitionersmeditation beginnersnature loversvegetarian travelerswellness retreat guests

Setting

Terraced into a hillside above San Marcos La Laguna, Kawoq Forest looks across Lake Atitlán toward the surrounding volcanoes. The forested approach and elevated views make the setting feel removed from the village, though the center is reached on foot by a steep hike up the valley.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm the schedule with the center. Retreat themes include yoga, meditation, spirituality and plant medicine, alongside vegetarian meals and time to enjoy the hillside setting.

Accommodation

Room types and lodging details are not described here. Ask Kawoq Forest directly about accommodation options for your chosen retreat.

What to bring

Pack sturdy shoes for the steep uphill walk, comfortable clothing for yoga or meditation, and layers for cool mornings and evenings. The annual average temperature is 18.5°C, with wetter conditions typically in June, September and October, so a light rain jacket is useful.

Website www.kawoqforest.com

Address Central America, San Marcos La Laguna, Solola, Guatemala

How to get there

From San Marcos La Laguna, the center is about a 20-minute hike uphill into the valley. An escort from Circles Cafe can be arranged in advance, with the center recommending a 1 pm arrival meeting and warning that late arrivals are not permitted. From Antigua, a collective shuttle is listed for 8–9 am at Q100, or a private shuttle for 9–10 am at Q800.

Nearest airport: Retalhuleu Airport (RER) (52 km)

Retalhuleu Airport (RER) is approximately 52 km from Kawoq Forest. Contact the center to confirm onward transport options and coordinate your arrival in San Marcos.

Nearest city: Retalhuleu

Public transport: A collective shuttle from Antigua is listed for 8–9 am at Q100; confirm current arrangements with the center before traveling.

Languages

English

How to book

Use the Kawoq Forest website to contact the center and confirm retreat dates and reservation details.

Pricing

Retreat prices start at USD 210. Confirm the rate and what is included for your chosen dates with the center.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Kawoq Forest website

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Jan, Mar, Nov

Avoid: Jun, Sep, Oct

The highlands average 18.5°C across the year, with warmer conditions usually in May, July and August and cooler weather in December, February and January. June, September and October are the wettest months, while January, March and November are generally drier.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How do I reach the center from San Marcos La Laguna?

Kawoq Forest is about a 20-minute hike uphill from the village. An escort can meet guests at Circles Cafe when arranged in advance; arrival guidance recommends planning for the 1 pm meeting, as late arrivals are not permitted.

Can beginners take part in the practices?

Retreats include different wellness practices, but experience requirements depend on the program. Ask the center about the level and format of the retreat you are considering.

Are vegetarian or special-diet meals available?

Vegetarian meals are served, with vegan, Ayurvedic, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free options listed. Confirm your dietary needs with the center before booking.

How do I book a stay, and what does it cost?

Contact Kawoq Forest through its website to confirm dates and reservation details. Retreat prices start at USD 210; check with the center to learn what is included in a specific stay.

What should I bring for the walk and the weather?

Bring sturdy walking shoes for the uphill route, comfortable clothes for yoga or meditation, and a light rain layer. Nights and cooler-season days can feel cool, while June, September and October are wetter months.