The Best Yoga Retreats in the World for 2024
If you’re looking for a break from the stresses of daily life where you can relax and reconnect with your body, mind and spirit then a wellness or yoga retreat might be just what you need.
Due to yoga’s rise in popularity, yoga retreat centers can now be found all over the world, from the rainforests of Costa Rica, to the beaches of Bali, and everywhere in between.
So whether you’re dreaming of saluting the sun in Spain, meditating in India’s Himalayan mountains, or having a spiritual experience in Peru there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to yoga holidays.
With such an abundance of options here’s our pick of the very best yoga retreats in the world for 2024 to help you find your perfect escape. Whatever your budget, age or experience level – you’re sure to find something to suit.
If you’re thinking of becoming a yoga teacher check out our guide to the best yoga teacher training courses.
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Why We Love Yoga Retreats
Yoga retreats are our favorite type of getaway because they are so much more beneficial than a regular vacation. Yoga holidays leave us feeling healthier, happier, and more in tune with our body, mind and soul.
As well as the ideal environment to escape, unwind and relax in a serene and beautiful location, yoga retreats are an amazing opportunity to find inner peace, be immersed in a holistic lifestyle, kickstart healthier habits, deepen your yoga practice, connect with like-minded people and explore a new culture.
In fact, attending one of the best yoga retreats in the world can lead to transformative personal growth and be a truly life-changing experience that will enrich your life long after your tan fades, no matter whether you are a beginner who just started practicing yoga or a more seasoned yogi.
Yoga and meditation retreats don’t have to be expensive, there are some amazingly affordable yoga retreats out there and the all-inclusive retreat packages are often great value for money as they include daily yoga and meditation classes with experienced yoga teachers as well as accommodations and meals.
Another advantage of taking a yoga retreat vacation is that many also offer spa treatments as well as other yoga practices and outdoor activities, depending on the location, such as guided nature walks, mountain biking, surfing lessons, horseback riding and Tai Chi among other things.
Many top yoga retreats also include trips and excursions to nearby sights, local temples and places of interest that will give you an insight into the local culture and complement your yoga experience.
READ MORE: The Best Surf & Yoga Retreats in the World
The Best Yoga Destinations Around The World
Another benefit of taking a yoga vacation is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new country and culture.
India is the birthplace of yoga and a popular destination for yoga teacher training. As yoga’s popularity has spread around the globe yoga travellers are no longer limited to ashrams in India to learn more about yoga and health, wellness and spirituality.
There are now so many amazing yoga destinations to visit if you’re considering taking a yoga retreat abroad. Nowadays, yoga retreats are held everywhere from the Himalayan mountains to the Amazon jungle. Many popular yoga destinations are situated on healing energy vortexes in some of the most beautiful and spiritual places in the world.
Some of the most popular places to take a yoga retreat include:
- Bali – A beautiful and deeply spiritual island in Indonesia,
- Costa Rica – Home to incredible biodiversity and the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle
- Thailand – Full of glittering Buddhist temples and paradise islands
- India – The birthplace of yoga, with an incredibly diverse and vibrant culture
- Mexico – Home to ancient Mayan ruins, colourful cities and a vibrant lifestyle
- Europe – Packed with history, diverse cultures and incredible food.
The USA is also a great yoga destination with a diverse scenery and some of the world’s best authentic yoga retreats and holistic wellness centres. This is because Indian yogis and gurus migrated to the US to start ashrams and yoga centers.
This helped to spread the ancient practice worldwide and means that there are many world class retreat centers in The States like the Sivananada Yoga Ashram, The Art of Living Retreat Center, The Esalen Institute and The Shambhala Mountain Center, to name just a few.
As you can see the choices are endless, so let’s narrow it down with our handpicked selection of the best yoga retreats in the world for 2024. These recommendations are based on personal experience of the team, recommendations from friends and family, plus review score from other guests.
We believe yoga is for everyone, you don’t have to be young, skinny, super flexible or rich to enjoy the benefits of a yoga retreat. So, this isn’t a list of the most expensive luxury yoga retreats suitable only for advanced yogis – here you’ll find yoga and meditation retreats for all levels and all budgets – each one offers something unique and special to earn it a place on this list of the best yoga retreats in the world.
The Best Yoga Retreats in the World for 2024
Whether it’s the opportunity to hike to ancient spiritual sites, connect with the earth on a permaculture farm, or learn how to surf, many of these retreats offer additional unique experiences that will complement your yoga practice. We hope you will find plenty of inspiration here.
The Best Yoga Retreats in the Americas
Best Yoga Retreat in the USA – DiviniTree Yoga, Hawaii
This incredible Hawaii yoga retreat with DiviniTree Yoga is perfect for anyone wanting to escape the stresses of daily life to reconnect with nature and themselves.
On this retreat you will not only deepen your yoga practice with daily Hatha yoga classes in an ocean view shala that are suitable for all levels, you’ll also learn more about holistic wellbeing with Ayurveda, Thai massage and herbalism workshops and enjoy a cacao ceremony and sound healing session
You’ll stay in eco-chic comfortable accommodation on a permaculture farm in an off-the-beaten-track part of East Maui where you can learn about organic agriculture, be part of a vibrant community and enjoy three buffet-style farm-to-table meals each day made from organic, home grown ingredients.
What we loved about this retreat was being immersed in this unique community and the beautiful nature of Hawaii far from the tourist crowds. It’s a transformative retreat experience where you’ll learn about so much more than just yoga – just don’t blame us if you leave feeling inspired to start your own permaculture farm community!
- Location: Maui, Hawaii
- Length: 8 days
- Price: From: $3,000
READ MORE: 10 Amazing Yoga Retreats in the USA
Best Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica – El-Sabanero, near Tamarindo
Costa Rica is one of our favorite yoga travel destinations, the incredible biodiversity, abundant positive vibes and ‘pura vida’ lifestyle offer the perfect opportunity to be rejuvenated by nature and reconnect within.
Our favorite Costa Rica yoga and meditation retreat has to be El Sabanero. This Eco Lodge is located in unspoilt tropical rainforest sanctuary, near the popular beach town of Tamarindo, and provides the ideal environment to reconnect with nature and deepen your yoga practice.
As well as twice daily Vinyasa yoga classes, pranayama and mindfulness meditation sessions you’ll also experience Chakra balancing workshops to get your energy flowing harmoniously.
And if that’s not enough, there’s also a wide range of other adventurous activities available like hiking, horseback riding, surfing, snorkeling and ziplining. Or you could just relax by the infinity pool or check out the four beautiful beaches nearby.
Accommodation in spacious, teak, air-conditioned rooms with a deck, three gourmet vegetarian meals each day and airport transfers are also included in the retreat package.
What we loved about this retreat was the super open, non-judgmental and non-competitive environment which makes it perfect for all ages, backgrounds and experience levels. In fact, many of the other guests were solo female travelers.
- Location: Guanacaste, Costa Rica
- Length: 6 days
- Price: From $1,090
READ MORE: 9 Rejuvenating Yoga Retreats in Costa Rica
Best Yoga Retreat in Mexico – Beyond Yoga, Puerto Vallarta
Mexico is an amazing place for a colorful and fun yoga vacation. If you’re looking for a beachfront luxury wellness retreat check out Beyond Yoga in Puerto Vallarta.
At this all-inclusive yoga retreat center you’ll stay in a luxury treehouse villa in a serene beachfront resort with access to an infinity swimming pool that overlooks the Pacific Ocean and enjoy three healthy gourmet meals each day and plenty of beach time.
The retreat program offers the perfect mix of yoga, meditation, adventure and relaxation in nature. There’s twice daily yoga classes in a variety of yoga styles as well as a range of wellness workshops, spiritual ceremonies and nature activities like hikes through the jungle to a hidden waterfall.
What we love about Beyond Yoga is the beach front location, the views, the back to nature feel without comprising on comfort and the varied program of yoga and activities throughout the week – it’s pretty much the perfect yoga retreat!
- Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
- Length: 8 days
- Price: From $1,499
READ MORE: 10 Stunning Yoga Retreats in Mexico
Best Yoga Retreat in Peru – Sacred Journeys, Machu Picchu
Peru, the land of the Incas, has rich spiritual and cultural heritage and is an ideal setting for spiritual retreats. This yoga and meditation retreat with Sacred Journeys combines hiking to Machu Picchu with spiritual ceremonies, meditation and yoga for a once in a lifetime experience.
The retreat includes daily yoga and meditation sessions, sharing circles and gratitude practice and hikes with an indigenous guide to explore the Sacred Valley and ancient site of Machu Picchu.
You’ll stay in a comfortable 4 star hotel and enjoy healthy vegan yogic meals. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in a ceremony at Machu Picchu and also receive an Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) workshop. All in just 4 days!
This unique experience is an amazing opportunity to explore the incredible landscapes and spirituality of Peru while reconnecting with yourself and mother earth in a short space of time.
- Location: Sacred Valley, Peru
- Length: 4 days
- Price: From $822
READ MORE: 6 Best Spiritual Yoga Retreats In Peru
The Best Yoga Retreats in Asia
Best Yoga Retreat in India – Veda5, Rishikesh
As the home of both Yoga and Ayurveda, a retreat in India is an unforgettable experience for anyone enthusiastic about authentic spiritual practice.
There are an overwhelming amount of yoga schools offering yoga teacher training in Rishikesh but not so many relaxing retreats. Veda5 Ayurveda & Yoga Centre, set in a spa resort with panoramic views of the mountains stands out as one of the best.
Here you can soak up the spiritual atmosphere in Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World, situated along the banks of the holy Ganges river in the foothills of the Himalayan mountains.
At this yoga and ayurveda retreat you’ll receive authentic and traditional Hatha yoga instruction as well as meditation, pranayama, mantra chanting and daily Ayurvedic treatments with experienced Ayurvedic doctors and yoga teachers for whom the yoga has always been a way of life.
You’ll also cleanse your body internally with wholesome vegetarian Ayurvedic meals and an Ayruvedic cooking class and also explore the mountains with nature treks to local villages and temples.
We love this retreat as it combines the best of traditional ancient Indian healing practices in a luxurious serene setting in the Himalayas. It’s one of the best yoga retreats in India as it offers a comfortable way to experience the vibrant spirituality of Rishikesh.
- Location: Rishikesh, India
- Length: 6 days
- Prices: From $834
READ MORE: The Complete Guide to Yoga in India
Best Yoga Retreat in Bali – Balitrees Retreats, Tabanan
Bali is known as the Island of the Gods and is packed with wellness retreats and spiritual healing, but if you want to avoid the crowded tourist spots and have a more serene and authentic experience consider Balitrees Retreats.
Located in an off the beaten track, authentic Balinese village surrounded by rice fields and ancient temples, Balitrees is a joint effort between the local ashram and the villagers where you can immerse yourself in the Balinese lifestyle.
This retreat offers yoga classes in the unique Balinese Watukaru style and guided meditation sessions that are most suited to beginners, as well as spa treatments and Balinese cultural activities and excursions to give you a real insight into this unique and deeply spiritual island. These include dance performances, a waterfall purification ceremony, coconut oil and offering making classes and a rice farming experience, among other things.
While this is not a super luxury retreat the insight into local life is priceless. You’ll stay in comfortable villas within a friendly homestay environment with a pool and be surrounded by nature and enjoy wholesome meals prepared with love.
Whether you’re looking for an ‘Eat Pray Love’ experience, to be immersed in authentic Balinese culture. or just an affordable yoga retreat, Bali Trees is a great choice.
- Location: Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia
- Length: 8 days
- Price: From $559
READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to Yoga in Bali and Our Essential Bali Travel Guide.
Best Yoga Retreat in Thailand – CC’s Hideaway, Phuket
Thailand has a huge variety of retreats to choose from but our favortie experiences are to be found on the stunning tropical islands.
The largest island in Thailand, Phuket, is the perfect choice for a luxurious yoga holiday in paradise and the retreats at CC’s Hideaway offers the best of relaxation and exploration.
The twice daily yoga, meditation and pranayama sessions are suitable for beginner and intermiedates and cover a range of yoga styles from Vinyasa and Ashtanga to Hatha, Yin and Acro yoga. Yoga classes are held in the ocean view studio and on the beach.
In addition to yoga a huge variety of cultural activities, adventures and excusrions are included in the retreat package so you can experience everything this beautiful island has to offer.
You’ll stay in a stunning boutique resort overlooking Karon beach and the Andaman sea with air conditioned rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, cafe and bar. Fresh tropical juices, three healthy meals each day and airport transfers are included in the package.
What we love about this retreat is the huge variety of yoga styles, activities and excursions that make it the best yoga holiday in Thailand – the beaches in Phuket are some of the best in the world too!
- Location: Karon Beach, Phuket, Thailand
- Length: 7 days
- Price: From $1085
READ MORE: The Complete Guide to Yoga in Thailand
The Best Yoga Retreats in Europe
Best Yoga Retreat in Greece – Yoga On Kos
If you’re dreaming of an island escape in Europe, Greece is hard to beat. There’s so many incredible retreats in Greece but Yoga on Kos stands out as one the best.
The tranquil retreat centre is located just a few minutes walk from the beach and the sparkling Aegean Sea. It boasts a large outdoor swimming pool, lush green lawns and an open air yoga studio where you can practice yoga outside. Comfortable ensuite accommodation with a private balcony and healthy plant-based breakfast and dinners are included.
You’ll enjoy two daily yoga sessions – an energizing morning Hatha yoga session and a relaxing restorative or yin yoga classes to wind down in the evening. There’s also plenty of free time to relax and enjoy the island with opportunities for hiking, cycling or just enjoying the beach.
Did you know that Hipprocrates, the founder of medicine, was born in Kos!? One of the highlights of this retreat is the evening spent floating in the natural hot springs and thermal baths and the unique sunset meditation session at Hippocrates Altis. We just loved the serene Greek island vibes of this relaxing retreat.
- Location: Kos, Greece
- Length: 8 days
- Price: From €1,045 / $1, 175
READ MORE: 10 Stunning Yoga Retreats in Greece
Best Surf & Yoga Retreat in Portugal – Shamballah, Sintra
Portugal is one of the best places in Europe to combine yoga and surfing for one amazing active vacation. Shamballah Retreats, located in the beautiful Sintra National Park close to Lisbon, is our favorite luxury surf and yoga retreat in Portugal.
Not only will you receive two Hatha and Vinyasa yoga classes each day, you’ll also experience guided meditation workshops and surf lessons with fun and highly experienced instructors that will get you up and riding the waves in no time. Both the yoga and surf sessions are suitable for beginners as well as those with some previous experience.
Three healthy vegetarian meals are served each day and accommodation is provided in single, twin or double rooms in a luxury villa with a lawn, terrace, jacuzzi and mini gym. There’s plenty of places to chill out, soak up the surrounding nature, connect with like minded people and there are some stunning hiking trails nearby.
Another highlight of this retreat is the location and there’s plenty of time to explore the incredible beaches, nature and colourful, fairytale like castles and palaces of Sintra national park. The charming Portugese capital, Lisbon, is only 1 hour away by train. This retreat is a great pick if you want to experience the best of Portugal.
- Location: Sintra, Portugal
- Length: 6 days
- Price: From €1,220 / $1,374
READ MORE: The Best Yoga Retreats in Portugal
Best Yoga Retreat in Spain – La Crisalida, Alicante
For the perfect mix of fitness and relaxation on the beaches of the sunny Costa Blanca head to La Crisalida Retreats in Alicante. This is an amazing value for money all-inclusive yoga and wellness retreat with a huge variety of programs to choose from including detox retreats and life makeovers.
Whichever package you choose, you’ll enjoy two yoga classes each day in relaxing Hatha, yin and restorative yoga styles suitable for beginners or intermediates. A highlight is the outdoor yoga sessions held on the beach or the roof terrace which has amazing views of the mountains. You can also experience guided nature walks, yoga nidra sessions, pilates, aqua aerobics and life makeover workshops.
You’ll stay in a lovely traditional Spanish apartment with a swimming pool within walking distance from the beach. As the package even includes healthy plant based food or
Fresh detox juices and airport transfers, all you need to worry about is relaxing, soaking up the sun and having a good time.
- Location: Alicante, Spain
- Length: 6 days
- Price: From €725 / $815
READ MORE: The Best Yoga Retreats in Spain
How to choose the right yoga retreat for you
With such a huge diversity of retreats available there’s sure to be the perfect retreat for you somewhere out there, but choosing the right yoga retreat that suits your needs can be a daunting task given the plethora of options available worldwide.
Here are some factors to consider to help you choose the perfect retreat for you:
- Style of Yoga: Some retreats specialize in specific styles of yoga whereas others offer multiple types of yoga class. Whether you’re an Ashtanga enthusiast, a Vinyasa flow lover, or a fan of the gentler Hatha or Yin yoga, or want to try Acro and Aerial yoga make sure the retreat you choose caters to your preferred style and level of experience. Also consider whether you’d like to meet new people and be part of a small group, or if you’d prefer a personalised private retreat, and pick accordingly.
- Location: The location of the retreat centre can significantly influence your experience. Are you drawn to the serenity and fresh air of the mountains, the vitality of the jungle, or the calming waves of the sea? Each setting provides a unique ambiance that contributes to your overall experience.
- Culture and Weather: Retreats abroad are also a great opportunity to be immersed in a different culture or spirituality so why not choose a country that you’ve also been fascinated about exploring and combine it with a yoga retreat holiday for the best of both worlds. Remember to check the weather for your chosen location to ensure you pack correctly.
- Duration: Yoga retreats can range from a weekend getaway to a month-long immersion. Consider the amount of time you can and want to dedicate to this experience. The most popular duration are week long retreats.
- Cost and inclusions: Retreat prices can vary dramatically based on the location, duration, amenities offered and activities included. Check what’s included to ensure that the retreat you choose aligns with your budget while providing the comfort that you require. Retreats in developing countries are cheaper but the facilities may not always match what you are used to back home so make sure you are comfortable with being open to new experiences.
- Travel, visas, packing and insurance: Don’t forget to budget for the cost of transport to your desired retreat location and, if traveling abroad, check if you need a visa to enter the country. Wherever you go, it’s important to take out a comprehensive travel insurance plan that covers all of the activities you might do on your trip. If you’re unsure what to pack for your yoga holiday check out our yoga retreat packing list.
- Research and Reviews: Do your research and take the time to find the retreat that resonates with you. Reading reviews from previous attendees can provide invaluable insight into the experience. Consider reaching out to the organizers with any queries or concerns you may have.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed at the amount of options, read our guide to choosing a good yoga retreat and, if it’s your first time, then check out our tips for what to expect from your first yoga retreat.
Still looking for the perfect yoga retreat for 2024?
When it comes to yoga retreats around the world the options grow every year. This is just a selection of the very best yoga retreats in the world but really the choices are endless so whatever you’re looking for you’re bound to find the perfect yoga vacation.
If you’re still searching for the perfect yoga retreat check out or blogs by country or destination for more inspiration, recommendations and travel tips.
Take a look at the options on sites like bookyogaretreats.com and bookretreats.com where you’ll find yoga and wellness retreats all around the world and can read the reviews and experiences of previous guests before booking your place securely.
As there’s so much variety and variation when it comes to yoga retreats it’s really worth checking these reviews so you know what to expect before you book. Not every retreat center offers the same standard of facilities or teachers so checking reviews is vital to ensure your yoga holiday is a happy, safe and unforgettable experience.
We hope you’ve found inspiration for your next yoga retreat holiday here, don’t forget to check out our other yoga travel blogs and handpicked recommendations for the best yoga retreats in the world’s best yoga destinations.
Happy Yoga Travels,
Namaste x
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