Gareth Pickering

I came to Lake Atitlan for the first time in October 2017. From the moment I first saw her, there was something magical about it, and my love affair with Guatemala and this land has deepened every day since.

In 2019, I decided to make San Marcos home until further notice. Having a home again was a big step after 41 countries and six years of endless adventures and full-time travel.

I made an offer on a home, and a few days later, I met my partner, Araminta, who has lived on the lake for 20 years. Life had given me some clear signs that this was where I needed to be.

I live full-time in Guatemala with Araminta, our two cats (Zen and Zola), and a rescue dog called Layla.

I'm grateful every day to live here and be part of this community.


Why I Created The Call To Courage Men's Retreat.

I wanted to create an experience in which ten courageous men came together around a potent enquiry about life's second mountain.

I want to invite other men to experience the land and lake that support my healing journey so that it can support them, also.

I want to create financial abundance while supporting other heart-led visionaries who are also committed to raising consciousness and enjoying life.

To feel pampered and enjoy luxurious spaces.


To co-create with another heart-led visionary - Brian Jenkins.
I want to share my gifts. So, Meditation, Men's Work, Yoga, Physical and Emotional Awareness, and Shadow Work are all woven into this retreat experience.

To raise awareness and money for on-the-ground projects here at the lake. These projects directly uplift and empower the community on the lake through water sanitation, reforestation, and the creation of community-owned enterprises.

To share the magic and medicine held by others on the lake. Cacao, Fire Ceremony, San Pedro and catering are a co-creation with local lake residents.

I want to share the medicine that I receive weekly from my men's circle at the lake.

I am excited to share what I've learnt and embodied. Our space is breathtaking, and my team and community are behind me.

I'm calling in other heart-led visionaries ready to tackle their life's second mountain and show up in service as we create the new world our hearts know is possible.

If you're on this page and feel a buzz in your system that's both excitement and nervousness, this might be your Call To Courage.

Brian and I will be waiting to welcome you to our lakeside villa on July 23rd this year.

Thanks for checking out this invitation.

Much love.