HELD - A Retreat for Those Who Hold Others

Kawok Forest offers a truly extraordinary experience for those seeking connection with nature and adventure. The trek to reach the retreat sets the tone, building anticipation as you journey on foot to this magical location. Nestled in the forest, the retreat feels like a hidden gem, and the setting—surrounded by breathtaking views of the lake and volcanoes—is nothing short of stunning.

However, it’s essential to approach Kawok with the right mindset. This is not a luxury resort; it's more akin to glamping in paradise. The cabanas, while charming, are rustic. Some are perched high on the mountainside, requiring good physical condition to access. The accommodations have a simplicity that complements the natural setting but come with challenges: gaps in the walls invite the local wildlife (yes, I had both giant spiders and scorpions as roommates), roofs are made of plastic, and rainy nights can be noisy. Shared bathrooms and showers, while offering incredible views, are more "back-to-nature" than comfortable, with cold water and limited pressure.

That said, the experience at Kawok is unforgettable. The staff are warm and attentive, and the food is delicious, nourishing both body and soul. If you're an experience seeker who values authenticity and immersion over creature comforts, Kawok Forest is absolutely worth visiting. Just come prepared for the adventure it offers, and you’ll leave with memories to treasure.

I really truly enjoyed my three days staying and Kawoq, wanted to stay more.
Staff extremely helpful and welcoming, and always with a smile. The yoga classes were amazing also, so different one to the other. Simply amazing, would definitely come back and do one week!

My husband and I stayed a few nights and Kawoq and we did not want to leave. The staff are so sweet, and take the best care of you. The location is beautiful and could not be more peaceful. Highly recommend to anyone staying at the lake.

Es la tercera oportunidad que me quedo allí y cada vez me gusta mas!
Me gusta mucho que estas dentro del bosque, arriba en la montaña donde solo entras en un estado natural y convives en paz contigo y con los demás!
La cocina y la comida siempre es espectacular, el estaff increible y los profesores de yoga muy bien!
Es un lugar altamente recomendable si quieres alejarte de distracciones y transformar tu vida a una vida consciente y abundante!
Espero visitarlos por cuarta vez y seguir llevando amigos y personas nuevas al lugar para compartir!

I stayed at Kawok Forest for three nights and did a personal retreat. I stayed in one of their bungalow private rooms, which was very comfortable and had spectacular views of Lake Atitlan and surrounding volcanoes. I honestly could have sat and watched the view alone for hours it was extremely relaxing. The yoga classes were varied and challenging in different ways. I really appreciated the diversity of teachers and what they brought to my own personal practice. There is a great level of education amongst the teachers and I really feel like I improved in a lot of ways in my practice.

The food was excellent! Prepared by local Mayan/Guatemalan ladies each day. I always felt full and nourished after each meal and everything was extremely fresh and healthy. My only complaint is that dinner was served extremely early at 5pm. If you're not used to this or you get hungry later in the evenings- bring snacks and things to eat throughout the day as meals are only served at 10am and 5pm. They have a few things to purchase on top such as protein balls and smoothies but can be pricey.

The only reason I did not give five stars is because I feel having to pay for additional and typically free amenities was a little absurd such as: connection to wifi being $10 per 3 days, luggage portage, and any trips into town. I questioned the wifi and was told everybody should disconnect during their stay but sometimes that is not feasible as a traveller you may need to connect to wifi to plan further travels, book ferries, contact loved ones etc. Also the retreat is located on the side of a cliff up a mountain I think helping with your bags is a fair trade for hiking to your accommodation. Just thought they should keep that in mind when you compare prices with other accommodation on the Lake.