seva retreat
Make a Difference While Exploring the World
A Transformative Experience of Seva, Sustainability & Self-Discovery
Immerse yourself in a unique blend of mindful service (seva), sustainable green building, and personal growth in the heart of Guatemala. Through daily yoga, meditation, cultural immersion, and meaningful volunteer work, this retreat is designed to inspire personal transformation while making a tangible impact.
Why Choose Long Way Home?
Hands-On Impact: Work on real-world projects that promote environmental sustainability and improve local communities.
Skill Building: Learn eco-construction techniques, sustainable agriculture, and leadership skills.
Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich traditions, language, and hospitality of rural Guatemala.
Adventure & Exploration: Hike volcanoes, visit ancient Mayan ruins, and explore lush landscapes.
Global Connections: Collaborate with like-minded individuals from around the world.
What You'll Do
✅ Experience seva (selfless service) by contributing to sustainable community projects.
✅ Reconnect with your body and mind through daily yoga, meditation, and movement.
✅ Learn about sustainability, green building, and indigenous wisdom.
✅ Construct sustainable buildings using alternative materials like tires, bottles, and rammed earth.
✅ Explore Guatemala’s breathtaking landscapes, from volcanoes to sacred lakes.
✅ Engage in cultural experiences, fire ceremonies, and wellness workshops.
✅ Build lifelong friendships and immerse yourself in an inspiring community.
Who Should Apply?
This experience is designed for anyone looking to create impact while deepening their personal practice:
Yoga practitioners & teachers
Wellness seekers & mindful travelers
Students & gap-year participants
Environmentalists & sustainability advocates
Interested in learning new skills in green building.
Looking for a transformative experience before college or career.
Eager to contribute meaningfully to a global community.
Program Details
Duration: Flexible programs ranging from 1 week to 1 month.
Location: Comalapa, Guatemala.
Accommodations: Stay in shared volunteer housing with access to communal kitchens and common spaces.
Meals: Enjoy delicious, locally sourced meals.
Cost: Program fees cover lodging, meals, training, and project materials. Scholarships and fundraising support are available.
🏡 Daily Schedule
6:30 AM - 7:00 AM | Morning Meditation & Movement Practice
A blend of yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness to awaken the body, calm the mind, and set a powerful intention for the day.
7:30 AM - 12:00 PM | Green Building Volunteer Work
Hands-on experience with sustainable construction methods using recycled materials.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | Healthy Lunch
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM | Afternoon Volunteer Work
Completing projects that directly impact the local community.
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM | Personal Time
Rest, explore town, or integrate your experiences.
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Yoga Class
An evening yoga practice to stretch and unwind from the day while reconnecting body and mind.
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM | Dinner & Discussions
Nightly discussions focused on the yamas of yogic philosophy and environmental wellness.
7:30 PM - 9:00 PM | Evening Reflection & Fire Ceremony (selected nights)
Cacao ceremonies, fire ceremonies, wellness workshops, and group reflections.
Program Options
🗓️ 1-Week Seva Retreat
Ideal for travelers seeking a short yet powerful immersion in mindful service.
Perfect for: Yogis, wellness practitioners, eco-conscious travelers, and students.
🌿 1-Month Deep Dive
Designed for those seeking a longer integration process with hands-on sustainability experience and personal transformation.
Includes a personal growth plan, journaling prompts, and deeper cultural immersion.
Transport
Roundtrip transportation from the airport to Comalapa, with a staff member present to greet the group.
Cultural night
At the Volunteer House local chef will prepare a traditional dinner, entertainment from a local marimba band, learn to make tortillas and some of Comalapa’s artist will display their work.
lodging
7 night stay at our green-designed Volunteer House, which sits beside the school. Each volunteer is provided a bed in one of our dorm-style bedrooms, access to shared common spaces, and bathrooms.
meals
An excellent local chef provides all meals on-site at the Volunteer House with fresh, locally grown ingredients.
wellness
In addition to daily yoga and breathwork sessions, you will get to attend workshops, discussions on yogic philosophy, and healing modalities with our in-house wellness expert.
Check out the volunteer house
See what gap year group carpe diem has to say about their 2022 group visit
how to apply?
If you are interested in coming to Long Way Home for a seva retreat, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@lwhome.org.