In Guatemala, November begins with flowers on graves, families gathered in cemeteries, and handmade kites rising to carry messages to the ancestors. Here is our guide to the days of remembrance, and a tribute to Rama and Kirsten, two dear friends who helped shape Sumaya from its earliest days.

For more than 25 years, our dogs and cats have guarded the lakeshore, welcomed our guests, and ignored every reservation policy we have. Meet the animals of Sumaya, from our first guardians Sula and Bambu to Lila, our rock-diving golden retriever, and Shiva, the cat who attended everything.

After three retreats at Villa Sumaya, our friends from Digital Foundry left behind handwritten notes about the food, the people, and the feeling of being at home on Lake Atitlán. Here they are, in their own words.

At Villa Sumaya, a Maya spiritual guide can lead your group in a traditional Day Count Fire Ceremony by the lake. Learn what happens at the fire, how the sacred Cholq'ij calendar works, and how to discover your own nawal.

At Sumaya, we have held hundreds of Mayan fire ceremonies, largely with the same spiritual guides. Here is what we have learned from the fire, what to expect in the circle, and how the sacred Mayan calendar can deepen your connection to each day.

What began in 2020 as pandemic relief team now brings food, vision care, and everyday essentials to 44 Mayan elders in our village. Here's how the Mayan Mothers and Fathers Project grew, and how retreat guests can be part of it.

More than 25 years on the shores of Lake Atitlán: how Villa Sumaya grew from seven rooms to a retreat centre, and what it built with the community around it.

Over the past twenty years, Villa Sumaya’s Harmony Healing Collective has grown organically into one of the most diverse healing arts communities in Guatemala. Guided by a commitment to quality, authenticity, and heart-centered service, we have carefully selected a team of highly accomplished international practitioners alongside local Mayan healers whose knowledge has been passed down through generations.

For more than two decades, Villa Sumaya has had the profound honor of welcoming teachers of the Namgyal lineage. This year, we are especially honored to welcome Lama Chökyi Gyaltsen (Lama Mark Webber) and to support his teachings in Guatemala. Over the years, we have witnessed the depth of wisdom, compassion, humility, and integrity he brings to each retreat, and it is with heartfelt gratitude that we once again welcome him to Villa Sumaya.

It All Begins Here

Why Lake Atitlán is of the World’s Most Beloved Retreat Destinations.. stunning natural beauty, ancient wisdom, and personal transformation converge.