Watch this short video from Kara and feel the magic of The Soul Playcation đĽ
âWorking with Kara awakened the parts of me I left behind and rescued my heart. The little girl inside of me is now alive and I am so grateful. Both my adult self and inner child felt truly safe in her space. Kara has a way of weaving play and embodiment that makes deep healing feel nourishing, fun, and safe. The group she crafted was safe, vulnerable, masterful, and nurturing, and I left feeling wildly alive.â
- Kiesha Y., Breathwork & Somatic Coach
âMy self-worth skyrocketed, and I reconnected with my creativity, confidence, and joy in every area of my life. So when Kara announced the Soul Playcation, it was a no-brainer. Thereâs something about this retreat that feels like a soul homecoming. I said yes without hesitation, because I knew it would be healing, magical, and exactly what my spirit was craving. I'm so excited!!"
- Laura D., Communications Manager & Opera Singer
âKara attracts the BEST clients ever and the container she creates is so inspiring and healing. Thatâs exactly why I said yes to joining The Soul Playcation. I can't wait!!!!â
-Â Elisa Y., Play Coach
âI was scared to make mistakes and speak, now Iâm a radio that cannot be turned off. I can be vulnerable. I can dance fearlessly. I have a more authentic love life. Iâm more comfortable in my body, more motivated, and more me... Kara is a healing queen!"
- Linda S., Photographer
Thereâs nothing for you to plan. No groceries to grab, no emails to send, no laundry to fold.
Just space to be. To listen inward. To remember who you are beneath all the roles and responsibilities.
Youâll finally have the freedom to clear your mind, enter your body, and let go....
Our Retreat Sanctuary
Iâve been to Villa Sumaya twice, and itâs one of the most magical places Iâve ever experienced out of the 45+ countries I've been to. Nestled on the shores of Lake AtitlĂĄn, this breathtaking retreat center is designed for deep healing and renewal. This enchanting space blends rejuvenating wellness practices, Mayan traditions, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Altiplano.
Every detail is designed to support your relaxation and well-being, from the serene lakefront yoga shala to nourishing, garden-to-table meals. Here, your nervous system can finally exhale.
Rooted in ReciprocityÂ
Part of what makes Villa Sumaya so special is its deep relationship with the local Mayan community.
Villa Sumaya is the largest employer in Santa Cruz, providing sustainable livelihoods for 35+ Indigenous locals. They steward The Mayan Mothers Project, offering food and vision care to elders and families, and recently expanded to support disabled children with essential resources and equipment. Every Saturday, they deliver 22 market-fresh food bags to elderly Mayan neighbors.
At The Soul Playcation, we honor the people and traditions of this land and are grateful to be welcomed into a space that uplifts the community.
Your Retreat Includes đ
đż 7 Nights, 8 Days at Villa Sumayaâs Luxury Lakefront Sanctuary
Wake up to volcano views, sip tea in a hammock, and let the beauty of Lake AtitlĂĄn hold you. This breathtaking, soul-soothing space is designed for deep rest, inspiration, and reconnection.
đĽ Three Gourmet Vegetarian Meals Daily
 Nourish your body with vibrant, locally sourced dishes that are as delicious as they are nourishing. Vegan and gluten-free options are always available, and fish or meat can be added upon request for an additional fee.
đĽ Traditional Mayan Fire Ceremony with a Local Shaman
Guided by a revered Mayan shaman from the land, this sacred ritual invites you to release what no longer serves, set bold intentions, and connect with the ancestral wisdom of this powerful place.
đś Transformative Sound Healing Journey
Let sacred sound carry you into deep rest and energetic alignment. This experience is pure recalibration for your nervous system and creative spirit.
đ Self-Love Hypnotherapy Session
Experience a gentle yet powerful journey inward as you're guided through hypnotherapy designed to melt stress, and expand self-trust.
đ Guided Journaling and Soulful Reflection
Throughout the retreat, youâll be invited into spacious moments of reflection. Through guided journaling prompts, youâll process emotions, clarify your desires, and deepen your connection to yourself in the most nourishing way.
đ¸ Opening and Closing Ceremonies
Mark the beginning and end of your journey with intentional rituals that ground your transformation and connect you to a heart-led community of kindred souls.
đŚÂ Play Alchemy Sessions
Youâll engage in joyful, creative experiences that help you reconnect with your inner child. Think movement and dance, art, laughter, storytelling, and spontaneous moments of magic that make you feel fully alive.
đŚ Access to Lake, Pool, and Hot Tub
Swim in the sparkling waters of Lake AtitlĂĄn, soak under the stars in the hot tub, and unwind poolside as the sun warms your skin.
Not included:
- Airfare & transportation to/from the retreat center (but we will organize a shuttle & boat ride for you!)Â More details in the FAQ below
- Spa, massage services and other sessions with healers at Villa Sumaya (available for an extra fee)
- Additional excursions (kayaking, paddle boarding, etc.âtotally optional!)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for hotel staff
The Soul Playcation is my very first retreat (eeee!), but after years of guiding thousands of people through play, healing, and transformation, hereâs what past playmates have shared about working with me.
âKara's work has helped me break self-sabotaging patterns faster than anything Iâve ever tried. I feel so much more confident. Iâve released so much pent-up frustration, perfectionism, and judgment. Iâve reconnected with a part of me I had abandoned and finally feel safe being fully myself.
- Megan W., Intuition & Nervous System Expert
âThe energy in the group Kara created was infectious. Iâve never felt so connected and safe with a group of people. Kara brings together the most incredible communities: safe, joyful, and deeply supportive. I left feeling more confident, playful, and truly myself.â
-Â Angie T., Senior Clinical Instructor
âIt was the best investment Iâve ever made in myself. Karaâs playful approach felt light and free, yet deeply healing and thorough, so different from the heavy, isolating healing Iâd done before. It was so healing to be with a group of like-minded people who made everything fun and playful. The safety Kara created allowed me to open up, be myself, and play like I never had before.â
-Â Marti M, Occupational Therapist &Â Spiritual Coach
âI came in feeling burnt out and weighed down by heavy healing. Karaâs playful approach made the process feel safe, light, and deeply healing. The community she created was so uplifting. I left feeling safer in myself than ever before. One million stars out of 10.â
-Â Skylar C.
âWorking with Kara was magical and life-changing. She creates a space where you feel safe, playful, and completely accepted.â
-Â Sarah R., Life Coach & Poet
âThe BEST money Iâve ever spent! Carving out time to play was transformative. I felt lighter and showed up in my relationships and work with more calm, clarity, and purpose.âÂ
-Â Alice C., Life Coach
Rooms & Pricing Options
THE SOULFUL SHARED SUITE (Double Occupancy)
These gorgeous rooms are designed for connection, comfort, and deep rest. With two beds, a private ensuite bathroom, and cozy sitting areas indoors and out, itâs the perfect space to exhale, reset, and soak up the magic of Lake AtitlĂĄn.
Youâll be thoughtfully paired with another kind-hearted retreat guest (unless youâre attending with a friend and want to room together!)
Founder Rate:Â $2,297 USD per person $2,497 USD per person
 Only 2 spots remain for this suite.
Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit.
Similar high-quality retreats at Lake AtitlĂĄn typically range from $3,500â$5,000. Iâve intentionally kept The Soul Playcation more accessible for this first round, without compromising the magic, depth, or luxurious experience.
SAVE YOUR SPOT!THE SOULÂ NESTÂ PRIVATE SUITE (Single Occupancy)
This peaceful hideaway features a cozy king bed, a private ensuite, and dreamy indoor and outdoor sitting areas, all with breathtaking lake and volcano views. Itâs your personal cocoon for rest, reflection, and reconnecting with your inner joy.
SOLD OUT
LUXURY PRIVATEÂ ROOM
Perched high above the lake, this gorgeous room offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Atitlån and the surrounding volcanoes.
Featuring a cozy queen bed, a large wicker writing desk, and a private patio with a loveseat, itâs a perfect space to relax and reflect. Enjoy your own hammock in a lush garden nook, surrounded by nature. Please note: this room is accessed via an uphill staircase and is best suited for guests comfortable with stairs.Â
SOLD OUT
LUXURY LAKEVIEW APARTMENT
Sitting near the top of the property, this elegant studio is the crown jewel of our retreat accommodations. With a breathtaking 180-degree view of Lake AtitlĂĄn, it offers a serene and spacious escape.
The thoughtfully designed space features a queen bed with an antique carved headboard, two twin beds, fine art, and a modern, spacious bathroom. Step onto the wraparound patio to soak in the views, relax in a hammock overlooking the lush gardens, or enjoy a quiet moment with seating for three. Please note: this room is accessed via an uphill staircase and is best suited for guests comfortable with stairs.
SOLD OUT
Got Questions? Let 'Em Fly!
What is included in the retreat?
What is not included?
How do I secure my spot?
Is the Lake AtitlĂĄn area safe?
What airport should I fly into?
Whatâs the food like at Villa Sumaya?
Will I have time to do my own thing?
Who leads the Mayan Fire Ceremony?
How does this retreat give back to the local community?
Who is this retreat for?
Do I need travel insurance?
What is the cancellation policy?
Got questions or need a little clarity?
Itâs time to step away from the noise, slow down, and immerse yourself in the kind of deep rest, and healing your soul has been craving.
The Soul Playcation is more than a retreat. It's a homecoming to yourself. AÂ sacred pause to exhale fully, rekindle your joy, and remember what it feels like to be truly alive.
ImagineâŚ
⨠Waking up to birdsong and sunlight dancing on the lake, your body soft and your mind clear.
⨠Moving, dancing, and expressing yourself freely as you step into lightness and flow.
⨠Receiving deep nourishment not just through delicious meals, but through moments of laughter and connection.
⨠Watching the sky blush over the volcanoes as you feel yourself open, lighter than youâve been in years.
Thatâs whatâs waiting for you at The Soul Playcation. I canât wait to share the magic of this place and witness the version of you who comes alive here.
Join us for this unforgettable week of play, rest, and radical connection đ
Still Have Questions? Letâs Chat đŹ
Iâm just a message away! Click the little chat bubble below and say hi â itâs really me on the other end!
Still Dreaming About It?
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That way, you can revisit it anytime, and youâll also receive reminders and special behind-the-scenes peeks.