Watch this short video from Kara and feel the magic of The Soul Playcation 🎥
“Working 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.”
- Kiesha Y., Breathwork & Somatic Coach
“My 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. There’s 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
“Kara attracts the BEST clients ever and the container she creates is so inspiring and healing. That’s exactly why I said yes to joining The Soul Playcation. I can't wait!!!!”
- Elisa Y., Play Coach
“I was scared to make mistakes and speak, now I’m a radio that cannot be turned off. I can be vulnerable. I can dance fearlessly. I have a more authentic love life. I’m more comfortable in my body, more motivated, and more me... Kara is a healing queen!"
- Linda S., Photographer
There’s 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.
You’ll finally have the freedom to clear your mind, enter your body, and let go....
Our Retreat Sanctuary
I’ve been to Villa Sumaya twice, and it’s one of the most magical places I’ve ever experienced out of the 45+ countries I've been to. Nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlán, 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 Reciprocity
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 👇
🌿 7 Nights, 8 Days at Villa Sumaya’s Luxury Lakefront Sanctuary
Wake up to volcano views, sip tea in a hammock, and let the beauty of Lake Atitlán hold you. This breathtaking, soul-soothing space is designed for deep rest, inspiration, and reconnection.
🥗 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.
🔥 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.
🎶 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.
🌀 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.
📝 Guided Journaling and Soulful Reflection
Throughout the retreat, you’ll be invited into spacious moments of reflection. Through guided journaling prompts, you’ll process emotions, clarify your desires, and deepen your connection to yourself in the most nourishing way.
🌸 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.
🦋 Play Alchemy Sessions
You’ll 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.
💦 Access to Lake, Pool, and Hot Tub
Swim in the sparkling waters of Lake Atitlán, 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!) 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.—totally optional!)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for hotel staff
After years of guiding thousands of people through play, healing, and transformation, here’s what past playmates have shared about working with me.
“Kara's work has helped me break self-sabotaging patterns faster than anything I’ve ever tried. I feel so much more confident. I’ve released so much pent-up frustration, perfectionism, and judgment. I’ve reconnected with a part of me I had abandoned and finally feel safe being fully myself.
- Megan W., Intuition & Nervous System Expert
“The energy in the group Kara created was infectious. I’ve 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.”
- Angie T., Senior Clinical Instructor
“It was the best investment I’ve ever made in myself. Kara’s playful approach felt light and free, yet deeply healing and thorough, so different from the heavy, isolating healing I’d 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.”
- Marti M, Occupational Therapist & Spiritual Coach
“I came in feeling burnt out and weighed down by heavy healing. Kara’s 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.”
- Skylar C.
“Working with Kara was magical and life-changing. She creates a space where you feel safe, playful, and completely accepted.”
- Sarah R., Life Coach & Poet
“The BEST money I’ve 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.”
- Alice C., Life Coach
Rooms & Pricing Options
THE SOULFUL LAKE SUITE (Shared 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, it’s the perfect space to exhale, reset, and soak up the magic of Lake Atitlán. You'll be thoughtfully paired with another kind-hearted retreat guest.
SOLD OUT
PRIVATE LAKEVIEW APARTMENT
This Private Luxury Apartment is a peaceful sanctuary for women who desire privacy, space, and stunning lake views. This apartment features a comfortable queen bed, a well-equipped kitchenette, and a spacious bathroom with plenty of storage. A writing desk and oversized window seat overlook the lake, perfect for journaling, resting, or quiet reflection. The private patio offers seating and expansive views for slow mornings or sunset moments.
SOLD OUT
THE SOUL NEST PRIVATE SUITE
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. It’s your personal cocoon for rest, reflection, and reconnecting with your inner joy.
SOLD OUT
LUXURY PRIVATE ROOM
Perched high above the lake, this gorgeous room offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes.
Featuring a cozy queen bed, a large wicker writing desk, and a private patio with a loveseat, it’s 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.
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 Atitlán area safe?
What airport should I fly into?
What’s 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?
What’s the investment?
Do I need travel insurance?
What is the cancellation policy?
Got questions or need a little clarity?
It’s 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. A sacred pause to exhale fully, rekindle your joy, and remember what it feels like to be truly alive.
Imagine…
✨ 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 you’ve been in years.
That’s what’s waiting for you at The Soul Playcation. I can’t 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 💖
Still Have Questions? Let’s Chat 💬
I’m just a message away! Click the little chat bubble below and say hi — it’s really me on the other end!
Still Dreaming About It?
If this speaks to your soul but you’re not 100% sure yet, you can fill out the form below to get all the retreat details sent straight to your inbox.
That way, you can revisit it anytime, and you’ll also receive reminders and special behind-the-scenes peeks.