Discovering Latin America’s Wild Retreats: A National Geographic Traveller Collection Highlight

Embarking on a journey through Latin America has long been a dream of mine. Drawn by the allure of Costa Rica’s holistic lifestyle, with its emphasis on yoga, meditation, Reiki, and Ayurveda—not to mention its world-renowned coffee—I’ve envisioned immersing myself in the region’s diverse cultures and landscapes. Mexico, with its vibrant culture and delectable cuisine, and the Dominican Republic, famed for its picturesque beaches and exquisite Caribbean rum, have also captured my imagination. It was this deep-seated fascination that drew me to the latest issue of National Geographic Traveller Collection, which shines a spotlight on Latin America’s wild retreats.

A travel picture from my own private seclusion in magnetic Island, Queensland, Australia.

This edition is a treasure trove of adventures, presenting a new wild retreat in Latin America on each page. It caters to those of us craving a departure from conventional travel, offering a glimpse into the unconventional and extraordinary ways to experience the world. The magazine resonated with my adventurous spirit, particularly spotlighting retreats that blend cultural immersion with the serene beauty of nature.

A standout for me was the article on Vajra Sol Yoga Retreats in Chile, Argentina, and Peru. These retreats promise an unforgettable blend of cultural experiences set against the backdrop of breath-taking natural landscapes. They offer a serene mix of yoga and meditation, complemented by adventures in iconic locations. Activities range from yoga sessions and meditation to breathwork, local tours, hiking, market visits, spa treatments, and excursions to historical sites.

The yoga retreat and spa in Costa Rica particularly piqued my interest, with its offering of jungle and waterfall hikes, surfing, wildlife tours, rainforest spa experiences, daily yoga, and farm-to-table meals. Having discussed the idea of organizing our own yoga retreat in the Middle East with my yoga guru, experiencing one in a place as enchanting as Costa Rica feels like a dream waiting to come true.

My yoga journey

Another highlight was the Piattelli Wine Resort in Argentina, a country on my bucket list. This experience is perfect for those looking to indulge in a winery visit and tasting, coupled with mountain 4WD adventures, vineyard treks, horse-riding, cooking classes, and tango lessons. It promises breath-taking scenery and seems ideal for a rejuvenating girls’ trip, offering a chance to disconnect and reconnect with nature.

The magazine doesn’t stop there; it also features a jungle lodge in San Ignacio, Amazon rainforest cruises, the Hilton of Cancun in Mexico, and a trek experience in Peru, among others. This luxurious guide to Latin America offers an array of eco-stays in Costa Rica and hiking trails in Patagonia, showcasing the natural wonders of this vibrant region.

Through the pages of National Geographic Traveller Collection, I’ve journeyed into the heart of Latin America’s most secluded and mesmerizing retreats. It’s a reminder of the vast and varied experiences waiting to be discovered in this rich and vibrant part of the world, fuelling my wanderlust and dreams of adventure.

Some travel pictures of my own adventures in the tropical Sentosa Island, Singapore