FAQs - Everything You Need to Know
Logistics & General Guidelines
DO I NEED INSURANCE?
It is always recommended when traveling anywhere to arrange appropriate traveller’s/health insurance for the duration of your trip.
WHAT TIME IS CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT?
Check-out is at 10.00am
Check-in is from 15.00pm
You are welcome to leave your luggage at the front desk and spend your time at Ashiyana’s chill-out spaces, or explore the beach and local area if you arrive before 3pm. Of course, if your room is available earlier, you will be able to move in before the official check-in time.
CAN I PAY BY CREDIT/DEBIT CARD?
Yes, we do accept all major credit cards. There is a 3.25% fee. Tap to pay from a phone also works.
DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO INDIA?
Most countries require visa entry to India (Tourist Visa). Some countries are eligible for the new Visa on Arrival (e-Visa) – valid for 30 days. Please check with the Indian High Commission what visa you will need to apply for, and make sure that you leave ample time to apply before your holiday.
HOW SAFE IS IT TO TRAVEL ALONE AS A WOMAN?
Goa is a very relaxed part of India, and most probably the safest area to travel in as a lone female. As with travelling by yourself in any country, we would advise you to practice good personal safety by not venturing out alone to secluded spots that you are unsure of; having a local or fellow traveller accompany you wherever possible, particularly at night; and always have the phone number of someone you can contact locally in an emergency.
DO YOU PROVIDE LAUNDRY SERVICES?
There is a local woman that comes every day to collect our guests’ laundry for a small charge – this will be returned within 24-48 hours. Please arrange with our reception staff. We ask that you do not do your own laundry in your rooms (due to our limited water supply).
WHAT IS YOUR REFUND POLICY?
Please refer to our Bookings Terms and Conditions.
WIFI
Ashiyana Goa is a retreat centre intended to support you to ‘switch off’ and ‘disconnect’ from the external world – therefore WiFi access is limited to only being available at the reception.
You can access our WiFi in the reception area. We ask that you be mindful when using any electronic devices to maintain the quiet and calm space. If you need to make any video or voice calls, we ask that you please make sure to wear headphones and keep the call to no longer than ten minutes. Please refrain from using any electronic devices in the restaurant and spa areas.
The internet supply in Goa can be temperamental, particularly when compared to the west – we like to think this is a good lesson in patience, and a reminder to surrender to things outside of our control…!
ARE CHILDREN ALLOWED AT ASHIYANA?
Children are only allowed at Ashiyana by special request. Please enquire with us before booking your stay.
We ask that anyone visiting Ashiyana with children be mindful of the noise levels that your mini yogis may be creating – particularly during hours of yoga classes and dining. Ashiyana is intended as a peaceful place for our guests to be able to retreat and relax and rejuvenate, and thus we ask that all of our yogis – of all ages – respect our noise policy. In particular, the spa area and pool is to be kept quiet at all times 🙂
WHAT VACCINATIONS DO I NEED AND SHOULD I TAKE MALARIA TABLETS?
Malaria is not prevalent in Goa, as we are surrounded by tidal water. We do suggest that you protect yourself when the mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, by wearing mosquito repellent and covering your skin.
Please check with your country’s Government Health Regulations for any vaccinations that are required.
DO YOU PROVIDE BEACH TOWELS?
We provide bath towels for use within Ashiyana, but ask that you bring your own beach towel. Many guests purchase sarongs from the local sellers for use instead of a towel on the beach.
Yoga & Wellness
WHAT LANGUAGE ARE YOUR YOGA CLASSES IN?
Our yoga classes and workshops are all held in English.
I AM COMPLETELY NEW TO YOGA – CAN I JOIN THE DROP-IN CLASSES?
Of course – we welcome you to start your yoga practice with us 🙂 It may be advisable to look into taking a private session with one of our experienced teachers prior to attending a drop-in class; as whilst it is a group environment and you are cared for, you may receive less personal attention.
WHAT TYPE OF YOGA DO YOU TEACH?
Please refer to our Yoga page. The drop-in class is based on traditional Hatha Yoga, meaning that it follows a physical practice to open up the energy channels of the physical and energetic bodies as a tool to higher awareness. Teachers will infuse the practice with their life experience (from Iyengar, Yin, Bhakti to Vinyasa) to give it their own authentic flavour. Having said that, classes will almost always include Pranayama (breath-work) and Meditation (in movement or stillness).
DO YOU PROVIDE YOGA MATS AND PROPS?
We have enough yoga mats and props available for all of our guests and drop-in attendees. However, we would always recommend bringing your own mat to encourage your own self-practice outside of classes 🙂 Basic yoga mats can also be purchased from the shops in the local village.
WHAT OTHER ACTIVITIES DO YOU OFFER, ASIDES FROM THE YOGA CLASSES?
There are evening activities almost every night at Ashiyana, such as Chanting, Meditations, Yoga Nidra, Conscious Cinema, Restorative Yoga, etc. There is a noticeboard located in the reception area that will inform you of the schedule during your stay.
DO YOU HAVE A SWIMMING POOL?
Yes – we have Goa’s first natural swimming pool, located at the heart of Ashiyana within the Spa and Treatment Centre. A ‘natural pool’ means it will be similar to swimming in a lake, hence you may find a thin layer of algae (similar to spirulina 🙂 ) can occur. We clean this off every week or so. We regularly test and filter the pool water – if you were to take a glass of it you would see that it is clear – however the tiles are purposefully green to give it a more natural feel, rather than the ‘aqua blue’ swimming pools. Natural pools are regarded as more healthy as they do not use chlorine, ozone or salt water; they are also more wildlife friendly.
WHAT LEVEL OF YOGA DO YOU TEACH?
All of our classes are suitable for students of any level. Our experienced teachers will offer modifications for less and more experienced students. At our busiest times, we may run two classes at the same time (morning or evening) of different styles – this will be communicated on the yoga schedule board at the reception desk.
I HAVE AN INJURY / EXISTING HEALTH CONDITION / AM PREGNANT – CAN I JOIN THE YOGA CLASSES?
Please always seek advice from your General Health Practitioner first, and inform your yoga teacher at the start of class of any condition that may affect your practice – new or existing. We would recommend booking in for some Holistic Yoga Therapy sessions with our experienced Yoga Therapists, to get advice and a personalised yoga practice just for you.
DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE YOGA CLASSES?
Yes – please see Private Yoga Classes and Holistic Yoga Therapy.
CAN ANYONE USE THE SPA AND TREATMENT CENTRE (INCLUDING THE POOL AND HAMMAM)?
The Spa and pool area is reserved for those who have booked treatments or therapies, as this includes a ‘Spa and Treatment Centre Day Pass’. Please note that the spa area (including pool) is to be kept quiet at all times.
DO YOU HAVE A SPA ON SITE?
Yes – our beautiful Spa and Treatment Centre consists of a natural swimming pool (naturally self-cleaning); a peaceful gazebo above a lily pond; designated treatment rooms for Ayurveda, massage treatments and yoga therapy; a hammam (steam room).
Food & Nutrition
IS THE FOOD VEGETARIAN AND ORGANIC?
Whenever possible we buy organic produce. We mostly serve vegetarian food, apart from on Wednesday and Saturday evenings when we offer an additional seafood dish.
IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK?
The water at Ashiyana, both for drinking and in the rooms, comes from a borehole approximately 3km from us. Whilst it is already perfectly safe to drink, we send the drinking water through a reverse osmosis filter for extra purity. Drinking water taps can be found in the restaurant.
I HAVE SPECIFIC DIETARY REQUIREMENTS / FOOD ALLERGIES. WILL THIS BE A PROBLEM?
Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any specific dietary requirements/allergies. Our buffet meals will nearly always have dairy-free/gluten-free options available as standard.
CAN I BUY FOOD FROM THE RESTAURANT?
Additional food is not available for purchase from the restaurant. Two healthy buffet meals – brunch and dinner – are already included in the price of your stay with us. You may see food available in our restaurant mid-afternoon – this is for our detox guests and staff. There are a number of local beach shacks and restaurants in the Mandrem area that sell local, western cuisine and drinks, should you get hungry between mealtimes with us. We recommend you exercise some caution when dining outside of Ashiyana for hygiene purposes. Self-service Masala chai, hot lemon ginger and fresh filtered water is available for you throughout the day in our restaurant.
DO YOU SERVE ALCOHOL?
No. We ask that you do not consume alcohol, smoke cigarettes or take drugs within the grounds of Ashiyana.
Accommodation
DO YOU HAVE HOT WATER/ELECTRICITY?
We have individual hot water heaters in every bathroom, and electricity throughout Ashiyana. However, power cuts are quite common in India due to over-demand – so expect the occasional power-outage – these rarely last longer than a few minutes. We ask that you help us in conserving energy by turning off your hot water heaters and fans when you are not needing them.
DO YOU PROVIDE TOILET PAPER?
All of our bathrooms have a hand-held douche next to the toilet for your personal use. We do provide toilet paper however, as we wish to be as eco-friendly as possible, we request that you dispose of used paper in the bins provided (changed daily) as our sewage systems cannot cope with paper being flushed down the toilets.
IS IT SAFE TO LEAVE MY VALUABLES IN MY ROOM?
We would advise that you use the individual, lockable safes in the reception area to store your valuables, such as money, camera, passport and small electronic devices.
We have never had any problem with security on site, however we do have security guards present throughout Ashiyana 24/7, for your security and peace of mind.
ARE THERE MOSQUITO NETS IN THE ROOMS?
All of our Beach Huts and Palm Grove rooms have mosquito nets available. Our Raj and Raj Luxury rooms do not need/have mosquito nets due to how they have been built. Plug-in mosquito repellants are available upon request.
DO YOU HAVE FANS IN THE ROOMS?
All of our rooms have ceiling fans. Raj and Raj Luxury rooms also have A/C.
Logistics & Guidelines
Where is Ashiyana Brazil located and how do I get there?
Ashiyana Brazil is located in Alto Paraíso de Goiás within the Chapada dos Veadeiros region, approximately 230 km from Brasília.
Most international guests fly into Brasília International Airport.
From Brasília, guests can:
- Take a taxi (approximately 2.5 hours and costs approx €75. Ashiyana helps coordinate shared taxis whenever possible to split the cost
- Take a public bus (€20) which takes approximately 5 hours
Is Ashiyana Brazil suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. A significant proportion of guests travel alone. The team creates a warm, inclusive atmosphere, and solo guests feel at home from arrival. Solo travellers choose whether to share a room with other solo travellers or opt for a private room. The structured group schedule also removes the pressure of planning solo activities.
What is the best time of year to visit Ashiyana Brazil for a yoga retreat?
Ashiyana Brazil welcomes guests year-round, with each season offering different weather and travel experiences in Alto Paraíso de Goiás.
December to February
This is the most popular season for yoga retreats in Brazil. Temperatures range from approximately 27–29°C (81–84°F), with occasional tropical rainfall.
March to May
A popular time for wellness retreats with warm temperatures, lush landscapes, and fewer visitors.
June to August
This is the dry season with sunny weather, cooler evenings, and minimal rain, making it ideal for hiking, waterfalls, and outdoor activities.
September to November
These quieter months offer warmer temperatures and fewer tourists, often with lower pricing.
What is there to do in and around Ashiyana Brazil?
Ashiyana Brazil is located on the edge of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, one of Brazil’s most famous natural destinations for waterfalls, hiking, and eco-tourism. Loquinhas Falls is only 1 km away, and the Loquinhas River flows directly through the Ashiyana Brazil grounds, creating unique swimming and relaxation spaces within the retreat itself.
Do I need travel insurance for a retreat at Ashiyana Brazil?
Yes. Guests are strongly encouraged to arrange both travel insurance and health insurance before attending a retreat in Brazil.
What time are check-in and check-out at Ashiyana Brazil?
Check-in usually begins in the afternoon, while check-out is generally before 12pm.Exact arrival and departure times may vary depending on the specific retreat programme.
Is there Wi-Fi at Ashiyana Brazil?
Yes. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, although guests are encouraged to disconnect and enjoy nature during their stay.
What should I pack for a retreat at Ashiyana Brazil?
For a comfortable yoga and wellness retreat in Brazil, guests are recommended to bring:
- Comfortable yoga clothing
- Swimwear
- Walking or hiking shoes
- A reusable water bottle
- Natural sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Light layers for cooler evenings
Is Ashiyana Brazil eco-friendly?
Yes. Ashiyana Brazil is committed to sustainability, conscious living, and nature preservation.
The retreat promotes environmentally mindful practices through:
- Natural ventilation instead of air conditioning in most rooms
- Respect for the surrounding forest and rivers
- Reduced environmental impact wherever possible
Yoga & Wellness
What is included in a yoga retreat at Ashiyana Brazil?
An Ashiyana Brazil yoga retreat includes:
- Accommodation
- 2 daily vegetarian meals
- Daily yoga classes
- Guided meditation and breathwork sessions
- Access to rivers, natural pools, waterfalls, and crystal-clear swimming spots
- Optional extras include private yoga sessions, holistic therapies, massage treatments, and 1-2-1 coaching.
What types of yoga and wellness programmes does Ashiyana Brazil offer?
Ashiyana Brazil offers a range of yoga retreats and wellness programmes designed to support relaxation, healing, personal growth, and reconnection with nature.
Programmes may include:
- Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin yoga
- Breathwork and pranayama
- Guided meditation
- Medicine Journey
- Ancestral Detox
- Wellness coaching
- Holistic therapies
Is Ashiyana Brazil suitable for beginners?
Yes. Ashiyana Brazil welcomes all levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. Newcomers receive clear instruction and individual attention at their own pace. For those deepening an existing practice, advanced sessions and 1-2-1s are available.
What makes Ashiyana Brazil unique?
Ashiyana Brazil combines yoga, wellness, and nature in one of Brazil’s most beautiful natural regions: Chapada dos Veadeiros.
The retreat is surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, forests, and crystal-rich landscapes that create a peaceful environment for rest and transformation within a supportive international community. Unlike larger retreat centres, Ashiyana Brazil offers an intimate and personalised retreat experience with a maximum of 27 guests.
Can I book private yoga sessions?
Yes. Private 1-2-1 yoga sessions and therapeutic practices are available for guests seeking personalized guidance.
What other wellness activities are available?
Guests can enjoy sound healing, meditation, dance, conversation circles, integrative therapies, massage, nature walks, and river swimming experiences.
What languages are retreats offered in at Ashiyana Brazil?
Most retreats are conducted in English. Additional support may also be available in Portuguese and Spanish.
Can I attend Ashiyana Brazil without joining a full retreat?
Depending on availability, guests may be able to book:
- Yoga holidays
- Private stays
- Workshops
- Drop-in yoga classes
Availability may vary throughout the year and by programme schedule.
Do I need previous retreat experience to join Ashiyana Brazil?
No. Most retreats at Ashiyana Brazil are open to both beginners and experienced retreat participants. Whether you are attending your first yoga retreat or have previous wellness retreat experience, programmes are designed to be welcoming, supportive, and accessible.
Are Ayahuasca ceremonies legal in Brazil?
Yes. Ayahuasca ceremonies are legal in Brazil when conducted within recognised spiritual, ceremonial, or religious contexts. Some retreats may include optional ceremonial experiences facilitated within established guidelines and supportive environments.
Is participation in ceremonies mandatory at Ashiyana Brazil?
No. Participation in ceremonial experiences is always optional. Guests can choose the retreat activities and experiences that feel right for them during their stay.
How does Ashiyana Brazil support guest safety during ceremonies?
Guest wellbeing and safety are prioritised throughout all retreat experiences. Depending on the retreat programme, guests may receive:
- Health and suitability assessments
- Preparation guidance before ceremonies
- Bilingual facilitator support
- Integration support after ceremonies
- A safe and professionally guided environment
Food & Nutrition
What is the food like at Ashiyana Brazil, and can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Ashiyana Brazil serves healthy vegetarian meals made with fresh, local, and organic ingredients whenever possible.
Guests can enjoy:
- Nourishing buffet-style meals
- Brazilian-inspired vegetarian cuisine
- Seasonal ingredients
- Vegan options
- Gluten-free options
Special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated when shared during booking.
Are alcohol and recreational drugs allowed?
No. Ashiyana promotes a wellness-focused environment, and alcohol is not served on-site.
Accommodation
What kind of accommodation is available at Ashiyana Brazil?
Ashiyana Brazil offers a range of accommodation options, including:
- Shared chalets
- Double rooms
- Private accommodation
The retreat hosts a maximum of 27 guests, creating a peaceful and intimate environment. Rooms are naturally cool and surrounded by tropical gardens and forest views.
Accommodation is designed to support relaxation, rest, and connection with nature.
Logistics & Guidelines
Where exactly is Ashiyana Spain, and how do I get there?
Ashiyana Spain sits beside the Sau reservoir in Catalunya’s Guilleries natural park, 90 minutes from Barcelona and 25 minutes from Vic. Fly into Barcelona El Prat or Girona Airport (60 minutes away). A taxi from Barcelona costs approximately €80–100, or take the train to Vic then a local taxi. Guests from Germany, Switzerland, and France often drive, given the retreat’s convenient northern access.
What is included in a yoga retreat at Ashiyana Spain?
Retreats include en-suite accommodation, 3 daily meals, daily yoga, guided meditation and breathwork, and free access to grounds, hiking trails, and the Sau reservoir. The Ashiyana Journey™ adds structured coaching and app-based support. Optional extras include 1-2-1 yoga, holistic therapies, massage, and private coaching.
How far is Ashiyana Spain from Barcelona, and what is there to do nearby?
The retreat is 90 minutes from Barcelona, immersed in a national park beside the Sau reservoir. Local highlights include the iconic submerged church of Sant Romà de Sau, forested trails, waterfalls, and medieval chapels. The nearby town of Vic (25 minutes) offers a Roman temple, weekly market, and Catalan cuisine. Adventure activities include kayaking, SUP, rock climbing, rafting, cycling, and hot air ballooning.
Is Ashiyana Spain suitable for solo travellers?
Yes; a significant proportion of guests travel alone. The team creates a warm, inclusive atmosphere, and solo guests feel at home from arrival. Solo travellers choose whether to share a room with another solo traveller or opt for a private room. The structured group schedule also removes the pressure of planning solo activities.
What is the best time of year to visit Ashiyana Spain for a yoga retreat?
Retreats run year-round. Spring (March–May) brings mild weather and wildflowers; early summer (June) offers long days ideal for outdoor yoga and water activities. Autumn (September–October) is particularly stunning — golden forests, warm temperatures, and a serene reservoir. Winter retreats (January–February) have a more contemplative, cocooning feel.
How does Ashiyana Spain compare to other yoga retreats in Europe, and why choose it?
Ashiyana stands apart on 3 fronts. Heritage: the brand has run award-winning retreats in Goa for over two decades, with coverage in The Telegraph, Condé Nast Traveller, the New York Times, and Yoga Journal. Setting: the Sau reservoir within a national park combines dramatic beauty with easy access. Depth: from transformational retreats and women’s health programmes to certified teacher training and an ongoing coaching journey, Ashiyana is in a different category from a weekend wellness break.
Can I bring children and/or pets to Ashiyana Spain?
Ashiyana is intended as a peaceful place for our guests to be able to retreat and relax and rejuvenate. Under special circumstances, however, it might be possible to accommodate your mini-yogi and/or your dog, depending on the nature of the retreat and the requirements of the other participants. Please ask at time of booking.
Yoga & Wellness
Is Ashiyana Spain suitable for beginners?
Ashiyana Spain welcomes all levels, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. Newcomers receive clear instruction and individual attention at their own pace. For those deepening an existing practice, advanced sessions and 1-2-1s are available.
What types of yoga and wellness programmes does Ashiyana Spain offer?
Programmes include the Ashiyana Journey™ (personal transformation with Chris Nelson), flexible yoga and wellbeing holidays, women’s health retreats (menopause, Ayurveda), Hiking & Yoga Holidays, Men-Only Retreats, Ancestral Healing, and Kundalini Awakening. Teacher training includes Yoga Alliance-certified 50-hour Yin Yoga CPD. 1-2-1 sessions are available year-round.
What is the Ashiyana Journey™ and how is it different from a regular yoga retreat?
The Ashiyana Journey™ is a personal transformation programme by founder Chris Nelson. It extends beyond the residential week at Ashiyana Spain, including structured 1-2-1 coaching with a dedicated Guide, a personalised wellbeing programme via the Ashiyana app, monthly community meet-ups, and ongoing access to retreats and trainings. It is designed for lasting lifestyle change, not just rest and recovery.
Does Ashiyana Spain offer yoga teacher training, and is it internationally certified?
Yes. Ashiyana’s Training School has been running since 2010, with hundreds of graduates worldwide. Current programmes include a Yoga-alliance certified 200-hour Embodied Vinyasa Yoga TTC (Goa only), a 50-hour Yin Yoga CPD (Spain and Goa), and the Ashiyana Coach Training – combining yoga with holistic life coaching. All courses carry internationally recognised certification.
Food & Nutrition
What is the food like at Ashiyana Spain, and can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Cuisine is mainly vegetarian and Mediterranean-Catalan. 3 daily buffets include a post-yoga brunch (granola, fresh fruit, eggs, homemade bread), a light plant-based lunch, and a hot dinner. Herbal teas and coffee are available throughout. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets are accommodated — please advise at booking.
Accommodation
What are the accommodation options at Ashiyana Spain?
Ashiyana Spain is housed in the lovingly restored Hotel La Riba, a 1960s building overlooking the Sau reservoir. The property offers 8 double rooms, 2 single rooms, and 2 suites — accommodating up to 25 guests in en-suite rooms with high ceilings and landscape views.