Best travel spots for yoga

Why do we travel? One of the biggest reasons is to break the routine, relax and disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle. It comes as no surprise then that more and more people spend part of their trip finding activies for wellbeing and the spiritual peace they desire. Yoga is, without a shadow of a doubt, one of the best disciplines to achieve this. Whether you’re a beginner, an experienced practitioner or even an instructor, today at Civitatis, we bring you an overview of the best destinations for yoga, from India to Costa Rica. So grab your mats and let’s get to it!

Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world

Our journey to the best travel spots for yoga begins in the country where this ancient discipline was born. Welcome to India! Our first stop is Rishikesh.

Did you know that this place is known as the yoga capital of the world? Many even consider it to be the origin of this practice. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas and bathed by the holiest river in India, the streets of Rishikesh are full of centers offering hatha and ashtanga classes.

Its stores sell all kinds of yoga equipment, and gurus and ashrams, spaces where spirituality is cultivated through meditation, proliferate on both banks of the Ganges, where many spiritual ceremonies are held.

If you love yoga and are looking to travel to this wonderful country, this city is a mandatory stop. Once a year they even celebrate the International Yoga Festival, one of the world’s most important yoga events. You can also fulfill all your yoga dreams in Indian destinations like Agra – how about a yoga class in front of the Taj Mahal? A truly unique experience!

Ibiza, the spiritual side of the Balearic island

Our list of the best yoga destinations continues in Spain, specifically in Ibiza – this dreamy Balearic island isn’t just for partying! Its Mediterranean landscapes are the perfect source of inspiration for travelers looking to connect with their inner selves.

Hundreds of yoga retreats are organized every year in Ibiza. If you’re just looking to attend a few classes on a getaway to the island, even the more touristic locations offer a myriad of yoga schools and holistic therapies.

If you’re looking for other destinations to do yoga in Spain, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and Tarifa are also wonderful options with a good mix of offers and breathtaking landscapes.

Ubud, yoga on the island of the gods

Our next stop is Bali, a unique place full of spirituality, which is why it’s aptly known as the island of the gods! Although yoga is not part of Balinese tradition and culture, the harmony created by the people of this Indonesian island in conjunction with nature creates a perfect zen atmosphere for the practice of this discipline.

In Ubud, we can find a particularly magical place, despite its reputation for being a popular tourist destination. Is it the fascinating ceremonies held by the locals? Or the aromas of the incense? Perhaps it’s the stunning natural environment full of rice fields and volcanoes. Whatever it is, this town is full of yoga studios and schools where you can learn the best postures to relax mind and body. Don’t miss this yoga class in Ubud!

Tulum, the perfect paradise to connect with your inner self

If you’re traveling to Mexico, a stop in Tulum is a must. Picture a tropical paradise with a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by stunning beaches. If that doesn’t sound like one of the best travel spots for yoga, we don’t know what does! The city, located on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, has always been considered a magical place where many visitors come in search of peace.

Tulum also stands out for its preservation of the environment and the importance it places on sustainability. Many of its hotels and schools offer a variety of yoga practices: ashtanga, hatha, vinyasa… Which one strikes your fancy? Plus, aside from its wonderful beaches, Tulum is home to a large number of Maya ruins perfect for learning about the history and culture of the region.

The Algarve, yoga in stunning Atlantic landscapes

Another of the best places to travel for yoga is Portugal, especially the south of the country, in the Algarve. This area is popular among yogis for its spectacular Atlantic scenery and mild climate throughout most of the year. It’s also one of the best surfing spots in Europe, famous for its incredible waves. Lagos, Faro, Albufeira, Tavira… If you’re looking for a destination that combines yoga and surfing, the southern coast of Portugal is calling your name!

A little further north near Lisbon, in Cascais, there are also many options for joining a morning yoga session and then heading to the beach to unwind. All in all, this country is a great place to relax and practice mindfulness.

Koh Samui & Koh Phangan, yoga in Thailand’s most dreamy islands

Next our journey takes us to Thailand, to the island of Koh Samui, considered one of the world’s best destinations for yoga. Among its countless charms, it is home to many retreat spaces that offer yoga and detox programs in front of the sea. Here you can learn different types of yoga, meditation, breathing techniques, and even enjoy hydrotherapy centers and saunas.

Looking for something even more remote? Another island we can’t fail to mention is Koh Phangan, known for its iconic Full Moon Party. This island in the Gulf of Thailand is an ideal location if you want to combine a beach vacation and yoga classes, with the option of numerous spiritual retreat sites that can only be accessed by boat. Pure disconnection!

Hawaii, yoga amidst volcanoes

Hawaii is full of spirituality, imposing volcanoes, waterfalls, and incredible biodiversity, not to mention a lovely climate year round. No wonder it’s one of the best yoga destinations in the world – a volcanic archipelago just brimming with magic!

Did you know that the Pacific tropics are said to possess a special mystical energy? For this reason, many tourists travel to these islands to experience it for themselves. Little by little, yoga studios and schools have been popping up to facilitate visitors’ connection with the harmony Hawaii is known for – a truly breathtaking destination in the U.S.!

Costa Rica, Pura Vida!

We finish off our list of the best destinations to practice yoga in Costa Rica. Thanks to its enormous natural wealth and its reputation as a go-to destination for nature activities, this Central American country has become the perfect place to practice yoga. More and more spiritual retreat centers and yoga schools are offering visitors an escape from the distractions of daily life.

If you want to combine your practice with a refreshing dip at the beach, one of the best spots in the Costa Rica is Santa Teresa, in Puntarenas. This small bohemian town is full of yoga studios that offer courses for students aspiring to become true professionals. We encourage you to visit this wonderful town, fall in love with all its charms and, of course, practice yoga. Namaste!