You are invited to join us! Dive into the perfect fusion of plant-based living, outdoor adventure and holistic wellness with a transformative 7-day retreat in the enchanting landscapes of Nicaragua. Co-hosted by Olympian and vegan RHN Julia Murray of Hooked on Plants and esteemed vegan chef and educator Danielle Arsenault of Pachavega, this adventure promises an unparalleled blend of nourishment, education, comfort-zone expansion, giving back, adventure, connection, revitalization, inspiration, culture, and self-discovery.
Embark on a Soulful, Vegan Adventure!
Indulge in a week full of delicious culinary experiences showcasing the best in whole food plant-based local cuisine. Nourish your body, tantalize your taste buds, and take home tips for your own kitchen.
Immerse yourself in a variety of outdoor adventures amidst the stunning landscapes of Nicaragua. Experience the thrill of hiking to a waterfall, the serenity of swimming in a crystal clear volcanic spring under the vibrant canopy of the jungle. Explore the soul-filling experiences of Nicaragua, from sandy beaches to volcano hikes, bonfires, and cultural excursions. Take part in giving back through beach cleanups and visiting an animal hospital, deepening your connection with nature and the local community.
Immerse yourself in yoga classes and wellness workshops, focusing on plant-based nutrition, holistic well-being, acroyoga, breathwork, and mindfulness. Discover the keys to a balanced and vibrant life, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.
Form lasting connections with like-minded individuals during this intimate retreat. Share laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments with a supportive community, creating bonds that extend beyond the retreat.
“Our mission is to create an experience for people to disconnect, revitalize, and immerse themselves in a retreat where plant-based living, surf, adventure and wellness seamlessly intertwine, we’re aiming for attendees to experience an unforgettable journey towards connection, community, eco-living, and holistic well-being.” – Olympian & Vegan Nutritionist, Julia Murray
March 21st, 2025 – FRIDAY |
Transport from Airport
Welcome Dinner at Om Island Resort Meet + Greet + Gift bag
Beach Bonfire
March 22nd, 2025 – SATURDAY |
Run with Julia
Cacao + Intention Sharing
Breakfast at Om Island Resort
Market and Local Lunch
Beach Walk and Clean-Up
Acro-Yoga with Adelina
Pizza Night at Tono Carnaval’s
March 23rd, 2025 – SUNDAY |
Breakfast on the road
Kayaking with Monkeys
River Tour and Lunch at Playa Mango
Cooking Class – The Magic of Fermentation
Vegan Athlete Talk and Movie Night
March 24th, 2025 – MONDAY |
Yoga with Adelina
Breakfast at resort
Human Design Talk – Living Your Gifts
Lunch at Resort
Breathwork with Rachel & Adelina
Dinner at Resort
March 25th, 2025 – TUESDAY |
Day Trip – Ferry Off-Island
Surf Lesson/Boogie Board
Beach Picnic Lunch
Animal Hospital Visit
Ferry back to Ometepe
Dinner at the Resort
March 26th, 2025 – WEDNESDAY |
Breakfast at Resort
Yoga with Adelina
Women-led Handicrafts Workshop
Cacao Tour, El Pital: The Chocolate Paradise
Vegan Taco Night!
March 27th, 2025 – THURSDAY |
Hike an Active Volcano – Concepcion
Picnic Lunch: Smoked Tofu TLT Sammies with Curry Mango Mustard
Video testimonials
Final dinner by Pachavega
Evening Spa: face mask, foot bath, calming body salve
March 28th, 2025 – FRIDAY |
Cacao closing ceremony
Departure 10:00 AM, flights booked for after 5 PM only (or the following day)
All of our recipes are made with gluten-free, whole food vegan ingredients, designed by nature to build health and taste delicious at the same time!
The menu plan is curated by Danielle Arsenault of Pachavega and Julia Murray of Hooked on Plants. This collaboration makes magic!
We support local farmers growing organically and give back to our community.
“Through culinary artistry and mindful living, we aim to inspire individuals to embrace a plant-based lifestyle while fostering connections and adventure in the beautiful setting Nicaragua provides.” – Raw Food Chef Educator and Holistic Wellness Coach, Danielle Arsenault
YES. Beginners welcome!!
This is about learning, experiencing, baby steps, and FUN. Beginners, and intermediate are all welcome:) It’s a friendly wave with friendly surf instructors who simply want you to do one thing: have a good time (while improving every day 😉
The yoga will be gentle, and a wonderful way to smooth out the sore muscles from the adventurous day before.
Fly into Managua either before 1 pm on March 21st OR if you can’t get a flight that early, come the night before and book a hotel stay for around $80 at the Best Western directly across the street from the airport (so close that walking with your bags is easy). The hotel has a little restaurant.
We offer a shuttle service and it will pick you up at 2 pm from the airport (or the hotel) on March 21st.
Book a flight home on March 28th anytime after 5 pm (or book another night at the hotel for the 28th, and fly out anytime on March 29th).
Mainly: rooms with 1 double bed, or a shared dorm is available. Feel free to come with a good friend or partner and share a bed for some $ off!
Note that this is an eco experience. No air conditioners. Bare feet are welcome. The showers are hot, but water is minimal. Short showers are encouraged. Wi-fi is good. Take this as your invitation to disconnect.
Can I join the retreat alone or with a group?
Feel free to come with a buddy, partner, soul sister, or solo!
Are there age restrictions for participants?
Over 17
What is the cancellation policy?
A deposit of 25% down will not be refundable.
If emergency cancellation is needed, we will return the remaining amount to you.
You can transfer your spot to another if needed up to 1 month before the date.
Is it safe to travel to Nicaragua?
Nicaragua is raw, rugged, and truly brings you back to nature.
That being said, the people are kind, compassionate, and what makes this country so special.
Even though we can’t guarantee 100% that nothing will go wrong, we will do everything in our power to make this trip as safe as possible for you.
We will be picking the group up at the airport and providing a shuttle directly to Om Island Retreats.
If you arrive a day earlier, or fly out a day later, we recommend you stay at the Best Western Mercedes across the street from the MGA airport – you can walk across the street and won’t need anyone’s help.
A note from Danielle: ‘I have lived here for years now, and have never felt ‘unsafe’ when it comes to political unrest or even just being an independent blonde woman! This place is magical, and welcoming’
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes! We highly highly recommend you purchase your own travel insurance.
Let us know if you need help figuring that out! Typically, you can get it easily through your credit card company (extended medical), or your employer or an insurance broker.
What happens if I injure myself?
Step 1: First aid kit (at Om Island Retreats)
Step 2: Small Hospital close by in Moyogalpa (10 minutes)
Step 3: Hospital in Managua (3 hours away)
Located on the tranquil Ometepe Island in Nicaragua, OM Island Retreats is the perfect setting for the Vegan Adventure Retreat. Nestled between two majestic volcanoes, this retreat center blends awe-inspiring natural beauty with a peaceful ambiance, offering an ideal space to disconnect, rejuvenate, and immerse yourself in a vibrant community of like-minded individuals.
The OM Island Retreat Center on Ometepe Island, Nicaragua, is located conveniently near Moyogalpa, the main port on the island. From Moyogalpa, it’s about a 10-15 minute drive to the retreat, accessible by private car, tuk-tuk, or taxi.
OM Island Retreats provides a unique backdrop for holistic transformation, where curated programs combine relaxation, exploration, and personal growth. Surrounded by the island’s lush landscape, the retreat offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with nature, savor vegan cuisine, and delve into a journey of well-being and discovery.
The heart of OM Island Retreats is founder Adyana Constance Brashear, whose vision has shaped this haven into more than just a retreat center—it’s a welcoming home. Each visitor here is family, and each experience, unforgettable.