Going to a Yoga Retreat Alone: Why You'll Be Glad You Did

Thinking about booking a yoga retreat but hesitating because you would be coming alone?

You're in good company. One of my first retreats, I went by myself, nervous and wondering if everyone else would already know each other. By the first evening, I forgot I came alone. This experience is part of why I lead retreats today, and it's why solo travelers hold a special place in my heart. Most retreats have several people who came on their own and by the first evening it's impossible to tell who arrived alone and who came with a friend. Here's everything solo travelers ask before booking, answered honestly.

Is it weird to go to a yoga retreat by yourself?

Not at all. Retreats are one of the few types of travel where arriving solo is completely normal and often the norm. Often it's hard to have a friend commit to the same dates, so they come on their own. The retreat structure does the social work for you: shared meals, group yoga, guided hikes and evening gatherings mean you're never left wondering how to meet people.

Will I actually make friends, or will everyone already know each other?

You'll make friends, and quickly. Our retreats are intentionally small, which means real conversations happen fast. As one past guest put it, "The sense of community was incredible." Something about walking a wooded trail next to someone tends to skip the small talk.

Do I have to share a room with a stranger?

No, you choose. At our retreats, you can book a private room or ask us to match you with a roommate. Roommate matching is popular with solo travelers who want to save on cost, and we take care in pairing people. If you would rather have your own space, a private room is yours.

What if I need alone time?

Then take it. Every activity on our itinerary is optional, including the hikes. Some guests join everything; others skip an afternoon session to read by the lake or nap. There is 0 pressure and no attendance-taking. Solo travelers often tell us this is the best of both worlds: community when you want it and solitude when you need it.

I've never been on a retreat and I'm not an advanced yogi. Will I fit in?

Yes. Our classes are designed for all levels, and our groups always include first-time retreaters. The hikes are moderate and guided, with no one left behind. If you can walk a few miles at a comfortable pace, you can do our hikes. If a trail isn't your thing that day, the resort and lakefront offer plenty of quieter alternatives.

Is a yoga retreat safe for a woman traveling alone?

Yes. You're staying at an established resort with a small group led by experienced instructors. You'll travel to and from activities together, meals are communal, and you'll have our contact information throughout. Many of our solo guests are women, and many come back the following year.

What should a solo traveler know before booking?

Book early, since small retreats fill up and roommate matching works best when we have time to pair people thoughtfully. Fall dates in New England are especially popular because of the foliage. Beyond that, just bring an open mind. The version of you that arrives on Thursday and the one that drives home Sunday are usually not quite the same person.

Ready to take the leap? Our Under the Harvest Moon retreat runs September 24 to 27, 2026 at Purity Spring Resort in Madison, New Hampshire, about 2 to 2.5 hours north of Boston. Registration closes August 10. [Learn more and reserve your spot here.]