More Than Just Yoga – What to Expect

Yoga is just the beginning.

At Nella Retreats, we believe yoga is far more than just postures. While we love moving through flowing asanas and meditating in stillness, a retreat offers something much deeper: a space for self-discovery, connection, and transformation.

A journey inward – and outward.

During our retreats, you might find yourself going through unexpected emotions or inner shifts. That’s completely natural. In fact, it’s part of the process. Especially in a place as rich, colorful, and energetically alive as Morocco.

Transformation happens when you allow yourself to feel, to reflect, and to grow.

We live fully – and laugh often.

This is not a silent or sleepy retreat! We explore, connect with the local culture, meet inspiring people, and celebrate life in the moment. You’re not a tourist here — you’re a guest, a traveler, a part of something real.

And yes, there’s room for playfulness, laughter, and joy — your solar plexus (Manipura Chakra) will light up!

Karma Yoga – the heart of it all.

Yoga is more than what happens on the mat. We include elements of Karma Yoga, the yoga of action and service, as a way to deepen your understanding of the practice and your connection to the world around you.

No experience required. Just bring your heart.

Our retreats are open to everyone — no matter your age, body, or experience. All you need is an open mind, a kind spirit, and a willingness to grow, share, and enjoy.

Women’s travel without yoga? Yes, please.

If yoga isn’t your thing, but you love soulful, adventurous travel with other inspiring women — we also offer women-only group trips without the yoga component.

Just get in touch for more info!

Ready to feel, explore, and come home to yourself?

Find your retreat 

What to Bring & Good to Know

We provide yoga mats at all retreats. However, we recommend that you bring a light towel or cover to place over the mat for extra comfort and hygiene. Please note that our mats are lightweight travel mats — not studio-quality — and may show some signs of wear from sand and dust.

All mats are cleaned after each retreat, but if you prefer, feel free to bring your own disinfectant spray. It’s also helpful to pack hand sanitizer and sunscreen, especially if you're sensitive to sun exposure.

A power bank is useful, especially in remote areas where charging options can be limited.

Personal Items: A camera, notebook, refillable water bottle, personal toiletries, and any medications you may need.

Some of our accommodations have swimming pools — so don't forget your swimwear if you’d like to take a dip!

Airport Transfer

I will get in touch with you a few days before the retreat starts to coordinate your airport transfer.

Please make sure to send me your flight details at least one week before arrival, so we can arrange everything smoothly for you.

When to Travel – Climate Guide for Your Retreat in Morocco

Marrakech

We recommend visiting Marrakech in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November), when the weather is most pleasant with daytime temperatures around 25°C and milder nights.

The winter months (December–February) are also a wonderful time to visit. It's low season, which means fewer crowds and a more relaxed retreat atmosphere — except for the Christmas and New Year week, which is peak season and perfect for those seeking a more festive and adventurous vibe.

Important: Summers in Marrakech can be extremely hot, with temperatures between 40–45°C in July and August. We advise bringing light clothing for the day and warmer layers for cooler evenings, and always keeping in mind: you are traveling to Africa — come with curiosity, flexibility, and an open heart.

The Moroccan Coast

Along the coast, the climate is milder and breezy. The hottest month is August, with an average high of 31°C and lows around 20°C.

You can enjoy the beach from June to October, when the Atlantic waters warm up to 23–30°C — perfect for a yoga retreat by the sea.

The Desert (Merzouga & surroundings)

In the Sahara Desert, temperatures drop significantly at night — especially from December to February, when daytime highs range from 18–25°C, but nights can fall to 3–10°C.

The most popular times to visit are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) — though these are also peak seasons.

Winter, especially New Year’s, is a unique and magical time to experience the desert.

Please note: even in luxury desert camps, the comfort level will naturally differ from that in the cities. Bring warm layers and a sense of adventure.

The Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains offer a wide range of temperatures — from snow and frost at high altitudes in winter to pleasant warmth in summer. Winters can be chilly, especially at night, and summers are generally cooler than in the cities or on the coast.

Accommodation in the mountains is charming and cozy, but rural. While 95% of our locations are well-equipped, occasional technical issues (like AC or WiFi) may arise. We recommend bringing warm clothing and embracing the simplicity as part of the journey.

Final Tip:

No matter where you go — desert, coast, mountains or city — Morocco invites you to slow down, stay present, and embrace the unexpected.

A retreat here is not just a getaway — it's an experience.

What to Wear in Morocco

Moroccan women traditionally dress modestly, especially in rural areas, but in popular tourist regions you’ll see a wide range of styles — from crop tops to burkas.

There is no strict dress code for visitors. You do not need to cover your hair, and wearing a bikini at the pool or beach is completely acceptable.

That said, we kindly ask you to respect the local culture and religion, especially in less touristy areas and when interacting with locals.

During Ramadan

If your retreat takes place during Ramadan, we recommend dressing a bit more conservatively out of respect for the holy month.

This means covering shoulders, torso, and knees, and avoiding tight, low-cut, or revealing clothing.

To stay comfortable in the heat, opt for light, loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics and soft colors.

Nourishing Food for Body & Soul

At our retreats, food is part of the experience. We focus on fresh, seasonal, and mostly vegetarian meals, with chicken and fish available upon request.

We consciously choose to exclude red meat from breakfast and dinner to support lightness, digestion, and overall well-being.

A Taste of Morocco – Breakfast

Moroccan breakfast is simple, soulful, and full of flavor. Many ingredients are locally sourced and minimally processed, making each meal nourishing and satisfying.

Typical breakfast options include:

Olive oil & cheese

Baghrir (Moroccan pancakes – vegan)

French bread

Harcha (semolina flatbread – vegan)

Msemmen (layered pancake – vegan)

Amlou (almond, argan oil & honey spread – vegan)

Fried eggs (available upon request)

Homemade yogurt

Seasonal fresh fruit

Jam & butter

Moroccan mint tea

Fresh orange juice

Coffee (on request)

Seasonal Ingredients & Colorful Cuisine

Moroccan cuisine celebrates seasonal vegetables, herbs, and spices. Vegetables are a central part of nearly every dish, providing richness, balance, and nourishment.

Some delicious examples:

Tagine (vegetable or chicken – vegan options available)

Couscous (steamed semolina with vegetables – vegan)

Harira (traditional lentil soup – vegan)

Pastilla (sweet-savory pie – vegan version available)

Zaalouk (eggplant salad – vegan)

Brik (crispy pastry – vegan)

Rfissa (slow-cooked chicken with lentils & bread)

Chicken with preserved lemon

Grilled skewers (chicken or fish)

Falafel & hummus (vegan)

Important Info

Breakfast and dinner are included.

Lunch is optional and available at an extra cost.

Please let us know in advance if you are vegetarian, vegan, or if you also eat chicken or fish.

Don’t forget to share any food allergies or intolerances, so we can take the best care of you.

Retreat Information & Guidelines

First of all, there’s no need to worry about anything! Just focus on enjoying this retreat to the fullest.

While we aim to follow the itinerary as closely as possible, please keep in mind that minor adjustments might occur, particularly depending on the weather. Yoga sessions are typically held before breakfast, lunch, or dinner, as mornings and evenings can be chilly during the winter months, while midday can be quite hot the rest of the year. There will be one or two early bird sessions (Surya Namaskar and Kapalbhati Pranayama) for those who are interested.

The cacao ceremony will depend on the arrival time, as sometimes participants arrive later in the day.

If you have any limitations in your yoga practice or any injuries, please let me know beforehand. During the sessions, I will be walking around offering adjustments. If you’d prefer not to receive any hands-on adjustments, simply let me know.

Group Size & Retreat Details

Not all of our retreats are fully booked. Some take place in smaller groups, and there are occasions when a retreat may even run with just one participant. Occasionally, there are rebookings, but we never cancel a retreat. This is especially important for guests with pre-booked flights and confirmed vacation plans. Please note that during peak times, such as New Year or Easter, groups may grow up to 12 participants.

Booking & Payment

Once your deposit is paid, your spot is secured. The remaining balance should be paid one month before arrival.

Cash & Currency

In Morocco, most shops accept cash only (credit cards are not widely used). It's a good idea to have some cash on hand. You can also exchange money or withdraw cash from an ATM upon arrival. We’ll provide details on the best exchange locations when you get here.

Meals & Dietary Preferences

Breakfast and dinner are included in the retreat, while lunch is an additional cost. On average, lunch will cost between 8–15 euros per meal. Please let me know in advance if you follow a vegetarian, vegan, or pescatarian diet, or if you eat chicken. Also, kindly inform me of any allergies or intolerances.

Tipping & Gratuity

We always like to show our appreciation for the staff with a tip. Typically, we collect 25 euros (250 dirhams) from each participant to be distributed among the team. If we feel an additional tip is needed, we’ll assess it at the end of the retreat. Extra tips will be given to our driver who stays with us throughout the journey and is like a travel companion.

Social Media Sharing

If you'd like to share your experiences on social media, please respect those who may prefer not to be included in photos or videos. Let me know at the beginning of the retreat if you’d rather not appear in any posts, stories, or reels. Of course, feel free to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok!

Arrival Details

Please send me your flight details one week before your arrival, including flight number, airline, and arrival time. Our driver will be ready to pick you up on time.

I’m sending you good vibes for a safe and enjoyable journey!

Marrakech Medina – Go with the Flow

The Medina of Marrakech is a magical maze of colors, sounds, and energy. If you’re ready to go with the flow, wander with humor and a smile — you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!

Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your time while staying aware and respectful:

1. For Sensitive Stomachs

If your stomach is a little delicate, it’s best to avoid fresh juices for the first few days – even though they’re incredibly tempting. Give your body a moment to adjust.

2. Snakes & Monkeys at Jemaa El Fna

At the main square, Jemaa El Fna, you’ll likely encounter snake charmers and people with monkeys. Be aware: taking a photo can cost between 20 and 50 euros.

Consider this: a local cleaning lady earns about 10–15 euros per day. Also, these animals are often kept in poor conditions and face constant stress.

Instead, support the lovely people in your Riad with a generous tip and take beautiful photos in nature.

3. Henna Hustles

Friendly women may offer to give you a henna tattoo. Even if you say no, they might start chatting and begin drawing on your hand “just to show you.”

They’ll claim it’s free — and then ask for 20–25 euros once it’s done.

Tip: If you’re not interested, politely but firmly decline and keep your arm out of reach.

4. Taxis

Always agree on a price before the ride begins. Many taxis don’t use meters, especially in tourist areas.

5. Getting Lost in the Medina

If you lose your way, avoid following anyone who offers to "guide" you — these are often unofficial guides who may deliberately lead you the wrong way and then ask for 30–40 euros.

Instead, stay calm, act confident, and head to the nearest café. There, you can check your map or ask staff for directions. Locals in cafés are usually very kind and helpful.

Support with Heart – Giving Back in the Atlas Mountains

We kindly ask that you refrain from giving cash or sweets to local children. While the intention is kind, it can unintentionally encourage a culture of begging — and sweets can harm their teeth, especially given the limited access to dental care in rural areas. The healthcare system in Morocco, particularly in the mountains, is often under-resourced.

However, we love to support the children in meaningful ways. In the Atlas Mountains, we actively encourage and support their education by bringing school supplies like notebooks, pens, erasers, scissors, and more.

If you’d like to contribute, even 10 to 20 euros can make a big difference and bring a genuine smile to a child’s face. We’ll purchase everything locally and, if you wish, you can personally hand it over during your visit.

Thank you for helping us spread joy in a sustainable and respectful way.

Responsible Giving – Supporting Children in the Desert

We kindly ask that you do not give cash or sweets to local children. While well-intentioned, it can encourage begging, and sweets can negatively affect their dental health — especially in remote areas where access to healthcare is very limited, particularly in the desert.

That said, we always love to bring something meaningful for the children. In the desert communities, we focus on supporting and motivating them, especially by contributing to their daily well-being.

We bring basic toiletries such as:

Shampoo

Shower gel

Toothbrushes

Toothpaste

If you’d like to join this effort, you're very welcome to bring some of these items or contribute a small amount — together, we make a big difference.

Thank you for helping us spread joy in a sustainable and respectful way.

1. Dress Modestly
Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and dressing modestly shows respect for the local culture. Light, loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

2. Ask Before Taking Photos
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional or rural communities. Some locals may feel uncomfortable or consider it disrespectful to be photographed without consent.

3. Respect Local Customs
Be mindful of daily customs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, when many locals fast from sunrise to sunset. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours in this period.

4. Support Local Businesses
Choose locally owned riads, restaurants, guides, and artisans to support the local economy. Buying handmade products directly from the source benefits local communities.

5. Reduce Plastic Use
Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bag to minimize plastic waste. Many guesthouses offer filtered water stations or large water jugs for refilling.

6. Learn a Few Words in Arabic 
A simple “Salam” (hello) or “Shukran” (thank you) can go a long way in showing respect and connecting with locals.

7. Be Aware of Bargaining Etiquette
Haggling in the souks is part of the culture, but always keep it friendly and respectful. It's about finding a fair price, not winning a battle.

8. Respect Sacred Spaces
Mosques are generally not open to non-Muslims, except for a few like the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. Always ask before entering and be respectful of prayer times and customs.

9. Be Kind to Animals
Avoid supporting businesses that exploit animals for tourism, like snake charmers or overworked carriage horses.

10. Leave No Trace
Whether you’re hiking in the Atlas Mountains or visiting the Sahara, leave nature as you found it. Take your trash with you and avoid disturbing wildlife.

For the safety and well-being of all participants, please note the following contraindications:

1. Pregnancy: Our retreats are not suitable for pregnant participants due to the physical activities involved, including yoga, camel trekking, and potential strenuous hiking.

2. Injuries or Severe Health Conditions: Participants recovering from significant injuries or dealing with serious health conditions (e.g., heart disease, severe back problems, or chronic pain) should consult with a healthcare professional before booking, as certain activities might not be suitable.

3. Mental Health Concerns: While mindfulness practices are a core part of the retreat, participants with severe anxiety, depression, or other serious mental health issues are advised to seek medical advice before joining.

Upon booking, participants must confirm that they do not have any contraindications that may prevent them from participating fully in the retreat activities.

Important Note: By confirming your booking, you acknowledge that you have no medical conditions or contraindications that may prevent your full participation.

Please note that Nella Retreats does not assume any liability for personal injury, loss, or damage during excursions, day trips, or other activities. All participants are fully responsible for themselves throughout the retreat.

We also do not take any responsibility for injuries, sprains, or physical issues that may occur during yoga practice. Each participant is asked to inform the teacher before the start of the retreat about any existing injuries or physical conditions that should be considered during yoga sessions. Additionally, please let us know upon arrival whether or not you would like to receive physical adjustments during the practice.

We highly recommend arranging international travel insurance, including accident and health coverage, prior to your trip. In addition, we strongly advise booking a travel cancellation insurance in case of illness, unexpected events, or personal reasons that may require a cancellation. This ensures that you are protected in case of cancellation and can apply for a refund through your insurance provider.

Please note that Nella Retreats does not cover or refund any transaction or payment fees (e.g. bank transfers, PayPal, or other online payment platforms).

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.