Top Solo Retreat Destinations in 2026: Cost and What to Expect

Solo travel has changed dramatically in recent years. What was once seen as a daring escape from familiarity has become a preferred way to reset, reflect and reconnect. Today’s solo retreats combine the freedom of travelling alone with intentionally crafted experiences that nourish mind, body and spirit. Choosing the right destination matters as much as choosing the retreat itself: environment, cost, ease of travel and the quality of local experiences all shape how deeply you can go inward.

This long‑form guide explores ten countries ideal for solo retreats in 2026. For each destination you’ll find the range of travel costs, from budget to luxury, and highlights of the experiences that make these places so special. The focus is on countries rather than specific retreat centres to help you decide where you would most like to spend time alone.

India

India continues to be the global anchor for yoga and spiritual travel. It offers vast geographical diversity...Himalayan peaks, tropical beaches, deserts and forests and a long history of meditation, Āyurveda and yogic philosophy. This makes it one of the most versatile destinations for solo travellers seeking a retreat experience.

Costs

India is surprisingly affordable. Budget travellers can live on about US$16 per day, while mid‑range travellers spend about US$43 per day and those seeking luxury should budget around US$119 per day. Even mid‑range prices cover comfortable accommodation, meals and short domestic travel.

Things to do

• Meditation & river rituals: Northern towns along the Ganges offer dawn meditations and river ceremonies that are famous for spiritual depth. You can join morning chanting at riverside ghats and take part in serene sunrise boat rides.
• Hiking and nature: Kerala’s Wayanad region offers trekking through lush forests to the heart‑shaped Chembra Peak Lake and boating on tranquil reservoirs. In the Himalayas, adventures range from guided treks around the world’s highest peaks to gentle forest walks.
• Monasteries and mountain passes: Remote northeastern areas like Tawang mix Tibetan Buddhist monasteries with high‑altitude lakes and snow‑covered mountain passes.
• Tea gardens and hill towns: Hill stations such as Ooty invite you to slow down with botanical gardens, tea factory tours and mountain railways.
• Dark‑sky stargazing: In Ladakh’s Hanle, one of the world’s first dark‑sky reserves, you can participate in telescopic night tours and learn about astronomy in a high‑altitude landscape.

India rewards those willing to explore deeply and slowly. Its combination of affordability, wellness traditions and immersive cultural experiences make it a top choice for solo retreats.

Nepal

Neighboring Nepal attracts solo travellers seeking mountains, mindfulness and simple rural life. Its Himalayan scenery and Buddhist culture naturally lend themselves to contemplative retreats.

Costs

Travelling in Nepal is inexpensive. Budget travellers spend roughly US$15 per day, mid‑range visitors spend US$42 per day, and luxury seekers spend about US$128 per day. The average traveller spends around US$42 per day, including meals, lodging and local transport.

Things to do

• Trekking: Nepal is a trekking paradise with trails ranging from the legendary Everest Base Camp to serene off‑the‑beaten‑path walks. The country’s centuries‑old mountain routes and cosy teahouse treks encourage slow, contemplative movement.
• Sunrise viewpoints: Lookouts such as Chandragiri Hills and Nagarkot offer spectacular dawn views of Himalayan peaks; visitors often reach them via cable cars or short hikes.
• Wildlife safaris: In the low‑lying Terai region, national parks host safaris where you can spot one‑horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, crocodiles and herds of deer.
• White‑water rafting: Rivers like the Bhote Kosi and Trisuli provide thrills through rafting and kayaking trips.
• Adventure sports: Pokhara and other adventure hubs offer paragliding, zip lines and bungee jumps for those seeking an adrenaline release between periods of quiet.

For solo travellers, Nepal strikes a balance between active exploration and silent retreat. Its affordability and warm hospitality make extended stays possible, and many find that the country’s simple villages and monastery‑lined valleys encourage introspection.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka blends tropical beauty with cultural depth. Its lush tea plantations, ancient capitals and palm‑lined beaches create a nurturing environment for solo retreat seekers.

Costs

Sri Lanka is affordable but slightly pricier than India or Nepal. Budget travellers typically spend US$22 per day, mid‑range visitors about US$60 per day, and luxury travellers around US$177 per day. The average traveller spends roughly US$60 per day.

Things to do

• Cultural triangle: Central Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle includes ancient capitals and UNESCO‑listed sites with rock citadels, cave temples and Buddhist frescoes. Exploring these sacred sites offers insight into Sri Lanka’s history and a chance for mindful contemplation.
• Hill Country: The highlands around Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Ella host cool climates, scenic train rides, waterfalls and yoga retreats. Tea plantation tours show you how Sri Lankan tea is handpicked and processed.
• Coastal life and surf: Coastal towns like Weligama and Mirissa provide surfing, yoga and sunshine. Long walks on golden beaches and ocean swims bring a natural rhythm to each day.
• Wildlife safaris: National parks such as Minneriya and Yala offer jeep safaris to spot elephants, leopards and exotic birds.
• Culinary and festival culture: Sri Lanka’s cuisine, with its aromatic curries and fresh fruits, is part of the retreat experience. Festivals like Vesak and Esala Perahera add color and spirituality to visits.

Sri Lanka’s manageable size and warm hospitality make it easy for solo travellers to navigate. Whether meditating in ancient rock caves or walking through misty tea estates, you’ll find serenity and cultural connection.

Indonesia

Indonesia is an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands that offers much more than Bali’s resorts. Solo travellers can find quiet nature, cultural diversity and exotic wildlife across the nation.

Costs

Indonesia offers a range of budgets. The average daily cost is US$67 per person with travellers spending US$24 per day on a low budget, US$67 per day mid‑range, and US$201 per day for luxury experiences.

Things to do

• Beaches and surfing: Bali and smaller islands feature world‑class beaches for surfing, snorkelling and sunbathing. Even away from popular spots, you can find secluded shores perfect for quiet reflection.
• Volcano treks: Watching sunrise from Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano, is a favourite activity. Other islands offer climbs to active or dormant volcanoes.
• Temples and villages: Bali’s inland areas house hidden temples and quiet villages such as those around Pura Luhur Batukaru, where you can experience traditional Balinese culture and ritual.
• Rice terraces and wellness: Ubud is renowned as an artistic and wellness centre with terraced rice fields, yoga studios and organic cafés. Many visitors combine daily yoga practice with scenic walks.
• Wildlife encounters: Outside Bali, islands like Sumatra and Borneo are home to orangutans and other unique species. Protected reserves allow for eco‑friendly visits.
• Capital culture: Jakarta offers a bustling contrast with museums, markets and street food that highlight Indonesia’s diverse cultures.

Indonesia lets solo retreaters design their experience...from meditative beach days to jungle treks and cultural immersion, at a price point that suits their budget.

Thailand

Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations and offers an appealing balance of ease, culture and natural beauty. It’s particularly welcoming to solo travellers thanks to its infrastructure and reputation for hospitality.

Costs

The average traveller spends US$103 per day in Thailand, with budget travel costing about US$37 per day, mid‑range about US$103 per day, and luxury around US$309 per day. Meals, transportation and comfortable lodging are very affordable.

Things to do

• Cultural sites: Bangkok’s ornate Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha represent Thailand’s rich royal history. Wat Pho, home to the giant reclining Buddha, also hosts an esteemed traditional massage school.
• Festivals: Traditional festivals such as Songkran (Thai New Year water festival) and Loy Krathong (lantern festival) provide immersive cultural experiences.
• Markets and cuisine: Floating markets near Bangkok offer fresh produce and street food experiences. Northern cities like Chiang Mai host night markets and street stalls.
• Historic ruins: The ancient capital of Ayutthaya contains temple complexes and ruins that speak to Thailand’s former glory.
• Beaches and mountains: Railay Beach features dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. Chiang Mai and its surrounds offer jungle treks, waterfalls and mountain temples.

Thailand’s diversity makes it easy to craft a retreat: combine yoga on a quiet beach, forest meditation in the north and cultural exploration in vibrant cities. The country’s safe and social atmosphere helps solo travellers feel supported.

Portugal

Portugal has gained attention as a European hub for slow travel and wellness. Its Atlantic coastline, historic cities and warm climate create an inviting setting for reflection and adventure.

Costs

Portugal is more expensive than many Asian destinations but still offers good value in Europe. Budget travellers spend around US$79 per day, mid‑range visitors about US$195 per day, and luxury travellers US$456 per day. The average daily cost is around US$194, covering meals, transportation and lodging.

Things to do

• Historic cities: Lisbon’s winding streets, tram rides and miradouros (viewpoints) reveal layers of history. Nearby Belem boasts monumental architecture, while Porto in the north is famous for its riverfront district and port wine cellars.
• Palaces & castles: Sintra’s colourful palaces and romantic gardens feel straight from a fairy tale. Many visitors pair a retreat with day trips to Moorish castles and UNESCO‑listed monasteries.
• Beach and surf: The Algarve region offers golden beaches, surf spots and walking trails like the Seven Hanging Valleys, a scenic coastal hike lined with cliffs and sea caves.
• Wine & food tours: Douro Valley vineyards provide tastings of port and table wines, paired with river cruises and hillside walks. Portuguese cuisine, think fresh seafood, custard tarts and hearty stews...adds to the sensory experience.
• Island escapes: The Azores and Madeira islands, with volcanic landscapes and lush gardens, offer tranquillity, hot springs and whale watching.

Portugal combines European culture with a relaxed tempo. Solo travellers enjoy its safe environment and abundant walking trails, while the food and wine culture encourages mindful indulgence.

Morocco

Morocco offers a sensory awakening. From bustling medinas and ornate palaces to peaceful deserts and mountain villages, it presents contrasts that make solo retreats rich in both stimulation and stillness.

Costs

Daily costs in Morocco range from US$35 for budget travellers, US$90 for mid‑range, and US$242 for luxury experiences. The typical traveller spends about US$90 per day, which covers meals, transport and comfortable lodging.

Things to do

• Medinas and markets: The old city of Marrakech is a labyrinth of narrow lanes filled with souks, palaces and courtyards. Wandering here offers daily lessons in colour, aroma and craftsmanship.
• Gardens and architecture: The Majorelle Garden is a botanical oasis famed for its vivid blues and exotic plants. Casablanca’s grand Hassan II Mosque is one of the world’s largest and showcases intricate tilework and oceanfront views.
• Ancient ruins: Meknes and nearby Volubilis display gates, palaces and Roman mosaics, giving insight into Morocco’s complex history.
• Desert journeys: A camel trek into the Sahara near Merzouga lets you sleep under star‑laden skies, visit Berber camps and ride across sand dunes.
• Coastal escapes: Agadir provides beaches and water sports, while Chefchaouen’s blue‑painted alleys offer mountain views and a laid‑back vibe.
• Film‑set fortresses: Ouarzazate, the “gateway to the Sahara,” features ancient kasbahs and film studios amid desert landscapes.

Morocco’s mix of sensory richness and tranquil retreats ensures that your solo journey is both enlivening and restorative.

Japan

Japan blends ancient traditions with cutting‑edge modernity. Its respect for order, serenity and craftsmanship makes it an excellent destination for solo travellers seeking structure and contemplation.

Costs

A trip to Japan costs more than most Asian countries but remains accessible. Budget travellers spend about US$55 per day, mid‑range visitors around US$140 per day, and luxury travellers roughly US$353 per day. The average daily cost is US$139.

Things to do

• Historic temples & gardens: Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for its corridor of vermilion torii gates. The city’s Zen gardens and temple complexes invite mindful walking and meditation.
• Iconic mountains: Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest peak and an iconic symbol; you can hike parts of it or admire it from lakes and hot springs nearby.
• Peace memorials: Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park commemorates the atomic bombing and underscores Japan’s dedication to peace.
• Island beaches & marine life: The subtropical Okinawa Islands have turquoise waters, coral reefs and unique Ryukyuan culture. Whale watching is available around the Kerama Islands during migration season.
• National parks: Nikko National Park combines mountains, lakes, waterfalls, temples and hot springs.
• Castles & city parks: Himeji Castle is an architectural masterpiece from the feudal era. Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen Garden offers green respite in the heart of the city.
• Seasonal beauty & festivals: Cherry blossoms and autumn colours transform Japan’s landscapes; locals celebrate with hanami (flower‑viewing) picnics. Festivals like Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri display tradition and community spirit.
• Culinary & nightlife: Osaka is famed for its street food and neon nightlife.

Japan provides a structure that many solo travellers appreciate...efficient transport, safe cities and clear etiquette...while still offering profound experiences in nature, spirituality and culture.

Mexico

Mexico is a large, diverse country where you can balance quiet retreats with vibrant culture. Beaches, deserts, mountains and ancient sites create a varied palette for solo travellers.

Costs

On average travellers spend US$140 per day in Mexico. Budget travel can be as low as US$50 per day, mid‑range around US$140 per day and luxury about US$431 per day. The daily cost covers meals, local transport and lodging.

Things to do

• Caribbean coast & Mayan heritage: The Mexican Caribbean region (Quintana Roo) blends sparkling beaches with ancient archaeological sites like those near Tulum and Cozumel. Outdoor activities...snorkelling, diving, jungle tours...abound, and a new rail line (Tren Maya) improves access.
• Pacific charm: Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast offers beaches, art galleries and a sophisticated culinary scene.
• Desert meets sea: Los Cabos at the southern tip of Baja California Sur combines dramatic desert landscapes, boating, whale watching and upscale dining.
• Cultural capital: Mexico City balances world‑class museums, colonial architecture and bustling markets. Highlights include pre‑Columbian ruins like the Templo Mayor, the Metropolitan Cathedral and art museums.
• Historic towns: San Miguel de Allende charms visitors with cobblestone streets, historic architecture and a vibrant arts scene; nearby wineries and farms add rural charm.
• Iconic archaeological sites: Chichén Itzá is one of Mexico’s most important Mayan sites, featuring pyramids, temples and ball courts. Palenque in Chiapas offers jungle‑covered ruins.
• Natural wonders: The vast Copper Canyon in Chihuahua, nearly seven times larger than the Grand Canyon, offers train journeys and insights into Tarahumara culture. In the Yucatán Peninsula, freshwater cenotes...natural sinkholes...are perfect for swimming, snorkelling or diving.

Mexico’s diversity allows solo travellers to craft an itinerary that balances stillness and adventure: meditative mornings in cenotes, afternoons exploring ancient ruins, and evenings sampling regional cuisine.

Greece

Greece combines ancient history, island landscapes and Mediterranean ease. Its blend of archaeological sites, whitewashed villages and coastline makes it ideal for reflective retreats.

Costs

Greece is one of the more expensive destinations on this list. Budget travellers spend about US$101 per day, mid‑range travellers US$254 per day, and luxury travellers US$629 per day. The average traveller’s costs are around US$254 per day, including meals, lodging and transport.

Things to do

• Athens: Often called the cradle of Western civilisation, Athens boasts the Acropolis with the Parthenon and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Wandering the Plaka district’s narrow streets offers glimpses of Byzantine, Roman and Neoclassical architecture.
• Delphi: Once thought by ancient Greeks to be the centre of the world, Delphi features the sanctuary of Apollo, 4th‑century temples, treasuries and a theatre built into Mount Parnassos. Its mountain views enhance the spiritual ambiance.
• Meteora: In central Greece, 14th‑century monasteries perch atop towering sandstone pillars. Visitors climb to a handful of surviving monasteries to witness post‑Byzantine frescoes and panoramic views.
• Islands: Santorini’s black‑sand beaches, volcanic caldera and whitewashed villages of Oia and Fira create cinematic sunsets. Mykonos offers vibrant nightlife and beaches, while Rhodes combines medieval architecture with secluded cove.
• Thessaloniki: Greece’s second city blends Byzantine walls, Roman ruins and a modern waterfront with cocktail bars and green spaces. It also serves as a gateway to the northern Halkidiki peninsula.
• Olympia: The birthplace of the Olympic Games contains ruins spanning Greek history, including the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Zeus.

Greece’s timeless landscapes and sun‑drenched culture make it a deeply evocative retreat destination. Whether meditating at a hilltop monastery or taking a contemplative ferry ride between islands, solo travellers here find a harmonious blend of history, nature and hospitality.

Planning Your Solo Retreat

When choosing a destination, consider factors beyond cost and attractions. Think about your desired climate, cultural comfort, languages spoken, and the type of environment...mountain, beach, forest or city...that best supports your introspection. Also consider the season; many destinations have dry and wet periods or shoulder seasons that balance pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

Safety: All of the countries listed have well‑established tourism industries. However, travel advisories change, so check updated guidance before booking. Staying in reputable accommodations and following local customs help ensure a smooth experience.

Duration: Solo retreats need time. Budget for at least one week in your chosen country, but consider longer stays (two to four weeks) if your schedule allows. Many travellers find that the first week is simply unwinding from daily life; the deeper insights arrive later.

Integration: A retreat doesn’t end when you leave. Think about how you’ll integrate the practices and insights you gain into your daily life back home. Journalling, meditation and staying connected to a supportive community can help sustain the benefits.

Closing thought

Solo retreats are about more than a destination; they’re about creating space for self‑discovery. Whether you’re drawn to India’s spiritual heartlands, Nepal’s mountains, Sri Lanka’s lush tropics, Indonesia’s diversity, Thailand’s warmth, Portugal’s European charm, Morocco’s sensory richness, Japan’s structured serenity, Mexico’s cultural fusion or Greece’s ancient beauty, each country offers unique landscapes, cultures and costs.

This guide provides the practical details and inspiration to help you choose where to journey inward in 2026. May your solo retreat be filled with safe travels, meaningful encounters and the quiet stillness that allows transformation to begin.