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Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

"EMEIS" Retreat, Yiannis Athanasopoulos, Brazil

From Rio’s Rhythm to Iguazu’s Roar A transformative journey through Rio de Janeiro, the Brazilian & Argentine sides of Iguazu Falls

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Overview

EMEIS (Greek for “We”) is a deeply immersive and emotionally empowering retreat experience designed by clinical psychologist and author Yiannis Athanasopoulos. Set across the vibrant landscapes of Brazil, this transformative journey combines therapeutic storytelling, group process work, self-inquiry, and creative expression, using Yiannis’ signature blend of psychology and theater. Through the energy of Rio de Janeiro, the awe-inspiring presence of Iguazu Falls, participants are invited to reconnect with themselves, explore their personal stories, and rediscover the power of human connection.

Accommodations

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Pestana Rio Atlântica — Rio de Janeiro

Set directly on the iconic Copacabana beachfront, Pestana Rio Atlântica places us in the heart of Rio with the ocean just steps away. The hotel features modern rooms, a spectacular rooftop swimming pool overlooking Copacabana and Sugarloaf Mountain, a rooftop lounge, gym and easy access to Rio’s most celebrated sights. The perfect urban base to combine our retreat journey with the vibrant Carioca lifestyle.

Brazil

La Aldea de la Selva Lodge — Iguazú

Hidden within the lush Paraná rainforest, La Aldea de la Selva is a peaceful jungle lodge designed to blend comfort with nature. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, it offers three swimming pools with waterfalls, relaxing outdoor spaces and a restaurant overlooking the forest. Its intimate jungle atmosphere makes it an ideal setting to slow down, reconnect and integrate our experience after exploring the extraordinary Iguazú Falls.

Brazil
Pestana Rio Atlântica — Rio de Janeiro
La Aldea de la Selva Lodge — Iguazú
Yiannis Athanasopoulos

Hosts

Yiannis Athanasopoulos

Clinical Psychologist – Author

Graduate of Panteion University with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Leiden University. He has worked as a shift coordinator on the Emergency Lines of The Smile of the Child and as Deputy Coordinator of the Mobile Mental Health Unit at OKANA (Organization Against Drugs). He is the first psychologist in Greece to combine psychology with theatre. In 2024, his performance-talk "The Child We Met" was a success in Greece, Cyprus, and Germany. His book “Take Care” is published by Psychogios Editions.

Integrated Psychological Processes

He pioneers in merging psychology and theatre to create powerful emotional and therapeutic experiences.

He offers performance-talks that use drama and storytelling to help individuals process emotions and life experiences.

He draws on his background in emergency psychological support to address complex mental health issues with compassion and creativity.

Empowerment Through Creative Expression

He leads workshops and seminars engaging participants in therapeutic exercises using theatrical techniques.

He focuses on enhancing self-awareness, emotional resilience, and personal growth by integrating diverse therapeutic methods.

He designs unique interventions that promote healing, self-reflection, and a deeper understanding of the human psyche.

Yiannis is here to support you in building emotional strength and finding balance in life, guiding you on a journey of self-discovery and transformation through innovative psychological approaches.

Schedule

DAY 1 — January 4

The Journey Begins

15:00 - Meet at Athens International Airport

17:20 - Flight to Frankfurt 

22:15 - Flight to Rio De Janeiro

Overnight onboard.

Recommended Airlines Flights:

LH1283  U  04JAN  Athens - Frankfurt         17.20 - 19.20   

LH 500  U  04JAN  Frankfurt - Rio De Janeiro 22.15 - 06.10

WELCOME TO RIO

Arrival • Rest • Ipanema • Arpoador

06:10 — Arrival Rio de Janeiro

06:10–08:00 — Immigration & luggage

08:00 — Private transfer to hotel≈09:00 — Arrival & priority check-in Pestana Rio Atlântica — Copacabana

09:00–10:00 — Breakfast

10:00–13:00 — Rest & recovery

13:00–14:30 — Welcome lunch

14:30–15:30 — Personal time

15:30–17:30 — Walking tour Ipanema & Arpoador

17:30 - 18:00 — Return to Pestana

18:00–19:00 — Rest & refresh

19:00–21:00 — SESSION 1: WE “Every Soul Has a Story”

Opening the EMEIS circle. Intention, trust, connection and the beginning of the journey from I to WE.

21:00 — Welcome dinner

ICONIC RIO

Christ the Redeemer • Santa Teresa 

08:00–09:00 — Breakfast

9:00 — Private departure

9:30–12:30 — Christ the Redeemer Corcovado, panoramic views and photography.

12:30–13:00 — Transfer to Santa Teresa

13:00–14:00 — Santa Teresa Vehicle-assisted exploration with selected stops. 

14:00–15:30 — Lunch

15:30 — Departure

16:00 — Return to Pestana

16:00–19:00 — Rest

19:00–21:00 — SESSION 2: AWAKENING “Seeing for the First Time”

Awareness • Presence • Observation • Conscious Attention

21:00 — Dinner

RIO FROM ABOVE

Cathedral • Sugarloaf • Urca • Praia Vermelha 

08:00–09:30 — Breakfast

10:00 — Private departure to Sugarloaf

10:30–12:00 — Sugarloaf Mountain

12:00 - Private transfer to Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião

12:30 –13:30 — Visit Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião and Selarón Steps

13:30–15:30 — Lunch 

15:30–16:00 — Urca Waterfront. A relaxed stop beside the water.

16:00–16:30 — Praia Vermelha. Ocean views beneath Sugarloaf.

16:30–17:00 — Return to Pestana

17:00 – 19:00 — Rest

19:00–21:00 — SESSION 3: RECOGNITION “What I Carry Is Not Who I Am”

Recognizing the roles, patterns and experiences that have shaped us without allowing them to define us.

21:00 — Dinner

TWO SIDES OF RIO

Tijuca Forest • Favela

08:00–09:30 — Breakfast

10:00 — Private departure to Tijuca National Park

11:00–14:30  — Tijuca National Park & Favela

14:30–16:30 — Lunch

A guided cultural experience offering another perspective of Rio and its local community.

16:30 — Departure

17:00 — Return to Pestana

17:00–19:00 — Rest

19:00–21:00 — SESSION 4: DISCERNMENT

“What Is Mine and What Is Not”

Distinguishing our own truth from inherited expectations, narratives and conditioning.

21:00 — Dinner

HISTORIC RIO & THE OCEAN

Real Gabinete • Mosteiro de São Bento • Praça Mauá • Optional Private Boat

Our final Rio day is deliberately spacious before tomorrow’s early flight.

08:00–09:30 — Breakfast

10:00 — Private departure 

10:30–11:15 — Real Gabinete Português de Leitura

Visit to Rio’s extraordinary historic Portuguese library.

11:30–12:15 — Mosteiro de São Bento

A short visit to one of Rio’s most important historic and spiritual landmarks.

12:30–13:15 — Praça Mauá & Waterfront

Relaxed exploration of Rio’s revitalised port district.

13:30 - 15:00 — Lunch

14:30–17:00 — Optional boat tour or Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow) or free time. 

Guests not joining the boat or museum visit can return to Copacabana for pool, beach, spa, shopping or personal time.

17:00–17:30 — Return to Pestana

17:30–19:00 — Rest & pack

19:00–21:00 — SESSION 5: UNBECOMING

“When You Stop Trying to Become Someone”

Releasing roles, labels, expectations and the need to prove — creating space for what was always there.

21:00 — Farewell Rio dinner

22:30 — Recommended bedtime

 Final night at Pestana Rio Atlântica

RIO → IGUAÇU

From Rhythm to Nature

08:00 — Wake-up

08:30 — Breakfast

9:30 - SESSION 6: EXPERIENCE

“Beyond Words”

Breathwork • Movement • Music • Silence • Somatic Practices

Moving from understanding into experience.

11:30 - Check out 

12:00 — Private transfer to GIG Airport 

13:00 — Airport arrival

LA3684  M  10JAN  Rio De Janeiro - Iguazu    15.30 - 17.40

17:40–18:30 — Luggage collection

18:30 — Private transfer toward Puerto Iguazú

 La Aldea de la Selva Lodge — Puerto Iguazú, Argentina

≈20:00 — Arrival & check-in

21:00 — Dinner

ARGENTINA — INTO THE FALLS

Argentine Iguazú • Ecological Train • Devil’s Throat

Our first encounter with Iguazú begins from the Argentine side, experiencing the Falls from within the rainforest. The supplier's Argentine programme includes the National Park, Ecological Train and Devil’s Throat.

08:00–09:30 — Breakfast

10:00 — Private departure

10:00–10:30 — Transfer to Iguazú National Park

10:30–13:00 — ARGENTINE SIDE OF IGUAZÚ FALLS

Carefully paced exploration of selected circuits.

Experience: Rainforest & Waterfall viewpoints & Selected walking circuits & Photography & Nature immersion

We do not attempt every trail.

13:00–14:00 — Lunch & rest

14:00–16:00 — ECOLOGICAL TRAIN & DEVIL’S THROAT

Experience: Ecological Train & Devil’s Throat & Main viewpoints & Rainforest

Photography

Devil’s Throat remains subject to the circuit being operational and river conditions.

16:00 — Departure

≈17:00 — Return to hotel

17:00–18:45 — Rest

19:00–21:00 — SESSION 7: LIBERATION

“Choosing the Truth”

Authenticity • Freedom • Courage • Alignment • Letting Go

21:00 — Dinner

THE BRAZILIAN FALLS

Panoramic Iguaçu • Macuco Safari

Today we cross into Brazil to experience the Falls from a completely different perspective.

The supplier combines the Brazilian side of Iguaçu Falls + Brazilian National Park + Macuco Safari as one programme.

08:00–09:00 — Breakfast

09:00 — Private departure

09:00–10:00 — Transfer to Brazil & border procedures

10:00–12:30 — BRAZILIAN SIDE OF IGUAÇU FALLS

A relaxed panoramic exploration: Brazilian Falls Trail & Panoramic viewpoints & Devil’s Throat panorama & Rainforest & Photography

12:30–14:00 — Lunch at Porto Canoas

14:00–16:00 — MACUCO SAFARI

An immersive rainforest and water experience: Forest transportation & Nature experience & Boat journey & Approach toward the Falls & Waterfall experience

Expect to get wet.

16:00–16:30 — Change & refresh

16:30 — Departure toward Argentina

≈17:30–18:00 — Hotel arrival

18:00–18:45 — Shower & rest

19:00–21:00 — SESSION 8: AWE & PRESENCE

“When Something Greater Changes Our Perspective”

Presence • Perspective • Gratitude • Nature • Awe

21:00 — Dinner

ABOVE THE FALLS

Bird Park • Helicopter • Integration

Our final full day is intentionally lighter.

The supplier confirms Bird Park + Helisul + a 10-minute helicopter flight for this day.

08:00–09:30 — Breakfast

09:30 — Private departure toward Brazil

Border crossing en route.

10:30–12:00 — PARQUE DAS AVES

A relaxed tropical experience through the Bird Park and its immersive rainforest environment.

12:15–13:30 — HELICOPTER EXPERIENCE

 10-Minute Scenic Flight Over Iguaçu Falls

A spectacular final perspective of the Falls from above.

Operational time is reserved for: Check-in & Safety briefing & Passenger rotation & Scenic flights & Photography

13:45–15:15 — Lunch at Bufalo Branco

15:15 — Private departure

≈16:30 — Return to La Aldea

16:30–18:30 — INTEGRATION AFTERNOON

Pool • Spa • Massage • Journaling • Nature • Rest • Packing

No more sightseeing.

19:00–21:00 — SESSION 9: WE

“The Return — A New Beginning”

Our final closing circle.

What am I leaving behind?What am I taking home?What has the group shown me?What will I consciously choose after Brazil?

You do not leave as someone else.You leave closer to what is true.

21:15 — EMEIS FAREWELL DINNER

 Final night at La Aldea de la Selva Lodge

The Journey Home

08:00–09:30 — Breakfast

09:30–10:30 — Slow morning & packing

10:30 — Check-out

≈11:00 — Private transfer to IGU Airport

Allow sufficient time for the Argentina → Brazil border crossing and airport procedures.

≈12:30 — Arrival IGU Airport

Recommended Airlines Flights:

 LH4695  Q  14JAN  Iguazu - Sao Paulo         14.20 - 16.05

 LH 507  Q  14JAN  Sao Paulo - Frankfurt      18.45 - 10.15    

 LH1282  Q  15JAN  Frankfurt - Athens         12.40 - 16.30

Overnight onboard.

Welcome Home

16:30 Arrival at the El.Venizelos airport. Hugs and kisses till the next time. 


Recommended Airlines Flights:

 LH4695  Q  14JAN  Iguazu - Sao Paulo         14.20 - 16.05

 LH 507  Q  14JAN  Sao Paulo - Frankfurt      18.45 - 10.15    

 LH1282  Q  15JAN  Frankfurt - Athens         12.40 - 16.30

What's included

9 nights accommodation — 5 nights at Pestana Rio Atlântica on Copacabana Beach and 4 nights in Iguaçu — with daily breakfast.
Daily breakfast
Private airport transfers & private transportation
Helicopter & Macuco Safari Experience Iguazu from completely different perspectives: soar above the Falls on a scenic helicopter flight, then get close to the water on the exhilarating Macuco Safari.
All scheduled tours & entrance fees Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, Tijuca, Rocinha, Santa Teresa, Selarón, Cathedral, Real Gabinete, Mosteiro de São Bento & Praça Mauá
Argentine & Brazilian sides of Iguazú Falls Ecological Train & Devil’s Throat Macuco Safari Parque das Aves
Lunch at Porto Canoas + dessert Lunch at Bufalo Branco + dessert
Retreat Sessions: All transformational sessions with Yiannis Athanasopoulos.
Local Guides: Professional Greek-speaking guides throughout the journey.
Tours & Experiences: All curated excursions, activities, and cultural experiences included.
MYND Retreat Host: Dedicated host accompanying the group throughout the journey.
Welcome Gift: Exclusive MYND Retreat gift bag.
Domestic Flights
Visa & Travel Documents: No tourist visa is currently required for Greek passport holders for Brazil (cost: €0). Any future visa, travel authorization, or documentation fees are the responsibility of the guest.
Airfare Flights are not included: You may book your flights independently or through our trusted travel partner once you got informed and the group is completed: Phone: (+30) 210 9641 282 Email: info@cityplazatravel.gr (for faster assistance).
Travel Medical Insurance with travel cancellation insurance due to accident/hospitalization/illness including covid19.
Meals not included in the package, meals of your choice on the free days of our program, to try any local delicacies you wish (Approximate cost per meal Diner 30€ Lunch 20€).
Optional private Rio boat tour
Porters, tips and personal expenses.
Please note: The retreat schedule and activities may be adjusted depending on weather conditions, local circumstances, flight availability, and operational requirements, while always maintaining the quality and overall experience of the MYND Retreat journey.

Highlights

01 Helicopter Flight & Waterfall Adventure

02 Iguazu Falls Boat Adventure

03 Rio de Janeiro — The Energy of the Marvelous City

04 Iguazu From Brazilian and Argentine sides

01 Helicopter Flight & Waterfall Adventure

See Iguazu from above on an unforgettable scenic helicopter flight, then experience the Falls from the water with the Macuco Safari — two completely different perspectives of the same magnificent landscape.

02 Iguazu Falls Boat Adventure

Get ready to experience Iguazu Falls from an entirely different perspective. Step aboard your boat and journey across the river toward the thundering waterfalls, surrounded by lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery. As you approach the powerful cascades, feel the mist on your skin and the rush of adrenaline as the boat takes you thrillingly close to the falls. Expect splashes, laughter, and unforgettable views — getting wet is part of the adventure.

03 Rio de Janeiro — The Energy of the Marvelous City

Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) with breathtaking panoramic views Christ the Redeemer overlooking the city Copacabana and Ipanema beaches The artistic atmosphere of Santa Teresa A place to awaken the senses, expand perspective, and reconnect with joy.

04 Iguazu From Brazilian and Argentine sides

Witness one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides, experiencing panoramic viewpoints, rainforest trails, the Argentine circuits and the incredible power of Devil’s Throat, subject to local conditions.

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FAQs

1) A 30% deposit of the total retreat cost is required at the time of booking. 

To begin, you’ll need to log in or create an account on our booking platform. Please keep your login credentials safe and ensure your email address remains active, as important booking updates and retreat information will be sent there.

2) Book your travel insurance for global coverage.

Travel insurance is mandatory for all guests for peace of mind and coverage during your journey. If you want, we are happy to connect you with our trusted travel insurance partner to assist you. Please send us your travel insurance at bookings@myndretreats.com  

3) Book your flights

Once the group is completed, you will be informed in order to book your flights according to the options we recommend for each retreat.

Taking the recommended flights ensures your arrival transfer will be fully arranged and covered by us, making your journey to the retreat smooth and worry-free.

   LH1283  U  04JAN  Athens - Frankfurt         17.20 - 19.20  

   LH 500  U  04JAN  Frankfurt - Rio De Janeiro 22.15 - 06.10   


   LA3684  M  10JAN  Rio De Janeiro - Iguazu    15.30 - 17.40


   LH4695  Q  14JAN  Iguazu - Sao Paulo         14.20 - 16.05   

   LH 507  Q  14JAN  Sao Paulo - Frankfurt      18.45 - 10.15   

   LH1282  Q  15JAN  Frankfurt - Athens         12.40 - 16.30   

Please note that by booking the above flights, your transfer from/to the airport/hotel is included in the package cost. 

What’s the traveling group like?

Each MYND Retreat welcomes an intimate group of 15–20 like-minded participants, allowing for personalized attention, deep connection, and a nurturing, high-touch experience. You’ll be joining a premium community of high-end travelers, entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and thought leaders, individuals who have achieved success and are now seeking something deeper: authentic connection, emotional clarity, and personal transformation.

Is the retreat suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely. Many guests come solo and leave with lifelong friendships, and in some cases, even love stories. Beyond the retreat itself, you’ll become part of the broader MYND network, a growing international community where you can connect, collaborate, and network with other purpose-driven professionals long after your journey ends.

Are flights included in the retreat package?

Flights are not included. However, we’re happy to connect you with our trusted travel agency partner to assist with booking and logistics.

Is Brazil a safe destination?

Yes, Brazil can be a safe and welcoming destination when experienced with thoughtful planning, trusted local partners, and the right guidance. At MYND, your well-being is our highest priority. We carefully coordinate our journey with experienced local guides, private transportation, and trusted hospitality partners to ensure a seamless and well-supported experience. From the moment you arrive, our team is available 24/7 to support your comfort and safety—so you can relax and fully experience Brazil’s extraordinary nature, vibrant culture, and unforgettable energy.

How will I be supported during the retreat?

From the moment you book until the day you return home, you’ll be supported with love and precision. We provide pre-arrival guidance, on-site assistance, and create an environment rooted in privacy, emotional safety, and genuine presence.

What’s included in a MYND retreat?

Each MYND Retreat is a premium, thoughtfully curated experience. Your journey includes daily wellness sessions, breathwork, sound healing, mindful movement, as well as sacred ceremonies, nourishing meals, and intentional time for reflection and integration.

We explore authentic local destinations with the guidance of certified, trusted local experts, ensuring both cultural depth and your safety. You’ll enjoy exclusive excursions, soulful bonding moments, and the kind of meaningful stillness that renews you from the inside out.

Optional upgrades like spa rituals or the iconic hot air balloon ride are available for those seeking an extra layer of magic.

Is the retreat physically demanding?

Our experiences are accessible to most fitness levels. All activities are optional and adapted to your pace.

Are dietary preferences accommodated?

Yes. With advance notice, we can provide meals that align with your dietary needs, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and more.

What to Pack

Brazil Retreat | January 2027

Clothing (for 10 days / 9 nights)

  • 4–5 lightweight, breathable outfits (linen dresses, cotton pants, loose shirts, comfortable outfits ideal for retreat sessions and city exploration in warm summer weather)

  • 2 beachwear outfits (for Rio’s beaches and pool time)

  • 2 elegant casual outfits (for group dinners, tango evening, and cultural experiences)

  • 2 swimsuits or bikinis

  • 1 light jacket or cardigan (for cooler evenings, flights, or air-conditioned spaces)

  • 1 light rain jacket or poncho (occasional summer showers are possible, especially around Iguazu Falls)

  • 1 sun hat or cap

  • Sunglasses

  • 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers (essential for city tours, Iguazu Falls pathways, and excursions)

  • 1 pair of sandals or comfortable slides

  • Sleepwear, underwear, and enough socks for the duration of the retreat

Well-being & Retreat Sessions

  • Journal and pen (for reflection and personal insights during sessions)

  • Eye mask and earplugs (for deeper rest during travel and relaxation time)

  • Reusable water bottle (recommended for daily excursions and warm weather)

  • Personal items that support your practice or reflection (optional)

Personal Care

  • Sunscreen (high SPF recommended)

  • After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel

  • Natural insect repellent (especially for Iguazu rainforest areas)

  • Face mist or hydrating spray (refreshing during warm days)

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Light makeup or BB cream (optional)

  • Personal hygiene products

Travel Documents & Essentials

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months from entry)

  • Travel insurance (required)

  • Printed or digital copies of:

    • Flight tickets

    • Hotel confirmations

    • Travel insurance details

    • Emergency contacts

  • Credit/debit cards and some local currency:

    • Brazilian Real (BRL)

  • International adapter plug

  • Phone, charger, and power bank

  • Small waterproof phone pouch (recommended for Iguazu Falls and boat experiences)

  • Small day backpack or comfortable tote bag for daily excursions

Extras for Magical Moments

  • Book or Kindle (perfect for quiet moments by the ocean, pool, or nature)

  • Personal journal for memories and reflections

  • Healthy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, protein bars for longer excursion days)

  • Small umbrella (optional)

  • Small personal first aid kit:

    • Band-aids

    • Personal medication

    • Motion sickness tablets

    • Electrolytes

Travel Tip:

January is summer in Brazil, so prioritize light fabrics, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and elegant resort-style pieces that transition easily from morning retreat sessions to cultural evenings.

Deposit:

A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to confirm your booking. This deposit may not be credited to other events or retreats.

Balance Payment:

The remaining balance is due no later than 60 days (2 months) before the retreat start date. Failure to pay on time will result in cancellation of your booking without refund.

The following payment schedule applies:

1. Deposit – 30% (Non-Refundable) at the time of the booking

A 30% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit secures your place and is not transferable or refundable under any circumstances.

2. Remaining Payment – 70%

The remaining 70% balance due must be paid no later than 60 days (2 months) before the retreat start date.

Cancellations by the Client:

All cancellations must be made in writing via email. 

Refunds are issued according to the timeline below:

---> Deposit is Non Refundable in any case.

---> Refund Entitlement:

* Up to 60 days (2 months) before the starting day of the retreat: 100% refund (excluding deposit & bank fees)

* Less than 60 days (2 months) from the starting day of the retreat: No refund available

Cancellation by the Company:

The Company reserves the right to cancel any retreat due to force majeure, insufficient registrations, safety concerns, or other uncontrollable events. In such cases: 

* We will refund 100% of the amount paid, excluding a 4% fee. This 4% covers unavoidable bank/transaction charges (including international transfers, interbank fees) and the online payment platform processing fee OR you will be offered a credit or transfer to a future retreat, subject to availability. 

* No refund will be given for travel costs or external bookings

.

"EMEIS" Retreat, Yiannis Athanasopoulos, Brazil

Brazil • 4 - 15 January 2027 • 11 nights

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$5,375.86/pp
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