Align 2025: 6-Day Yoga & Wellness Retreat in Costa Rica with Amanda & Christopher

Your TourHero

Amanda Gloria Valdes
Amanda Gloria Valdes is a seasoned yoga instructor with over 12 years of experience, and a 500+HR Registered Yoga Teacher, as well as the Founder of AV STUDIOS. Amanda has dedicated her career to guiding communities through Yoga, Meditation, Yoga Teacher Training, and Leadership Workshops, with a deep commitment to holistic wellness. She is also a skilled doula, drawing on the teachings of her ancestors from the African and Latin diaspora, along with the wisdom of Chinese Medicine.

Amanda’s offerings encompass a wide range of practices, including Ayurveda, Vinyasa Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Meditation, Teacher Training, and Digital Wellness Content. She currently holds space at renowned institutions such as Y7 Studio, Melissa Wood Health, New York University, Heal Haus, and Brooklyn Flow.

In addition to teaching virtual yoga and meditation, Amanda provides virtual and in-person doula services and develops comprehensive teacher training programs. Her recent community work includes pioneering wellness programs like Rainbow Warriors with SCO, a yoga initiative for LGBTQIA+ youth in Brooklyn; Theater Residencies for Literacy with City University’s Creative Arts Team; and supporting NYU's Global Spiritual Department with the ‘Stay Woke and Move’ yoga program, which focuses on BIPOC students and staff.

A highlight of Amanda's career was her retreat in Chiang Rai, Thailand, which was rated as a top yoga retreat getaway by Self Magazine. This accolade underscores her commitment to providing exceptional and transformative experiences for participants.

Recognized as a “Changemaker” by Yoga Journal Italia for her intersectional work in yoga and community within Crown Heights, Brooklyn, Amanda continues to catalyze change by building strong communities through arts, yoga, and accessible wellness services for individuals nationwide.

Amanda's passion and dedication make her retreats a unique and transformative experience, inviting participants to explore the profound connection between body, mind, and spirit.

Christopher Stanley
Christopher Stanley is a 200-HR certified yoga teacher and professional musician. As a yoga practitioner of over 15 years, he started his teaching journey in 2018 as an apprentice, completing his certification at the beginning of 2019. Chris’ classes use foundational poses and alignment to explore the creative possibilities of sequencing, inviting in challenges as a way to empower all.

His musical background guides the flow through his attentively crafted playlists. Currently, he Is building towards becoming a 500-HR certified teacher by receiving his 300-HR certification through the apprenticeship program at Y7.

He combines Yoga, Art, and Philosophy to offer accessible yet challenging practices that invite introspection of the self.

Duration

6 days · 5 nights

Travel Date

Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 4, 2025

Activity Level

All levels

Group Size

12 - 15

Transportation

Group airport & activity transfers

Tour Price

From

USD 2,950

per person

Your Fellow Explorers

Age range

21+

Travel interest

Yoga & wellness, new year intentions, beaches, jungle vibes, nature & wildlife

Your Local Guide

Topanga Villa, named after a Tongva word meaning "where the mountains meet the sea," stands proudly at 700 feet above sea level atop Costa Rica's Talamanca hilltops. This exquisite retreat offers panoramic views of lush rainforests, palm-lined beaches, distant islands, and the expansive Pacific Ocean. Embracing the local culture, Topanga Villa is deeply integrated with the Ojochal community and is committed to the Pura Vida lifestyle, emphasizing family, friends, and enriching experiences. Additionally, the villa actively participates in environmental preservation efforts, utilizing organic, locally-sourced products and fostering native flora and fauna to support local wildlife, ensuring guests a uniquely immersive and eco-friendly stay.

Costa Rica>Align 2025: 6-Day Yoga & Wellness Retreat in Costa Rica with Amanda & Christopher

Join us for a transformative New Year's Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica, led by Amanda Gloria Valdes and Christopher Stanley, where you'll embrace the Pura Vida spirit through yoga immersion, renewal, sound bath healing, and daily adventures amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

This retreat offers a holistic blend of yoga styles, including restorative, therapeutic, Yin, and Vinyasa, designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a special ceremony featuring sound bath healing and meditation, creating a powerful space for reflection and intention-setting. You'll also harness practical tools and techniques to carry the retreat's peaceful energy and insights into the new year, helping you cultivate lasting wellness and balance in your life.

Whether you're an experienced yogi or a curious beginner, this retreat offers a nurturing environment to explore and deepen your practice amidst Costa Rica's stunning landscapes. Book now and prepare to start the new year like never before.

Cancellation policy

Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.

Refunds for balance payment
If you cancel your trip on or before Nov 15, 2024 at 11:59 PM local time (GMT -6), you will get a refund of the remaining balance. This may or may not include the deposit amount. See deposit refund section above.

If you cancel your trip from Nov 16, 2024 at 12:00 AM local time (GMT -6) onwards, no refunds will be issued.

You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.

TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until November 15, 2024. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by this date and will receive a full refund.

In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.

Your TourHero

Duration

6 days · 5 nights

Travel Date

Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 4, 2025

Activity Level

All levels

Group Size

12 - 15

Transportation

Group airport & activity transfers

Costa Rica>Align 2025: 6-Day Yoga & Wellness Retreat in Costa Rica with Amanda & Christopher

Timeline

Day 1 · December 30, 2024 · Arrival and Welcome
7:00 - 9:00 am: Arrive at San José International airport (Guest encouraged to arrive day prior)
Group transfer to accommodation with stops (Famous crocodile bridge)
1:00 - 2:00 pm: Lunch (not included in price)
4:00 pm: Check-in at Topanga Villa
Explore the grounds, take a stroll through the gardens, or relax by the pool
Orientation Session
Gentle Yoga Session (Restorative & Yin)
Welcome Dinner
Opening Circle Ceremony
Free time
Day 2 · December 31, 2024 · New Year's Eve Celebration
7:00 am - 9:00 am: Breakfast
9:30 - 11:00 am: Morning Yoga Practice (Dynamic Vinyasa Yoga Session)
11:30 am - 1:00 pm: Light Lunch
1:30 - 4:30 pm: Nauyaca Waterfall Excursion
Return to Accommodation
5:00 - 6:00 pm: Relaxation and Refresh
6:30 - 8:00 pm: Grand New Year’s Eve Dinner Celebration
8:30 - 10:00 pm: NYE Sound Bath and Intention Workshop
10:30 pm - 12:00 am: New Year’s Eve Celebration
Day 3 · January 1, 2025 · New Year’s Day Rejuvenation
7:00 am - 9:00 am: Breakfast
9:30 - 11:00 am: Yoga and Ayurvedic Workshop
11:30 am - 5:00 pm: Free Time for Spa Treatments and Relaxation or Bicycle Riding through a Nature Reserve
5:00 - 6:30 pm: New Year’s Intention Dinner
7:00 - 8:30 pm: Cacao Ceremony
Day 4 · January 2, 2025 · Creativity and Celebration
7:00 - 8:00 am: Breakfast
8:30 am: Whale's Tail excursion
Return to accommodation
Lunch
Creativity Through Community Workshop
5:00 - 6:00 pm: Free Time - Relaxation and Personal Time
6:30 - 8:00 pm: Dinner
8:30 pm: Evening Reflection and Social Gathering
Day 5 · January 3, 2025 · Exploration and Adventure
7:00 - 8:30 am: Meditation and Vinyasa Yoga Practice
8:30 - 9:30 am: Breakfast
9:30 - 11:30 am: Farmers Market Tour
12:00 - 1:30 pm: Luxury picnic at the beach for Lunch
2:00 pm: Cacao Tour
Return to accommodation
5:00 - 6:00 pm: Free Time - Relaxation and Personal Time
6:30 - 8:00 pm: Farewell Dinner
8:30 - 10:00 pm: Closing Dance Party and Share
Day 6 · January 4, 2025 · Farewell and Departures
7:00 - 8:00 am: Breakfast
8:30 - 10:00 am: Closing Workshop and Reflection
10:00 - 11:00 am: Packing and Check-Out
11:00 am: Group transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport
Journey ends

Details

Day 1 · December 30, 2024

Welcome to Costa Rica - let the Pura Vida vibes wash over you

-Welcome to the land of Pura Vida vibes. Arrive at San José International Airport no later than 9:00 am. (Guests are encouraged to fly in the day prior to avoid issues and delays.) Meet our friendly retreat team at the airport exit for a warm welcome.

-Enjoy a scenic 4-hour shuttle ride to our beautiful retreat center located in a lush rainforest setting with stops throughout the way: Famous crocodile bridge, welcome gift, and more! During our ride, we’ll also stop for lunch, which is not included in the price.

-Upon arrival at the retreat center, you'll be greeted with a refreshing welcome drink. Check into your cozy, eco-friendly accommodations designed to blend with nature. Explore the grounds, take a stroll through the gardens, or relax by the pool.

-Attend a brief orientation to learn about the retreat schedule, activities, and amenities, and receive a welcome kit with essential items for your stay.

-Unwind with a gentle evening yoga class focusing on Restorative and Yin practices. Set your intentions for the retreat and relax into the rhythm of Costa Rica.

-Delight in a sumptuous dinner featuring local and international cuisine. Enjoy the flavors of Costa Rica as you dine under the stars.

-Gather with the group for an opening circle ceremony to officially begin the retreat. Participate in a guided meditation to set intentions and connect with your inner self, and engage in a sound bath healing session to promote relaxation and alignment.

-Spend the remainder of the evening at your leisure. Explore the retreat grounds, socialize with new friends, or enjoy a quiet moment of reflection.

Day 2 · December 31, 2024

Ring in the new year with yoga, waterfalls, intention, and celebratory vibes

-Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast buffet featuring fresh fruits, smoothies, local pastries, and Costa Rican coffee. Enjoy breakfast at your own pace in the open-air dining area overlooking the lush jungle.

-Energize your body with a dynamic Vinyasa yoga class led by Amanda Gloria Valdes and Christopher Stanley. Focus on fluid movements, breathwork, and intention setting to start the day with vitality and clarity. Modifications will be provided to accommodate all levels of practice.

-Relish a light and wholesome lunch featuring fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and locally sourced proteins. Take the opportunity to connect with fellow participants and share experiences.

-Embark on an exciting excursion to a nearby waterfall, where you can hike, swim, and enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Experience the refreshing waters and take time for meditation or journaling in this serene setting. Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for hiking; bring swimwear and a towel.

-Return to the retreat center and take time to relax, shower, and change into festive attire for the evening celebrations. Enjoy a cup of herbal tea or unwind with a book in the relaxation area.

-Join us for a grand dinner celebration featuring a festive menu with local specialties and international flavors. Toast to the new year with a complimentary glass of champagne or a non-alcoholic beverage. Enjoy live music and entertainment as you dine with friends.

-Participate in a transformative sound bath healing session to align your energies and release the past year. Engage in an intention-setting workshop to focus on personal growth and aspirations using journaling prompts and guided meditation to solidify your intentions and dreams.

-Join the vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration with music, dancing, and festive activities. Participate in a countdown ceremony to welcome the new year with joy and gratitude, where you’ll release lanterns or enjoy a bonfire on the beach as you celebrate under the stars.

Day 3 · January 1, 2025

Start the new year with rest and relaxation

-Start the new year with a hearty breakfast featuring fresh fruits, smoothies, eggs, toast, and Costa Rican coffee. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the beautiful views of the rainforest.

-Get your mind and heart ready for a new year with a revitalizing yoga class focusing on breathwork and Ayurvedic principles. Led by Amanda Gloria Valdes and Christopher Stanley, this session will introduce Ayurvedic practices to balance mind, body, and spirit. Explore Pranayama techniques and learn about Ayurvedic lifestyle tips for enhancing wellness.

-Spend the afternoon at your leisure, embracing the peaceful surroundings of the retreat center. Optional spa treatments are available for those seeking rejuvenation through massages, facials, or body treatments (advance booking recommended). Relax by the pool, take a nature walk, or meditate in the gardens.

-Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared dinner that aligns with your intentions for the new year. Savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, celebrating Costa Rican flavors and traditions. Share your intentions and reflections with fellow participants in a supportive and inspiring setting.

-Experience a traditional cacao ceremony to open the heart and deepen the connection with yourself and others. Guided by an experienced facilitator, this ceremony involves the sacred preparation and drinking of cacao. Participate in meditation, intention setting, and sharing to embrace the healing properties of cacao and the spirit of community.

Day 4 · January 2, 2025

Creativity, the coastline, and community in Costa Rica

-Enjoy a delicious breakfast with fresh fruits, oatmeal, granola, yogurt, and Costa Rican coffee. Fuel up for a day of creativity and celebration with healthy and nourishing options.

-Head to Marino Ballena National Park to explore the famous Whale’s Tail, a unique sandbar formation visible during low tide. Enjoy a walk along the beach, take in the stunning coastal views, and learn about the park's rich biodiversity. Bring swimwear and a towel if you wish to swim or relax on the beach.

-Relish a nutritious lunch featuring a variety of salads, grains, and local specialties.

-Participate in a hands-on workshop led by Amanda Gloria Valdes and Christopher Stanley, focusing on harnessing creativity through community engagement. Engage in activities that encourage self-expression, collaboration, and creative thinking, such as group art projects, writing exercises, and discussions. Explore how creative practices can enhance personal growth and foster a sense of belonging.

-Delight in a flavorful dinner featuring a variety of local and international dishes, then close out another spectacular day with a social gathering, offering us a time to reflect, connect, and grow.

Day 5 · January 3, 2025

Explore the diverse landscapes of the area and your inner world

-Start your morning with a guided meditation to center yourself and set intentions for the day. Engage in an invigorating Vinyasa yoga practice led by Amanda Gloria Valdes and Christopher Stanley, focusing on building strength and flexibility. Suitable for all levels, this session will help you connect with your breath and flow into the day with purpose.

-Enjoy a nutritious breakfast with options like fresh fruits, smoothies, eggs, yogurt, and Costa Rican coffee. Take in the morning tranquility and energize yourself for the day's activities.

-Explore a vibrant local farmer’s market and discover the fresh produce, crafts, and artisan products of Costa Rica. Engage with local vendors, sample tropical fruits, and purchase unique souvenirs to take home. You’ll learn about sustainable farming practices and the importance of local agriculture to the Costa Rican community.

-Savor a delicious picnic lunch with fresh sandwiches, salads, and tropical fruits. Relax and enjoy the beach scenery while mingling with fellow retreat participants.

-Learn all about cacao and how it's harvested on a tour before returning to the accommodation.

-Enjoy a special farewell dinner with a menu featuring local and international dishes. Reflect on the retreat journey and express gratitude for the connections made and experiences shared.

-Conclude the retreat with a joyful dance party, celebrating the spirit of the retreat community. Dance to a mix of music styles and participate in fun, interactive activities. Gather for a closing sharing circle, where you can express reflections, insights, and intentions moving forward.

Day 6 · January 4, 2025

One final breakfast, a closing workshop, and departures

-Enjoy a final breakfast with a selection of fresh fruits, pastries, eggs, smoothies, and Costa Rican coffee. Take time to savor the last morning in the beautiful surroundings of the retreat center.

-Participate in a closing workshop led by Amanda Gloria Valdes and Christopher Stanley to reflect on the retreat experience. Engage in group activities that encourage sharing insights, expressing gratitude, and setting intentions for the future. Celebrate the connections made and the personal growth achieved during the retreat.

-Return to your accommodations to pack your belongings and prepare for check-out. Ensure that you have all personal items and complete any necessary check-out procedures.

-Say goodbye to fellow participants and retreat facilitators as you prepare to depart. Transportation to the airport or onward destinations will be provided or arranged based on individual travel plans. Leave with a heart full of memories, new friendships, and inspiration to carry forward.

Accommodation

Topanga Villa
Nestled atop the serene Talamanca hilltops in Costa Rica, Topanga Villa offers a luxurious retreat surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Ocean and lush rainforests. This exclusive villa boasts a range of accommodation options, from elegant suites with ocean views to private, eco-friendly bungalows immersed in the jungle. Guests can enjoy state-of-the-art amenities including an infinity pool overlooking the sea, a full-service spa, and gourmet dining featuring local and organic ingredients. The villa also offers unique experiences like yoga sessions at sunrise and guided nature hikes. With its commitment to sustainability and deep connection with the local culture, Topanga Villa provides a perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and immersion in the natural and cultural beauty of Costa Rica. Room type: Single & multiple occupancy. Room configuration: Various packages available at check-out.

Included

5 nights at Topanga Villa
3 daily prepared gourmet organic meals
1 group arrival airport transfer from SJO
1 group departure airport transfer to SJO
Daily wellness sessions with Amanda & Christopher
All tours & activities listed in itinerary with transfers & guides
Expert coordinator & dedicated onsite support
Transportation included for 3 adventures – Nauyaca Waterfall, Farmers Market + Cacao Tour, Whale's Tail
Nauyaca Waterfall entrance
Cacao Tour
Whale's Tail Entrance
Cacao Ceremony
Luxury picnic at the beach
Transportation to take you somewhere locally in NYE to celebrate

Not included

Flights
All food & drinks not mentioned in inclusions
Personal expenses not stipulated
Optional add-ons
Gratuities

FAQ

What happens if I need to cancel my trip?

Please check the cancellation policy section on this itinerary page for specific details.

Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?

Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.

If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.

Do I need a passport for this trip?

A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your Itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.

What's included in the price?

Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact: hello@tourhero.com.