Pura Vida: Restore and revive in the enchanting rainforest of Uvita!

Your TourHero

Lizzie Pereira
Lizzie is a multi-hyphenate in the wellness space: yoga teacher, student, plant-based healing chef, community builder, mentor, facilitator, friend.Together with her husband she owns One Life Yoga and The Salt Studio, two wellness businesses that are devoted to well-being, movement, and restoration.

Lizzie’s practices are rooted in the Five Elements Theories, working with and embodying the elements through her yoga classes, retreats, immersion programs, and workshops. She is certified in Elemental Hatha Yoga, Pre-Natal Yoga, Yin Yoga, Amy Carmody Yoga, and has various training in anatomy, mobility, leadership, mysticism, and holistic wellness. Whether on the mat or at the dinner table together, she encourages self-discovery and radical self-compassion with a nurturing yet light-heart spirit. Grounded, real, and a little bit magical, Lizzie’s vibrant energy is infused in every offering. She loves to read fiction, sing, swim, and take walks with friends around her neighborhood.

Lizzie's Instagram Profile

Sarah Helt
Sarah Elizabeth Helt (E-RYT 500, YACEP) has been teaching yoga and meditation for over a decade. Sarah’s teaching of the physical practice of yoga (asana) combines alignment-focused cueing, personal exploration, and the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to create mindful movement classes for all age groups and ability levels. Sarah’s classes are trauma informed, playful, and based on a deep connection to the natural world. Sarah is certified in Medical Qigong, Vinyasa Flow, Therapeutic Yin/Restorative, & Accessible/Adaptive Yoga. She specializes in mentoring new teachers through training and workshops, leading private & small group retreats, and developing specialty classes. She teaches in multiple locations across Los Angeles, CA and enjoys star gazing, exploring the world, singing, and creating safe spaces for big emotions.

Sarah's Instagram Profile

Duration

7 days · 6 nights

Travel Date

May 26 – Jun 1, 2024

Activity Level

Moderate

Group Size

Transportation

Airport transfers

Tour Price

USD 3,280

/ person

Your Fellow Explorers

Age range

21+

Travel interest

Yoga & wellness retreat, nature, experiencing land

Fellow Travelers

total travelers

Sarah

Lizzie

KATHRYN

Wendy

Jade

Mary

Margarita

Klaris

Melizza

Luna

Jenny

Your Local Guide

Upward Spirals is a regenerative consulting and organizational development company helping wellness centers, communities, small businesses, and social entrepreneurs develop organizations that are innovative, impactful, and effective.

Costa Rica>Pura Vida: Restore and revive in the enchanting rainforest of Uvita!

Join Lizzie and Sarah for an exclusive week-long retreat filled with rejuvenating yoga and meditation, workshops, epic nature adventures, deep rest, and gourmet meals.

Wrap yourself in the embrace of the awestriking venue of Synergy Retreat where Costa Rica’s natural treasures will enliven your spirit.

Each day will include yoga, meditation and qi gong in the serene outdoor shala, as well as workshops, relaxation time by the pool, and excursions. Our week together includes a waterfall and beach adventure, cacao ceremony, bird watching, and a trip to a local market. You'll also have the opportunity to book additional add-ons like massage.

Lizzie and Sarah have a wide breadth of knowledge and a deep embodiment of their craft. Their retreats offer a unique blend of self-exploration, play, and sacred rest. You will leave feeling refreshed and profoundly connected to the pulse of life. Come for an unforgettable soul adventure with your new soul friends.

Cancellation policy

TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until February 21, 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.

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 fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip by February 21, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit. After this date, no refunds will be given. You can change or cancel your trip in your TourHero account by clicking on Your Trips.

Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.

Your TourHero

Duration

7 days · 6 nights

Travel Date

May 26 – Jun 1, 2024

Activity Level

Moderate

Group Size

Transportation

Airport transfers

Costa Rica>Pura Vida: Restore and revive in the enchanting rainforest of Uvita!

Timeline

Day 1 · May 26, 2024 · Uvita
Arrive at San Jose International Airport (SJO)
8:00 am: Group transfer from airport to accommodation
Stop at coffee shop
Stop at Tarcoles to see crocodiles (15 - 20 min)
Stop at Vida Hermosa for pipas/fruits (15 - 20 min)
Stop for lunch in Dominical
4:30 pm: Check-in at Synergy Retreats
Get settled and unpacked
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Stretch / Welcome circle
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Dinner
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Meditation/intention setting
Day 2 · May 27, 2024 · Uvita
8:30 am - 9:45 am: Practice
9:45 am - 10:45 am: Breakfast
11:00 am - 12:00 pm: Morning activity
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm: Lunch
2:30 pm - 6:00 pom: Free afternoon – relax by the pool, schedule a personal adventure, or a spa treatment (see add-ons below)
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Dinner
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Evening activity: cacao and cards!
Day 3 · May 28, 2024 · Uvita – Beach Day!
8:00 am - 9:15 am: Practice
9:30 am - 10:30 am: Breakfast
10:30 am - 11:00 am: Free time
11:00 am - 11:15 am: Transport to Whale's Tail
11:15 am - 2:00 pm: Day at the beach (Marino Ballena National Park)
2:00 pm - 2:15 pm: Transport to Synergy
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm: Lunch
3:30 pm - 6:00 pm: Free time
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm: Dinner
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm: Short practice, Dharma talk, decaf herbal tea
Day 4 · May 29, 2024 · Uvita – Rest Day
8:00 am - 9:00 am: Breakfast
9:00 am - 9:15 am: Walk to Uvita Waterfall
9:15 am - 11:00 am: Uvita Waterfall visit
11:00 am - 11:15 am: Return to Synergy
11:30 am - 12:00 pm: Practice
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm: Lunch
1:30 pm - 6:00 pm: Free afternoon – relax by the pool, schedule a personal adventure, or a spa treatment (see add-ons below)
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Dinner
Day 5 · May 30, 2024 · Uvita – Bird Watching at Hacienda Baru
5 am: Snacks — granola / bread & butter / fruits / coffee
5:15 am - 5:45 am: Transport to Hacienda Baru
6:00 am - 9:00 am: Bird watching
9:00 am - 9:30 am: Transport to Synergy
10:00 am - 11:00 am: Brunch
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Yoga Nidra/Sound Bath
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Craft, journaling, or activity (blue clay avatars!)
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Free time / outing in town
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Dinner
Day 6 · May 31, 2024 · Uvita – Going to the Market
8:00 am - 9:00 am: Practice
9:00 am - 9:30 am: Breakfast
9:30 am - 10:00 am: Transport to Dominical
10:00 am - 12:00 pm: Eco-Feria visit
12:00 pm - 12:30 pm: Transport to Synergy
12;30 pm - 1:30 pm: Lunch
1:30 pm - 6:00 pm: Free time / optional visit to sunset beach at Playa Hermosa
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Dinner
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Closing circle
Day 7 · June 1, 2024 · Departure
8:00 am - 9:00 am: Move and groove
9:00 am - 10:00 am: Breakfast and check out of accommodation
Group transfer from accommodation to airport
11:00 am: Departure to San Jose International Airport & La Riviera
Journey ends

Details

Day 1 · May 26, 2024

Vibrant Beginnings: An Initiation of Intention and Healing

The beautiful tropics of Costa Rica welcomes you with warmth and open arms as you arrive at San Jose International Airport. We hope you are ready to embark on a beautiful adventure of self-discovery, exploration, and nature's bounty. From the airport, you'll be whisked away to the secluded sanctuary of Synergy Retreats. Nestled in the heart of Uvita's mystical mountain rainforest, Synergy emerges like a vision, an eco-conscious haven where Mother Nature's embrace promises a return to your intrinsic rhythm and a rekindling of inner peace.

Upon checking into your room, take a moment to breathe deep. The air is rich with the earthy perfume of fertile land, the scenery a canvas of vibrant greens. Get settled and unpack, then come together as a group during a welcome circle session. Let Lizzie and Sarah's warm smiles lift our communal spirit and ignite a flame of connection — we are all kindred spirits here.

The evening unfolds gently into a nourishing dinner, crafted with intention from the freshest ingredients that the local bounty yields. Later, as the stars come out to play, a meditation and intention setting session takes place, during which you are invited to weave your aspirations into the tapestry of the coming days, setting the tone for a retreat that promises not just rejuvenation, but a vibrant discovery of the land and the self.

Day 2 · May 27, 2024

Harvest of Harmony: Balancing the Body, Crafting Serenity, and Discovering the Alchemy of Cacao

As the first tendrils of dawn stretch across the sky, casting a gentle glow over the dew-kissed foliage, day two begins with an invigorating yoga practice led by Lizzie and Sarah. In the sacred space of the open-air shala, you flow through various poses to the rhythm of the waking jungle, your breath synchronizing with birdsong and insect calls. This harmonious symphony of movement and nature leads into a wholesome breakfast featuring freshly prepared delights that nourish the body. Following this, we'll engage in our morning activity.

After lunch, the afternoon unfurls with the luxury of leisure, granting you the freedom to sculpt your time as you wish. Relax by the pool, schedule a personal adventure, or indulge in a spa treatment (see add-ons section below to choose your session).

After dinner, we'll gather once more for a 'cacao and cards' session to allow us to enjoy a heart-opening ceremony that will foster a sense of unity and introspection as the day softly concludes.

Day 3 · May 28, 2024

Beachside Bliss: Sunshine by the Seashore

Rise and shine — the morning begins with a rejuvenating yoga practice that salutes the sun as it ascends. Let each pose be a silent ode to the pulsating life of the tropics that surrounds us. Then, breakfast serves as a communal tableau of the region's vibrant harvest, a palette of nourishment that fuels the body for the day's pilgrimage to the pristine sands of Marino Ballena National Park.

Today, the beach becomes your sanctuary. From meditation to exploration, amidst the backdrop of whispering palms and rolling waves, find serenity in the company of fellow seekers.

After lunch, a restful interlude allows the morning's impressions to sink deep into your soul. Rest until dinnertime, and once dusk falls, a gentle practice session beckons, followed by a Dharma talk that weaves the threads of ancient wisdom through the tapestry of modern existence. The day concludes with some decaf herbal tea to carry away the last vestiges of your worries, leaving behind a tranquil echo of the day's profound journey.

Day 4 · May 29, 2024

Soothe In Serenity: Yoga and the Dance of Waterfalls

Start the day with the vibrancy of an early morning yoga session, where each asana reaches out like the unfolding petals of a tropical bloom under Lizzie and Sarah's nurturing guidance. After this, breakfast becomes a celebration of the senses; a symphony of flavors and aromas that tantalize the palate, fueling your body with the zest needed for the day's exhilarating expedition to a nearby waterfall.

Let nature be your guide today as you explore the waterfall, letting its cascading waters be the soundtrack to your adventure.

Returning for a late lunch, the day leisurely unwinds as the afternoon sun warms the earth. Relax by the pool, schedule a personal adventure, or have a spa treatment (see add-ons below). As twilight approaches, the vibrant day gives way to a delightful dinner, a perfect close to another chapter of your Costa Rican journey.

Day 5 · May 30, 2024

Birdsong, Brunch, Blossoming Creativity

The morning welcomes you with the promise of wonder and whispers of the wild. Before the sun climbs its morning arc, we'll find our way to Hacienda Baru, a wildlife sanctuary that teems with life. With snacks to fuel our quest for bird watching, we'll look to the trees to spot feathered friends in their peaceful habitat.

Returning to the retreat, the comfort of brunch awaits. The afternoon then unfolds into the tranquil embrace of Yoga Nidra, your consciousness hovering in the liminal space between wakefulness and tranquility, while a sound bath's resonant frequencies wash over you, harmonizing your inner vibrations with the universe’s vast expanse.

Later, creativity flows through a craft or activity, hands and hearts engaged in the joy of making. As the day wanes, we'll venture out after dinner for an evening outing under the cloak of dusk.

Day 6 · May 31, 2024

Savoring the Journey: Going to the Market

Day 6 dawns, and with it comes the soft murmur of stirring life at Synergy, where we'll gather once more for our morning practice. Let each movement pay homage to the growth and gratitude you feel. Post-practice, enjoy a hearty breakfast.

Venturing out, the day blooms with color and vibrancy at the local farmers' markets. Here, you can enjoy the taste of unfamiliar and exotic foods, feel the texture of local crafts beneath your fingertips, and enjoy a moment of connection to the culture and heartbeat of Costa Rica.

Lunch follows, where laughter and stories are shared freely. The afternoon is yours to cherish at leisure, a pause in the tapestry of activity. As dusk cocoons the day, gather for the final dinner — a feast that is as much about savoring flavors as it is about reminiscing and bonding. The closing circle that follows is a powerful ritual of closure and reflection, a collective embrace that weaves the individual journeys into a shared narrative, sealing the retreat with a promise of lasting connections and transformation.

Day 7 · June 1, 2024

Goodbyes and the Beginning of a New Journey

We've come to the final day of your rejuvenating wellness retreat in Costa Rica — we hope you've had a beautiful experience with Lizzie and Sarah, spending time in nature, healing, learning, and discovering the treasures of the forest. Now, it's time to say goodbye and to take all your special memories home. After checking out of the retreat, you'll be heading to the airport to catch your flight home. Until next time we meet — travel safe.

Accommodation

Synergy Retreats
Nestled in the magical mountain rainforest of Uvita is eco-chic Synergy. This high-vibe retreat center is hidden away from the world with lush tropical jungle all around. The property features a 360-degree, open-air yoga shala, a variety of lounges and meditation spaces, pool with loungers, and so much more, creating the perfect environment to move, heal, and grow. Enjoy healthy gourmet organic meals, dedicated support staff, and a wealth of wellness and adventure activities to choose from. The luxury extends into each guest room all featuring private en suites, AC, plush bedding for a comfortable night’s rest, sitting areas, and rustic decor. For a truly transformative experience, from yoga training to an array of retreats, you’ll call Synergy your home away from home after just one night. Room type: Single occupancy. Room Configuration: Everyone will have their own room; the first participants who sign up will be accommodated in a private room with a queen bed, all other participants will be accommodated in a double bed or single bed.

Included

6 nights at Synergy Retreats
3 daily prepared gourmet organic meals
Expert coordinator and dedicated on-site support
Private use of yoga deck with props included
One group airport arrival transfer
One group airport departure transfer
Bird watching at Hacienda Baru
Visit to Marino Ballena National Park
Farmers' markets for exotic food tasting and local crafts
Visit to local waterfall
Sourcing for cacao & a pot
Wellness activities described in the itinerary led by Lizzie & Sarah

Not included

Flights
Additional food and drinks not mentioned in inclusions
Optional add-ons
Travel insurance
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.