Renew Yourself in Costa Rica: Yoga Eco-Retreat with Laurel
Your TourHero
Duration
8 days · 7 nights
Travel Date
Oct 14 – 21, 2023
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 – 15
Transportation
Bus
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
21+
Travel interest
Wellness, health, yoga, nature, sustainability
Your Local Guide
With more than 30 years of experience in the travel industry, Best of Costa Rica endeavors to provide unique and memorable experiences on personalized trips for guests in Costa Rica. Committed to guaranteeing the best travel experiences while also ensuring a sustainable tourism operation, the team at Best of Costa Rica pride themselves on their reliability, professionalism, and environmental social responsibility. If you’re looking for unique, memorable and tailor-made trips in Costa Rica that match your interests and preferences, you can rest assured that the team will curate the perfect itinerary for you, and execute the trip in a seamless, safe, and sustainable way. Let them take care of all the little details and do what they do best!
We invite you on a very special journey to go off-grid in Costa Rica during this multi-day retreat that will detox your mind, body, and soul. Immerse yourself in the splendid tranquility of Alajuela's pristine wilderness and spend time connecting with yourself, wrapped up in lush nature and bliss. Our journey begins on the outskirts of San Jose, where we'll stay one night in the Central Valley at the delightful Buena Vista Chic Hotel, a beautiful sanctuary nestled amidst a working coffee plantation perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. Then, we head to the Arenal Volcano area to embrace the ways of sustainable living and healthy eating at the Rancho Margot Eco Lodge, where we will be surrounded by lush gardens, forest trails, flowing mountain rivers, and beautiful views. Here, we will come together for daily farm-to-table experiences to enjoy organic meals made 100% from scratch, partake in daily yoga and workshop sessions, and head out on spectacular excursions. Visit the Arenal Vida Campesina, trek to the La Fortuna Waterfall, and experience the magic of the Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park.
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until July 15, 2023. If the departure is cancelled out of your control, you will be alerted by July 15, 2023 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
You can request for a full refund of your deposit by July 15, 2023. After this date, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip by July 15, 2023 for a refund, including your deposit. After this date, no refunds will be given. To change or cancel your trip, please email travelers@tourhero.com.
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
8 days · 7 nights
Travel Date
Oct 14 – 21, 2023
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 – 15
Transportation
Bus
We invite you on a very special journey to go off-grid in Costa Rica during this multi-day retreat that will detox your mind, body, and soul. Immerse yourself in the splendid tranquility of Alajuela's pristine wilderness and spend time connecting with yourself, wrapped up in lush nature and bliss. Our journey begins on the outskirts of San Jose, where we'll stay one night in the Central Valley at the delightful Buena Vista Chic Hotel, a beautiful sanctuary nestled amidst a working coffee plantation perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. Then, we head to the Arenal Volcano area to embrace the ways of sustainable living and healthy eating at the Rancho Margot Eco Lodge, where we will be surrounded by lush gardens, forest trails, flowing mountain rivers, and beautiful views. Here, we will come together for daily farm-to-table experiences to enjoy organic meals made 100% from scratch, partake in daily yoga and workshop sessions, and head out on spectacular excursions. Visit the Arenal Vida Campesina, trek to the La Fortuna Waterfall, and experience the magic of the Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park.
Timeline
- Day 1 · San Jose
- Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport
- Meet & greet at airport
- Transfer to accommodation
- Check-in at Buena Vista Chic Hotel (or similar according to availability)
- Free time
- Dinner
- Day 2 · San Jose and Arenal
- Yoga session
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer to Arenal
- Check-in at Rancho Margot Eco Lodge
- Lunch
- Free time
- Dinner
- Day 3 · Arenal
- Yoga session
- Breakfast
- Workshop session
- Lunch
- Transfer to Vida Campesina
- Vida Campesina tour
- Dinner
- Day 4 · Arenal
- Yoga session
- Breakfast
- Workshop session
- Lunch
- Free time – explore the gardens, relax, practice yoga, etc
- Dinner
- Day 5 · Arenal
- Yoga session
- Breakfast
- Workshop session
- Lunch
- La Fortuna Waterfall visit
- Dinner
- Day 6 · Arenal
- Yoga session
- Breakfast
- Workshop session
- Lunch
- Free time – explore the gardens, relax, practice yoga, etc
- Dinner
- Day 7 · Arenal and San Jose
- Yoga session
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Visit Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
- Journey to San Jose
- Check-in at Buena Vista Chic Hotel (or similar according to availability)
- Lunch and dinner
- Day 8 · Departure
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Costa Rica, the gateway to volcanoes, waterfalls, lush rainforests, and pure tranquility amidst nature
Costa Rica welcomes you with open arms. It’s wonderful to have you on this exciting journey with us to this beautiful Central American country — a rejuvenating and memorable experience awaits! Once you have touched down at Juan Santamaría International Airport, we'll meet and greet you at the arrival hall. From here, we’ll whisk you away to your hotel in Alajuela, perched on a lush hilltop overlooking the capital city of San José. This kickstarts our incredible wellness escape, surrounded by the relaxing sounds of nature. As each day unfolds on this retreat, participate in various activities (from yoga sessions to excursions into the wilderness), enjoy delicious meals, and gain a wonderful appreciation of Costa Rica's hidden treasures. For today, get settled into your new home away from home — relax, unwind, and enjoy the hotel’s best amenities! In the evening, we'll come together for a delicious dinner — this is when we can break the ice and get to know each other better.
Day 2
Journey to the Arenal Volcano region and cocoon yourself in pure nature at Rancho Margot Eco Lodge
Rise and shine — we hope you had a restful sleep last night. This morning, awaken to a rejuvenating yoga session. Connect your mind and body through breathing and gentle movement as we work to strengthen our practice, wrapped up in our peaceful and tranquil surroundings. After, we'll enjoy a delicious breakfast before we check out of our hotel and journey to the Arenal region, located in the Northern Plains. Home to the majestic cone-shaped Arenal Volcano, this creation of Mother Nature is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes, standing at a grand 5,480 feet tall. The fertile land around it is a treasure trove of incredible wildlife, lush foliage, and steamy hot springs. We'll be checking into the Rancho Margot Eco Lodge, an eco-tourism project nestled at the foothills of a rainforest near the shores of Lake Arenal. Rancho Margot is an eco-friendly off-grid gem surrounded by lush gardens, forest trails, flowing mountain rivers, natural pools, and stunning views of nature at its finest. Over the next few days, enjoy the simplicity of sustainable jungle living, dine on wholesome meals made using freshly-harvested ingredients, and enjoy a cozy atmosphere wrapped up in the sounds of nature.
Day 3
Enjoy a guided tour at the Arenal Vida Campesina
Today, we begin our morning with a restorative yoga session to start the day with intention and purpose, followed by a nourishing breakfast. Then, we'll engage in some wellness workshops before lunch. In the afternoon, we'll head out to visit the Arenal Vida Campesina, a self-sustained organic cultural center focused on preserving Costa Rican farming practices. During this insightful excursion, we'll enjoy a guided tour of this unique property. Here, learn about traditional and non-traditional crops, plant a tree, and participate in eco-activities — milk and cow, make tortillas, harvest vegetables from the garden, and grind cane sugar! During this experience, you will also have the chance to enjoy an organic lunch made with fresh produce cooked in a wood stove.
Day 4
Partake in our daily yoga and workshop sessions before enjoying some free time
Today, we'll start with our usual morning yoga session before breakfast, followed by a workshop just before lunch. After a hearty lunch, enjoy a free day to relax and enjoy the facilities of Rancho Margot. Learn about how the property maintains sustainable food production, visit the vegetable gardens and farm animals, and discover how you can help play a part in the conservation of energy and the minimization of waste. At the end of the day, why not participate in another yoga session to wind down before a delectable dinner?
Day 5
Embark on an excursion to the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall
Good morning! Rise with the sun and partake in a rejuvenating morning yoga class before breakfast, surrounded by the peace and tranquility of nature. Then, engage in another workshop session before lunch. In the afternoon, we'll head out on an excursion to see the glorious La Fortuna Waterfall! Once we arrive at the trailhead, we'll set off on a short downward trek, during which we’ll be able to observe the valuable flora and fauna that sits within the rainforest. Enjoy the true color of nature and embrace the adrenaline that you'll feel as you venture up and down the 480 steps during the tour. Eventually, we'll come to an area that gives us a clear view of the waterfall and its clear waters. Fall in love with this gorgeous sight, and don't forget to snap some photos!
Day 6
Enjoy another free day — explore the gardens, relax, practice yoga, and use the pool
Today, after our morning routine and afternoon lunch, you have yet another free day to enjoy the surroundings of Rancho Margot. Why not spend some time dipping in the natural pools on the property? Built with river rocks and filled with pure, untreated spring-fed water found on the mountain, this is the perfect way to unwind and find some peace.
Day 7
Traverse the depths of the lush tropical rainforest at the Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park
Today, we say goodbye to Rancho Margot after one last yoga session and a final breakfast at the property. After checking out this morning, we will embark on a peaceful nature walk at the magical Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Here, you’ll be able to view the lush forest from a different angle via the many suspension bridges. Explore the 1.5-mile trail that winds through different levels of the diverse ecosystem and get up-close and personal with the flora and fauna of the forest canopy. After our visit to the Hanging Bridges Park, we’ll journey back to San Jose and check into our hotel for the night for a well-deserved rest.
Day 8
Say goodbye to this Costa Rican paradise
It’s the final day of this retreat — we hope you have had a wonderful journey in connecting with your mind, body, and spirit. After one last breakfast, it’s time to leave the hotel behind and depart for the airport. We hope to see you again — travel safe!
Accommodation
Buena Vista Chic Hotel (or similar according to availability)
Buena Vista Chic Hotel is a tranquil sanctuary nestled amidst a working coffee plantation, perched on a lush hilltop overlooking the city of San Jose. The property offers guests a secluded getaway cocooned in 2.5 acres of manicured gardens, surrounded by the natural beauty of Alajuela. Featuring 30 rooms designed in a modernist tropical style with nature-inspired hues and plush textures, you can expect a relaxing ambiance and a soothing stay. Room amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, a flatscreen TV, a coffee machine, and all-natural bath products to enhance your experience. Enjoy panoramic views of Costa Rica’s Central Valley, the outdoor swimming pool, and delicious international cuisine at the hotel’s elegant restaurant. Room type: Superior Room with Balcony; breakfast included.
Rancho Margot Eco Lodge
The Rancho Margot Eco Lodge is an eco-tourism project nestled at the foothills of a rainforest near the shores of Lake Arenal. An eco-friendly off-grid gem surrounded by lush gardens, forest trails, flowing mountain rivers, and beautiful views, this is the perfect location from which to enjoy a yoga and wellness retreat, steeped in the principles of sustainability and conservation. Each day, enjoy carefully-prepared meals made from the organic ingredients harvested from the property's farm, and delight in amenities such as the on-site bar and restaurant, Wi-Fi center, toucan lounge, yoga studio, and spring-fed natural pools. Room type: TBD; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Included
2 nights at Buena Vista Chic Hotel (or similar)
5 nights at Hotel Rancho Margot Eco Lodge
Shared occupancy in accommodation
All airport and activity transfers (with accompanying guide)
All activities described in the itinerary
Yoga and workshop sessions
All meals
Not included
Flights
Optional add-ons
Travel insurance
Gratuities (recommendation – tour guide USD 5 per person; driver USD 3 per person)
Departure tax (USD 29 – included in majority of airfares)
FAQ
What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
Please check the 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.
Available add-on
Room upgrade: Single supplement
Want a little more privacy during your getaway? Select this single supplement add-on and have a room all to yourself throughout the trip.
Price: USD 550
15 spots left
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until July 15, 2023. If the departure is cancelled out of your control, you will be alerted by July 15, 2023 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
You can request for a full refund of your deposit by July 15, 2023. After this date, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip by July 15, 2023 for a refund, including your deposit. After this date, no refunds will be given. To change or cancel your trip, please email travelers@tourhero.com.
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."
- Keep your eyes peeled for signs of the rich and diverse wildlife that call this biological corridor home. - Unsplash: Zdeněk Macháček
- Discover the incredible La Fortuna Waterfall, a glorious sight to behold. - Unsplash: J. Amill Santiago
- Truly a majestic sight to behold, the active volcano stands at an imposing 5,480 feet tall. - Pexels: Dominik Simecek
- This fertile land hides all sorts of incredible creatures, from toucans to sloths. - Unsplash: Zdeněk Macháček
- Over the next few days, enjoy the simplicity of sustainable jungle living, dine on wholesome meals made using freshly-harvested ingredients, and enjoy a cozy atmosphere wrapped up in the sounds of nature. - Facebook: Rancho Margot
- Align your mind, body, and soul with a morning yoga session. - Unsplash: LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR
- Today, we'll start with our usual morning yoga session before breakfast, followed by a workshop just before lunch. - Facebook: Rancho Margot
- All the fruits and vegetables grown at Rancho Margot is produced without the use of chemicals. - Facebook: Rancho Margot
- At the end of the day, why not participate in another yoga session before dinner? - Dane Wetton
- Then, enjoy a free day — learn about how the property maintains sustainable food production, visit the vegetable gardens and farm animals, and discover how you can help play a part in the conservation of energy and the minimization of waste. - Facebook: Rancho Margot
- Enjoy another free day — explore the gardens, relax, practice yoga, and use the pool. - Rancho Margot
- Rancho Margot Eco Lodge - Rancho Margot Eco Lodge
- Rancho Margot Eco Lodge - Rancho Margot Eco Lodge
- Welcome to Costa Rica, the gateway to volcanoes, waterfalls, lush rainforests, and pure tranquility amidst nature! - Fabio Fistarol
- The impressive Arenal Volcano region will be our next destination. - Frank Ravizza
- Enjoy a guided tour at the Arenal Vida Campesina farm — learn about traditional and non-traditional crops, and participate in unique activities like making tortillas, milking cows, and grinding cane sugar. - Costa Rica Tourism Board
- Embark on a peaceful nature walk at the magical Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. View the lush forest from a different angle via the many suspension bridges. - Christina Victoria Craft
- Add-on: Single supplement - Rancho Margot
- Rancho Margot Eco Lodge - Rancho Margot Eco Lodge
- Refuel with an energizing breakfast before you enjoy the rest of the day. - Brooke Lark
- Buena Vista Chic Hotel - Buena Vista Chic Hotel
- Buena Vista Chic Hotel - Buena Vista Chic Hotel
- As each day unfolds on this retreat, participate in various activities (from yoga sessions to excursions into the wilderness), enjoy delicious meals, and gain a wonderful appreciation of Costa Rica's hidden treasures. - KoolShooters
- On this retreat, we’ll whisk you away to the tranquil Buena Vista Chic Hotel, perched on a lush hilltop overlooking the capital city of San José. - Buena Vista Chic Hotel
- For today, get settled into your new home away from home — relax, unwind, and enjoy the hotel’s best amenities! - Buena Vista Chic Hotel
- We'll check into the Rancho Margot Eco Lodge, an eco-tourism project nestled at the foothills of a rainforest near the shores of Lake Arenal. - Booking.com
- This kickstarts our relaxing wellness escape, surrounded by the delightful sounds of nature. - Buena Vista Chic Hotel
- In the evening, we'll come together for a delicious dinner — this is when we can break the ice and get to know each other better. - Annie Spratt
- Rancho Margot is an eco-friendly off-grid gem surrounded by lush gardens, flowing mountain rivers, natural pools, and stunning views of nature at its finest. - Facebook: Rancho Margot
- Enjoy a rejuvenating yoga session — connect your mind and body through breathing and gentle movement as we work to strengthen our practice. - Yan Krukov
- Our morning begins with a yoga session to allow us to start the day with intention and purpose. - Elina Fairytale
- We'll enjoy a healthy and balanced breakfast to boost our energy levels. - energepic.com