Thanks to a laid-back vibe and incredible nature, Costa Rica has become a popular destination for yoga retreats. Each year, thousands of yoga enthusiasts escape to this tropical paradise to enjoy stunning beaches and explore lush rainforests. Do you dream of waking up to the sounds of the jungle, and practicing yoga in the heart of the rainforest? Then, a yoga retreat in Costa Rica might be just what you need.
No matter what kind of yoga retreat you’re looking for, Costa Rica has one for you. In fact, there are so many options, it can be hard to choose which yoga retreat is best. To make it easier for you, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best yoga retreats in Costa Rica for all budgets.
But first, we’ll give you some tips, and suggestions on how to prepare for your yoga retreat in Costa Rica in 2023.
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Things to know before going on a yoga retreat in Costa Rica
Before you book a retreat, you should know what to expect. For this reason, we recommend reading about your chosen destination, and the retreat of your choice. Here are other things to consider before booking:
Weather
Costa Rica is a very popular eco-destination and is ideal for yoga retreats. It only has two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The weather can have a great influence on your experience, so choose your travel dates carefully. Here is what you can expect in Costa Rica depending on the season:
- The dry season (from mid-December to April) is the peak tourist season, and there’s plenty of sunshine in Costa Rica at this time of the year. It’s an ideal time to go on a yoga retreat and enjoy outdoor activities.
- The rainy season (from May to November) is very wet, but prices are lower at this time of the year. Between June and August, rain showers pause briefly and the rainforests burst with life. If you go in this period, most days will be sunny, but you’ll get rain late in the afternoon.
Temperatures and weather may vary depending on where you are. If you’re around the Caribbean Sea coast and the Northern Plains, you can expect year-round humidity and high temperatures somewhere in the 70s-80s°F (20s-30s°C). The humidity level in North Pacific is lower, but temperatures can get into the 90s in this area during the dry season.
Most yoga retreats will have extra activities included in their program. And activities such as snorkeling, hiking, or tours are best enjoyed when the sun shines. If you want to make the most out of your experience, we recommend going to Costa Rica during the dry season, or between June and July, when there isn’t too much rain.
Jungle and wildlife
Costa Rica is really well known for its incredible wildlife and rainforests. Many yoga retreats are held in the middle of the rainforest and provide basic accommodation in the jungle. This means you’ll probably hear and encounter wildlife.
Animals such as monkeys, sloths, frogs, and birds are very common in Costa Rica. But don’t worry though, encounters with wild animals will only add to the beauty of your experience!
Safety in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America. However, you are going abroad so you should always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense.
Because anything can happen abroad, we always recommend using travel insurance. Even if you are just going on a yoga retreat and not traveling around, you still need one. It covers you against travel risks such as lost luggage, or unexpected medical costs abroad. We always use and recommend World Nomads.
You can visit the website of the bureau of consular affairs in the US for more info about international travel in Costa Rica.
What to pack for a yoga retreat in Costa Rica
If you’re looking into going on a yoga retreat in Costa Rica, one of the questions you may be wondering is – what should I pack? Well, here is a list of things to pack to be perfectly prepared:
Travel essentials
Passport: Your passport is the first thing you should pack, with your airplane tickets and credit cards. US citizens can enter Costa Rica and stay for up to 90 days without a visa. All you need is a valid passport and a return ticket. But depending on where you’re from, you might need a visa, so don’t forget to check before you go.
Money: You’ll need money if you want to book extra activities or tours during your stay. We recommend taking both your cards and cash. In fact, some places only accept cash in Costa Rica. If you want to tip, cash is appreciated.
Mosquito repellent: Bug spray is a must in Costa Rica. We recommend using DEET-free repellents because it’s better for the environment. But if it doesn’t do it for you, you can take a 20% DEET mosquito repellent.
Toiletries: Bring travel-size body wash, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and a toothbrush just in case your yoga retreat doesn’t provide any personal care products.
Adapter: Costa Rica has the same electric plugs as the US. If you’re from Europe, don’t forget to bring an adapter to charge your phone, camera, and other electronics.
Sunscreen: You’ll most likely be practicing outdoors so sunscreen is a must-have item. Make sure it’s waterproof, especially If you plan on surfing or enjoying the beach.
Water bottle: Costa Rica is hot, and staying hydrated is essential. Bring a reusable water bottle so you can keep your water with you at all times.
First aid kit: Basic medical supplies such as band-aids, hand sanitizer, and painkillers are a must.
Essentials for yoga practice
Yoga clothing: Pack your favorite lightweight tops and yoga pants. Since Costa Rica is quite humid, we suggest packing dry quick clothing. Even if you’re in a tropical destination, consider packing long-sleeve shirts because you’ll find evenings are cooler. We would also recommend bringing rain-friendly layers just in case.
Yoga mat: Yoga retreats provide yoga mats, but they are usually very used. You’ll feel more comfortable doing yoga on your own mat.
Towel: Costa Rica is hot, and there’s nothing worse than slipping on a mat covered in sweat. Bring a small towel that you can put on your mat to avoid unwanted slips.
Journal: Yoga retreats usually are life-changing experiences. They help you think more clearly and change your perception of life. So, bring a pen and a notebook to write about your experience.
Essentials for extra activities
Bathing suit: Even if your retreat isn’t at the beach, it might have a pool so don’t forget your bathing suit.
A book: Yoga retreats usually offer plenty of free time, so you could catch up on some reading. Actually, reading a book in a hammock is a great way to unwind.
Comfortable shoes: Most people hang around wearing flip-flops and slip-on shoes at yoga retreats. You should also pack walking shoes in case you want to go hiking or take a tour.
If you want to know what to pack for a yoga retreat, check out our ultimate packing list.
How to choose your yoga retreat in Costa Rica?
Do you want to go on a yoga retreat, but don’t know which is best for you? Don’t worry, we know choosing the best yoga retreat can be overwhelming. To help you make the right choice, we made a list of things to consider before you book:
Location
Most yoga retreats in Costa Rica are located in the heart of the lush jungle, or at the beach. You’ll find quite a few retreats in Montezuma, Guanacaste and Santa Teresa. But to choose the location of your yoga experience, we recommend selecting a place you’d like to discover.
Theme
There are many different types of yoga retreats in Costa Rica. Whether you want to learn how to surf, go on an adventure, or do yoga in an eco-village, choose the yoga retreat that speaks to you the most.
Duration
The average duration of a yoga retreat in Costa Rica is from one to two weeks. How long you want to stay at the retreat mostly depends on your budget, and on your intentions. Do you feel like disconnecting for a few days? Do you really want to deepen your practice? Usually, we recommend staying at least 7 days in a yoga retreat, to make the most out of your experience.
Price
Yoga retreats in Costa Rica are quite affordable, but you also have to take the airfare price into consideration when establishing your budget. To reduce the price of your experience, choose a yoga retreat that has all meals, accommodation and extra activities included in the price.
How much does a yoga retreat in Costa Rica cost?
The average cost of a yoga retreat in Costa Rica is between $700 and $1,500 a week. Most yoga retreats we’ve selected for this post are in this price range. If you’re on a really tight budget, you can find yoga retreats in Costa Rica for less than $500 but they usually only last a few days. Of course, there are also luxury yoga retreats that can cost up to $5,000 for a couple of weeks of relaxation.
10 amazing yoga retreats in Costa Rica in 2023
Whether you want a yoga retreat with surf, detox, or adventure activities, Costa Rica has what you’re looking for. We selected our 10 yoga retreats in Costa Rica in 2023 based on our own experience, customer reviews, the uniqueness of the experience, and value for money.
1. 6 Days Revitalize and Rejuvenate Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica – El Sabanero Eco-Lodge
Credit: El Sabanero Eco-Lodge
Located in Guanacaste, El Sabanero Eco Lodge offers amazing yoga retreats in Costa Rica. Their 6 days revitalize and rejuvenate yoga retreat is very popular among solo female travelers, and is one of the best yoga retreats in Costa Rica.
Offering daily yoga classes, vegetarian meals, meditation, and chakra-balancing workshops, El Sabanero Eco Lodge has everything you need to spend a relaxing week in Costa Rica. They teach vinyasa yoga, and everyone is welcome no matter your skill level.
Other activities at the retreat include hiking, dancing, and snorkeling. El Sabanero Yoga Retreat provides a non-judgmental environment where you can unwind, rejuvenate and connect with nature.
2. Yoga at Peace: 5-Day Yoga Retreat in Playa Negra, Costa Rica – Peace Retreat Costa Rica
Credit: Peace Retreat Costa Rica
Are you looking for a unique yoga retreat in Costa Rica? Look no further! Peace Retreat Costa Rica offers a 5-day yoga retreat year-round. The aim of this retreat is to give you space, regain your peace and improve your well-being.
This beautiful yoga retreat is set in the jungle of Playa Negra. Here, you can hear the birds chirping, the howler monkeys calling, and the wind through the trees. It’s the perfect place to recharge, reconnect with nature and reflect on yourself.
Highlights of this retreat include daily yoga classes and plenty of free time to relax or explore the local area. The package includes 4 nights of accommodation in a private room or cabin, breakfast, and dinner daily.
3. 7-Day All-Inclusive Yoga and Surf Wellness Retreat at Amazing Beach of Marbella, Guanacaste – Del Alma Retreat Costa Rica
Credit: Del Alma Retreat Costa Rica
This all-inclusive retreat is the perfect place to combine water activities and yoga. Located in Marbella, this yoga retreat offers week-long programs where you can learn to surf and find your inner peace.
This experience is perfect for anyone who wants to take a break from their daily routine. With their qualified surf coaches and yoga teachers, you will improve your surfing skills and connect with your body and mind.
Your program includes five days of yoga classes, meditation sessions and surf lessons.
As for accommodation, you’ll be staying in a stunning villa where you can enjoy a relaxing week. During your holiday, you’ll also be served three delicious and healthy meals daily.
4. 7-Day Love Yourself Retreat in the Arenal Rainforest, Alajuela – Essence Arenal Wellness Center
Credit: Essence Arenal Wellness Center
This authentic Costa Rican experience proposed by Essence Arenal Wellness Center is one of my favorite yoga retreats in Costa Rica. Set in a tropical paradise, this retreat will allow you to combine the best of a relaxing yoga retreat with the revitalizing vibe of the ocean waves of Costa Rica.
At this fantastic yoga retreat, you’ll have time to reflect, practice in an open-air yoga studio, rest, and rejuvenate. With experienced yoga teachers and neuro-linguistic programming coaches to support your journey, Essence Arenal Wellness Center offers a beautiful environment to deepen your practice.
The price of the yoga retreat includes daily yoga classes, a relaxing massage, unlimited use of the amenities, 6 nights accommodation as well as daily meals.
This yoga retreat is available year-round and is one of the best value for money in Costa Rica.
5. 4-Day Immersion Yoga Retreat in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Limon – Chandra Karuna Yoga
Credit: Chandra Karuna Yoga
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a beautiful place where you can relax, unwind and rejuvenate. With Chankra Karuna Yoga, you’ll take a well-deserved break, enjoy daily yoga classes, three nights’ accommodation, and sound healing meditation sessions.
This four days yoga holiday teaches Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin yoga. In addition, you’ll get plenty of free time to explore the local area or enjoy mindful activities such as journaling, self-reflection, or reading.
You will be staying in a private room in a beautiful retreat house. The property also features a cozy lounge area, where you can relax while watching the Costa Rican wildlife and enjoy the Caribbean vibe.
Chandra Karuna Yoga is the perfect spot for those looking to deepen their yoga practice.
6. 6 Days Relaxing in Nature and Yoga Holiday in the Central Mountains of Costa Rica – Ama Tierra
Credit: Ama Tierra
Ama Tierra is a retreat center located in a mountain eco-lodge in Costa Rica. In addition to their yoga retreats, they offer different wellness treatments such as foot baths, body wraps, and facials. In fact, the property is equipped with a spa and an amazing swimming pool.
Their 6 days relaxing in nature yoga holiday is an invitation to take a break from your busy life and unwind. This affordable yoga retreat offers daily yoga classes, three vegetarian meals a day, and five nights of accommodation. On top of that, you’ll also get a one-hour full-body massage and an excursion day at the Carrara National Park.
This yoga retreat is held in one of the most beautiful parts of Costa Rica. Surrounded by nature, it’s an amazing place to meditate, awaken to the sounds of nature, take a walk or simply relax. Ama Tierra’s yoga retreat will offer you an unforgettable experience.
7. 10-Day Energizing Surf Camp and Yoga Holiday in Santa Teresa, Puntarenas Province – Pura Vida Surfers
Credit: Pura Vida Surfers
Santa Teresa is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. Located on the coast, this eco-oriented town is the perfect place for a yoga retreat and Pura Vida Surfers has the perfect vacation package for you.
The 10 days surf and yoga holiday offers daily yoga classes, eight surf lessons, three daily meals, and nine nights of accommodation. Surrounded by natural beauty, this yoga retreat is perfect for reconnecting with yourself, deepening your practice, and learning to catch waves.
They offer accommodation in shared or private rooms at the Pura Vida Surf Camp. The place is also equipped with an outdoor swimming pool, and a beautiful garden.
8. 8-Day Harmony with Horses Yoga Retreat in Puerto Viejo – Kindred Spirits
Credit: Kindred Spirits
Do you want to try yoga with horses? Then, this retreat is the perfect choice for you. This amazing holiday will help you connect with body and mind, enjoy silent moments, and experience a deeper inner connection.
This retreat includes daily yoga classes with a qualified teacher, guided meditation sessions, and even the chance to swim with horses.
The house of Kindred Spirits is nestled in the jungle only a few kilometers away from the beach. During your retreat, you will be served five lunches and one welcome dinner.
This is one of the most unique yoga retreats in Costa Rica, and it’s a great option for those on a budget. This retreat is perfect for you if you want to rest, take some time for yourself, and share an incredible experience with a wonderful community.
9. 7-Day Yoga and Detox Holiday in Arenal, Alajuela – Essence Arenal Wellness Center
Credit: Essence Arenal Wellness Center
Essence Arenal Wellness Center is located in the heart of Arenal National Park, one of the most incredible places in Costa Rica. With Essence Arenal Wellness Center you’ll learn to slow down and enjoy the beauty of nature.
This retreat, based on nature, offers a program with daily yoga classes, and unlimited access to the spa, sauna, and jacuzzi. You will be taught Hatha yoga, which is suitable for yogis of all skill levels from beginners to more advanced.
At this yoga retreat, you’ll definitely enjoy a quiet environment, deepen your yoga practice and change your perception of life.
During your time at Essence Arenal Wellness Center, you’ll also get plenty of time to hike the many trails on the property, swim or simply read a book.
10. 8-Day Wellness and Yoga Holiday in the Central Costa Rican Mountains in San Pablo De Turrubares – AmaTierra
Credit: AmaTierra
Located in San Pablo de Turrubares, AmaTierra offers yoga retreats and workshops that will help you find balance, and practice in stillness.
The retreat offers daily yoga classes and teaches Hatha yoga. In addition, you’ll get to enjoy a one-hour wellness treatment, group meditation, and a full-day tour of Carara National Park. AmaTierra also offers a variety of additional spa treatments available at an additional cost.
This amazing retreat is set in the lush forest. So, you’ll get to stay in a private room, and wake up to the sounds of the jungle. In your free time, you can enjoy hiking trails, watch the birds, relax in a hammock, or read a book.
Bottom line
With its incredible nature, Costa Rica is one of the best places on earth to go on a yoga retreat, and we can only recommend the experience. Whether you want to deepen your practice, connect with nature or simply relax in a quiet environment, taking part in a yoga retreat in Costa Rica is a fantastic experience that will change your life.
Keep in mind that the best yoga retreats are often nestled in nature, focus on relaxation, and serve healthy local food. They should also include some extra activities to give you the opportunity to get out to see a bit of the country. Have you ever been on a yoga retreat in Costa Rica? Let me know in the comments below!
Looking for another destination? Check out the best retreats in Mexico, Tulum, or the USA!
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