Costa Rica’s national motto is ‘Pura Vida’, which translates as ‘simple life’ or ‘pure life’, so it’s no wonder it’s a hub for yoga retreats. But it’s so much more than that.
Costa Rica is the most biodiverse country in the world. And it’s gorgeous, like mind-blowingly beautiful. It's one of the safest spots to holiday in Central America.
This relatively small country is bordered by Nicaragua and Panama. To the West is the Pacific Ocean and and to the East, the Caribbean Sea. Costa Rica has seven regions: Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas and San Jose. Each region has its own personality and incredibly cool stuff.
If you’ve come to Costa Rica for yoga, chances are you’ll be hanging out in some of the most stunning jungle you’ve seen in your life.
Let’s take a look at some of the yoga retreats Costa Rica has to offer.
Honestly just the fact that Blue Osa is on the Osa Peninsula is a huge selling point. The biodiversity in this region is unparalleled on our planet. The wildlife, sea and jungle will sooth your senses before you’ve even unrolled a mat. In addition to yoga, this modern resort also has a spa.
Montezuma is a remote southern beach town with a cute village and waterfalls and jungle nearby. Anamaya offers teacher training in addition to health and yoga retreats.
The Caribbean side of Costa Rica has a more relaxed vibe than the Pacific side, and as you’d expect, more Caribbean culture and food. Samasati is located within a rainforest about 20 minutes away from the main beach town of Puerto Viejo. In addition to yoga, they offer forest bathing, plant medicine and organically sourced juices.
In addition to yoga, this resort offers loads of fitness and fun adventure options. Think ocean surfing, a fully equipped open air gym, a spa and adventure tours.
This port town boasts a theatre, art gallery and aquarium alongside the standard-issue breathtaking rainforests, waterfalls and wildlife. In addition to yoga, Danyasa offers teacher training and has a Bamboo Yoga Play studio and staying in our eco-chic container rooms.
Another retreat on the Osa Peninsula is Luna Lodge. Between yoga sessions explore the black sand beach and Corcovado National Park. Or just sit really still and take in the incredible wildlife.
Another yoga sanctuary based in a stunning jungle, Essence Arenel also offers a spa, hiking, swimming and more. Enjoy vegan fare made from organic produce from the farm.
Practice yoga with 360 degree views of the rainforest in Goddess Garden’s two story spiritual centre. Take a walk through the ancient jungle and relax by the creek. Bliss.
Hiring a car is the best way to get around Costa Rica. It’s a lively time on the roads, so make sure you have insurance and stick to the speed limits (or the local Police will have feedback for you).
Google and apple maps aren’t the best in Costa Rica so download Waze.
If you’re into 4wding or cycling there are some great tracks, and you can hire vehicles set up for camping if that’s your scene.
When we say Costa Rica has the most biodiversity on the planet, we’re not kidding. Along with that comes some incredible critters. (On that note, keep your suitcases closed, the scorpions think they’re super cosy.)
See if you can spot these adorable locals:
There are so many more, so keep your eyes peeled. One last critter tip, if you have the opportunity to go to a turtle hatchery on the beach, do. These tiny shelled kids are gorgeous.
Being so close to the equator, Costa Rica really only has two seasons: rainy season and dry season. Dry season is the most crowded, and rainy season is less crowded and cheaper. It does rain every day in the rainy season, but usually not so much the whole day is a write off.
If a little rain doesn’t bother you, going in the rainy season can be a good choice, just avoid October which is the month with the most rain.
Here’s what you’ll wish you knew before you left home:
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