Jamaican heritage is alive and well in Costa Rica. Gain a deeper awareness of the country’s Afro-Caribbean diaspora on this culturally immersive tour based out of the coastal Afro-Latin town of Puerto Viejo. The area’s pristine beaches and lush rainforests form the perfect backdrop for R&R and exciting activities alike that highlight the area’s unique multiculturalism.
When you choose your accommodation in Costa Rica, we can suggest a variety of places to stay that range from luxury properties to family-run guesthouses and hotels in restored historic buildings. They all come recommended by our specialists from their own experience of staying there.
San Jose - Hampton Inn & Suites San Jose Airport
Hampton Inn provides modern accommodations just one mile from Costa Rica's San Jose International Airport. It features a large pool and a gym, as well as free Wi-Fi and free airport transportation.
Puerto Viejo - Sonora Jungle & Yoga Retreat
Sonora Jungle is located near Playa Negra (Black Beach). Engulfed in nature which gradually turns to jungle, embraced by ancient trees, flora, and the sounds of wildlife, its the perfect background for resetting and relaxing. There are 8 Tropical Bungalows all with private bathrooms and 2 Caribbean studios with kitchens. Each room has a/c, ceiling fan, hot water, safe and external veranda,. They are also equipped with a swimming pool, Yoga Shala and outdoor breakfast area.
Private air conditioned shuttles
Authentic immersive activities and sightseeing, as per itinerary, led by English-speaking local guides
4 Surf Lessons per person (2 hours long)
(room service, laundry, telephone charges, etc.)
(required by Soul Life Travel)
Arrival to Costa Rica, Juan Santamaria Airport.
Transfer from the Airport to hotel in San Jose.
Optional San Jose Walking Tour with Traditional Dinner (+$65 Per Person)
Get up close and personal with the nightlife in San Jose, starting with the Central Market, which, in our opinion, is the only way to learn about the city’s food. Stroll the market with your guide and get to know the secrets and uses of the roots, herbs, and fruit common in local cuisines, including ingredients that will play a role in your authentic dinner later.
Lunch and dinner on your own
Breakfast at the hotel
Private transfer from San Jose hotel to Puerto Viejo Retreat Center
Duration: 4.5 hours approximately
Arrival at Puerto Viejo Retreat Center and check-in.
Afro - Caribbean Cooking Experience
Have you ever tasted the real Caribbean? Now is your chance to learn how to cook it yourself! Side by side with a local you will learn how to cook like a local Caribbean family, with healthy, natural, and organic Caribbean ingredients. This will often include coconut, rice, plantains, beans, fresh fruit, and other traditional ingredients. At the end of the class you will get to sit down and enjoy the meal you have prepared!
Includes: Dinner
Duration: 2 1/2 – 3 hours
Evening Sound Bath
Lunch on your own
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning Surf Lesson 1
Learn the fundamentals of surfing. Gain confidence as we teach you the rules, how to stand up, and how to surf. By the end of your week, you’ll be up and riding waves.
Duration: 2 hours approximately
Includes: Transportation, Surf Instructor
Lunch at the Retreat Center
Afternoon Surf Lesson 2
Enjoy an afternoon Surf Lesson to practice the skills you learned earlier
Duration: 2 hours approximately
Includes: Transportation, Surf Instructor
Evening Yoga
Dinner at the Retreat Center
Evening Sound Bath
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning Surf Lesson 3
Duration: 2 hours approximately
Includes: Transportation, Surf Instructor
Optional Afternoon Surf Lesson (+$55 Per Person)
Evening Yoga and Sound Bath
All meals provided at the Retreat Center
Breakfast at the hotel
Gentle Recovery Yoga
Chocolate Goddess, Medicinal Plants & Waterfall Experience
Start with a visit to an indigenous village and learn about the traditional process of chocolate making from a member of the Bribri tribe—from plant to plate! The Bribri have a long history of cacao cultivation in the Puerto Viejo area. Next, head about 30 minutes outside of town to a breathtaking waterfall for a hike and refreshing swim.
Duration: 4 hours approximately
Includes: Transportation, guide, entrance, lunch
Free time to explore
Dinner provided at the Retreat Center
Breakfast at the hotel
Morning Surf Lesson 4
The final surf session is a culmination of growth, courage, and connection to the ocean. With refined skills and renewed confidence, surfers ride waves with intention, marking a meaningful close to the retreat journey.
Duration: 2 hours approximately
Includes: Transportation, Surf Instructor
Pura Vida Beach Experience
A half day of fun at a secret beach location where a local chef will prepare fresh lunch on the shore, music and more!
Duration: 4 hours approx.
Includes: Transportation, Lunch
Restorative Yoga and Sound Bath
Farewell Dinner
Breakfast at the hotel
Private transfer from Puerto Viejo to San Jose Airport
Duration: 4.5 hours approximately
Lunch and dinner on your own
Please note all departing flights on this day must be after 3pm.
Have a safe trip home!