Tucked in the quiet suburban village of San Rafael, Gabriela’s villa hosts us comfortably, with exquisite architecture and finishing, luxurious spa-like amenities, and complete privacy. It is the perfect way to start our journey together, break the ice and some bread, meet each other comfortably, and enjoy a beautiful meal together.

The second stop on every tour is a 4 night stay near a charming little beach town on the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Viejo. We stay at Casa Mona, another luxurious private villa with private pool, chef, and massage therapist. It sits right across the street from Punta Uva, a brilliant rock outcropping with cliffs that can be hiked, protected beaches for swimming, and just a few minute walk to Arricife, which has a brilliant snorkeling reef. Here we have 3 full days of adventure, mindfulness, and cultural immersion.

This is the crown jewel of our expedition. This 4 night journey begins with a class IV float half way down the wild and scenic Pacuare river, to an eco lodge seated in a roadless section of jungle next to an adjoining creek. Our friend, colleague, host, and lead guide, Manuel, is also the creator of the space. After purchasing a deforested property over 25 years ago, he has replanted the rainforest, with a focus on sustainability and living in symbiosis with the forest. We stay in comfortable, bug-proof, open-air cabins, and enjoy our meals and yoga/mindfulness workshops in 3 beautiful pavilions overlooking the river. There will be dancing, Spanish language study, meditation, informative hikes on the property about the animals and wild, edible plants, and an optional extra day of rafting. Then, on our 5th day there, we say goodbye to the Segura family and Pacuare friends as we take the class IV float to the takeout and beyond!