Pura Vida and Perfect Balance: A Costa Rica Wellness Adventure
Discovering Costa Rica's Wellness Magic
Greetings Wanderers,
I'm writing this with my heart still full and my soul completely rejuvenated after spending eight incredible days on G Adventures' Wellness Costa Rica tour. If you've ever wondered what it feels like to truly disconnect and reconnect at the same time, this Costa Rica wellness travel experience was the perfect example.
Trip Overview:
Duration: 8 days
Destinations: San José, La Fortuna, Rincón de la Vieja, Playa Carrillo
Season: Rainy season (May-November)
Tour Company: G Adventures Wellness Costa Rica
Group Size: Small group wellness-focused tour (13 travelers)
Day 1-2: San José & Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation
Supporting Local Communities Through Coffee
Our Costa Rica wellness journey began in San José, where we quickly escaped the city to visit the Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation—a G for Good project supporting over 200 local farmers.
Our local guide walked us through the entire coffee process from seedlings to that perfect final cup (and yes, we got to try it!). It's fascinating to see how these 200+ local farmers grow their beans and bring them to Mi Cafecito for processing and bagging. But here's the insider scoop—we learned exactly which national brands buy the #1 quality beans... and who buys the #4 beans (but I won't name names here!).
Traditional Costa Rican Experiences
The real treat was learning about other local favorites like Agua Dulce, which derives from unrefined cane sugar. I was given the chance to push the sugar cane through the machine while others turned and collected the sweet liquid. There's something magical about participating in these time-honored traditions rather than just observing them.
Travel Tip: Book coffee plantation tours that support local communities for authentic cultural experiences.
Day 3-5: La Fortuna - Where Costa Rica Wellness Meets Wonder
Embracing Costa Rica's Rainy Season
Then came La Fortuna, and honestly, I'm not sure I have adequate words to describe waking up next to the Arenal Volcano every morning. This outdoor utopia became our wellness sanctuary for several days.
It's funny how in previous content I've talked about off-season travel and loving it, but also loving Ohio summers. Did you know Costa Rica is currently heading into their rainy season? This off-season meant no lines, nothing needed to be planned too far in advance, and a calming, true presence of "Pura Vida"- the phrase this country is known for.
Why Rainy Season is Perfect for Costa Rica Wellness Travel
With that did come some storms here and there, but honestly? I loved them. It's the rainforest after all! We were fortunate that nothing got cancelled because they know tropical storms are going to come and go whenever they please.
Insider tip: Pack right and you won't miss a thing. My rain jacket got SERIOUS wear and I'm not mad one bit.
All this to say, we enjoyed a full view of the Arenal Volcano for about 5 minutes during one of our incredible yoga sessions- but what a magical 5 minutes it was!
Volcano Yoga in Costa Rica
Those morning yoga sessions with the volcano backdrop were pure magic- when we could see it through the mist and clouds! There's something incredibly grounding about practicing yoga with such a powerful natural force in the background.
Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga on Lake Arenal
This is an experience I'll need to try again. While SUP yoga looks easy, I was wobbling the whole time! I didn't fall off, but I certainly wasn't going to hold a handstand on my board like some members of our party were able to. Mental note: more SUP practice needed before my next attempt!
Costa Rica Thermal Hot Springs Experience
Throughout the trip, we experienced several types of thermal hot springs- perfect for their healing properties and relaxing your mind (and body). There's something deeply restorative about soaking in these natural mineral waters surrounded by rainforest.
Day 6-7: Rincón de la Vieja - Natural Mud Baths & Adventure
Therapeutic Mud Baths and Hot Springs
Our next stop was remote Rincón de la Vieja, where our second hot springs experience included a natural mud bath that the group absolutely loved. I love a good hot and cold exposure, so I alternated between dipping into the river and the 113-degree pool (yes, it was THAT hot!) before settling into the more comfortable 104-degree pool, while others enjoyed similar pools ranging from 90-113 degrees.
Solo Hiking and Waterfall Swimming
During a free day here, the group took some time apart to find the vibe that fit them best (group trips can’t be go-go-go all the time!). While others relaxed at the pool or got massages, you know your girl is 1) a busy body and 2) loves a good hike, so I enjoyed 9 miles where I swam in multiple waterfalls! Sometimes you need that solo adventure time to recharge.
Day 8: Playa Carrillo - Beach Bliss & Surf Lessons
Learning to Surf in Costa Rica
Our final destination was the stunning Playa Carrillo, where the Pacific Ocean provided the perfect backdrop for our concluding experiences. This beach paradise gave us two additional yoga classes (one to the amazing sound of tropical rainstorms in the background) and some much-needed R&R by the pool and oceanside.
Our final activity together brought us to learning how to surf- an experience I truly will never forget. I never would have guessed I had it in me, but Mom, looks like I found my calling! (Just kidding... kind of.) One thing I loved about this experience was that the lead surf instructor was married to the local yoga teacher, so we got to support their business in two ways and really get to know them throughout the few days we were there.
Beach Yoga and Final Reflections
Having the space to explore on our own throughout the week, broaden our wellness mindsets with activities I wouldn't typically do, and share lovely dinners with the group made it all the more enjoyable. There's something special about connecting with fellow travelers over shared adventures and new experiences.
The G Adventures Difference: Why Local Guides Matter
What made this Costa Rica wellness trip exceptional wasn't just the stunning locations- it was the thoughtful way G Adventures curated each experience. From the community connection at the coffee plantation to the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, every detail was designed to nourish both body and soul.
Meet Your Local CEO Guide
We were escorted by our lovely local CEO (Chief Experience Officer) Esteban, who provided insights into the flora, fauna, landscape, culture, and everything we needed to know about Costa Rica and the Pura Vida way. Supporting local yoga studios, farmers, and other instructors made all the difference in our adventures.
Wildlife Spotting with Local Expertise
Having local drivers and guides was incredible because they frequent the same roads often, so they know where certain wildlife can be found. Multiple times we pulled over and were shown sloths, monkeys, and other fantastic animals because they knew exactly where and how to look.
Authentic Costa Rican Cuisine
One of my favorite discoveries was the Casado, which means the "married person's" lunch. The story goes that married men would bring this full lunch with all the fixings, while single boys would just bring a basic sandwich and water. They started calling it the Casado, and it's featured on menus everywhere. It consists of meat, rice, beans, plantains, and another side or two. Always classic and always good!
Costa Rica Travel Tips: Planning Your Wellness Journey
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica has always been a destination I've recommended, but experiencing it through this wellness lens gave me entirely new insights into how transformative travel can be. The best times to visit really depend on what you're looking for, but as long as you set your expectations and remember that it's the rainforest, you'll have a great time.
I would advise against August-October, and you need at least one week, if not nearly two, to really see a few areas of the country properly.
What to Expect from Costa Rica Wellness Travel
Whether you're seeking:
Adventure with mindfulness: Perfect blend of active exploration and inner reflection
Digital detox: Remote locations that naturally encourage disconnection
Cultural connection: Authentic interactions with local communities
Physical wellness: Daily yoga, hiking, and therapeutic experiences
Mental rejuvenation: Built-in meditation time and stress-free planning
This trip showed me how Costa Rica can deliver all of this and more, especially when you embrace the rainy season's slower pace and authentic "Pura Vida" spirit.
Ready for Your Costa Rica Wellness Adventure?
Costa Rica isn't just a destination; it's a feeling. And after this week, I can help you find exactly the experience that will leave you saying "Pura Vida" with the same joy I'm feeling right now.
If reading this has stirred something in you- that desire to slow down, reconnect, and experience travel that truly transforms- let's talk about your Costa Rica adventure. Whether you're interested in this exact wellness itinerary or want to explore other ways to experience Costa Rica's magic, I now have firsthand knowledge to help you plan the perfect trip.
Ready to start planning your Costa Rica wellness journey? Contact me to discuss your perfect Pura Vida experience!
