Yoga, Adventure, and Service

Peace through Yoga Foundation with Sally Bassett, Phd

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Saturday
Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica and transfer to the 4-star hotel, Don Carlos, in the city.   Get settled in your new surroundings until the Welcome Dinner at 6 p.m. on the hotel’s restaurant terrace. (D)

Accommodations:

Located in the oldest historical section of San José, the ‘Four Star’ Hotel Don Carlos is a small, but significant part of Costa Rica’s rich heritage. Once upon a time residence for two past Presidential families, the historical Hotel Don Carlos’ warmth and charm, graciously awaits you. Enjoy Costa Rica’s finest art works as you stroll through the gallery-like corridors and maze of quiet garden and fountain settings, restaurant and mini pool. Wander into Annemarie’s Boutique and get lost within this unique world of local artistic creations in Costa Rica’s #1 gift shop.

Day 2 – Sunday

After breakfast the group will depart 8:30 a.m. for Samasati Nature Retreat near Puerto Viejo. We will pass through the chilly heights of Braulio Carriollo National Park, the steamy lowlands of Guapiles, the Caribbean port town of Limon, many banana plantations and then follow the palm fringed coastal road south by the beach of Cahuita and to Puerto Viejo. We will arrive in time for lunch. The food is gourmet vegetarian and each meal is a treat. Enjoy the rest of afternoon relaxing prior to a group get-together at 4:30 p.m. A gentle yoga class will be offered every evening at 5:15-6:15 p.m. followed by dinner in the open air restaurant at 6:30 p.m.   (B/L/D)

Day 3 – Monday

After yoga and breakfast, the group will go to Puerto Viejo to visit the Jaguar Animal Rescue Center then to a nearby beach. At the Jaguar Animal Rescue Center you will have the opportunity to hold monkeys and see a wide variety of animals up close. Sack lunches will be provided so you can enjoy a picnic on the beach.   The beach at Punta Uva is claimed to be one of the best beaches in the area. The group will return to Samasati after some beach time or you can stay in town and shop. Yoga will be offered from 5:15-6:15 p.m. followed by dinner. (B/L/D)

Day 4 – Tuesday

After yoga and breakfast, we will transfer to Peace through Yoga Foundation’s International Center for Peace. It is located in a rural area in the heart of the rainforest just minutes from Samasati. The name of the property is called “El Yue”. El Yüe is a women’s group initiative organized since 1994 in the Carbon 1 Community. As banana and vegetables growers, they started developing alternative activities that could allow them to improve their standard of living and be eco-friendly. We will meet some of the women and participate in the process of making chocolate during our visit. The afternoon will be spent with the children doing a variety of activities, including teaching English, reading books, assisting with math assignments, and implementing educational enrichment stations.   (B/L/D)

Day 5 – Wednesday

Following yoga and breakfast, the group will head out for the famous Canopy Tour where you will zip from tree to tree in the jungle. There are 15 stations where you will enjoy approximately two hours of zip lining and walking in between several of the platforms. Return to Samasati in time for lunch. An alternative included excursion would be horseback riding at the beach. Well-trained horses and an expert guide will accompany you in this adventurous excursion.   You, too, will be back in time for lunch.

The rest of the day is at your leisure. (B/L/D)

Day 6 – Thursday

After yoga and breakfast, we will have a morning adventure at the nearby Cahuita National Park. It is known for white sand, palm tree lined beaches, and crystal clear blue waters, which are ideal of swimming.   You will also have the opportunity to hike the flat seven kilometers to the point and/or sunbath. Return to Samasati for lunch and relax or participate in other activities.   Taxis can be arranged in the afternoon to go to town for shopping and exploring.   Or you can hike one of the many trails, get a massage, relax in the Jacuzzi, take a nap or read in a hammock.

You will have the opportunity to dine in a home of a local for family as an alternative to having dinner at Samasati. (B/L/D)

 Day 7 – Friday

After yoga and a leisurely breakfast, we will transfer mid-morning to San Jose and check-in at the Hotel Don Carlos again. There are local markets and museums to explore. OR sign-up for an optional White Water Rafting excursion on your return trip to San Jose. The Pacuare River is world famous for its beauty. A true river gorge, it is flanked by steep, green walls. You will see waterfalls cascade into the river from both sides.   Wildlife is abundant. It is not an overly challenging river, but it has many rapids that will make your adventure very interesting and fun! The 18-mile-one-day-run includes 38 rapids. Few rivers in the world can offer you so many rapids in such a short stretch of water.   $99 per person

A Farewell Dinner is scheduled at local restaurant where you will be able to enjoy your last evening with your new found friends. (B/L/D)

Day 8 – Saturday

After breakfast, transportation will be arranged based on your return flight home. We hope you return home rejuvenated and inspired by all you experienced. (B)
Inclusions:

• 5 night accommodations – Private Bungalows at Samasati
• 2 nights at the boutique Don Carlos Hotel in San Jose
• Airport transfers
• In-country transportation
• All meals at Samasati Nature Retreat
• Welcome and Farewell Dinners in San Jose
• Optional dinner with a local family
• Yoga sessions at Samasati
• Cahuita National Park
• Zip-lining Adventure or Horseback Riding
• Coordination of all volunteer activities
• Services of Trip Leader

Prices: 

Double Per Person: $1299 Bungalow

Triple: $1299 Triple Bungalow (two story bungalow with three beds)

Not Included:

•  Air fare to Costa Rica
• $29 Departure Tax
• Tipping of guides, drivers, and staff at Samasati
• Personal expenses like massages and alcoholic beverages

Documents Needed: Passport

** To guarantee your space, call our Reservation Manager, Susie Morwick at 317-544-8391.   $500 initial deposit; balance is due 90 days prior to departure.

For Travel Insurance, contact Travel Guard at (800) 826-1300.