Between yoga, surfing, and permaculture, disconnect and rediscover the joy of giving back to the earth. Nestled in the south of the Nicoya Peninsula, Rancho Delicioso offers a unique retreat in Costa Rica that blends sustainable tourism with holistic practices. Over the course of one transformative week, participants immerse themselves in the natural rhythms of farm life, surrounded by lush greenery and the call of the Pacific Ocean. This Costa Rican yoga retreat promises a symbiosis of body, mind, and nature.
Rancho Delicioso describes today’s world as being at a crossroads, facing challenges such as habitat loss, environmental degradation, and social disconnection. Their mission is clear: create opportunities for positive change and learning.
By the end of the week, the connections formed here feel profound. We leave with a deeper appreciation for natural rhythms, enriched by friendships and experiences that resonate far beyond Costa Rica’s borders.
Rancho Delicioso offers a destination that inspires mindful living, care for the earth, and the embrace of simplicity. Through daily yoga, sustainable practices, and shared meals with people from diverse backgrounds, this wellness retreat in Costa Rica invites a slower pace and a rediscovery of what truly matters.
Back to our roots.
Sleep
It’s 5:45 in the morning. The sun is already warm and bright, burning off the last of the morning dew as chickens cackle in the distance. I climb down from my round hanging bed, veiled by a soft white mosquito net, and take in my surroundings. I’m in the heart of the River Palace, a three-story eco-hut that’s both rustic and innovative.
The River Palace is just one example of the creative design that defines Rancho Delicioso, merging architecture with its natural setting. Its open-air structure invites the sounds and sights of the farm to envelop you, letting you wake to the rhythm of nature.
Dazed but eager, I lace up my boots and join my small group of travelers, hailing from across the globe for this wellness retreat, including Europe and the United States.
Breathe — a typical Costa Rica wellness retreat
By 6:30 a.m., we’re gathered on the yoga platform for daily yoga sessions. Today’s practice is led by Janine, a Californian with radiant energy who has made this paradise her home. The hour and a half-long session is intense yet grounding, inviting us to explore both our physical and personal practice in this serene setting.
Yoga here is not just about poses—it’s about being present. The sounds of the farm and the distant Pacific create a meditative soundtrack, grounding our connection to the earth. Each session is a journey, tailored to both beginners and seasoned yogis alike.
Afterward, at 8:15 a.m., we gather for a 100% local, eco-responsible breakfast. Fresh fruit, farm eggs, and Costa Rican coffee are staples. Here, we nourish not just our bodies, but our souls. The instructors emphasize mindfulness at every meal.
Namaste, indeed.
Life on the farm
Rancho Delicioso is more than a farm; it’s a community. It’s a haven for people seeking a slower, more intentional life. Residents, mostly Americans, and visitors alike embrace its ethos, stepping away from their fast-paced lives to reconnect with nature.
Julio, one of the young Costa Rican farmers, gives us an introduction to life at Rancho Delicioso. In his thick accent, he walks us through the essentials: feeding the chickens, tending to the ducklings and horses, and collecting eggs. Each task becomes an opportunity to appreciate the harmony of farm life.
Beyond the chores, we gather on a large platform for workshops and discussions. The camaraderie builds quickly as we share laughs and stories, turning strangers into new friends.
From farm to table — a different kind of retreat center
Meals at Rancho Delicioso are a highlight of this wellness retreat. Aside from the yoga, of course! The farm-to-table concept is at the heart of the dining experience, where nearly every ingredient is sourced directly from the farm. The communal table is a hub of vibrant conversation and connection, framed by the colorful backdrop of the vegetable garden.
The vegetarian-focused menu occasionally includes organic chicken or local fish. Meals are prepared with care, blending traditional Costa Rican flavors with innovative twists. Waste is recycled into compost, feeding the farm’s soil and creating a virtuous cycle that mirrors the principles of permaculture we learn about daily.
Workshops on composting, sustainable gardening, and even chocolate-making punctuate the day. Irene Alpizar, one of the farm’s engaging educators, brings theory to life with her dynamic teaching style. These sessions are hands-on and deeply rewarding, leaving us inspired to apply these practices long after the retreat ends.
Exploring Guanacaste — farniente in Montezuma and surfing in Santa Terasa beach
While Rancho Delicioso provides plenty to keep you grounded, the retreat also encourages exploration. A short drive leads us to the eclectic town of Montezuma, lovingly referred to as Montefuma for its laid-back, bohemian vibe. Here, colorful streets, beachside cafes, and a welcoming atmosphere beckon.
For those seeking waves, Santa Teresa and Playa Hermosa are surfer paradises. The energy here is electric, with trendy spots to eat, shop, and relax. Watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean is a memory etched in time, a quiet reminder of Costa Rica’s magic.
Activities like swimming in waterfalls, reggae nights, and an exclusive yoga session at the Anamaya Resort ensure that every moment is filled with discovery. Each excursion is an opportunity to meet other people, connect with locals, and create lasting memories.
What is the yoga capital of Costa Rica? Logbook for a pura vida surf, ecotourism and meditation retreat
- Getting there: Travel to San José with direct flights from Toronto and Montreal with Air Transat. From there, it’s a six-hour journey to Rancho Delicioso by bus, ferry, and taxi. Though the trek is long, the destination is worth every mile.
- When to visit: The retreat runs from November through August, with the dry season (December to April) being the ideal time to go.
- Prices: Accommodation options range from offsite or tent stays starting at $580 to private lofts at $1,275, with shared and single beds available in between for varying budgets.
- What’s included: This yoga retreat offers plenty of free time for relaxation and reflection, balancing structured activities with personal space to recharge.
- 6 nights at Rancho Delicioso, with access to a swimming pool
- 3 farm-to-table meals daily
- 8 permaculture workshops
- One daily yoga session
- 2 beach outings (surfing lessons optional)
- 1 chocolate-making workshop
- 1 excursion to Montezuma waterfalls
- A yoga class at the Anamaya Resort
All photo credits: Laure Juilliard
