When?
Tuesday, March 10th – Sunday, March 15th, 2026
Why Uvita, Costa Rica?
The short answer is….it’s off the beaten path and absolutely stunning.
Known for stunning mountain landscapes that stretch down to palm-fringed beaches, Uvita is centrally located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It’s more specifically known as Costa Ballena or the Whale’s Coast, for the large number of migratory whales spotted here, as well as the whale tail shape of the coastline during low tide. This quaint little village consists of a few dirt roads, lined with farms, underpopulated beaches, mom ‘n pop shops, and a scattering of hotels in the jungle-covered hills above.
Uvita is home to breathtaking waterfalls, warm uncrowded wilderness beaches, a pristine marine reserve, and an unparalleled richness of beautiful plant and animal species.
It may seem surreal that this environment is as untainted as it is. With its gentle pace of life, it will give you a good idea of what the central Pacific coast was like before the tourist boom….it’s truly “off the beaten path.” It likely won’t stay like this forever though, conditions will one day change and the best kept secret of the Costa Ballena will be out.
Where Are We Staying?
Manoas is a privately-owned sanctuary on a beautiful, expansive property located in the heart of the jungle. It’s a hidden gem, perfect for a retreat, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by tropical birds, native flowering plants, and if you’re lucky, the howler monkeys will visit. The grounds are gorgeous, just a few minutes drive away from the Pacific Coast remote beaches, and sided by a crystal clear river that is perfect for swimming and exploring. The resort offers a safe alcove to truly escape in a vacation setting, surrounded by nature.
Being a little higher in elevation and somewhat secluded, Manoas makes for a perfect place to softly land at the end of a day full of adventures! Every room is cutely furnished with a private bathroom. The property has a pool with covered cabana, free wifi, beautiful villas, glamping tents, and large community deck wrapped around an ancient wise tree. The staff is present & knowledgable. We ask that all guests be over 18.
Day 1: Welcome to Pura Vida
• Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and scenic 3 1/2 hour road trip to Uvita. First stop at Rio Tarcoles to observe crocodiles in their natural habitat.
• We’ll visit Playa Hermosa for an ocean view, welcome drink, and some fun at Bowie’s Point, a local surfers’ hangout.
• Stop by the grocery store to grab anything you’d like for the retreat. We’ll then head to Manoas, our home base for the next few days, and check-in.
• Welcome dinner followed by intention-setting circle. What is your “WHY” for being here? What transformation are you ready to manifest?
Day 2: River Hike and Recharge
• Start the day with meditation& yoga with Christina followed by breakfast.
• Today we’ll take a leisurely hike through the property’s trails, and follow the river to a serene, turquoise swim hole and hidden local waterfall. Alongn the way we will have some fun finding the natural clay rocks and learning how to apply them for a therapeutic facial and body mask.
• Lunch at Manoas, followed by a deeper dive into a somatic healing session with Mandy.
• After dinner, free time for reflection or relaxation.
Day 3: Peaceful Paddle Expedition
• After breakfast, our Paddleboard/Kayak (you choose) expedition takes you through the Mangrove ecosystem of Matapalo in the Southern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. This amazing tropical environment is filled with diverse wildlife and riveting beauty. You will be guided through the enchanting mangroves, where you can see and learn about the plants and animals that live there. The water is very calm, allowing even an beginner to enjoy this activity.
• We will have lunch at Mono Congo in the beachy surf town of Dominical which has a beautiful view of Rio Baru and an extensive menu that does not disappoint. There will be time to explore the beach town and do some shopping after lunch.
• We’ll then head back to unwind, with free time to relax, and later, we’ll gather for a nourishing class with Mandy, designed to support your nervous system and deepen your sense of play.
• Dinner at Manoas.
Day 4: Vitamin Sea
• Morning yoga practice before breakfast.
• We will explore the protected and pristine beaches at the Marino Ballena National Park, a famous natural barrier reef that was created when the forces of two rivers on either side formed and maintained the shape of a whale’s tail. Truly spectacular! Despite being a favorite spot for visitors, it’s still quite remote. You won’t find vendors or high rises here. During low tide, you can walk out and explore the sea life in the tide pools.
• Lunch offsite at a local cafe and free time at the property. Today Mandy will teach about learning and healing Through play. In this class we’ll explore how play is a powerful tool for healing and connection. Through adventure and light-heartedness, we’ll discuss the nervous system’s state of play and how to bring more fun and spontaneity into our lives.
• Dinner at Manoas and free time.
Day 5: Restore Even More
• Meditation, breathwork, and yoga practice to start the day, followed by breakfast.
• If you booked yourself a massage (optional add-on), you’re in for a treat! The therapists will come to the property and set up your table in outdoor locations, so you can have your session with the backdrop of the nature sounds.
• After lunch, enjoy free time to lounge, swim, read, journal, or explore.
• We’ll end the day with a nourishing dinner and a heartfelt closing circle—an opportunity to reconnect, revisit our intentions, hold space for gratitude, and seal the energy we’ve cultivated throughout the week.
Day 6: Adios Pura Vida
• Early to-go breakfast.
• All aboard for our journey back to the airport.
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Time permitting, we’ll stop at Rio Tarcoles to visit the crocodiles one last time before you head home.
What’s the trip cost?
OPTION 1.
STANDARD Villa Room: Includes A/C, king or queen bed, private bathroom in each room, lock & safe, shared kitchen & common areas & shared washer/dryer, close proximity to pool.
Single $2,150 pp
Double $1,950 pp
Triple $1,750 pp
Click here to Secure Your Spot
OPTION 2.
UPGRADED Villa Room: Includes A/C, private bathroom, hammock, jacuzzi hot tub, second outdoor shower, lock and safe, washer/dryer, river and rainforest view.
Single $2,299 pp
Double $1,999 pp
Click here to Secure Your Spot
OPTION 3.
Glamping Experience: NO A/C, fans, power outlets, full size bathroom, king bed, rainforest view.
Single $1,999 pp
Double $1,799 pp
Triple $1,699 pp
Click Here to Secure Your Spot
- Rates listed are per person.
- Double & triple occupancy includes sharing a king bed and/or additional twin or bunk in the room.
- Ask for special rates if 4 or more people are rooming together.
A Few Details to Know About Booking:
•A $500 deposit is required to hold your spot. Deposit goes towards your total trip cost.
•Registration deadline is *****. Payments are due in full 30 days before departure on *****. Payment plans are available if needed…just ask us.
•Deposit and/or trip payment is 100% fully refundable (minus merchant fees) by *****at midnight with written notice. No refunds after ***** for any reason because we have made all reservations overseas at this point.
•Trip Insurance is recommended (but not required) in the case of late cancellation or any unforeseeable/uncontrollable circumstances.
What’s Included?
• 6 days / 5 nights comfortable rainforest accommodations in Costa Rica.
•All Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners. Most special dietary needs can be accommodated. Let us know in advance.
• Ground transportation within Costa Rica will be provided with professional local driver.
• English & Spanish speaking guides and translator when necessary.
• All activities outlined in itinerary.
•Some tips included such as porters, offsite restaurant tipping, and taxis / airport transfer.
What’s Not included?
• Airfare is not included. This trip launches at SJO airport (San Jose, Costa Rica) on March 10th, 2026 at 12pm-ish and ends the early morning of March 15th, 2026 at SJO. Do not book your airline ticket without prior approval from Mandy and/or Christina. Please send us the flight itinerary before booking.
• Some of the tips are paid by you directly to our team. It is customary to tip the excursion guides, our chef, and the Manoas staff who will be working to make sure we have everything we need. Suggested amounts will be provided in the welcome packet.
• Trip Insurance is not included. Although not required, it is recommended that each participant purchases a travel policy in the case of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances. Without insurance, any cancellations after *******, it could cause participants to forfeit their payment.
• Our trip launches and ends at SJO. You may wish to arrive early and stay after the retreat at your own cost.
• Any costs such as transportation/meals/activities/etc during your free time or if apart from the group is not included.
• Extras such as alcoholic beverages, massage, acupuncture, medical care, trip interruptions, airline cancellations, etc.
About Mandy
Mandy Flanders is a trauma trained, and informed practitioner with a deep passion for helping others heal, grow, and thrive. With extensive training in somatic experiencing, poly vagal theory, and developmental trauma, as well as certification in Transforming Touch, Mandy specializes in guiding individuals toward nervous system regulation and embodied healing.
At this retreat, Mandy brings her wealth of expertise and compassionate presence to help you reconnect with your body, release stored trauma, and rediscover the joy of being alive. Through a blend of somatic practices, nervous system education, and the transformative power of play, she creates a safe and inviting space for healing and growth.
Mandy’s approach is rooted in the belief that healing doesn’t have to be heavy—it can also be fun, creative, and deeply empowering. Whether through gentle movement, experiential exercises, or reconnecting with your inner child, Mandy will guide you to embrace new ways of being that support your well-being and resilience.
Join Mandy in the lush beauty of Costa Rica to experience transformative healing and step into a more connected, joyful version of yourself.
