When?
Mother’s day weekend <3 May 9th -15th, 2026
Why Uvita, Costa Rica?
The short answer is….it’s off the beaten path and absolutely stunning.
Known for beautiful 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.
What’s on the Itinerary?
Day 1: Welcome to Pura Vida
• The group will arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and board an air conditioned minibus to begin our 3 hour (or so because you never know) road trip to Uvita.
• On the way to Uvita we will stop at Rio Tarcoles to see the American Crocodiles on the way to the airport. The amount of crocs in this river is simply astounding. It is considered to have the highest population in the world….and quite possibly the biggest! This is a great spot for a little bit of shopping, and some local street food before continuing our journey.
•Once we get into town, we will stop at the local grocery store to grab anything you’d like to have on hand. Here you can find many of the goodies you are used to, like kombucha, milk alternatives, and toiletries. We will then jump in SUVs and head up the mountain to check-in at Manoas.
• We will gather for a light welcome dinner cooked by our private chef as you take in the sounds of the jungle and wind down for the night after a long-ish travel day.
Day 2: Happy Mother’s Day Massages & Local Waterfall Hike
•Breakfast overlooking the jungle.
•After breakfast, we will explore the hiking trails and river of the property where we are staying. With a little help from our friends, we will cross the river and navigate through the beautiful river’s edge until we reach a crystal clear swim hole and “secret” waterfall. The pebbles on the river bank make for a natural clay beauty masks that we will learn how to apply.
•We will be back for lunch and 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 there will be lots of free time to lounge and relax. Find your favorite spot for a photo shoot, explore the nature trails, or go for a swim in the pool or river.
•Dinner at Manoas
Day 3: Peaceful Paddle Expedition in Matapalo and Explore the Surf Town of Dominical
• 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 amateur 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 then head back to relax, have free time to enjoy the pool.
• Dinner at Manoas.
Day 4: Family-Friendly White Water Rafting
• Embark on an unforgettable journey down what’s celebrated as Central America’s cleanest river, the pristine Savegre River. This world‑class rafting experience features exhilarating rapids nestled in the heart of lush tropical forest. The adventure begins with a short, guided natural‑history hike from the lodge where expert bilingual guides share insights on the native flora and fauna before you even step into the raft. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking forest vistas, a refreshing visit to a hidden waterfall. After the waterfall, there are still plenty of nice rapids, gradually the valley widens and beautiful panoramas unfold. The current slows down allowing for some truly world class lazy river time. You will be able to jump in and float down the current in between the rapids.
• 4×4 safari trucks will take you back up the lodge for a hot traditional Costa Rican lunch.
• Free time before dinner at Manoas and sleep like a sloth surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest.
Day 5: ATV Mountain Adventure OR High Canopy Zip Line (your pick)
•Option 1: After breakfast, we embark on a 4 hour ATV Excursion. Fuel your sense of adventure with an unforgettable ride through Costa Rica’s vibrant rainforest. Navigate jungle trails, splash through riverbeds, and take in breathtaking views only accessible off the beaten path. There’s an opportunity to swim at a local waterfall too!! After the thrill, we’ll slow it down with a visit to a local coffee farm, where you’ll learn about the art of growing and roasting Costa Rican coffee. Sip, savor, and soak in the richness of the land — from high-energy exploration to grounded cultural connection, this experience has it all and it’s one of Tammy’s favorite tours in Uvita!!
• Option 2: After breakfast, we’ll head south for an exhilarating Zip Lining expedition through the High Canopy of the Osa Peninsula. With a team of expert guides you will experience 7 zip lines, 3 rapelling stations, and 2 hanging bridges while surrounded by the lush rainforest of Costa Rica.
•The group will all meet back up for lunch at Manoas and free time in the afternoon to relax by the pool or hot tub.
• End the day with dinner at Manoas.
Day 6: Horseback Riding to Nauyaca Waterfalls
•Early breakfast at Manoas, then you’ll saddle up at the Nauyaca ticket office and follow a guided, gentle trail through rainforest and ranchland toward one of Costa Rica’s most iconic two-tier waterfalls. The ride includes a few stream crossings and plenty of wildlife-spotting. After tying up at the end of the trail, you’ll walk a short path to the falls, where you can swim in the emerald pool beneath the lower cascade and explore viewpoints of the upper falls.
•On the way back, we will stop halfway at the ranches to enjoy a delicious, traditional Costa Rican lunch and a cup of high-quality coffee from the Pérez Zeledón region.
• Farewell pool party & dinner at Manoas
Day 7: Adios Pura Vida
• Early to-go breakfast.
• All aboard for our road trip back to the airport to catch flights home for a safe and smooth trip home.
NOTE: While changes are unlikely, the itinerary may be adjusted due to tides, weather, or updates from our trusted vendors and tour partners. Any modifications will be made thoughtfully to prioritize your safety and elevate your experience and will be at no additional cost to you.
Retreat Cost
• A $500 deposit is required to hold your spot. Deposit goes towards your total trip cost.
Total Retreat Cost: $1,850 per person. Rooms will be assigned for families to share space together.
Check out the villas here!
- Rates listed are per person.
- Double occupancy includes sharing a king bed and/or additional twin or bunk in the room.
- Balance due in full by February 9 ,2026. Payment plans are available if needed.
- Deposit and/or trip payment is 100% fully refundable by February 9, 2026 with written notice. No refunds after February 9, 2026 at midnight for any reason. Trip Insurance is recommended, but not required in the case of unforeseen/uncontrollable circumstances occur such as personal emergencies, natural disaster, etc.
What’s Included?
• 7 days / 6 nights comfortable rainforest accommodations in Costa Rica.
•All Meals: 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 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 speaking guides and translator when necessary.
• ALL activities outlined in itinerary including tours, all park entrances, and activities.
•Most 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 May 9th, 2026 at 12pm and ends the early morning of May 14th, 2026 at SJO. Please send Christina your desired flight itinerary prior to finalizing your booking.
• Some tips will be given directly by the group to members of our local team. It’s a meaningful way to show appreciation to the excursion guides and the wonderful Manoas staff who work with so much care to support our experience. You’ll receive suggested tipping amounts in your welcome packet to help guide you.
• 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 unforeseen circumstances 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 during your free time or if you choose to be apart from the group such as transportation/meals/activities/etc.
• Extras such as alcoholic beverages, massages, medical care, local or global calamities or other unexpected happenings such as pandemic related interruptions, airline cancellations, etc.
