Yoga teacher and retreat facilitator Melissa Noel Renzi will host a seven-day Yoga & Ecology Retreat in Escaleras, Costa Rica, from February 28 to March 6, 2027. Designed for a small group of 10–11 participants, the retreat combines daily yoga practice with wildlife observation, local ecological experiences and opportunities to explore Costa Rica’s Southern Pacific coast.
Rather than following a packed schedule of activities, the retreat balances organized excursions with free time. Participants can join shared experiences, spend time exploring nearby beaches or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings of their accommodation.
What participants can expect
The retreat takes place at Pagoda del Loto Azul, a private hillside property located between Dominical and Uvita, approximately ten minutes by car from the Pacific Ocean. The accommodation includes a main house, two separate casitas, tropical gardens, a swimming pool and outdoor spaces overlooking the coastline.
Yoga sessions are scheduled daily, generally in the morning and late afternoon. The program also includes restorative yoga, meditation and facilitated reflection circles, providing opportunities to unwind and reflect on the experiences of the week.
Ecology is an important part of the retreat. One planned excursion takes participants to a local cacao farm, where they will learn about cacao cultivation and traditional chocolate-making from a local grower. Another includes a guided boat journey through the Sierpe River and mangrove wetlands, where participants can observe wildlife and learn about the region’s ecosystems.
The itinerary also features a visit to Parque de las Esferas, known for its pre-Columbian stone spheres. These activities introduce participants to aspects of Costa Rica’s natural environment, local traditions and cultural history.
Wildlife may also be encountered without leaving the retreat property. Sloths, monkeys and toucans inhabit the surrounding area, and the property owner supports local efforts to create wildlife bridges that help tree-dwelling animals move safely between habitats.
Time for rest and personal exploration
An important feature of the retreat is its flexible schedule. Several afternoons are reserved for personal time, allowing participants to choose how much activity or social interaction they prefer.
Those interested in exploring can visit nearby beaches and towns or arrange additional activities such as surfing, kayaking, waterfall excursions or whale watching. Others may prefer to remain at the property, enjoy the swimming pool, read or rest.
Meals will be prepared by Costa Rican chef Laura Infante, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and local culinary traditions. The menu will be mostly vegetarian, with occasional fish or meat options. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
Who is the retreat for?
The retreat is designed for yoga practitioners, nature lovers and people interested in developing a closer relationship with the natural world. Its relatively gentle activity level and combination of group experiences and personal time may appeal particularly to participants who prefer a quieter, less demanding retreat environment.
The organizer also emphasizes sensitivity to individual sensory needs and different social rhythms. Participants are encouraged to engage with the program at a pace that feels comfortable rather than feeling pressured to participate in every optional activity.
Event details
- Dates: February 28–March 6, 2027
- Location: Escaleras, Costa Rica
- Venue: Pagoda del Loto Azul
- Organizer and facilitator: Melissa Noel Renzi
- Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
- Group size: 10–11 participants
- Accommodation: Private and shared rooms
- Activities: Daily yoga, meditation, reflection circles, ecological excursions and free time
- Pricing: From $2,399 USD per person, subject to room selection and availability
The retreat package includes six nights of accommodation, most meals, scheduled yoga sessions, organized excursions, transportation for included activities and a shuttle from Quepos Airport. International flights, travel insurance, certain meals and optional activities are not included.
Registration and more information
Registration is open through the organizer’s official Costa Rica Yoga & Ecology Retreat page, where prospective participants can review room options, current availability, payment arrangements and cancellation conditions.
Registration and payments are handled directly by the organizer.
