Blue Portal

Jungle wellness, mycology, and inner growth.

Costa Rica Cahuita paid

Step into a vibrant jungle preserve in Cahuita, Costa Rica, where Blue Portal offers a unique approach to wellness. This center, spearheaded by psychotherapist Irene Dubin and mycologist Tradd Cotter, blends therapeutic practices with a deep exploration of sacred and medicinal mushrooms. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the rainforest, just a five-minute stroll from the beach, with sloths occasionally peeking down from the lush canopy. Blue Portal is more than just a retreat; it's a hub for research and development in mycology, offering workshops alongside its wellness programs. With comfortable bungalows, a refreshing pool, and a private restaurant serving delicious, dietary-conscious meals, it provides a supportive and enriching environment for personal growth and exploration.

Highlights

Led by a psychotherapist and a best-selling mycologist
Workshops on sacred mushroom cultivation and medicinal extracts
Jungle preserve setting with sloths and a short walk to the beach
All-you-can-eat meals with extensive dietary accommodations
Moloka with hammocks for daily use

Good for

plant medicine curiousnature loversthose interested in mycologyindividuals seeking therapeutic supportfoodies

Setting

The retreat is set within a 14-acre jungle preserve in Cahuita, Costa Rica, just a five-minute walk from the beach. The atmosphere is one of lush tropical abundance, with a spacious pool surrounded by vibrant vegetation and the occasional sloth sighting. It offers a serene and immersive natural environment.

The practice

Blue Portal focuses on plant medicine, specifically incorporating sacred mushroom practices and medicinal mushroom extracts. The approach is guided by expertise in both mycology and psychotherapy, aiming to support personal growth and well-being. Retreats often include workshops on mushroom cultivation, offering a hands-on learning experience alongside ceremonial use.

A typical day

While the specific schedule can vary by retreat, a typical day at Blue Portal might involve morning plant medicine sessions or workshops, followed by delicious meals. Afternoons could include free time to enjoy the pool, beach, or Moloka hammocks, with further sessions or discussions in the evening. The focus is on integrating learning and personal exploration within a natural setting.

Accommodation

Guests stay in one of 16 bungalows, available for shared or private occupancy. Each bungalow is equipped with fans and screens to allow for cool ocean breezes, and features a private patio for relaxation.

What to bring

Given the tropical jungle setting and average temperatures around 24.4°C, pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, and insect repellent. Consider comfortable shoes for walking to the beach and any light rain gear, especially during wetter months.

Address Cahuita, Costa Rica

How to get there

Blue Portal is located in Cahuita, Costa Rica. From the international airport in San Jose, a regional flight to Limon is included and coordinated with your liaison upon registration.

Nearest airport: Limón International Airport (LIO) (31 km)

Travel logistics, including a regional flight from San Jose to Limón International Airport (approximately 31 km from the center), are coordinated with your liaison at registration.

Nearest city: Limón

Languages

English

Pricing

Pricing for retreats starts from USD 500.

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Mar, Oct, Aug

Avoid: Nov, Jul, Jun

Cahuita experiences a tropical climate with an annual average temperature of 24.4°C. The warmest months are typically May, September, and October, while January, December, and February are cooler. The driest periods are March, October, and August, with November, July, and June being the wettest.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of meals are served at Blue Portal?

Meals are a highlight, offering an all-you-can-eat experience with pastries, fresh jams, local fruits, pancakes, eggs, and coffee. They cater to various dietary preferences including vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options.

Are there opportunities to learn about mushrooms?

Yes, Blue Portal offers workshops on sacred mushroom cultivation and medicinal mushroom extracts, reflecting the expertise of co-founder Tradd Cotter in mycology.

What amenities are available at the retreat?

The retreat features a beautiful pool, a private restaurant, a yoga studio, an air-conditioned conference room, and a Moloka with hammocks. Bungalows have fans, screens, and patios. Free Wi-Fi, housekeeping, and bicycles for rent are also available.

How close is the retreat to the beach?

Blue Portal is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the beach, allowing easy access to the ocean.

Who are the main teachers at Blue Portal?

The retreat is led by Psychotherapist Irene Dubin and best-selling Author and Researcher Tradd Cotter, who bring their combined expertise in psychotherapy and mycology to the programs.