Libélula Retreat Center

Jungle stillness, supported inner work

Costa Rica Carara paid

Waterfalls and river pools shape the rhythm at Libélula, a retreat center spread across 48 hectares of mountain jungle. Small groups are central to the experience: the center welcomes no more than 12 guests at a time, with dedicated support before, during and after a retreat. Its program ranges from yoga, vipassana and women’s retreats to plant-medicine work and teacher trainings, bringing together movement, bodywork and other healing practices. In some ceremonies, medicine carriers from the Huni Kuin people of the Brazilian Amazon bring a feminine lineage passed down through their grandmother. The setting is made for both focused inner work and unhurried rest, with a yoga shala, ceremony space, spa, sauna, cold plunge and natural swimming areas. Preparation includes health and intention screening, while integration calls and a community group help guests carry what they have learned into life back home.

Highlights

A maximum of 12 guests, with dedicated support throughout each stay
More than ten waterfalls and natural river pools across 48 hectares
Huni Kuin medicine carriers bringing a feminine lineage passed through their grandmother
Pre-retreat screening followed by integration calls and an ongoing community space

Good for

Small-group retreatsYoga practitionersVipassana newcomersNature loversGuests seeking supported self-inquiry

Setting

The center occupies 48 hectares of mountain jungle near Bijagual, with more than ten waterfalls, flowing river pools and abundant forest life. Locally built spaces sit among the trees, including a maloca, yoga shala and communal areas. The landscape makes it easy to move between deep retreat work and a swim or quiet pause outdoors.

The practice

Libélula brings together several approaches rather than following a single tradition. Depending on the retreat, guests may encounter yoga, vipassana meditation, plant-medicine ceremonies, movement, bodywork or integrative therapies. Sessions and levels of intensity vary by program. Before arrival, the center asks about health, history and intentions, and screens guests for suitability. Beginners are welcomed, with support shaped around each person’s experience.

A typical day

There is no single daily timetable across the center’s different retreats. A program may combine meditation, yoga, ceremony, bodywork and time to rest or swim, while the pace and evening activities depend on the experience. Ask Libélula for the schedule of the specific retreat you are considering.

Accommodation

Cabins are spread across the grounds. Specific room layouts and occupancy details vary, so ask the center what is available for your retreat dates.

What to bring

Pack light, breathable clothes for warm weather, plus a rain layer and sturdy shoes for walking around the jungle grounds. Bring swimwear for the waterfalls and river pools, and comfortable clothing for yoga or meditation.

Address MFX2+8V, San José, Carara, Costa Rica

How to get there

The center is in the mountains near Bijagual. You can drive via the fully paved road through Tárcoles or take the shorter 4x4 route via Jacó; detailed directions are shared after booking.

Nearest airport: Nosara Airport (NOB) (72 km)

Nosara Airport (NOB), near Nicoya, is approximately 72 km from the center. Airport transportation is included with select retreat tiers; for other bookings, transfers can be arranged as an add-on.

Nearest city: Nicoya

Languages

English

Pricing

Paid retreats start from USD 250. The final price depends on the experience and retreat tier; confirm what is included with Libélula.

Climate

Climate Zone: Tropical

Best Months: Mar, Feb, Jan

Avoid: Oct, Jun, Sep

The annual average temperature is 26.6°C, with the warmest months typically February through April. February and March are among the driest months, while June, September and October bring heavier rain, so expect wet paths and pack a light rain layer if visiting then.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How does a typical day at Libélula work?

The rhythm depends on the retreat, which may include yoga, vipassana, ceremony, bodywork and time outdoors. Ask the center for the schedule of your chosen program.

Can beginners join a retreat?

The center welcomes people from different backgrounds and meets guests where they are. It uses a health and intention screening to assess suitability, so share your experience and any concerns before booking.

How do I get to the retreat center?

Road access includes a fully paved route via Tárcoles and a shorter 4x4 route via Jacó. Airport transfers are included with select retreat tiers and can be arranged as an add-on for other bookings.

Can the center accommodate dietary needs?

Listed dietary options include vegan, vegetarian, organic, gluten-free and dairy-free. Ask Libélula which options are included with your retreat and how meals are arranged.

What support is available after the retreat?

Post-retreat support includes integration calls, a community group and access to a wider support network. Facilitators can also connect guests with therapists if needed.