Table of Contents
General Travel & Arrival
-
Is Pura Vida near the beach?
No, Pura Vida is a mountain retreat center. The nearest beach is about 2 hours away on the Pacific coast.
-
Is airport shuttle service included?
Yes, for Group Retreat and Mind+Body+Spirit (MBS) Packages. Nightly package guests may add shuttle service for $17.50 per person each way (SJO airport only).
-
Where do I meet my shuttle driver at the airport?
Outside SJO’s International Arrivals area, near the Malinche Restaurant. Look for a “Pura Vida Retreat & Spa” sign with your name or your group’s name.
-
What should I do if my flight changes?
Contact us immediately at frontdesk@puravidaspacr.com or WhatsApp +506 8701 4031.
-
What are check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is at 2:00 PM. Check-out is at 10:00 AM.
-
What if I arrive early or depart late?
For arrivals before 7 AM, please reserve the prior night. For late departures, guests must check out by 10 AM but may stay on the property until shuttle time. Showers and changing rooms are available.
-
Can I rent a car or use Uber?
Yes. Staff can assist with car rental, or guests can use taxis or Uber. Rates vary depending on destination.
Payments & Gratuities
-
What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept USD, all major credit cards, and Apple Pay. We do not exchange currency.
-
Should I bring cash?
Yes. USD cash is recommended for tipping and offsite purchases. Local buses require colones.
-
Are gratuities included in my package?
No. We suggest tipping $10 USD per guest per night. Tips are pooled and shared among the team.
-
Can I tip using a credit card?
Yes, but a 3% processing fee applies. Cash is preferred.
-
Should I tip my massage therapist separately?
Yes, 15–20% is customary, preferably at the time of service.
Packing & Essentials
-
What should I pack?
Bring layers (temps range 58–88°F), swimsuit, rain gear, hiking shoes, toiletries, sunscreen, bug spray, reusable water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and any medications. A full packing list is available upon request.
-
What type of electrical outlets are used?
Standard US 110v outlets. Tentalows also have outlets. European guests will need a converter.
-
Is the water safe to drink?
Yes. Our water is filtered and UV-treated. Refill stations are available throughout the property.
-
Are hair dryers provided?
Hair dryers are available at the front desk.
-
Are laundry services available?
Yes. $8 per load for wash, dry, and fold.
-
What amenities are in the rooms?
Soap, shampoo, conditioner, and a coffee maker (except in Tentalows). Floor fans are available in all rooms. Suites have ceiling fans.
On Property
-
Is English spoken at the retreat?
Yes, our front desk staff, yoga instructors, and spa therapists all speak English.
-
Is there air conditioning or heating?
No. Our mountain climate remains spring-like year-round with temperatures in the 70s–80s°F during the day and 60s°F at night.
-
What are the meal times?
Breakfast: 7:30–9:00 AM
Lunch: 12:30–2:30 PM
Dinner: 6:30–8:00 PM -
Are meals included and what kind are served?
Yes, meals start with dinner on arrival day and end with breakfast on departure day. They are mostly plant-based meals served buffet-style with chicken or fish at lunch and dinner. Please notify us of dietary allergies in advance.
-
Are alcohol, specialty drinks, or snacks included?
No. Wine, beer and other non-alcoholic specialty drinks and snacks can be added to your room tab and paid before departure.
-
What is the Wi-Fi like?
Free Wi-Fi is available with average speeds of 10 MB/s. Ethernet connections are available near reception.
-
Is there a boutique onsite?
Yes. Open Sunday–Friday, 12 PM–8 PM. Offers crafts, snacks, toiletries, yoga gear, and gifts.
-
Are linens and pillows hypoallergenic?
Yes, we use 100% cotton sheets and pillowcases with no feathers or down.
Activities & Wellness
-
How do I book excursions?
Onsite only. Sign-up sheets are available at the front desk. Minimum of 4 people required per tour.
-
What excursions are available?
Options include Waterfall Gardens, Botanical Gardens, Zip-lining, Coffee Tour, Hot Springs, Blue Falls Hike, and White Water Rafting. Half-day tours are $70; full-day tours are $140.
-
Are yoga classes offered?
Yes. $20 per class. Available for guests on MBS packages.
-
How much do spa treatments cost?
$120–$190 per service. Book once onsite. Sample menus are available. No advance reservations allowed.
Communication & Safety
-
Will my cell phone work?
Most likely, but check with your provider. WhatsApp or Signal are recommended for free international communication.
-
Is the retreat center safe?
Yes. Gated with 24/7 security. Safes are in every room (fit a 15” laptop). Avoid walking after dark.
-
Are there bugs?
Yes, but few mosquitoes due to elevation. Bug repellent is recommended just in case.
-
Contact Information
▪ WhatsApp (Front Desk): +506 8701 4031
▪ From the US/Canada: (678) 661-2140
▪ Within Costa Rica: +506 4082 1122
▪ Email: frontdesk@puravidaspacr.com
▪ Physical Address:
Calle Puente Negro
800 Mts SW of CENCINAI
Pavas, Carrizal, Alajuela, Alajuela, 20103
(Can be used for SJO Airport Immigration)
Health & Travel Requirements
-
Do I need travel insurance?
Strongly recommended. Options include Allianz, Trawick, Travel Guard, and Manulife (Canada).
-
Do I need vaccinations?
Only if you are arriving from countries with Yellow Fever risk. Check with your doctor.
-
Is medical help nearby?
Yes. Staff is trained in basic first aid. EMTs can be called; hospitals and clinics are ~20 minutes away.
-
Do I need a visa or passport?
A valid passport (6+ months from entry date) and return ticket are required. U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa.