Taking Care in Costa Rica with Devorah Story

Dates

Jun 23–28, 2025

Group Size

8–20 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Join me and The Story Collective for an intimate and transformative retreat in the lush beauty of Costa Rica's Rincón de la Vieja National Park. This unique gathering invites women to embark on a journey of self-discovery and connection, using the power of shared experiences as a means of personal renewal. Embrace this opportunity for a yearly reset of care. As we turn the page to a new chapter, take this moment to refresh your mind, body, and spirit. Our retreat provides a symbolic environment to reenergize, refuel, and recharge, allowing you to return to your daily life feeling renewed. Remember, a fresh start can begin at any time—it's a choice you make for yourself. Whether it's a new hour, day, or season, you have the power to redefine your narrative. Surround yourself with the breathtaking scenery of Costa Rica as you share your personal stories in a supportive circle. Explore hidden waterfalls, soak in natural hot springs, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Our retreat emphasizes the healing power of community, allowing deep connections to flourish as you share experiences with other inspiring women. Close one chapter and open another with us—or even start an entirely new book. We're here to support your journey as you engage in gentle movement, guided conversations, and interactive sessions designed to spark meaningful dialogue and celebrate each participant's unique path. Let the essence of "pura vida" infuse your retreat experience as you embrace effortless self-care practices inspired by the natural world around you. Take time for personal reflection amidst our collective experience, creating lasting memories filled with laughter, love, and mutual support. This soul-nourishing gathering is where nature's beauty and sisterhood collide to create an unforgettable journey of self-discovery. It's time to turn the page and embark on a new chapter in your story of self-care—Pura Vida awaits!
$2,350USD
$2,495USD
Jun 23–28, 2025
6 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Devorah Story
Devorah Story

It's Devorah here! Your mom-friend, your model sis and your self love inspo all wrapped in one! A self-built, professional model, a mother to a 10 year old son and a lover to the evolution of self. I've been writing my story for quite some time now and I am so excited to continue adding more to my life story with YOU! Sooo, let's keep writing, sis!

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Trip Activities

  • Mineral Garden Spa Treatment

  • On-site Hot Springs

  • Horseback Riding and Oropendola Waterfall Visit

  • Rincón de la Vieja Volcano Hike

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

Not Included

  • Flights (except as noted)

  • Food and Alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and Travel Insurance

  • Airport Transfers

  • Tips & Gratuity

What's included by Your Host

Taking Care in Your Body

Informal Gathering
Our morning adventure will be led by Charity Lynette, a plus-size fitness instructor empowering all bodies to move, grow and thrive. This session will focus on taking care in your body, emphasizing the importance of nurturing our physical well-being. We will begin by appreciating the beauty surrounding us, followed by gentle stretches to awaken our bodies. Through meditation and reflection, we’ll set our intentions for the day ahead. By prioritizing our physical health and expressing our intentions each morning, we can cultivate a true sense of community and support, deepening our shared moments of care.

Taking Care in Your Mind

Informal Gathering
Join us as we focus on cultivating simple, repeatable practices that can seamlessly integrate into our daily lives, with an emphasis on taking care in your mind. We'll gather for a gentle stretch to awaken our bodies and minds, enjoy a refreshing walk around the property to soak in the surrounding beauty, and share a reflective moment to set our intentions, establishing a positive tone for the day ahead. Together, we'll share this simple yet impactful moment of care, focusing on mindfulness techniques that nurture our mental well-being. These are the chapters of connection that will foster a supportive atmosphere, inspiring us to embrace these practices as meaningful rituals in our everyday lives.

Taking Care in your Spirt

Informal Gathering
Join us for another morning experience, which will focus on taking care in your spirit, emphasizing the importance of nurturing our inner selves. We will begin with a moment of gratitude to connect with our intentions for the day. Through engaging exercises and meaningful conversations, we’ll create space for reflection and spiritual growth. Together, we’ll share insights and practices that inspire us to embrace positivity and compassion, fostering a supportive atmosphere that nurtures our spirits as we connect with one another.

The Collective Experience: Taking Care in Your Story

Workshop
Join us for a transformative experience centered on taking care in your story, led by host and founder, Devorah Story along with mental health advocate Dr. Domenique Marie Roberts. Together with our esteemed facilitators, we will create a safe space for everyone to share and amplify our narratives as a collective. We'll begin with light-hearted introductions to foster authenticity, followed by engaging exercises that encourage guided conversation and moments of healing. Through this process, we’ll dive deep into the self-work necessary for personal growth, uncovering the profound care that emerges from collective vulnerability. The session culminates a transformative moment through the aspect of self expression. During this exercise, you'll have the opportunity to rediscover confidence, reclaim identity and the expression of freedom. Together, we'll create new narratives of healing, courage, and mutual support. This will be an unforgettable experience where creativity, sisterhood, and personal growth all collide. The more we share, the richer the experience becomes, reminding us that true care lies in our stories. And at the end of it all, we'll keep writing...because our stories will forever go on.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Costa Rica! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR).

dinner

Welcome dinner included at the hotel. Your meal will be buffet style with non-alcoholic drinks included, subject to change.

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/5

Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 2

Info

After breakfast today, you will take a quick transfer to the hotel spa to enjoy a relaxing spa treatment. After, you’ll have time to grab lunch on your own before you take a short ride to the onsite hot springs. Make sure to wear your bathing suit and bring a change of clothes, and wear sandals or slip on shoes, or water shoes.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Hacienda Guachipelin hotel offers a buffet breakfast, subject to change.

Mineral Garden Spa Treatment

2 Hours

This morning you’ll take a quick 10 minute private transfer to the spa. Your private group experience begins with a body exfoliation, followed by a massage of your choice (relaxation or deep tissue), and is completed with an antioxidant mask. During your session your group will split into smaller groups and you will enjoy the experience in a group rotation. Spa schedule is set by the hotel and you will receive your group appointment time at the start of your trip. Typically, your spa session will happen in the morning or early afternoon. A towel is provided at the spa center.

On-site Hot Springs

2 Hours

Enjoy the included hot springs at your hotel just a 15 minute transfer away! Schedule for use is set by the hotel and depends on weather conditions. Typically travelers will enjoy the hot springs after they finish their Mineral Garden Spa Treatment. A towel is provided for you when you arrive at the hot springs. Due to the temperature of the hot springs, it is not recommended for small children, pregnant women, or people with high blood pressure.

Taking Care in Your Body

Our morning adventure will be led by Charity Lynette, a plus-size fitness instructor empowering all bodies to move, grow and thrive. This session will focus on taking care in your body, emphasizing the importance of nurturing our physical well-being. We will begin by appreciating the beauty surrounding us, followed by gentle stretches to awaken our bodies. Through meditation and reflection, we’ll set our intentions for the day ahead. By prioritizing our physical health and expressing our intentions each morning, we can cultivate a true sense of community and support, deepening our shared moments of care.

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/5

Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

Today you’ll wake up to beautiful views and enjoy breakfast. Then you will ride on horseback to the hidden gem that is the Oropendola Waterfall! You’ll take a short walk down to the waterfall where you’ll enjoy amazing views of the blue-green water and have the opportunity to cool off and swim in the pool below. After your visit, you’ll walk back to the entrance, hop back on your horse and ride back to the hotel where you can get lunch on your own. You’ll have the afternoon and evening free to enjoy on your own. Be sure to wear your bathing suit under comfortable clothing for horseback riding, and wear comfortable close toed shoes that can get wet, or water shoes.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Hacienda Guachipelin hotel offers a buffet breakfast, subject to change.

Horseback Riding and Oropendola Waterfall Visit

1 Hour 30 Mins

You will begin from the hotel where a local cowboy will teach you the basics of horseback riding - no prior experience necessary! Then you’ll head out on a 45-minute ride through a scenic forest trail. When you arrive at the waterfall entrance, you’ll take a short 15 minute walk alongside the river on a dirt trail and across a hanging bridge to La Oropendola Waterfall. The impressive 25-meter La Oropendola Waterfall tumbles down into a bubbling turquoise pool in the canyon of the Blanco River. This breathtaking tropical oasis is perfect for a refreshing dip and after relaxing and swimming at the oasis, you'll ride back to Hacienda Guachipelin. A towel and a helmet are provided. Please note this activity has a weight limit of 240 lbs. This activity is not recommended for pregnant women, people with a recent history of surgery, or those that have heart complications. The horseback riding portion of the activity is low impact, but mobility is important for keeping balance when riding and leading the horse.

Taking Care in Your Mind

Join us as we focus on cultivating simple, repeatable practices that can seamlessly integrate into our daily lives, with an emphasis on taking care in your mind. We'll gather for a gentle stretch to awaken our bodies and minds, enjoy a refreshing walk around the property to soak in the surrounding beauty, and share a reflective moment to set our intentions, establishing a positive tone for the day ahead. Together, we'll share this simple yet impactful moment of care, focusing on mindfulness techniques that nurture our mental well-being. These are the chapters of connection that will foster a supportive atmosphere, inspiring us to embrace these practices as meaningful rituals in our everyday lives.

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/5

Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

Enjoy another morning in the mountain paradise and fill up on a hearty breakfast. Then you’ll transfer to the Rincón de la Vieja National Park for a beautiful hike. After the hike, you’ll transfer back to the hotel where you can rest and get lunch. The afternoon and evening are free for you to enjoy. For the hike be sure to wear comfortable walking/hiking shoes, a waterbottle, sunscreen, and a snack.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Hacienda Guachipelin hotel offers a buffet breakfast, subject to change.

Rincón de la Vieja Volcano Hike

1 Hour 30 Mins

Take a short 10 minute transfer and arrive at the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Towering at 6,217 feet tall, the Rincón de la Vieja volcano is still active and is one of 5 volcanoes in the Guanacaste mountain range. The surrounding scenery and varied terrain on today’s easy hike will take you through lush green vegetation, under cool forest canopies, and past breathtaking waterfalls. Hiking through the changing environments with breathtaking ocean views will offer some memorable photo opportunities. Please wear closed toed shoes. It's recommended that you bring water and a snack. Distance: 2.5 miles / Elevation gain: 442 ft / Duration: 2 hours / Difficulty: Medium. **Please note that the Rincón de la Vieja National Park is closed on Mondays.**

Taking Care in your Spirt

Join us for another morning experience, which will focus on taking care in your spirit, emphasizing the importance of nurturing our inner selves. We will begin with a moment of gratitude to connect with our intentions for the day. Through engaging exercises and meaningful conversations, we’ll create space for reflection and spiritual growth. Together, we’ll share insights and practices that inspire us to embrace positivity and compassion, fostering a supportive atmosphere that nurtures our spirits as we connect with one another.

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 4/5

Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

After breakfast, you’ll have the entire day at your leisure to relax and enjoy! For dinner, you’ll enjoy a final meal together with your group before parting ways tomorrow!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Hacienda Guachipelin hotel offers a buffet breakfast, subject to change.

The Collective Experience: Taking Care in Your Story

1 Hour

Join us for a transformative experience centered on taking care in your story, led by host and founder, Devorah Story along with mental health advocate Dr. Domenique Marie Roberts. Together with our esteemed facilitators, we will create a safe space for everyone to share and amplify our narratives as a collective. We'll begin with light-hearted introductions to foster authenticity, followed by engaging exercises that encourage guided conversation and moments of healing. Through this process, we’ll dive deep into the self-work necessary for personal growth, uncovering the profound care that emerges from collective vulnerability. The session culminates a transformative moment through the aspect of self expression. During this exercise, you'll have the opportunity to rediscover confidence, reclaim identity and the expression of freedom. Together, we'll create new narratives of healing, courage, and mutual support. This will be an unforgettable experience where creativity, sisterhood, and personal growth all collide. The more we share, the richer the experience becomes, reminding us that true care lies in our stories. And at the end of it all, we'll keep writing...because our stories will forever go on.

dinner

Farewell dinner included at the hotel. Your meal will be buffet style with non-alcoholic drinks included, subject to change.

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 5/5

Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR).

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Hacienda Guachipelin hotel offers a buffet breakfast, subject to change.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:

  • The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
  • The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.