Costa Rica with Ericka

Dates

Apr 21–26, 2026

Group Size

8–21 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

🌴✨ Costa Rica Book Lovers Retreat ✨🌴 Escape with us to the lush paradise of Costa Rica for a one-of-a-kind retreat designed for book lovers who crave connection, relaxation, and adventure. This isn’t just a getaway—it’s a chance to step away from the noise of everyday life and immerse yourself in the magic of community, stories, and self-discovery. Surrounded by tropical beauty, we’ll spend our days balancing relaxation with inspiration: 📚 Bookish Connection – Gather with fellow readers who share your passion for romance, fantasy, thrillers, and everything in between. From cozy group discussions to peaceful reading time, you’ll find your people here. 🌊 Relax & Recharge – Melt into tranquility with a rejuvenating spa treatment that soothes your body and mind. Then slip into Costa Rica’s natural hot springs, where warm, mineral-rich waters invite you to release stress and fully sink into the moment. Surrounded by lush scenery and tropical breezes, this is your time to reset, restore, and simply be. 🌺 Adventure & Exploration – Trek through vibrant trails on a guided volcano hike and take in breathtaking views, then experience the freedom of horseback riding across Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes. These unforgettable adventures will ignite your spirit and stay with you long after the trip ends. 💫 Friendship that Lasts – Our last retreat sparked bonds that grew into lifelong friendships—and this one promises the same. This is more than a trip; it’s a chance to meet your book besties in real life. Come ready to relax, laugh, share stories, and create moments you’ll carry with you long after the pages are closed.
$2,697USD
Free to join the waitlist
$2,697USD
Apr 21–26, 2026
6 days
Sold Out

Travelers

1

Meet Your Host

Ericka C
Ericka C

Book lover, content creator, and community builder. I’m passionate about creating spaces where women can come together to connect, recharge, and celebrate the stories that move us—both on the page and in life.

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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

Yoga Deck Book Girlie Gathering

Workshop
A covered private yoga deck has been reserved for us to do WHATEVER we want! As we have our group meetings prior to the trip, we will discuss what we'd like to use this space for. Even if it's just a space we can all get together privately, that is totally fine! But we can explore options of yoga, meditation, book club, game night, whatever you can imagine we can plan!

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Welcome to Rincón de la Vieja!

Welcome to Costa Rica! To kick off your adventure, please meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. for departure to your Welcome Dinner. The exact reservation time will be confirmed as your trip date approaches. If you're arriving today, we recommend flying into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) for the most convenient access.

dinner

Welcome dinner included at the hotel. Enjoy a buffet-style meal with non-alcoholic drinks included as part of your welcome dinner. Please note that details are 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.

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Day 2

Healing Spa & Hot Springs

After breakfast today, you'll enjoy a short transfer to the hotel spa for a relaxing treatment. Following your spa experience, you'll have some free time to grab lunch on your own before a quick ride to the on-site hot springs. Be sure to bring your bathing suit, a change of clothes, and sandals, slip-on shoes, or water shoes for a comfortable and enjoyable time!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. At the Hacienda Guachipelin hotel, a buffet breakfast is offered, though please note that this is subject to change.

Mineral Garden Spa Treatment

1 Hour

This morning, you'll enjoy a quick 10-minute private transfer to the spa, where your private group experience will begin with a body exfoliation, followed by your choice of a relaxation or deep tissue massage, and completed with a nourishing antioxidant mask. To ensure everyone gets the most out of the experience, your group will rotate through smaller sessions. The 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 take place in the morning or early afternoon. A towel will be provided at the spa center for your comfort. Enjoy a truly rejuvenating experience!

On-site Hot Springs

4 Hours

Unwind at the hotel's included hot springs, just a short 15-minute transfer away! This afternoon you will meet with your group and transfer to the hot springs together. While the Hot Springs are available to be freely used at any time by guests (within the hours operation), your first time will be done as a group experience! Subsequent use of the hot springs can be done during free time for the duration of your stay.

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

Horseback Ride & Waterfall Swim

Today, you'll wake up to breathtaking views and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Afterward, embark on a horseback ride to discover the hidden gem that is the Oropendola Waterfall! Upon arrival, you'll take a short walk down to the waterfall, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the blue-green waters. Feel free to cool off and swim in the pool below the falls. Afterward, you'll walk back to the entrance, hop back on your horse, and return to the hotel, where you'll have time to enjoy lunch on your own. The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore at your leisure. Be sure to wear your bathing suit under comfortable clothing for horseback riding, along with closed-toed shoes that can get wet, or water shoes, for your adventure!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. At the Hacienda Guachipelin hotel, a buffet breakfast is offered, though please note that this is subject to change.

Horseback Riding and Oropendola Waterfall Visit

2 Hours

Your adventure begins at the hotel, where a local cowboy will guide you through the basics of horseback riding—no prior experience needed! Next, you'll embark on a 45-minute ride through a scenic forest trail. Upon reaching the waterfall entrance, you'll take a short 15-minute walk alongside the river on a dirt path, crossing a hanging bridge to reach the stunning La Oropendola Waterfall. The impressive 25-meter waterfall cascades into a turquoise pool nestled in the canyon of the Blanco River, creating a breathtaking tropical oasis that’s perfect for a refreshing swim. After relaxing and swimming in this natural paradise, you’ll ride back to Hacienda Guachipelin. A towel and helmet are provided for your comfort and safety. Please note that there is a weight limit of 240 lbs for this activity. This experience is not recommended for pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, or individuals with heart complications. While the horseback riding portion is low-impact, mobility is essential for maintaining balance while riding and leading the horse.

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

Explore Rincón de la Vieja

Start your day in the mountain paradise with a hearty breakfast before transferring to Rincón de la Vieja National Park for a scenic hike. Afterward, you'll transfer back to the hotel to relax and enjoy lunch at your leisure. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free for you to explore and unwind. For the hike, be sure to wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, bring a water bottle, apply sunscreen, and pack a snack to keep energized along the way.

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

2 Hours

Enjoy a short 10-minute transfer to Rincón de la Vieja National Park, home to the towering Rincón de la Vieja volcano, which rises 6,217 feet above sea level. This active volcano is one of five in the Guanacaste mountain range. On today’s easy hike, you’ll explore lush green vegetation, walk beneath cool forest canopies, and pass stunning waterfalls. As you hike through varying environments, you’ll also be treated to breathtaking ocean views that are perfect for memorable photos. The hike covers a distance of 2.5 miles with an elevation gain of 442 ft, taking approximately 2 hours. The difficulty level is medium. For this adventure, please wear closed-toed shoes and be sure to bring water and a snack for the journey. Note: The park is closed on Mondays.

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

Free Day & Farewell Feast

After breakfast, you’ll have the entire day free to relax and enjoy at your own pace! In the evening, gather with your group for a final dinner together, as you share memories and experiences 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.

dinner

The farewell dinner is included at the hotel. The meal will be served buffet-style with non-alcoholic beverages included, subject to change.

Yoga Deck Book Girlie Gathering

4 Hours

A covered private yoga deck has been reserved for us to do WHATEVER we want! As we have our group meetings prior to the trip, we will discuss what we'd like to use this space for. Even if it's just a space we can all get together privately, that is totally fine! But we can explore options of yoga, meditation, book club, game night, whatever you can imagine we can plan!

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

Pura Vida, Costa Rica!

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

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 experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host 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.