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Costa Rica with Tanya Thanawalla
Dates
Sep 22–27, 2025
Group Size
8–20 Travelers
Duration
6 days, 5 nights
Activity Level
Exploration
About This Trip
Meet Your Host
View Full ProfileTanya Thanawalla
I'm a professional choreographer, dancer, and creative director based in NYC. I teach regular classes in Manhattan. I can't wait to travel with you guys for an incredible trip abroad celebrating dance!
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
Introductory Gathering with Tanya
Morning Stretch & Journal with Tanya
Dance Workshop 1 with Tanya
Evening Gathering with Tanya
Morning Stretch & Set your expectations with Tanya
Reels Shooting Day!
Evening Decompression & Reflection with Tanya
Morning Stretch & Breath Work with Tanya
Evening Gratitude Circle with Tanya
Morning Stretch & Recovery Tips
Dance Workshop 2 with Tanya
Reels Shooting Day!
Evening Farewell & Post Dinner Party
Itinerary
*All durations are approximate
Info
dinner
Welcome dinner included at the hotel. Your meal will be buffet style with non-alcoholic drinks included, subject to change.
Introductory Gathering with Tanya
Welcome! We're so excited you're here!
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)
Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.
Info
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.
Morning Stretch & Journal with Tanya
Gather together for a stretch followed by an intentional journaling session. What are you looking to learn from this experience in Costa Rica? What are your goals as it relates to dance?
Mineral Garden Spa Treatment
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
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.
Dance Workshop 1 with Tanya
Bollywood Street Jazz! An exclusive new routine only available on this retreat. We'll have 2 hours in this beautiful workshop space to learn a new routine. We'll start with a 10 minute stretch followed by breaking down the choreography. We'll have the rest of the time to walk through and practice the routine, taking our time to think through our movement quality and performance style. Filming will be scheduled on a different day, so you have ample time to digest the choreography. This workshop is open to all levels and you can choose to dance barefoot or in shoes.
Evening Gathering with Tanya
Gather with Tanya and your dance community to reflect on your day and learnings. What did you experience as a student and performer in your first dance workshop of the retreat? What are your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to learning choreography? What are your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to feeling confident as a dancer? Feel free to share with your community or observe.
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)
Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.
Info
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.
Morning Stretch & Set your expectations with Tanya
Gather together for a morning stretch followed by an intentional journaling session. Set your goals and expectations with regards to your performance, which we'll be filming later today!
Reels Shooting Day!
Get ready for filming your reels! We'll be spending this time to cheer for your peers and film your solo reels by a professional videographer with the backdrop of Costa Rica's lush forests! Featuring the exclusive routine from Workshop 1. This experience is not mandatory, but we encourage you to have this filming experience for your own personal use and growth!
Horseback Riding and Oropendola Waterfall Visit
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.
Evening Decompression & Reflection with Tanya
Journal your progress and what you overcame to perform. Explore the changes you've seen in yourself and in your performance.
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)
Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.
Info
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.
Morning Stretch & Breath Work with Tanya
We'll meet together to do a morning stretch followed by a breathing technique that Tanya uses frequently, which enables your nervous system to slow down and reduce stress.
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano Hike
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.**
Evening Gratitude Circle with Tanya
End the day taking notes of your experiences and journaling your gratitude for the day. Get a restful night to prepare for our final full day with our second dance workshop of the retreat.
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)
Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.
Info
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.
Morning Stretch & Recovery Tips
On our last full day together, we will do our usual morning stretch followed by a session focused on how to recover post your dance classes using different techniques.
Dance Workshop 2 with Tanya
Bollywood Street Jazz! An exclusive new routine only available on this retreat. We'll have 2 hours in this beautiful workshop space to learn a new routine. We'll start with a 10 minute stretch followed by breaking down the choreography. We'll have the rest of the time to walk through and practice the routine, taking our time to think through our movement quality and performance style. Filming will be scheduled after lunch in the late afternoon, so we'll have a longer break for you to digest & practice the choreography. This workshop is open to all levels and you can choose to dance barefoot or in shoes.
Reels Shooting Day!
Get ready for filming your reels! We'll be spending this time to cheer for your peers and film your solo reels by a professional videographer with the backdrop of Costa Rica's lush forests! Featuring the exclusive routine from Workshop 2. This experience is not mandatory, but we encourage you to have this filming experience for your own personal use and growth!
dinner
Farewell dinner included at the hotel. Your meal will be buffet style with non-alcoholic drinks included, subject to change.
Evening Farewell & Post Dinner Party
Let's grab some drinks (or mocktails!) and spend our last night talking about your best experiences with dance and how we all can continue to grow though the years!
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin (or similar)
Overnight in Rincón de la Vieja.
Info
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.
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
Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip
Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind
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
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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 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 days or fewer 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.
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.
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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
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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.
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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.