A week of immersion in local flavors with Kristof and Nimi, followed by a week of spiritual journey with Noémi Csémy
- Location: Costa Rica
- Date: 7-19 January, 2026
- Travel: flights organised individually (ask for our personlaised offer)
- Number of participants: maximum 18 people
- Special hosts on the first week: Kristóf Steiner and Nimrod Dagan
- Yoga teacher and spiritual leader: Noémi Csémy
- Tour leader: Eszter Horváth
- Board: breakfast, one daily vegan main dish cooked and served by Kristóf&Nimi between 7-11 January, as well as vegan breakfast and dinner in the second half of the program (from 12 January) at the hotels; full board during the last two days in Alajuela.
- Accommodation: 12 nights in lovely, close-to-nature “lodges” either deep in the jungle, or next to hot springs, and even up on a tree! Comfortable two- or three-bedded rooms with private bathrooms
- Local transport: with private minivan, English speaking driver-guide
What is this tour about?
This culinary and wellness-focused trip takes you through some of Costa Rica’s calmest and most interesting places. On the first week in the company of Kristóf and Nimi we will discover the fantastic flavours of Costa Rica’s plants and fruits, cook and eat together, and taste local vegan dishes. We will retreat to the jungle to spend a magical journey with old acquaintances again, find new friends, and recharge both physically and mentally in each other’s company.
On the second week with the guidance of yoga instructor Noémi, we will move our bodies daily, go on excursions, visit the sights of Costa Rica, do yoga in magical locations, swim, hike, watch birds, or just simply relax and immerse ourselves in nature.
About the places we visit and stay:
First we will spend a few days at Macaw Lodge, nestled in the forest. A peaceful retreat surrounded by birdsong, tropical gardens and waterfalls – perfect for yoga (Noemi our yoga instructor will join us on the first week, too), walks, or simply relaxing in nature. We will then move to Playa Hermosa, just south of Jacó, where the quiet beach and ocean breeze help you ease into a slower rhythm. Enjoy three days at a naturally inspiring location, cook and eat together the healthy, tropical local food with Kristof and Nimi near the jungle.
On the second half of our Costa Rica adventures, we will head to La Fortuna, where the Arenal Volcano sets the scene for hot springs, forest hikes, and plenty of options to relax or explore, depending on your mood.
Wrap up the journey in the hills above San José at Pura Vida Retreat, where yoga sessions, fresh meals, and mountain views make it easy to reset before heading home.
Tours and activities:
- Cook and eat together with Kristof and Nimi thrice during the first week
- Everyday yoga lessons
- Manuel Antonio National Park walking tour
- Tarcoles River wildlife safari on boat, a closer look at crocodiles (optional, additional cost)
- Cocoa tour in Macaw Lodge
- Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfalls area walking tour
- Volcanic hot spring baths
- Night walk in the rainforest
- Kayaking on Arenal Lake
Detailed day-to-day programme
Day 1 Wednesday, 07 January 2026 San Jose, Costa Rica
Welcome to Costa Rica, one of the happiest places on earth.
Meeting at the exit of the SJO International Airport. Local guide will welcome us to Costa Rica, introduce and drive to the hotel for the first night in Costa Rica!
Overnight at:
Canal Grande Lodge
Day 2 Thursday 08 January 2026 Carara National Park
After breakfast, we will set off for Macaw Lodge. Leaving the city, the route winds through verdant mountains and small villages, gradually transitioning into the Pacific Ocean forest, home to the last remaining untouched, lush and biodiverse rainforest in the Central Pacific.
Nestled in the Cerros de Turrubares mountains, Macaw Lodge is a haven for wellness enthusiasts, especially yoga enthusiasts. The property features two outdoor yoga platforms, set amidst tranquil gardens and lily ponds, providing an immersive experience. Macaw Lodge offers vegetarian and vegan cuisine, prepared with ingredients grown in its organic gardens, ensuring a holistic retreat that harmonizes body, mind and soul.
Taking advantage of the location’s great features, there is an opportunity to practice yoga before dinner with Noemi.
Day 3 Friday 9 January 2026 Carara National Park
Today as an Optional Activity, we can visit the Tarcoles River to see the big crocodiles. As we flow on our boat down the Tarcoles River and approach the estuary, we will be treated to an awe-inspiring spectacle of nature in action. Get up-close with the giant ancient reptiles measuring over 4 meters in length, as well as iguanas and basilisks in their natural habitat. The knowledgeable captain and bilingual guide will provide you with fascinating insights into the fauna and flora of the river, while you enjoy opportunities to snap photographs and capture footage of the wildlife.
The boat program is optional. The full-day program costs 85 USD per person.
Before dinner, there is an opportunity to join a one-hour yoga practice led by Noémi Csémy.
Overnight at:
Macaw Lodge
Day 4 Saturday, 10 January 2026, Carara National Park
Nestled in the lush tropical paradise of Costa Rica, this tour invites you on a one-of-a-kind journey through the art of chocolate-making. From its ancient roots as a ceremonial beverage for Mayan royalty and priests, to its current status as a daily indulgence enjoyed by people from all walks of life, cocoa has long held a place of cultural and culinary significance.
At the lodge, you will have the chance to delve deep into the rich history of this beloved treat, exploring the cocoa tree and its various strains, and learning about the traditional methods of fermentation, drying, roasting, shelling, crushing, and grinding that are used to create the essential cocoa paste. Along the way, you will discover the unique qualities of the cocoa fruit and the factors that influence its growth and flavour, as well as the numerous benefits of consuming this precious commodity.
Before dinner, there will be an opportunity to join the one-hour yoga practice led by Noémi.
Overnight at:
Macaw Lodge
Day 5, 6 and 7, – 11 12 and 13 January, Jacó, Playa Hermosa
After breakfast, we will set off for our next stop, the wonderful Manuel Antonio National Park. With a local guide who is specialized on nature walks, we will explore this unique, protected rainforest on the ocean coast. We can meet sloths, raccoons, monkeys that jump in the canopy. We can also observe many species of reptiles and birds.
Then we move in to our villa built at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level, deep in the jungle. We will spend three days here, where the lovely staff awaits us with a fantastic vegan dinner.
On Monday morning with Kristóf and Nimi we will prepare our brunch. In the afternoon, we walk down to the ocean, relax, play and talk, watching the sunset together.
A full-day trip to Manuel Antonio National Park, with round-trip transfer and a local nature guide.
Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most visited parks in Costa Rica. A unique, protected rainforest on the ocean coast. We can see its rich wildlife, animals and plants in their natural habitat. We can meet sloths, raccoons, monkeys that are jumping above our heads in the canopy. We can also observe many species of reptiles and birds.
We will return to ouraccommodation in the early afternoon. Our dinner will be prepared by Kristóf and Nimi..
Overnight at:
Hermosa Point
Day 8, Wednesday, 14 January, Arenal Volcano National Park
This morning we say goodbye to Kristóf and Nimi.
After breakfast we travel to La Fortuna. The Arenal volcano erupted in 1968 and has since become one of the most famous natural phenomena in Costa Rica.
In 1968 the Arenal Volcano, which until then was an inoffensive hill, erupted and buried the community of Pueblo Nuevo. The land lost its value and many of the residents left. However, little by little, the spectacular eruptions of the volcano attracted tourists and La Fortuna changed from an agricultural area to a touristic region. Arenal is a large symmetrical volcano built upon layers of ash, rock and lava at almost 1700 meters above sea level. Although it went into a dormant phase in 2010, its internal activity produces the natural hot springs that can be enjoyed in many of the surrounding areas.
Once the sun sets at our Lodge, the rainforest changes completely—and this night walk lets you experience that shift up close. With a local guide, you’ll walk along the lodge’s trails in search of the creatures that only come out after dark.
You might spot red-eyed tree frogs, glass frogs, owls, snakes, and even sloths tucked into the branches. The guide helps you notice details you’d probably miss on your own—like the way insects communicate or how frogs hide in plain sight. The tour is slow-paced, quiet, and full of little surprises.
Boots and headlamps are provided, and the walk is easy enough for most travelers. It’s a great way to connect with the forest in a different light—literally. One of those small experiences that ends up being a favorite.
Overnight at:
Finca Luna Nueva
Day 9, Thursday, 15 January, Arenal Volcano National Park
Today we will explore the area around Arenal Volcano. A visit to La Fortuna Waterfall and The Volcano hike is a great combo for the day.
The excursion starts with a slow paced hike down through 500 steps that open the way to the magnificent waterfall. On the way down your guide will point out the various species that can be found among birds and mammals. Go easy, no rush, and take in the gorgeous views. Once downstairs, you can refresh and swim in the pond of the waterfall in front of you.
After lunch you will visit the imposing Arenal Volcano National Park. The hike takes you around its base while you will be learning everything about the eruptions and the old lava flows, and you will see the transition of the land as the rainforest takes over. We hope to spot some of the animals living in the rainforest.
Overnight at:
Finca Luna Nueva
Day 10, Friday, 16 January, Arenal Volcano National Park
Kayak on Arenal Lake offers the opportunity to enjoy a pleasant day of kayaking on the Lake Arenal while taking in breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano. The tour begins with an orientation where you will learn about basic paddle strokes and safety rules. Once on the water, the guides will lead you along the shoreline for an incredible view of the volcano. On the journey, you will sight different species of birds like the great blue heron, kingfisher, flycatcher and possibly hear the sounds of howler monkeys.
You will visit the world famous hot springs and feel the natural energy surging from the veins of the Arenal Volcano!
The thermal pools range from 37°C to 41° C (99°F to 106° F). There are also cool water pools and a waterfall, so you can enjoy a complete and relaxing time.
Thanks to the perfectly and naturally balanced quantities of calcium bicarbonates and magnesium, they have analgesic, anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxing properties.
Overnight at:
Finca Luna Nueva
Day 11, Saturday, 17 January, Alajuela
Today we will make our way back to the Central Valley for your final nights in Costa Rica. As the sun sets, gather for a special farewell dinner—an opportunity to savour delicious local flavours one more time and toast to the unforgettable experiences and new stories you’ll be taking home.
Arriving at Pura Vida Retreat in Alajuela feels like a gentle shift into a slower pace. It’s just a short drive from the airport, but once you’re up in the hills, surrounded by coffee farms and wide views of the valley, everything quiets down. The staff greets you warmly and helps you get settled, so you can start to relax right away.
The property has a peaceful feel—lush gardens, fresh air, and rooms that open up to the outdoors. There’s a focus on wellness here and the famous Costa Rican view on life, the “Pura Vida”.
Overnight at:
Day 12, Sunday, 18 January, Alajuela
Spend the day fully unwinding at Pura Vida Retreat, where everything invites you to slow down and take care of yourself. This day is for recharging and relaxing: morning yoga, healthy breakfast, massage, tea drinking while enjoying the wonderful view, quiet relaxation in the garden. No rush, no scheduled program – just you and Pura Vida.
In between, you can nap in a hammock, read in the garden, or soak in the views. Meals are thoughtfully prepared and served in a peaceful setting, and there’s always time to just be. It’s the kind of day that leaves you feeling lighter, clearer, and more connected—with no rush and no pressure, just space to breathe and recharge.
Overnight at:
Day 13, Monday, 19 January
Check-out from Pura Vida Retreat & Spa, transfer from Alajuela to the international airport SJO.
End of our amazing tour.
Cost of the tour 7-14 January, 2026. for The Gastronomic Immersion in Costa Rica with Kristof and Nimi:
2360 EUR / person, double occupancy
Cost of the tour 7-19 January, 2026. PURA VIDA Costa Rica: The Gastronomic Immersion with Kristof and Nimi, plus six days yoga retreat and excursions in Costa Rica
3450 EUR / person, double occupancy
Single supplement:
If you wish to join alone, a single supplement will be charged, the amount of which we will be happy to provide upon request.
If you are registering alone, but would like to share the room and its costs with someone, please indicate this when registering, and we will do our best to find a suitable roommate.
The package price includes:
January 7-14, 2026 Gastronomic immersion in Costa Rica with Kristof and Nimi:
- 7 nights accommodation according to the program, with breakfast and one daily vegan meal
- two cooking sessions with Kristof and Nimi
- daily yoga practice (once a day)
- local transport with private minibus
- programs for the first three days with local guide
- airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Group leader
January 7-19, 2026 Costa Rica PURA VIDA – a week with Kristóf and Nimi, AND a six days of hiking and yoga:
- 12 nights accommodation, with breakfast and a daily vegan meal
- two cooking sessions with Kristof and Nimi
- daily yoga practice
- local transport with own minibus
- programs with a local guide on the first three days, than from the 8th day until the end of the program.
- entrance tickets for the places mentioned above in the program.
- airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- group leader during the whole tour
FLIGHTS
The above price does not include international flights. We are happy to assist you with flight tickets. Please let us know your preferred departure/arrival airports, and your preferences. You can fill this form:
Or just send us and email. eszter.horvath@serpentintours.hu