Yoga & Surf Retreat in
San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

March 5-12, 2016

 

Yoga Shala at Costa Dulce Beach Bungalows at Playa Escameca, San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

Check out our Nicaragua Yoga and Surf Retreat for 2017.

Epic Yoga and Surf Retreat in Nicaragua

Escape the winter blues and join us for our 2016 All-Inclusive Yoga and Surf Retreat Nicaragua. You will experience secluded beaches, invigorating yoga, epic surfing, and the best food in Nicaragua! You’ll step into spring feeling calm, well-balanced, and full of energy when you treat yourself to this amazing all-inclusive yoga retreat.

We are ecstatic to be hosting our Second All-Inclusive Yoga and Surfing Retreat at Costa Dulce Beach Bungalows in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. This all-inclusive eco-retreat will allow you to fully step away from the outside world. Here you will find a beautiful tropical paradise that will rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit. Let all your stress slip away as you enjoy twice daily yoga sessions, delicious healthy meals, and plenty of scheduled downtime to surf, read a good book, soak up the sun, and practice hammock asana.

The Nicaragua Yoga and Surf Retreat will be hosted by Autumn Adams, RYT 200. Autumn is a certified Hatha Yoga Instructor living in Bend, Oregon. She currently teaches at Juniper Yoga, Max Fitness and the Broken Top Club in addition to her projects and retreats with Ambuja Yoga.

This retreat is all-inclusive, covering everything from locally sourced meals, non-alcoholic (local coffee and fresh fruit juices) and alcoholic beverages (rum and beer), 7 nights accommodation, surf guides, board rentals, twice daily yoga sessions, a day of seva (community service) with Paso Pacifico, a one hour massage, roundtrip shuttle service from Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua to Costa Dulce Beach Bungalows and gratuity. All you have to do is pack your bags and get yourself to Managua! Easy!!!

Woman Girl Sitting Sunrise Sunset Bikini Beach

Yoga at Playa Escameca, Nicaragua with Autumn Adams

Autumn Adams, is a certified Hatha Yoga Instructor registered with Yoga Alliance. Autumn blends her knowledge of hatha, vinyasa and yin yoga to create dynamic classes appropriate for all levels of yoga practitioners. Each morning we will begin with an energizing all-levels vinyasa flow; afternoon sessions will be either a restorative flow class or a workshop depending on the day’s activities. Each yoga class will be 1.5-2 hours long and will include asana, pranayama, and meditation.

You can expect to feel gently challenged throughout your yoga practice as you explore new and familiar yoga asanas. Autumn’s sequences are designed to gently challenge each yogi(-ni). Your body and mind will be challenged as you delve deeper into the postures, create space and openness throughout your body, and release stress and over-use related tension.

Surfing at Playa Escameca, NicaraguaBig wave break near Playa Escameca, Nicaragua

The surf break in front of the Bungalows at Playa Escameca can provide a fun ride for beginning to intermediate surfers, while nearby Playa Yankee will satisfy more advanced surfers. Check out the surf report for Playa Yankee on Magic Seaweed. The beach here is great for finding wildlife. On our last trip we saw howler monkeys, parrots, and one guest saw a baby turtle making its way to the ocean.

Nicaragua has some of the best sunsets in the world, and what better way to enjoy them than with a cold Toña and new friends!

Our Exclusive Eco-Retreat

Our Nicaragua Yoga and Surf Retreat is hosted at the stunning rustic and eco-chic Costa Dulce Bungalows and Retreat Center. Shoes are optional.  Costa Dulce Beach Bungalows is located less than 20 Km from the surf town of San Juan del Sur in the far southwest corner of Nicaragua. In fact, it is so far south you can see Costa Rica from the yoga shala. The location is stunning and getting to this secluded eco-retreat is half the adventure.

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Retreat Dates

Saturday March 5, 2016 to Saturday March 12, 2016

Nicaragua Yoga & Surf Retreat Includes:

  • 7 nights accommodation at Costa Dulce Beach Bungalows
  • Twice daily yoga sessions (90-120 minutes each)
  • Surf board rentals and surf lesson with detailed local info
  • Healthy, locally sourced meals
  • Local coffee, fresh fruit juices, smoothies, beer and rum
  • One 60 minute massage. Additional massages available for purchase.
  • Complimentary Wifi
  • Day-trip to Laguna de Apoyo, includes: lunch and use of kayaks, inner tubes, SUP and swimming dock. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase.
  • A day of selfless service with Paso Pacifico
  • Day trip to Playa Remanso or San Juan del Sur
  • Roundtrip shuttle from Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua to Costa Dulce Beach Bungalows (approximately 2.5-3 hrs. each way)

Nicaragua Yoga & Surf Retreat Excludes:

  • Airfare
  • Private Yoga and Private Surf Lessons
  • Alcoholic beverages other than local rum and beer
  • Junk food
  • Lunch on day trip to Playa Remanso/ San Juan del Sur
  • Additional excursions (all excursions must be paid by the evening of March 11)
  • Gratuity for guides and surf instructors
  • Additional massages

Yoga Retreat Pricing Options Per Person

  • $1200 per person/Dorm (Triple) Shared Bath [3 spaces]
  • One Bungalow with Shared Bath
    • $1300 per person/Triple Occupancy 
    • $1400 per person/Double Occupancy 
    • $1650 per person/Single Occupancy
  • $1500 per person/Double Occupancy Bungalow Private Bath [Sold Out]
  • $1400 per person/Triple Occupancy Bungalow Private Bath [Sold Out]
  • $1775 per person/Single Occupancy Bungalow Private Bath [Sold Out]

Luxury Casita with Private Bath [sleeps 2-4]

  • $1525 per person/Quadruple Occupancy
  • $1725 per person/Triple Occupancy
  • $2104 per person/Double Occupancy

Book your retreat by December 1, 2015 and receive $100 off of your total price!!!

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 Daily Yoga Schedule*

6:30-7:30 AM             Coffee and Tea
7:30-8:00 AM            First breakfast
8:00-9:30 AM            Morning Yoga (Vinyasa Yoga)
9:30-10:30 AM          Breakfast
10:30-1:00 PM           Free Time/Surf Lesson/Surfing
1:00-2:00 PM            Light lunch
2:00-4:30 PM            Free Time/Surf Lesson/Surfing
4:30-6:00 PM            Afternoon Yoga (Restorative Flow/Workshop)
6:30-8:00 PM           Dinner
8:00-? PM                 Free Time

*Schedule subject to change

Mornings will begin with 8 AM Vinyasa yoga to awaken the physical and energetic body. There will be coffee, tea, fruit and yogurt available before the morning asana practice; after yoga we will serve a full breakfast.

The afternoon is yours to spend however you like, whether it be surfing lessons on the house break, relaxing in a hammock, or exploring the beach. It is also a great time to arrange additional excursions like fishing, snorkeling, a trip in to town, etc. A light lunch will be served mid-day. Dinner will follow shortly after the afternoon yoga sessions (4:30-6PM) and after dinner you are free to hang out, tell stories, play games, or find a quiet place for meditation.

Join our Facebook Community Page or the Ambuja Yoga page to see updated pics, news and deals!!! Can’t wait to see you there!!!

For more information about this retreat, please visit www.NicaYogaRetreat.com. Make sure to check out the photo gallery!!!

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Nicaragua Retreat Travel and Reservation Info

 

Travel Routes and Travel Tips

We’ve found great deals on flights to Managua on Delta, United and American Airlines. Depending on where you are flying from you may have an overnight layover in Houston, Miami, etc. If you will be arriving in Nicaragua early (or staying longer) I am happy to make recommendations for safe, comfortable, quirky places to stay in Managua (and further afield i.e.. Laguna de Apoyo, Granada, Corn Islands, and San Juan del Sur).

Airlines that fly into Managua, Nicaragua (MGA) from the United States

  1. Delta
  2. United
  3. TACA
  4. American Airlines 
  5. Spirit Airlines

Other airlines that fly into Managua, Nicaragua (MGA)

  1. Copa
  2. Avianca
  3. TACA / LACSA
  4. US Airways
  5. Aeromexico

Airlines that fly directly into Liberia**, Costa Rica (LIR) from the United States

  1. Delta 
  2. American Airlines 
  3. United
  4. jetBlue

Other airlines that fly into Liberia**, Costa Rica (LIR)

  1. US Airways 
  2. Copa
  3. TACA / LACSA
  4. Avianca
  5. Air Canada

** If you will be flying into/out of Liberia you will be responsible for your transportation to/from Costa Dulce. Transportation from LIR to Costa Dulce is not included in the pricing of the retreat.**

Arrival and Departure Information

Your airport pick-up will be in Managua on Saturday March 5, 2016 and drop off will be March 12, 2016. Please arrive by 1:00pm in Managua (MGA). The group will depart Costa Dulce at 7am arriving at the airport at approximately 10am. Please do not schedule your departing flight before noon on March 12, 2016. Arrivals after 1:00pm on March 5, 2016 and those departing earlier than noon on March 12 will need to arrange their own transportation to Costa Dulce (~ $120 USD).

  • Arrival Day Schedule*
    • 1:00 PM Airport pickup
    • 4:00 PM Arrival to retreat center
    • 4:30 PM Welcome beverage and light snack
    • 5:30 PM Opening circle, sun salutations and yoga nidra/savasana
    • 7:00 PM Dinner
  • Departure Day Schedule*
    • 5:00 AM Optional 1 hr. Yoga Practice
    • 6:00 AM Prepare for departure
    • 6:30 AM Light Breakfast
    • 7:00 AM Depart Costa Dulce for Airport
  • *Schedule subject to change.

Travel Insurance

It is not required, but I do recommend it. Many policies will help cover theft, travel delays, and evacuation should you need it. It may also protect you in case of trip cancellation due to illness or death of a family member.

Nicaragua Visa Requirements

A visa is not required for most countries (including the US, Canada, and most European countries). Citizens of some countries do require a Visa On Arrival. All tourists are required to pay for a Tourist Card $10 USD upon arrival.

Reservations and Payment Policy

A 50% deposit holds your place for this retreat. Final payment must be received by February 1, 2016. Ambuja Yoga currently accepts Certified Cheques, Paypal, and Square. Reserve your space today!

Cancellation Policy

The deposit amount is refundable until December 1, 2015 less any associated bank fees. After December 1, 2015 the deposit becomes non-refundable. However, if you can fill your space your deposit may be transferred to another individual.

If written Notice of Cancellation is received between December 2, 2015 and January 1, 2016 the refund amount will be as follows: amount paid less bank fees (if applicable) less non-refundable deposit less $100 office fee.

If written Notice of Cancellation is received after January 1, 2016 there will be no refund granted.

If Ambuja Yoga must cancel the retreat due to illness, death, or extenuating circumstances 100% of money paid to Ambuja Yoga will be refunded within 30 days of retreat cancellation. Ambuja Yoga is not responsible for guest’s costs & expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips.

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FAQ

Are tips and gratuities included?

Ambuja Yoga is covering basic gratuity for retreat lodging and meals. If you feel like your massage therapists and/or tour guides for surf lessons, transportation, beach trips etc. did an excellent job an appropriate tip ranges from $2-$10 USD and it is greatly appreciated.

Do I need a power adaptor?

If any of your appliances/chargers are 3 prong you will need to bring a 3 prong to 2 prong adaptor. Here are further details:

  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Frequency: 60 Hz
  • Power sockets: type A (2 prong)

Do I need to bring yoga props?

Mats, blocks and straps are available for your use. I do suggest that you bring your own yoga mat and any additional props that you may use.

Is the drinking water in Nicaragua safe?

Tap water in Nicaragua is not safe for drinking. There are two purified water filling stations at the retreat. Please bring a refillable water bottle to use throughout the retreat. 

Is Nicaragua safe?

Yes, it is. Like in most parts of the world it is important to make intelligent choices. Costa Dulce is incredibly safe and the staff is treated like family and they will treat you like family. Costa Dulce Retreat Center is a very safe venue. Entrances/exits are guarded. Outside of Costa Dulce it is important to stay off of the beach after dark, to not take out more than you need at night, and to trust your instincts. If in doubt, ask a local/expat if it’s safe.

Weather in Nicaragua. What’s it like in March?

Weather in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua is warm and dry. Daytime temps are in the low-mid 90s and nighttime temps are in the 60s and 70s. It is the middle of their dry season and rain is unlikely.

Is there Wifi and Cell Service?

Costa Dulce Beach Bungalows has Wifi in the common spaces. Please keep in mind that Costa Dulce is a remote eco-resort and Wifi does not always work perfectly. I encourage each guest to take this week to relax and unplug from their iPhones, computers, etc. Cell service is available in Nicaragua and at Costa Dulce. Claro is the main cell provider in San Juan del Sur and phones and minutes are cheap. If you will be bringing your own phone remember to check in with your phone company about roaming charges and international rates.

Money and Credit Cards

The official currency of Nicaragua is the Cordoba, although USD and Cordoba are used interchangeably. I suggest bringing a variety of US bills that are crisp and clean, no tears or marks (no one will take them, including the banks). Large bills are hard to change. ATMs are available at the airport in Managua and in San Juan del Sur. Most businesses do not accept credit/debit cards.

Immunizations for Nicaragua

Here are the recommendations from the CDC website for:

All travelers:
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

Most travelers:
The CDC recommends the Hepatitis A vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Nicaragua, regardless of where you are eating or staying. The CDC also recommends getting the typhoid vaccine. You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Nicaragua. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.

Some travelers:
If you will be getting tattoos, engaging in sexual intercourse with a new partner or will be spending time around bats you may consider the following vaccines/prophylaxis treatment: hepatitis B, Antimalarials, and Rabies.

There is no malaria in the San Juan del Sur area, but precautions should still be taken to prevent mosquito bites. Dengue fever and chikungunya are present in Central America although the risk is low if proper preventative measures are observed.

I’m new to yoga and I don’t know how to surf. Is this retreat appropriate for me?

Absolutely! And we’d love to have you. During yoga classes I will always offer modifications and variations to make asanas more accessible or more challenging. And for non-surfers, we will have a surf guide available to offer lessons and pointers throughout the week. Private surf lessons begin at $30/hr. One group surf lesson is included in the pricing. I will also be available for private yoga lessons which are $55/60 minutes. Private yoga lessons are a great way to move deeper into your yoga practice, increase strength and flexibility, improve alignment and get hands-on one-on-one instruction. If you and your hubby/friend would like to share a private lesson it’s $55 for the first person and an additional $15 for each additional person (ex. 2 people = $70, 3 people = $85).