Frequently asked questions
Location & Transportation
WHERE IS THE RETREAT LOCATED?
Our retreat is located near Santa Teresa Beach, Province of Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
HOW CAN I GET TO THE RETREAT?
You have a few travel option:
By Air: The fastest way is to fly into San Jose Airport (SJO) or Liberia Airport (LIR) and take a short 30-minutes flight to Cobano Airport (ACO). Two airlines operate this route: Green Airways and AirSansa. The flight offers amazing views of Costa Rica!
Once in Cobano, a taxi can pick you up and drive you to your accommodation for the night before our retreat. The taxi generally costs between $30 – $50, and we are happy to arrange it for you.
Shuttle service: There is a daily shuttle that leaves from San Jose (close to the airport) at 6 am and 2 pm. The drive takes approx 6 hours.
By car: If you prefer driving, here’s an estimate of travel times:
From Tamarindo or Liberia: approx. 4 hours
From San José: between 5 – 6 hours
Roads can be slow due to conditions, so plan accordingly.
DO YOU PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION TO THE RETREAT VENUE?
Yes. For group retreats, we usually arrange pick-up from your accommodation in Santa Teresa where you spend the night before the retreat begins. For private retreats, transportation is fully flexible and can be arranged according to your needs and preferences.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO ARRIVE THE SAME DAY AS THE RETREAT STARTS?
While it is possible, we highly recommend arriving a day prior to the start of the retreat to ensure you are well-rested and ready for the experience. This also allows us to coordinate your transportation more effectively.
About our Retreats
WHAT ARE SOWA NETE'S RETREATS ABOUT?
Our retreats are centered around healing, reconnection, and finding self-love, peace, and acceptance. They are designed to help you connect with nature and yourself, live to your true potential, discover your purpose, and develop the right tools to live in harmony.
WHY SHOULD I EMBARK ON THIS JOURNEY WITH PLANT MEDICINE?
Plant medicine can help release negativity and blockages, and facilitate healing on mental, physical, and spiritual levels. It can help you regain confidence, acceptance, love, and happiness, as well as heal anxiety, depression, and relationships with family, friends, and yourself. This journey can also assist you in discovering and living your true purpose.
WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE JOIN THE RETREATS?
Our participants range from 18 to 65 years old. They come from various backgrounds, seeking healing, self-discovery, spiritual connection, and the realization of their potential.
IS THIS RETREAT SUITABLE FOR ME?
If you are seeking deep healing, self-discovery, and personal transformation, this retreat is suitable for you. We welcome individuals who are open to exploring plant medicine and committed to their personal growth. Everyone is welcome — no matter your background, history, or past experiences.
WHEN IS CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT?
Check-in is around 12pm, and check-out is around 11 am.
DO YOU PROVIDE WIFI?
Yes, we have Wi-Fi available at our venue. However, we encourage you to disconnect from the outside world and minimize phone use to focus on your personal journey of healing and transformation.
CAN I USE MY CELL PHONE ON THE RETREAT?
We recommend turning off your phone during the retreat to detoxify from digital distractions. However, we understand the need to stay in touch with loved ones and are flexible if you need to check in with them.
CAN I WORK DURING THE RETREAT?
We strongly recommend not working during the retreat. The purpose of our retreats is to provide a space for deep relaxation, self-discovery, and healing. To fully immerse yourself in the experience and gain the most benefit, it’s best to disconnect from work and other distractions. This allows you to be fully present and engaged in the activities and the overall healing journey.
WHAT IF I HAVE URGENT WORK MATTERS TO ATTEND TO?
We understand that urgent matters can arise. However, we encourage you to plan ahead and delegate tasks before arriving at the retreat. If you absolutely must handle a work situation, we suggest setting aside a specific, limited amount of time to address it so it doesn’t interfere with your overall retreat experience.
HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR A WORK-FREE RETREAT?
To prepare for a work-free retreat, inform your colleagues and clients about your time away and delegate responsibilities as needed. Set up an out-of-office email response and make arrangements to minimize work-related interruptions. This way, you can fully focus on your healing and personal growth during the retreat.
Retreat activities & Food
WHAT TIME DO THE RETREAT ACTIVITIES BEGIN ON ARRIVAL DAY?
Generally, the first activities begin at 12 pm.
IS THE RETREAT SCHEDULE FIXED?
We provide a structured schedule to create a clear and supportive framework for your journey. At the same time, we work organically, always tuning into the group’s energy and checking in with each participant. This allows us to adapt as needed — creating balance between guidance and flow. While we encourage full participation to receive the greatest benefit, you are free to rest or step back from any activity if that feels right for you.
CAN I LEAVE THE RETREAT VENUE DURING THE RETREAT?
We recommend staying at the retreat venue to maintain focus and avoid unnecessary distractions. However, gentle activities like walking on the beach or swimming in the ocean are always welcome, as they can beautifully support your healing journey.
WHAT KIND OF FOOD CAN I EXPECT?
We provide a pescatarian menu during the retreat, which includes a variety of nutritious and delicious meals to support your healing journey.
I AM VEGAN/VEGETARIAN/HAVE ALLERGIES OR INTOLERANCES, CAN THE MENU BE ADAPTED?
Yes, we can accommodate dietary restrictions. Please inform us in advance of any dietary needs, and we will ensure the menu is tailored to suit you.
APPLICATION PROCCESS
HOW DO I ENROLL FOR A RETREAT?
Fill out the Application Form – The first step is to complete our application form. This helps us understand your needs and ensure the retreat will be safe and beneficial for you.
Application Review & Video Call – Once we receive your application, our team will review it and then reach out via email or text to schedule a video call. This gives us a chance to meet, answer your questions, and begin building a foundation of trust.
Secure Your Spot – After our call, you can confirm your place by making a 50% deposit. This deposit secures your spot.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I MAKE THE DEPOSIT?
Once you have made the 50% deposit, your spot in the retreat is secured. We will then provide you with all the necessary details and preparation guidelines to ensure you have a transformative and fulfilling experience.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEED TO CANCEL?
our 50% deposit secures your spot in the retreat and is generally non-refundable. However, we understand that emergencies can happen.
Cancellations more than 15 days before the retreat – We can refund your deposit, minus any bank or transfer fees.
Cancellations less than 15 days before the retreat – The deposit is non-refundable, as preparations and costs have already been made. In special cases of genuine emergency, we may offer a partial refund or the option to transfer your deposit to a future retreat.
ABOUT COSTA RICA
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
Santa Teresa Beach enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season runs from December to April, offering sunny days and minimal rainfall. The rainy season, from May to November, brings lush greenery and occasional showers, often in the late afternoon or evening.
WHY COSTA RICA?
With its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, volcanoes, and rich biodiversity, Costa Rica provides an ideal setting for plant medicine retreats. The natural surroundings enhance the therapeutic value of these experiences, allowing you to connect with nature and yourself in profound ways. Furthermore, Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” lifestyle embodies a laid-back and positive attitude towards life that you’ll find in the welcoming locals. This philosophy encourages you to slow down, appreciate the simple pleasures, and truly immerse yourself in the culture. Moreover, Costa Rica is a global leader in ecotourism and sustainability. A significant portion of its land is protected as national parks and reserves, ensuring the preservation of its unique ecosystems. By visiting, you actively contribute to these conservation efforts.
ARE THERE BUGS AND MOSQUITOES?
Like most tropical destinations, Santa Teresa Beach has its share of bugs and mosquitoes, especially during the rainy season. We recommend bringing insect repellent and wearing long sleeves or pants in the evenings to minimize bites. That said, it’s generally not too bad here, and most guests find it easy to manage.
IS THE AREA SAFE?
Yes, Santa Teresa Beach is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. The local community is friendly and welcoming. As with any travel destination, it is advisable to take common-sense precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being mindful of your surroundings.
