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Finding Peace in Paradise - Costa Rica 2026
🌺 Finding Peace in Paradise: A Retreat in the Heart of the Osa
January 23 - 29th, 2026
Together with Sandy Sharkey, renowned wildlife photographer, and Deborah Draves Legg, seasoned retreat leader, you’ll spend your days held in Mother Nature’s arms—camera in hand or simply present in awe. This is a gathering of like-minded souls, drawn together by a shared desire to savor the gift of being alive in one of the most extraordinary places on Earth.
Step off the boat and onto the shore of Drake Bay, the wild and wondrous gateway to Corcovado National Park and the Osa Peninsula—a place National Geographic has called “the most biologically intense place on Earth.”
🌍 Though the Osa Peninsula makes up only 0.001% of Earth’s land surface, it harbors an astonishing 2.5% of all life on the planet—thousands of plants, insects, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals condensed into this lush corner of Costa Rica. In fact, the Osa contains nearly half of all species found in Costa Rica, a country already recognized as one of the most biodiverse in the world. Some sources estimate that 5% of all life on Earth can be found here.
🌱 Here, scarlet macaws soar overhead while dolphins dance in turquoise waters. Jaguars still roam the forests, tapirs move silently through the undergrowth, and hundreds of bird species create a living symphony. Every step, every glance, reveals another miracle of biodiversity.
It is in this rare setting of raw beauty and natural wonder that we invite you to join us for Finding Peace in Paradise—a retreat designed for photographers, nature lovers, and seekers of soulful connection.
This is an invitation to pause, breathe deeply, and reflect on Mary Oliver’s timeless question:
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
January 2026 - Itinerary
January 2026 - Itinerary
Jan. 22nd, 2026
Gathering
We encourage guests to stay at the Hampton Inn SJO, conveniently located just minutes from San José International Airport (SJO). Sandy will be at the hotel to greet everyone. Inquire about the discounted group rate.
Jan. 23rd - Day 1
Group Pickup & Transfer
The group will be picked up from the Hampton Inn SJO a
Jan. 22nd, 2026
Gathering
We encourage guests to stay at the Hampton Inn SJO, conveniently located just minutes from San José International Airport (SJO). Sandy will be at the hotel to greet everyone. Inquire about the discounted group rate.
Jan. 23rd - Day 1
Group Pickup & Transfer
The group will be picked up from the Hampton Inn SJO at 08:00 for ground transportation to Sierpe. Along the way, we’ll pause at the Tárcoles Bridge to observe the famous crocodiles of the Tárcoles River, then continue on for a lunch break in the vibrant, funky beach town of Dominical—where Deborah, now a local resident, will join the group.
Our day ends with an overnight stay in Sierpe at the modest yet welcoming Hotel Cocodrilo Sierpe, where shared lodging accommodations are provided.
Day 2
Sierpe River
Transport to the boat dock in Sierpe. During our trip down the Sierpe River to the La Paloma Lodge in Drake Bay, we will experience Latin America's largest mangrove system, teeming with a diverse array of wildlife, including toucans, macaws, sloths, monkeys, and more.
Late afternoon welcome circle followed by a sunset dinner overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
(BLD)
Day 3
Drake Bay Shore Explorations
- Morning: Guided birding excursion with a professional naturalist and professional photographer, Sandy Sharkey. We will see a stunning array of birds, including toucans, macaws, hummingbirds, and many more!
- Evening: Jungle night hike, discovering the wonders of the rainforest after dark.
(BLD)
Day 4
Corcovado National Park
Today, a spectacular 20-minute boat ride carries us to Corcovado National Park—often called “the Amazon of Costa Rica.” We’ll arrive at the San Pedrillo Ranger Station, gateway to one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
As we wander the rainforest trails, wildlife surrounds us: monkeys swing playfully through the canopy, brilliant birds and butterflies dance in beams of sunlight, and perhaps even a sloth is nestled in its favorite tree. Our journey culminates at a majestic waterfall, providing a perfect backdrop that reflects the awesomeness of this magical place!
(BLD)
Day 5
Peace in Paradise
Time for rest, optional activities, or additional guided excursions.
- Horseback riding (sunset ride, ½ day, or full day). Advance reservation required
- *Self-guided kayaking
- *Self-guided paddleboarding
- *Beach combing, swimming, boogie boarding
- Sport fishing
- *Swimming in the lodge pool or at the beach
- Guided and *self-guided hiking
- Massage therapy (1-hour sessions). Advance reservation required
(* = complimentary lodge offerings)
(BLD)
Day 6
Caño Island
Enjoy a scenic boat ride across turquoise waters to Caño Island Biological Reserve. Along the way, keep your eyes open for dolphins, sea turtles, and an array of seabirds that often accompany the journey.
Once at the island, you’ll slip into a protected marine sanctuary where all snorkeling gear is provided. For certified divers, optional SCUBA diving is available (advance reservation required, additional fee applies $110/pp).
Whether through a camera lens or simply with your eyes, this is a rare opportunity to witness and photograph vibrant marine life in one of Costa Rica’s most treasured underwater ecosystems.
In the evening, we’ll gather together for our Closing Circle, reflecting on the wonders of the week and the journey we’ve shared.
(BLD)
Jan. 29 – Day 7
Departure via boat taxi back to the Sierpe dock, followed by a ground transfer to the Hampton Inn SJO.
(B)
IMPORTANT NOTE: The itinerary may be subject to change based on weather & hosting venue's schedule.
*Meals included-B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner
Logistics & Pricing
January 2026 - Itinerary
- Base Price: $4,850 per person
- Lodging Options:
- Add $550 for the stand-alone cabin (limited availability)
- Standard accommodations are in two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabins
- Lodging in Sierpe is very limited. On the night of January 23rd, you can expect to share a room (not a bed) with a fellow traveler.
A $1,500 deposit is required to secure your
- Base Price: $4,850 per person
- Lodging Options:
- Add $550 for the stand-alone cabin (limited availability)
- Standard accommodations are in two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabins
- Lodging in Sierpe is very limited. On the night of January 23rd, you can expect to share a room (not a bed) with a fellow traveler.
A $1,500 deposit is required to secure your retreat booking. The balance is due by November 1st, 2026.
Group Size
This retreat welcomes a small, intimate group of 8 participants, creating space for personal attention and meaningful connection.
What's Included
- Modest, shared lodging in Sierpe the night of Jan 23rd
- Double occupancy lodging at La Paloma Lodge, Drake Bay, with a private bedroom and a private bathroom.
- Daily meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Round-trip Sierpe river taxi transfers
- Guided excursions, including:
- Corcovado National Park
- Guided Sierpe Jungle River Excursion
- Caño Island snorkeling (Scuba diving available at extra cost)
- Bird photography/watching
- Night hike with a naturalist guide
- Photography sessions & sharing circles
- Use of kayaks, boogie boards, and paddleboards
Not Included
- International flights to Costa Rica
- SJO hotel on Jan. 22nd
- Meals not mentioned
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional personal activities (e.g., horseback riding, scuba diving, massage)
- Travel insurance (required for all participants)
- Tips
Refund Policy:
- Deposits are refundable up to 60 days before the retreat start date, minus a 5% processing fee.
- No refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations made less than 60 days prior to the retreat's start date.
Force Majeure:
In the event of circumstances beyond our control (including but not limited to natural disasters, pandemics, extreme weather, or political instability), we reserve the right to reschedule or cancel the retreat. Refunds will not be guaranteed under force majeure conditions.
Travel insurance is required to attend this event. Your policy must cover the full retreat cost, travel expenses, and emergency medical care. Be sure it has pandemic coverage. This protects your investment in the event of unforeseen changes or Force Majeure circumstances.
Payment Options:
- Credit Card
- PayPal
- Bank Transfer
- Venmo
Is This Retreat for You?
Is This Retreat for You?
This journey is for those who feel the call to adventure—not the kind that demands perfection, but the kind that asks you to show up with openness, curiosity, and heart.
- You thrive in nature and can adapt with flexibility when the itinerary shifts (as it often does in the wild).
- You travel with ease, respecting others, and know that shar
This journey is for those who feel the call to adventure—not the kind that demands perfection, but the kind that asks you to show up with openness, curiosity, and heart.
- You thrive in nature and can adapt with flexibility when the itinerary shifts (as it often does in the wild).
- You travel with ease, respecting others, and know that shared laughter and kindness make the best travel companions.
- You are drawn to capture the moment—whether through a camera lens or simply with your heart’s eye.
- You are ready to reclaim your one wild and precious life—to live more fully, with courage and connection.
- You long to spend time with like-minded souls in a place where peace and paradise meet.
If this resonates, then you already know—you belong here.
Welcome to La Paloma Lodge!
Drake Bay - A Wilderness Paradise
Accessible only by boat, La Paloma is a nature-focused eco-lodge with activities centered on discovering and exploring the extraordinary natural environment for which Costa Rica is renowned.
Stroll down to the secluded beach cove—just minutes from your rancho—and catch a glimpse of Scarlet Macaws feeding on almonds as you dip into the warm Pacific.
“One of the most stylish Lodges in Costa Rica - polished hardwoods and hammocks, floor to ceiling windows, stunning views of the Pacific Ocean." ~ Haper's Bazaar Travel Guide
The Grounds
The lodge spans 24 beautifully landscaped acres, featuring hundreds of trees and flowers that attract a diverse array of birds. The swimming pool is an ideal spot to relax, offering stunning views of the ocean while surrounded by lush flora and fauna. The beach is just a 6-minute walk from your cabin, with boogie boards and lounge chairs available.
A golf cart can also take you down if needed.
Single and double kayaks are available for self-guided trips up the Agujitas River at high tide, or for ocean adventures at any time. Kayak and paddleboard use is complimentary for guests.
Dining
La Paloma is known for its homemade, high-quality meals.
- Breakfasts may include fresh fruit, granola, juice, coffee, pancakes, French toast, and huevos rancheros.
- Picnic lunches include sandwiches on homemade bread, salad, soft drinks, and fresh-baked cookies.
- Snacks are available upon request.
- Dinner is served family-style at 6:45 p.m., encouraging conversation and connection. Dishes may include fresh seafood, steak, chicken, or vegetarian fare, accompanied by homemade bread, salads, vegetables, and a delicious dessert.
Please inform us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions in advance, so that we can make accommodations accordingly.
Accomodations
Guests on the retreat will have their own bedroom and private bathroom, but may share the same cabin.
All units feature large balconies with hammocks, ceiling fans, air conditioning, and orthopedic king or queen-size mattresses. For more information on the rooms, please click here: LINK
The lodge is smoke-free.
Sustainability
La Paloma has a full water filtration system (in-line filters, UV lamps, and reverse osmosis to provide the purest water. Please bring a reusable water bottle—they provide refills and sell metal bottles if needed. They do not sell single-use plastic water bottles.
La Paloma provides sarongs instead of bulky pool towels. These are lightweight, quick-drying, and more earth-friendly.
Packing Suggestions
- Insect repellent (pump spray only—no aerosols allowed)
- Dry bag for electronics, camera, or binoculars
- Flashlight (required for the night hike; cell phone lights are not permitted)
- Sunblock, sunhat, sunglasses
- Sandals (Teva-type style for water use)
- Bathing suit, protective swimwear for sun protection is recommended (skins)
- Camera and gear, Sandy will be sending out suggestions
- Rain gear
- Binoculars
- Lightweight tropical clothing
- Hiking boots or closed-toe walking shoes (not KEEN)