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Soltara at Playa Blanca - Seven Night Ayahuasca Retreat with Peruvian Shipibo Healers

Location icon
Playa Blanca, Paquera, Costa Rica
Users icon
Up to 22 in group
Date
February 24 - March 3, 2025

Retreat Highlights

  • A thorough intake process, in collaboration with therapists and medical advisors, to ensure a safe and supportive retreat
  • Ayahuasca ceremonies with highly-experienced Peruvian female & male Shipibo healers
  • Intimate group sizes (maximum capacity 13 - 22 guests depending on location)
  • Consultations with our healers (and translator)
  • A full year of preparation, integration, and community support through the Soltara Community Platform, including:
  • Community spaces for questions, sharing, & connecting
  • Retreat information & logistics
  • Holistic resources for physical, emotional, therapeutic, mental, spiritual, cultural, relational, creative, and day-of-travel support
  • Regular monthly events, including free preparation & integration circles with a Soltara therapist
  • Guided experiences such as yoga, breathwork, and meditations
  • Online courses for deeper exploration into specific topics, such as the physiology of trauma, mindfulness, and ceremonial preparation
  • A carefully vetted network of practitioners, coaches, and guides for individual support
  • Access to our Entwined program, a 12-module program with resources and support for the loved ones and family members of those stepping into plant medicine ceremony
  • On-site integration workshops and sharing circles
  • Yoga classes for all levels throughout your stay
  • Pranayama breathwork and meditation sessions
  • Floral baths with medicinal plants lovingly prepared by our healers
  • All meals in our conscious cuisine kitchen
  • Transportation to and from the pick-up location near airport

About this Retreat

Details of this retreat

At our Center, a seaside haven in the tropical jungle of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, we work with traditional Peruvian Shipibo healers and sacred plant medicine, as well as other traditional and modern healing modalities, to help you along this path of self-discovery. Our decades of combined experience holding ceremony and doing medicine work allow you to experience in-depth healing in a safe and loving environment. .
 
We are called to serve medicine in sacred ceremony with integrity, humility, and compassion. By creating a safe space and working only with experienced, well-intentioned healers and facilitators, we uphold the lessons of the medicines and build a foundation of mutual trust, authenticity, and respect. We are not gurus, preachers, or enlightened beings – our healers are maestros who humbly transmit the knowledge and healing energies of the plants, and our facilitators are devoted to helping guests face, process, and explore difficult experiences and emotions, handle projections, manage expectations, and surrender to the process. We strive to uphold the highest integrity in everything we do and be a beacon for responsible, safe, and ethical practices, such that our guests feel safe and supported to get the most out of their healing. Read More

Schedule

This is an example of your day at Soltara:
8.00 am Morning yoga
9.00 am Breakfast
10.00 am Consultations with healers
1.00 pm Lunch
2.00 Free time - beach, hammocks, walking trails, onsite pool
6.30 pm Pre-ceremony yoga
7.30 pm Ceremony
Note: Schedule is approximate and may change
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Getting Here

Location icon Soltara Healing Center, Playa Blanca, Paquera, Costa Rica

Directions

Please ensure you reserve your spot for your retreat with us prior to booking your flights. If you have any questions during the registration process or are concerned any health conditions (including bipolar, schizophrenia, or psychosis) may prevent you from attending a retreat, please contact us first.

We offer pickup on Day 1 of your retreat from a hotel near the San Jose (SJO) airport.

We recommend arriving the day before, and booking your stay at the recommended hotel in our confirmation email, in order to give you time to relax and settle in before beginning your journey to Soltara.

If you plan to arrive on Day 1, we recommend booking your flight to arrive by 9 AM that day, to allow time to get through customs (which can sometimes take up to 2 hours) and get to the pickup location in time for the shuttle. You will arrive at Soltara around 4 pm that day, after an approximately 2 – 2.5 hour ride through the beautiful rolling hills of Costa Rica, and catching a 2:30 pm ferry ride across to Gulf of Nicoya. We are located about 10 minutes from the ferry port.

If you are returning to SJO, please book your departing flights after 3:30 PM. You will be returned to San Jose by 12:30 PM.

We look forward to supporting you in an immersive experience in nature, community, and medicine! Read More

Accommodation

We offer different room options and pricing to ensure that a high-quality healing experience is accessible for a variety of budgets.

Double Shared Suite (2 King Beds)

Accommodation
(Price listed is price per person) | Our shared double suites offer spacious and beautiful accommodations for up to 2 guests of the same gender. Guests will be assigned a roommate of the same gender. If you are 2 people booking together, select the Private Double Suite lodging option to room togeher. This suite has a large balcony to relax in comfort against the stunning backdrop of three different islands and a sunrise over the Gulf of Nicoya, as well as: An en-suite bathroom with a spacious private shower overlooking the surrounding tropical forest A gorgeous outdoor balcony with comfortable seating area overlooking the forest and Gulf of Nicoya A writing desk/creative space Air-conditioning Orthopedic beds & luxury linens Beautiful handcrafted, locally-sourced decor & personal artisanal touches Daily room service & linen changes throughout your stay Clean, fresh towels changed regularly (additional towels available upon request) Full laundry service (on request) All of our accommodations also include all meals, ceremonies, yoga and meditation classes, workshops, taxes, fees, amenities, and more as described on our main retreat page. Read More

Private Double Suite (*Price for 2* | King Bed(s))

Accommodation
*Select "2 guests" when choosing this option. This will not change the total price, and will ensure that the other person receives their own registration form to complete.* | For friends coming together or couples who prefer spaciousness and privacy during their journeys, this luxury suite features 2 king-size beds (registration books entire room) with beautiful views of the surrounding valley and Gulf of Nicoya, and plenty of space to relax in comfort against the stunning backdrop islands, water, and tropical forest. In addition, this option also includes: An en-suite bathroom with a spacious private shower overlooking the surrounding tropical forest A gorgeous outdoor balcony with comfortable seating area overlooking the Gulf of Nicoya and surrounding mountains A writing desk/creative space Air-conditioning Orthopedic beds & luxury linens Beautiful handcrafted, locally-sourced decor & personal artisanal touches Daily room service & linen changes throughout your stay Clean, fresh towels changed regularly (additional towels available upon request) Full laundry service (on request) All of our accommodations also include all meals, ceremonies, yoga and meditation classes, workshops, taxes, fees, amenities, and more as described on our main retreat page. Read More

The Canopy Suite (King Bed)

Accommodation
Seated at the highest point on our property, this premium suite looks out over the forest canopy with breathtaking 270-degree views of the mountains, Gulf of Nicoya, and tropical forest. With additional spaciousness compared to our regular private suites, relax in comfort with indoor and outdoor seating areas, plus room for yoga and meditation to support the integration of your healing. Wake to stunning sunrises over the Gulf in the mornings, and watch the entire surrounding tropical forest turn a beautiful golden hue to greet the day. For singles and couples who prefer spaciousness and privacy during their journeys, this luxury suite features a king-size bed with Soltara's best views, as well as: An en-suite bathroom with a spacious private shower overlooking the surrounding tropical forest A gorgeous outdoor balcony with comfortable seating area overlooking the forest and Gulf of Nicoya A writing desk/creative space Indoor and outdoor seating Meditation/yoga space Air-conditioning Orthopedic beds & luxury linens Beautiful handcrafted, locally-sourced decor & personal artisanal touches Daily room service & linen changes throughout your stay Clean, fresh towels changed regularly (additional towels available upon request) Full laundry service (on request) All of our accommodations also include all meals, ceremonies, yoga and meditation classes, workshops, taxes, fees, amenities, and more as described on our main retreat page. Read More

Private Single Suite (King Bed)

Accommodation
For solo travelers who prefer spaciousness and privacy during their journeys, our private single suites feature a king-size bed with gorgeous views of the Gulf of Nicoya, allowing you to relax in comfort and privacy against the stunning backdrop of three different islands and a sunrise over the waters. This room also includes: An en-suite bathroom with a spacious private shower overlooking the surrounding tropical forest A gorgeous outdoor balcony with comfortable seating area overlooking the forest and Gulf of Nicoya A writing desk/creative space Air-conditioning Orthopedic beds & luxury linens Beautiful handcrafted, locally-sourced decor & personal artisanal touches Daily room service & linen changes throughout your stay Clean, fresh towels changed regularly (additional towels available upon request) Full laundry service (on request) All of our accommodations also include all meals, ceremonies, yoga and meditation classes, workshops, taxes, fees, amenities, and more as described on our main retreat page. Read More

Eco-Tambo (No A/C, Shared Bathrooms/Showers)

Accommodation
Our Private Eco-Tambos are designed for individuals who prefer privacy and desire an economical option. These beautiful wooden tambos (huts) sit on a hillside surrounded by Costa Rican tropical forest. Close to the Maloca ceremonial space and common areas, each Tambo has its own private balcony and spacious interior, with shared bathrooms and showers. Tambos are located under the forest canopy but do not have A/C. If you are sensitive to heat, we recommend another lodging option between February - May during the hottest months of the year. These rooms include: Private balcony looking out into the Costa Rican tropical forest Electricity & ceiling fan A writing desk/creative space Orthopedic bed & luxury linens Beautiful handcrafted, locally-sourced decor & personal artisanal touches Daily room service & linen changes throughout your stay Clean, fresh towels changed regularly (additional towels available upon request) Full laundry service (on request) All of our accommodations also include all meals, ceremonies, yoga and meditation classes, workshops, taxes, fees, amenities, and more as described on our main retreat page. Read More

Venue & Amenities

Venue & Amenities
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms icon A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi icon Free Wifi
Spa icon Spa
Sauna icon Sauna
Pool icon Pool
Towels icon Towels
Free Parking icon Free Parking
Kitchen icon Kitchen
Tour Assistance icon Tour Assistance
Hot Tub icon Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea icon Coffee/Tea
Cafe icon Cafe
Restaurant icon Restaurant
Fitness Center icon Fitness Center
Yoga Studio icon Yoga Studio
Housekeeping icon Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent icon Bicycles For Rent
Tucked away on seaside cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Nicoya, our secluded slice of sundrenched paradise is surrounded on all sides by the vibrant sounds of the tropical forest. Awaken each morning to bird songs, monkeys playing in trees, & crashing waves in the distance. With comfortable accommodations, plenty of shady nooks, a deck to watch the waves or gaze at the stars, & a sacred maloca ceremony space, we invite you to an immersive experience letting nature surround you in harmony & peace. Read More

Meals

Menu
Menu

Menu Types

We believe healing even takes place in the kitchen. We take on the mantra by the Greek physician, Hippocrates: “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” We honor the role of food in our lives and expand it beyond its primary purpose of bodily nourishment – food can be an avenue to dig deeper into ourselves, consciously looking at our patterns and mindsets surrounding not just what we eat, but how and why we eat what we do. Our eating habits don’t just affect our mental health, they also reflect it. At Soltara, we aim to help you jumpstart this process of connection through conscious cooking on all levels. Diet is an important part of the healing process, both on its own and also to help prepare the mind and body for plant medicine work. We work closely with our shamans to prepare wholesome, delicious meals that adhere to the traditional dietary guidelines of working with ayahuasca. All of our meals are freshly prepared in-house by our loving kitchen staff. From fresh smoothies and juices every morning, to plant-based meals emphasizing local, organic, and sustainable produce, to lean proteins such a chicken and fish, we celebrate the rich local flavor of Costa Rican cuisine, and offer a chance to experience a connection to the land and culture while nourishing the body, mind, and spirit. Read More

What's Included

  • Ayahuasca ceremonies with highly-experienced Peruvian female & male Shipibo healers
  • Five Night Focused Retreat – 3 ceremonies
  • Seven Night Inclusive Retreat – 4 ceremonies
  • Twelve Night Integrative Retreat – 7 ceremonies
  • Intimate group sizes (maximum capacity 13 - 22 guests depending on location) with individualized attention from healers during ceremony
  • High facilitator-to-guest ratio with skilled facilitators who have combined decades of experience working in ceremony and helping guests through the healing process
  • Consultations with our healers (and translator)
  • On-site integration workshops and sharing circles
  • Your own copy of our integration book, The Hero’s Journal, which assists you as you begin your own Hero’s Journey
  • This book is published by Soltara in collaboration with clinical psychologists, and follows a psychological treatment framework adapted to the ayahuasca experience and includes beautiful art and self-guided tools to empower you in your medicine & integration journey
  • All meals in our conscious kitchen, prepared fresh daily from locally-sourced and organic food in an ayahuasca-friendly manner
  • Transportation to and from a pick-up location near airport (details in your confirmation email and on our travel logistics page)
  • Yoga classes for all levels throughout your stay
  • Pranayama breathwork and meditation sessions
  • Floral baths with medicinal plants lovingly prepared by our healers
  • Nature immersion and multiple walking trails in one of the most abundant & biodiverse regions on the planet
  • Lifetime 10% discount for all return visits
  • Participation in our premiere integration program and community with a highly qualified integration support team
  • Additional on-site safety protocol, policies, and travel measures in response to COVID-19

What's Not Included

  • Air Fare
Read More

Customer Reviews

4.98 out of 5.0 average rating

5.0
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Soltara is better than the reviews and photos
The care, comfort, and attention to detail is 5-star. The staff and facilitators have thought through everything. The campus is filled with energy. It is truly a special place. Read More

5.0
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Blissful experience 🌿
The place, the facilitators, the maestros, the general ambiance where more than amazing. I felt so safe and relaxed even with all the unknown of sitting with aya for the first time ⭐️.

You can feel the profond experience of all the staff and the knowledge and wisdom.

Very grateful.

Best

Pavlé Read More

5.0
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Very Healing Experience.
I've had friends chat about Soltara for years. They loved it. Many have returned over and over. So we had to try it out.

First, the price. It was a little more expensive than other places we looked at joining. This place was worth every penny. They pay attention to little details (Room and Food) that I feel others don't. Given the exotic experience, I feel it was very good value for the money.

I went with my spouse who was very interested in the experience. I was against the experience because I have severe asthma and people smoking tobacco sets me off. While it wasn't perfect, the area where the main ceremony occurs allows for a lot of air flow and it wasn't that big of an issue. If I struggled, I went outside and was good.

First, the accommodations are amazing. The rooms were very comfortable (air conditioning) and the bed was comfortable. The bathrooms were nice and ample warm water. It's like I'm at a very nice resort. They make the experience nice from all aspects, including your balcony with a nice spot to journal and/or meditate. Special notes: it's about a 5-7 min walk uphill from ceremony area to sleeping area. This is a decent walk, you should be prepared for this. Wasn't hard at all but something to note. We also purchased the nicest room which costs a little bit more. They have cheaper options.

Food was very healthy but delicious. I'm health conscious but not too crazy about it. I enjoyed every meal. I'm allergic to nuts, they made me separate dishes for each meal where there were nuts in the meal. They had vegan and other options for others in the group with different dietary needs. Kitchen and eating area was clean. No bugs.

The ceremonies were amazing. Friendly staff/facilitators and I always felt safe. This was both our first time and we had EVERY question answered in a very friendly manner. Facilitators were very attentive to everyones needs and we felt loved and safe. This is key when doing something outside our comfort zone. They also set up an atmosphere where we could share our feelings, emotions and history in a space of compassion. Nobody was laughing at me, we're all going through life. It's hard, we felt in this together at Soltara.

100% recommended. 5 out of 5 stars. You will feel safe and in a space where you can experience something that will forever impact your life for the better. Read More

5.0
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Gratitude
An Unforgettable Experience at Soltara Healing Center

I recently spent 7 days at Soltara Healing Center in Playa Blanca, Costa Rica, and honestly, it’s hard to put into words just how incredible this experience was. This place is pure magic.

From the moment I arrived, I felt wrapped in love and care by everyone there. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean and being surrounded by lush nature every single day. It’s the kind of setting that instantly puts you at peace.

The staff at Soltara… wow. They’re some of the kindest, most loving people I’ve ever met. You can feel how much they genuinely care about what they do. They go above and beyond to make sure you feel safe, supported, and loved. It felt like being part of a big, warm family, and I’ll forever be grateful for their kindness and care.

Let me talk about the food real quick—it was next-level amazing! Everything was so fresh, natural, and nourishing. You could taste the love in every bite. It wasn’t just food; it was a way to connect with the earth and honor this whole journey.

The ayahuasca ceremonies were transformative, to say the least. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so deeply connected to myself. The facilitators and healers were incredible, holding such a safe and sacred space for everyone. It allowed me to fully surrender to the process and embrace the healing, which was both challenging and beautiful in ways I never expected.

Soltara isn’t just a retreat center—it’s a sanctuary. It’s a place where you can let go, heal, and reconnect with yourself in the most profound way. Every detail, every moment, felt intentional and full of heart.

To everyone at Soltara, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You’ve created something truly special, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it. This experience will stay with me forever, and I can’t wait for the day I can return.

If you’re looking for a place to heal, grow, and rediscover yourself, Soltara is it. You won’t regret it.

With so much love and gratitude,
Nat ❤️ Read More

5.0
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Magic
I was so lucky that I chose this place . It was meant to be…❤️ Read More

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