Discover Costa Rica with Author & Zoologist, Lucy Cooke.
Join renowned New York Times best-selling author, award-winning documentary filmmaker and broadcaster, National Geographic explorer, and TED talker, Lucy Cooke, for an extraordinary journey into the heart of Costa Rica. With a Master's in zoology from Oxford University and a deep passion for the natural world, Lucy is the perfect guide for an adventure like no other.
For the past 15 years, Lucy has explored Costa Rica's lush rainforests in search of its most captivating wildlife, with a special love for amphibians and sloths. Over the years, she has uncovered the country’s best-kept secrets—hidden, non-touristy spots that offer an authentic, immersive experience in nature.
The idea for this holiday was born when Lucy met Tim, the owner of Pagoda del Loto Azul. Together, they envisioned a unique experience that blends luxury, adventure, and conservation. Set in the breathtaking surroundings of Pagoda del Loto Azul, this holiday offers nature lovers the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, learning, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters with Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity.
If you're looking for a holiday that combines comfort, adventure, and a deep dive into the wonders of the natural world, Discover Costa Rica with Lucy Cooke is your perfect escape!
Featured on
60 Minutes
In 2023, Lucy Cooke traveled to Costa Rica with a camera crew and journalist Sharyn Alfonsi to explore the world of sloths. Lucy sounds the sloth Appreciation Society 15 years ago to raise awareness about the world’s slowest mammal. Lucy took Sharyn to search for wild sloths and meet her favourite conservationists. The segment was so popular they repeated it three times, including their Christmas special.
JOIN US
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JAN 11-17, 2027
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JOIN US ~ JAN 11-17, 2027 ~
About the Experience:
January 11-17, 2027
Pagoda del Loto Azul
On Escaleras mountain, Uvita-Dominical, Costa Rica
“Lucy Cooke created an unforgettable opportunity for 12 unique individuals to experience a nature lover’s dream. From flashlight-lit night hikes to glorious mud-ridden day hikes to relaxing with sunset yoga and swimming to waterfalls, seeing wildlife through her lens was an unforgettable experience. Thank you, Lucy and Zara, for cultivating a once-in-a-lifetime journey into the Costa Rican rainforest. We all left with joy in our hearts, new connections, and a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rainforest, and we are all better because of it.”
Start your mornings on the deck with a cup of coffee as you birdwatch alongside Lucy, soaking in the sounds of the jungle as it comes alive. You might even spot the resident wild three-toed sloth lounging in the garden, along with toucans, monkeys, macaws, and more—creating a truly magical start to your day.
Then, embark on exciting daily adventures, from visiting sea turtle conservation projects to sloth sightings and kayaking through tranquil mangrove rivers.
Hike to stunning waterfalls, swim in their refreshing pools, or explore secluded beaches with the iconic scarlet macaws soaring overhead.
Cruise the Sierpe River to spot crocodiles and monkeys, and hike through Corcovado National Park, one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
Experience the local surf towns, unwind with sunset yoga sessions, and engage in after-dinner nature talks to deepen your connection with the environment.
There’s always something new to discover and enjoy.
Testimonials from Our Costa Rica Adventurers:
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Amazing! Well planned and organised exploration experience for me (and my daughter) with Lucy and Zara. Informative regarding animals, birds and insects we saw, with knowledgable local guides. Socially, a really bonded, fun time with our group sharing amazing food and accommodation .... including yoga sessions on the terrace! Finally, a great follow up with shared photos.
Linda Smith, 2025 Retreat Participant
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Lucy Cooke created an unforgettable opportunity for 12 unique individuals to experience a nature lovers dream. From flashlight lit night hikes, to glorious mud-ridden day hikes, to relaxing with sunset yoga and swimming to waterfalls, seeing wildlife through her lens was an unforgettable experience. Thank you Lucy and Zara for cultivating a once in a lifetime journey into the Costa Rican rainforest. We all came away with joy in our hearts, new connections made, and a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rainforest, and all are better because of it.
Carrie Van Wert, 2025 Retreat Participant
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Exploring the wildlife and habitats of Costa Rica with Lucy Cooke was truly a fun and educational experience! Lucy's knowledge and humor combined with the local guides expertise brought a unique dimension to our explorations. Laughing, learning, and slogging through mud together created great memories. I would do it again!
Ann Stone, 2025 Retreat Participant
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I travel a lot but this was the best 'nature trip' I have had with my wife. Thank you Lucy!! It seamlessly blended the exploration of the wonderful Costa Rica rain forests and the creatures living in them with warm, family-style dynamics of a group of people we never met before; and, for me, the discovery that yoga is a perfect way to develop good body balance which benefits surfing skills! Moreover, everything was very well organized, the retreat location was great, and the food was excellent! I cannot praise all of this any higher!
Wil Van Breugel, 2025 Retreat Participant
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"Tim is such a welcoming host that it feels like home the moment you arrive. The tranquil space is filled with local wildlife, from colorful birds to lazy sloths, making the experience even more magical. I absolutely loved the night hike—perfectly timed after settling in. The overnight in Corcovado was breathtaking. The stop at the shoreline waterfall and the flying fish were highlights! The food was incredible—I’m now obsessed with cooking rice, beans, and plantains at home. The beach picnics and fresh juices, especially the ginger one, were a treat. The WhatsApp group and shared photo album were a great touch, making it easy to relax and enjoy without worrying about capturing everything myself."
Jane Billinghurst, 2024 Retreat Participant
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More than what I expected and truly fun!
Carolyn Famatiga-Fay, 2025 Retreat Participant
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"From Tim's warm welcome to the departure, the entire experience was perfect. The meals he planned were fantastic—nothing could be improved there! The excursions, accommodations, and wildlife viewing on the property were unforgettable. There was just the right balance of adventure and downtime. The WhatsApp group was incredibly helpful for staying connected and sharing details. This trip was a bucket-list experience for Steve and me, and we’ve already recommended it to friends. We can’t wait to see if they get to experience it too!"
Denice Draper, 2024 Retreat Participant
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"This was a magical experience! Every detail was thoughtfully planned, and I can’t choose just one highlight—everything was a favorite! The overnight stay in Corcovado was incredible, and the night tour was a must—loved seeing the frogs! The trip balanced wildlife sightings, beach swims, kayaking, and a beautiful, comfortable base (the pool was amazing). Plus, the meals were delicious. Kayaking and visiting waterfalls were new for me, and the critters brought so much joy. I also recommend the chocolate tour on the last day—it was the perfect way to relax after the Corcovado adventure. I’m even adding cacao to my coffee now!"
Melanie Greer Huff, 2024 Retreat Participant
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“I haven’t been able to stop talking about this trip. I’d call it a once-in-a-life experience but I hope to do it again someday!”
Faith, 2023 Retreat Participant
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"I could listen to Lucy talk all day. Definitely a highlight for me. And having the time to chat with Lucy about her books and animals and science and whatnot was the best part of the trip for me."
Bruce, 2023 Retreat Participant
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“I loved the time at Pagoda, with Lucy, and in nature. I thought the retreat was super, really engaging and challenging at the right level. The house was great the yoga great and the itinerary interesting and varied.”
Alice, 2023 Retreat Participant
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"Thank you Lucy Cooke for an unforgettable adventure! My perspective on animals and evolution has permanently changed from getting to experience your undeniable passion, joy, and knowledge this trip. I am so grateful for your openness to not only share your wisdom through your books but also through this incredible experience. The chaotic pounding of a waterfall, infinite bug bites, bruised knees, danger pony, and extreme boat nausea and all - I truly miss the magic already!"
Olivia, 2024 Retreat Participant
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"Delighted to hear Lucy talk - the informal nature of the talk was great and gave people opportunities to ask questions and share information - was great addition to the evenings - in addition to this - it was fantastic how open and social Lucy was - whilst trekking or in the car - and speaking personally allowed a great opportunity to discuss areas of interest to me."
Yasin, 2023 Retreat Participant
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"It's been a dream come true being here with Lucy Cooke! I've read her books so many times. Hearing her perspective on animals and their behaviors in person is something I'll never forget."
Ceylan, 2024 Retreat Participant
Dates
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Jan 11-17, 2027
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Dates ~ Jan 11-17, 2027 ~
Retreat Accommodations & Prices
All rooms have air conditioning and a private bath, except for the Poolside Room, which shares a bathroom with the host in the adjoining room.
Pricing includes accommodations, meals, retreat activities & tours, permits, Lucy’s talks, and yoga sessions. Please note our cancellation and payment policies.
*Please note that pricing does not include flights, transportation to & from the retreat, free-day activities, souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, or gratuities for guides and servers.
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A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking.
The remaining 50% balance is due by July 6, 2026.
Bookings made after July 6, 2026 require full payment at the time of booking.
Cancellations made within six months of the retreat start date are non-refundable.
A $250 non-refundable administrative fee applies to all bookings.
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SOLD OUT
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Rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis.
$6,800 for a party of two | $4,600 for a single
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Rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis.
$6,800 for a party of two | $4,600 for a single
The poolside room shares a bathroom with the hosts and chef in the adjoining room.
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Rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis.
$6,800 for a party of two | $4,600 for a single
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Rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis.
$6,800 for a party of two | $4,600 for a single
-
Rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis.
$6,800 for a party of two | $4,600 for a single
-
Rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis.
$6,800 for a party of two | $4,600 for a single
