5-Day Costa Rica Yoga Graduation Retreat for New Teachers

This retreat isn't a training from scratch — it's the celebration at the end of one. You'll arrive after completing your online 200-hour YTT coursework, ready to put the finishing touches on your practice and your teaching voice. The schedule is built around integration: time to process the months of study, share what you've learned with your peers, and receive guidance on the next steps in your teaching career.

Each day includes at least two yoga sessions — restorative, yin, and vinyasa are all part of the mix — plus guided meditation and deep relaxation through yoga nidra. A 3-hour silent retreat is built into the program, giving you space to be alone with your thoughts in the middle of the jungle. There's also a honoring ceremony and ritual, a community circle, and a dedicated graduation ceremony where you'll be recognized as a certified yoga teacher.

Buffie Diaz, MA, E-RYT 500, leads the retreat. She founded Elements Wellness and has trained with teachers across multiple lineages, blending the physical, mental, and spiritual sides of the practice. She holds a master's degree in school counseling, which shows in her approach — she's both a strong teacher and a careful listener, focused on empowering students to heal and reconnect with themselves.

The location adds a lot to the experience. Hermosa Point Resort is described as a 'Jungleland Paradise' — private, peaceful, and surrounded by greenery, with an ocean view from the decks. There's a sparkling sitting pool, two large decks, an outdoor dining area, and two chef's kitchens. Natural swimming spots like waterfalls are nearby, and the resort staff provide yoga mats for group practice.

Group size is kept between 8 and 20 participants, so you'll get personal attention and plenty of time to connect with your cohort. Meals are served three times a day, cooked fresh by a private chef using local ingredients, with options for vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Coffee, tea, and water are available throughout the day, and fruit and snacks are always out.

What's included

- 4 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Fruit and snacks available all day - Water, tea, coffee served throughout the day - Welcome drink - Teacher training course and certification - Certificate upon successful completion - Course manual - Evening activities (kirtan, movie night) - Group excursions and activities - Specialized workshops - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Transportation during the retreat - Pre and post retreat support from our team - Professional event photos - WiFi connection

What's not included

- Flights costs - Travel insurance