A Bewildered Retreat

Join Martha Beck and Rowan Mangan for a “culture cleanse” in beautiful Costa Rica!

About The Retreat

Could your life benefit from a “pause” button?

Do the relentless demands of each day drown out your sense of who you are and what you’re here to do?

Do you ever just want to put it all down for a minute and breathe?

Us too. That’s why we’re inviting you to come to the wilds of Costa Rica with us for a “culture cleanse”—a retreat where we’ll turn off the voices of culture and gently reconnect with our deepest, truest selves.

Come Play!

The Pure Wild Self Retreat is an intentional break in the year for those who are feeling bewildered and want to feel be-wilder-ed.

With expert guidance from Martha Beck and Rowan Mangan, you will be led through a process of reconnecting with your truest nature while being held in the gentle embrace of the Costa Rican jungle and a loving village of kindred spirits.

JOIN MARTHA AND ROWAN TO DISCOVER THE VOICE OF YOUR TRUE NATURE

JOIN US JANUARY 10 – 15, 2026

JOIN US JANUARY 31 –  FEBRUARY 5, 2026

“I want to express my deepest gratitude for one of the most intensely joyful, spiritual and connected experiences of my life.

What a beautiful village of souls you called together. Never in my life have I experienced such a level of spiritual connection, vulnerability and simultaneously safety with people I have never met before.

Last but by no means least, what an unbelievable program you both put in place for us. Your wisdom, generosity, warmth, and infectious joy combined with the amazing life-force and love from the jungle…..well, sometimes words are inadequate.

If I can sustain just an ounce of that knowing into my regular life, great things will happen……are happening.”

Georgina S.
2025 Pure Wild Self

Who is this retreat for?

You might be a great fit for PURE WILD SELF if you:

  • Want to tune in to your wild true nature—the part of yourself that knows what we are here on Earth to create
  • Trust in the wisdom of nature over that of a broken culture
  • Hope to meet kindred spirits who feel this way too
  • Believe that through connection we are participating in a larger transformation

…and, last but not least, if you like to laugh!

So…What Exactly is the Pure Wild Self Retreat?

Culture is everywhere. It’s the air we breathe. The people who surround us. The way we eat, drink, dress, and talk.

Culture is at play every time our brains tell us, “You must,” or “You should,” even as our bodies and hearts are begging, “Please don’t make me.”

Taking a “culture cleanse” means stepping away from all of this and receiving guidance through listening to our deeper selves.

Our co-hosts for this retreat are the exceptional team at the Imiloa Institute, which is a place truly designed to resonate with our true nature.

  • We’ll be immersed in the wild beauty of the jungle.
  • We’ll eat nourishing gourmet vegan comfort food at Imiloa’s “dry” campus. (That means no alcohol or drugs—we did say this is a cleanse!)
  • We’ll be surrounded by the sounds of birds and running water. And silence. And each other.

JOIN MARTHA AND ROWAN TO DISCOVER THE VOICE OF YOUR TRUE NATURE

JOIN US JANUARY 10 – 15, 2026

JOIN US JANUARY 31 –  FEBRUARY 5, 2026

The Pure Wild Self Retreat Will Give You…

  • The rare chance to receive in-person wisdom from world-renowned thought leader Dr. Martha Beck.
  • A “self-development” experience that will make you laugh out loud, even as your consciousness expands.
  • Expert guidance in understanding the difference between cultural messaging (which keeps you stuck in the illusion of safety) and your own deep knowing (which will liberate you into creativity and truth).
  • A connection—maybe for the first time ever—with the voice of your unique “true nature,” which is always talking to you and knows exactly what you were born to do.
  • The opportunity to form an intimate relationship with the earth, the elements, animals, and plants that constitute your natural home and “family.”
  • An opportunity to escape from all the “shoulds” in your life that are clogging your soul.

JOIN MARTHA AND ROWAN TO DISCOVER THE VOICE OF YOUR TRUE NATURE

JOIN US JANUARY 10 – 15, 2026

JOIN US JANUARY 31– FEBRUARY 5, 2026

Pure Wild Self Retreat Highlights

  • Daily group conversations and self-discovery sessions with Martha and Rowan.
  • A range of curated ceremonial experiences to truly step beyond our culture.
  • Luxurious accommodations in the wild jungle of Costa Rica.
  • Gourmet plant-based cuisine prepared using all local and organic produce.
  • Private charter flights between San Jose, Costa Rica and the Imiloa campus.
  • An idyllic setting where you can explore the twin beauties of the jungle and the beach.
  • The Imiloa Wellness Bar features signature beverages ranging from superfood smoothies, detoxifying elixirs, freshly pressed juices, custom mocktails, and delicious specialty coffees (Wellness Bar not included in price of retreat).
  • Imiloa’s signature massage treatments, offered by skilled local specialists, which will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, surrounded by the serenity and soothing sounds of the rainforest (not included in the price of the retreat).
  • A dedicated online community space to get to know your fellow “Wildlings” before the retreat and to share photos and details.

Included in Your Retreat

A completely private campus, available only to our Pure.Wild.Self Retreat group. Access to a private waterfall, nature paths, incredible flora and fauna, and an ocean view infinity pool. Also included is a dedicated team of local professionals to coordinate everything for your enjoyment, from touchdown to take-off.

Gourmet plant-based cuisine prepared using all local and organic produce. Full meals, snacks, teas, coffees, and fruit trays available throughout your stay.

Private transportation from the International airport to Imiloa’s campus, including a private driver and transportation to our campus in Imiloa Mountain.

What’s Not Included

Flights to SJO, Spa Services, Wellness Bar, Travel Insurance

Your Hosts

Dr. Martha Beck

is a New York Times bestselling author, life coach, and speaker. She holds three Harvard degrees in social science, and Oprah Winfrey has called her “one of the smartest women I know.” Martha is a passionate and engaging teacher, known for her unique combination of science, humor, and spirituality. Her newest book, Beyond Anxiety: Curiosity, Creativity, and Finding Your Life’s Purpose, was an instant New York Times Best Seller.

In her own words: “All my work is dedicated to freeing all beings from suffering. This requires a commitment to valuing all humans as equally and infinitely precious. Integrity, creativity, inclusion, antiracism, and the preservation of our planet are my primary values in all that I do.”

Rowan Mangan

is a writer, a mom, and Martha’s partner in life, work, and podcasting! She holds a graduate degree in political science and has a background in writing, editing, and communications. These days you’ll usually find her wrangling her daughter, cooking up something hearty and organic, or playing in the Wilder Community or as Creative Director of Martha Beck Inc.

JOIN MARTHA AND ROWAN TO DISCOVER THE VOICE OF YOUR TRUE NATURE

JOIN US JANUARY 10 – 15, 2026

JOIN US JANUARY 31 –  FEBRUARY 5, 2026

Accommodations

Included in each accommodation is the comfiest mattresses, 850 thread count sheets, storage space and dry rooms as needed, fiber optic internet, daily cleaning service, private en-suite bath, indoor/outdoor design for every accommodation with a focus on nature and being your private refuge, and full service, thrice-filtered private well for drinking water throughout the property.

Retreat prices vary depending on what kind of accommodation you select. Some have been reserved for those traveling alone, while others are for those who are bringing a friend or want to be paired with a roommate.

You can also read more about the different room types on the Imiloa Institute website—just use the links listed with each accommodation.

Please note that retreat prices vary according to the accommodation option you select—see Pricing, below!

Click through the galleries below to view more images of each accommodation.

Bali Suites

Our 3 Bali Suites are elegantly situated at the top of the mountain in the 200 year old Bali Village. The suites are located just a few steps away from our shared infinity pool, with gorgeous views overlooking the rainforest and the pacific ocean.

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Bali Suites 1 and 2: 1 King bed

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Bali Master: 1 King bed
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100 square feet
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Ocean or garden views
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Shared infinity plunge pool
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AC

Jogolo House

Perched on the edge of the cliff, at the furthest end of the property, sits a 170 year old home from the Java Islands named Jogolo. Complete with a writer’s desk, outdoor Balinese shower, and unique hand-carved architecture, Jogolo is teeming with history, soul and comfort.

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1 King bed
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480 square feet
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Ocean & Rainforest Views
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Wrap Around Sun Deck
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Private cold plunge pool
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No AC | Fans + Open-air construction that allow for natural ventilation

Potoo House

This two-floor imported home from Bali will have you wishing you’d never leave. Complete with a King Bed and a twin in the corner of the 180 year old home, Potoo combines open-air jungle luxury with unparalleled views of the Pacific ocean. On the lower level you will find a plunge pool and private area perfect for spa treatments.

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1 King bed and 1 Twin bed
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300 square feet
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Ocean & Rainforest Views
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Wrap Around Sun Deck
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Private cold plunge pool
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No AC | Fans + Open-air construction that allow for natural ventilation

Geodesic River Domes

Inspired by sacred geometry, our 6 Geodesic River Domes, sits in the rainforest along the edge of our private river. Enjoy the soothing sounds of the flowing water paired with the vibrant sounds of the jungle.

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2 King beds

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480 Sq. ft. Living Space
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Private Jungle deck
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Open-air shower with rainforest views
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AC

Jungle Bungalows

Our 6 Jungle Bungalows are in close proximity to our common area, and right on the pathway to our own private waterfall. Bali inspired, the interiors feature natural finishings and beautiful details. Spacious bathrooms with a shower and soaking tub looking out to the rainforest.

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1 King bed

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430 Sq. ft. Living Space
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Private Jungle Deck
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Soaking tub
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No AC | Open-air construction with fans and screens that allow for natural ventilation
Sky Forest

Mountain, Jungle, and Ocean View Suites

Sky Forest is on 8 contiguous acres to Imiloa, making the campus feel like a 30-acre wonderland. The home is 350sq/m with three expansive bedrooms, two downstairs and one up, with mountain, jungle, and ocean views respectively.

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Each room can be 1 King bed

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3,500 sq/ft of space + 500 sq/ft outdoor space

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Private campus within the campus

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Infinity pool with magnificent views to the Pacific

JOIN MARTHA AND ROWAN TO DISCOVER THE VOICE OF YOUR TRUE NATURE

JOIN US JANUARY 10 – 15, 2026

JOIN US JANUARY 31 –  FEBRUARY 5, 2026

Ticket Pricing

Prices vary according to the accommodation you choose (we offer singles, doubles and VIP villas). Visit the sales page for your preferred retreat date to see what options are remaining and confirm prices.

Choose your preferred retreat dates to read more about accommodation types and secure your room!

DOMES

$9,500

PER PERSON

Spacious Geodesic Domes nestled in the rainforest and close to the river

BUNGALOWS

$12,500

PER PERSON

Cozy Jungle Bungalows with bathtub and beautiful jungle views

BALI SUITES

$14,500

PER PERSON

Premium Bali style suites with partial ocean views located right next to our shared plunge pool

SKY FOREST

$13,500

PER PERSON

Private suite with an ensuite bathroom, a spacious living room and access to shared terrace with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean

SKY FOREST DELUXE

$14,500

PER PERSON

Upstairs deluxe private suite with an ensuite bathroom, a spacious living room and access to shared terrace with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean

VIP VILLA

Jogolo and Potoo

$19,500

PER VILLA
Double Occupancy

A charming 200-year old Bali Villa with a king bed, private deck, private plunge pool and stunning views of the jungle and ocean

THE VENUE

Immerse yourself in a 22-acre jungle oasis located in Dominical, Costa Rica. Imiloa is nestled in the heart of the rainforest, overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean, and is just a short 15-minute ride from the beach. It offers the perfect setting for experiencing deep healing while being embraced by nature, all in the comfort of luxurious accommodations.

During your stay at Imiloa, you can revel in the beauty of the campus's nature paths, indulge in the serenity of  Imiloa's private waterfall, relax by the shared infinity pool that offers breathtaking forest and ocean views, and of course, savor the culinary delights of the gourmet plant-based meals meticulously crafted by Imiloa's expert kitchen team.

GOURMET PLANT BASED CUISINE

Imiloa takes pride in being a conscious comfort food campus. That means the culiary team serves healthy, locally-sourced, gourmet vegan meals that are as artistically plated, scientifically nourishing and delightfully crafted for retreat guests.

SPA & WELLNESS BAR

The Spa

Treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation and wellness experience in Imiloa's beautiful spa. Signature 60/90-minute massage treatments are available, offered by skilled local specialists that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

The Wellness Bar

Imiloa has developed a healthy and tasty menu for the Wellness bar which includes an amazing assortment of signature beverages ranging from superfood smoothies, detoxifying elixirs, freshly pressed juices, custom crafted mocktails & delicious specialty coffees.

ALL INCLUSIVE TRANSPORTATION

Included in your retreat ticket is a privately charted plane from SJO to Imiloa as well as luxury ground transportation to and from the airstrip. For more details and information on transportation please email Imiloa's retreat team at retreats@imiloainstitute.com

TRAVEL INSURANCE

While not included in your ticket cost, Imiloa has taken the extra step to ensure your peace of mind by partnering with a trusted and comprehensive travel insurance provider. Imiloa's carefully chosen provider meets the entry requirements for Costa Rica and offers “cancel for any reason” plans that provide maximum coverage. With this additional option available through www.globalrescue.com/imiloa, you can travel with confidence, knowing that your retreat experience is safeguarded against unforeseen circumstances. Discover the true essence of worry-free travel where every detail is carefully curated to enhance your journey of wellness and adventure.

Location

Nestled in the heart of the jungle, atop a mountain with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Imiloa offers a truly immersive nature experience. Adjacent to the second most biodiverse land on the planet, the location is a nature-lover's paradise. Just a quick 15-minute drive away, you'll find Dominical, a vibrant beach town with surf, excellent coffee, and local shopping opportunities.

To the north, you can explore Quepos, and to the south, discover Ojochal and Uvita, famously known as the Whale's Tail.

But that's not all. Imiloa's convenient location also provides easy access to other attractions. Just 45 minutes to the east lies San Isidro, Costa Rica's second largest city. Within an hour's drive in all directions, you'll find cafes, beaches, waterfalls, biodiversity, and friendly locals eager to share the beauty of the lush, lovely area.

Your journey is made even more convenient with Imiloa's private plane, ensuring a smooth arrival. During your stay, your group will enjoy unlimited transportation to and from the beach, airport, and throughout your retreat, making your experience seamless and stress-free.

Come, immerse yourself in the wonders of nature and experience the warm hospitality of Imiloa.

The Experience

The following schedule is to give you a sense of how the days may flow. Please know we might be changing things along the way—all of it is geared toward giving you the best possible experience!

Day One

Welcome & intention setting

  • Enjoy a private flight from San Jose, Costa Rica, to the landing strip near Imiloa. You will meet the rest of your retreat group and enjoy the beautiful scenery as you fly over Costa Rica’s mountains and the Pacific coastline.
  • Upon arrival at Imiloa, we will gather for delicious mocktails and an introduction talk from the Imiloa team, followed by a chance to settle in your room.
  • After a break, we’ll meet for our first workshop with Martha and Rowan, where we’ll set a course for the retreat—both collectively and individually.
  • We’ll enjoy a beautiful sunset and a 3-course dinner.
  • After dinner, we will relax in our luxurious rooms to rest, listen to the jungle chorus, and prepare for the wonders to come!

Day Two

Leaving culture behind

  • Begin your first day at Imiloa with a hot beverage of your choice delivered to your doorstep.
  • Enjoy some morning journaling or meditation before heading to a delicious gourmet breakfast.
  • Today we’ll talk in our workshops about what we want to leave behind us from culture.
  • After conversation and laughter over dinner, we’ll experience a powerful and sacred fire ceremony performed by a local Costa Rican facilitator.

Day Three

Your true nature is trying to get your attention

  • After breakfast, our first workshop will introduce the ways that our true nature tries to help us get back on course.
  • We’ll enjoy a break after lunch and the chance to enjoy forest bathing or journaling and keep listening to that quiet voice of our nature (oh, and maybe get a massage too!).
  • After another gourmet 3-course dinner, get ready to encounter the wordless communication of our true nature in a Sound Journey.

Day Four

The New Consciousness

  • After breakfast, we will begin the day with a symbolic shedding of our “encultured” identity! This might be your first real encounter with your true nature, cleansed from all the “shoulds” of culture.
  • After rest and massages and journaling, we will spend time together debriefing and discussing what Martha calls “the new consciousness.”
  • After our nightly conversation over a gourmet dinner, we will choose between bonfire communion or a quiet night.

Day Five

Living It

  • In today’s workshop sessions we’ll be learning what it means to really live the new consciousness. Martha and Ro will be working with you on skills and practices you can use at home to create mini culture cleanses in daily life.
  • Tonight we celebrate the culture we have created in our group over the week! We’ll be heading down to the beach for our 3-course gourmet dinner and a beach party with music and celebrations under the stars.

Day Six

Return with the elixir

  • Like the heroes described in Joseph Campbell’s work, we will not be going home empty-handed—the “elixir” we receive on our last morning is a way to take our wild selves home with us and stay connected after we go home (maybe until we see each other again next year!).
  • We will have an early breakfast, and you will be departing Imiloa around 9 am to take the private plane back to San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO).

Questions & Contact

CHECK OUR FAQs on our sales pages (choose the relevant retreat dates for you):

JOIN MARTHA AND ROWAN TO DISCOVER THE VOICE OF YOUR TRUE NATURE

JOIN US JANUARY 10 – 15, 2026

JOIN US JAN 31 –  FEB 5, 2026