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Many students choose Caribe Yoga Academy for their yoga teacher training as the programs are widely regarded as the best in the Caribbean, and furthermore due to the wealth of things to do in Puerto Viejo. On days off students have jungle, beaches, nature, waterfalls and so much more on their doorstep.  

Specifically, Caribe Yoga Academy is located at AmaSer Community and Retreat space in Puerto Viejo, home to AmaSer’s vegan and gluten free eatery. This green, breath-taking sanctuary sits directly above the main town where visitors can forge a deep connection with nature in a magical and safe setting. 

Keep reading for an idea of what you can get up to on your days off if you are a student at Caribe Yoga Academy, or simply if you are just passing through the beautiful town of Puerto Viejo. 

Visit Cahuita National Park 

Chauita National Park is a must visit if you are in Puerto Viejo. Spend the day hiking through lush forest, dense with wildlife, and enjoy the white beaches and crystal-clear waters. Cahuita is known for its coral reefs that are close to shore, which you can snorkel at with a guide. Entrance to the park is free but you are encouraged to make a donation at the entrance.  

Visit Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge 

Within the rainforest of Manzinillo Wildlife Refuge you can see many animals including monkeys, coat, sloths, iguanas, poison dart frogs, and over 350 species of birds. The calm and crystal clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling in the coral reefs. Similarly to Cahuita, entry is free but a donation is encouraged.  

Spend the day surfing at Cocles Beach  

Playa Cocles is known for being one of the best beaches for surfing along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Several surf shacks are set up on the beach and board rental costs around $5 USD per hour for rental. Alternatively, if you are not into surfing, this bustling beach has an abundance of cafés and restaurants, street food stalls, volleyball courts and even a slack line! 

Beach hop along the Caribbean coast 

In Puerto Viejo you can visit Playa Negra, a stunning beach famous for its black sand and then head down the coast visiting Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, Punta Uva, and even onto Manzanillo in one day. If you fancy a challenge you can bike from Puerto Viejo to Manzinillo one way in around one hour and a day’s bike rental in Puerto Viejo will cost in the region of $4-5 USD. If you would prefer to take things a little easier, you can also rent ebikes or electric scooters for around $20 per day. Each beach has a unique vibe and I guarantee you will struggle to pick your favorite!  

Visit the Jaguar Rescue Centre 

Many visit the Jaguar Rescue Centre whilst in Puerto Viejo. This non-profit animal rescue center specializes in the rehabilitation of orphaned and injured animals such as monkeys and sloths offers daily public tours in a range of languages for $22 USD. 

Visit local waterfalls 

BriBri waterfalls are a short drive, taxi, or scooter ride from Puerto Viejo. Located near the indigenous town of BriBri, there are several waterfalls which are worth visiting. If you are interested in learning more about the BriBri tribe there are tours which combine both education on the tribe and a trip to the waterfalls. 

I hope this guide of things to do in Puerto Viejo has been enlightening! Be sure to check out the schedule for Caribe Yoga Academy’s upcoming teacher training courses if you are interested in studying yoga in this Caribbean paradise we are lucky to call home.