There are few destinations where a national philosophy is woven so deeply into everyday life as it is in Costa Rica. Everywhere you go, you'll hear the phrase Pura Vida—"pure life." More than a greeting, it's a way of living that embraces optimism, adventure, and an appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Those qualities also make Costa Rica an exceptional destination for incentive travel.
So when a client asked us to design a memorable incentive program for their team, we knew we had the perfect canvas. The goal was to create an experience that blended adventure, culture, gastronomy, and meaningful shared moments—one that participants would remember long after they returned home.
With a late-evening arrival in San José, everyone settled into the hotel for a well-earned night's rest before the adventure began.
History, Chocolate & Culinary Delights
The first full day began at the Jade Museum, home to the world's largest collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts. As participants explored its remarkable exhibits, they gained a fascinating glimpse into Costa Rica's indigenous civilizations and rich cultural heritage.
Following an authentic Costa Rican lunch, the itinerary took a sweeter turn with a hands-on chocolate experience. Guests discovered how cacao is cultivated before transforming fresh beans into delicious chocolate while learning about one of Costa Rica's oldest traditions.
That evening belonged to Barrio Escalante, San José's celebrated culinary district. The adventure began with handcrafted cocktails at Apotecario before continuing to Silvestre, where contemporary Costa Rican cuisine was served in an elegant historic setting. It proved to be a perfect introduction to the country's vibrant dining scene.
Adventure Above the Clouds
The following morning began with another taste of Costa Rica—this time at breakfast. Many eagerly sampled gallo pinto, the country's beloved combination of rice, beans, eggs, and plantains that provided ample fuel for the day's adventure.
Next came one of Costa Rica's natural icons: Poás Volcano. Just ninety minutes from San José, the national park offers one of the world's most accessible active volcanic craters. As the group hiked through lush cloud forest, local guides shared insights into the region's remarkable ecosystem and unique plant life before revealing spectacular views of the crater itself.
After an active morning, the excitement shifted from nature to sport. Few countries embrace soccer with as much passion as Costa Rica, making attendance at a local match an unforgettable cultural experience. With the excitement of the FIFA World Cup still fresh in everyone's minds, participants enthusiastically joined local fans, cheering over bottles of Costa Rican beer and generous bowls of Chirulitos.
Liquid Gold & Lasting Memories
The final day celebrated another of Costa Rica's national treasures—coffee. A visit to a nearby plantation revealed every step of the journey from bean to cup, culminating in a tasting of some of the country's award-winning varieties. Unsurprisingly, many participants left with bags of freshly roasted coffee destined for friends and family back home.
The afternoon was devoted to the remarkable Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, whose extraordinary collection of ancient gold artifacts tells the story of the civilizations that flourished here more than 1,500 years ago. The exhibits offered a fitting finale to the cultural discoveries that had shaped the journey.
Before the farewell celebration, everyone had time to browse local shops for distinctive souvenirs—from handcrafted chorreadores de café and Chorotega pottery to artisan chocolates, local hot sauces, and, naturally, more exceptional Costa Rican coffee.
The program concluded with a memorable dinner at DoMA Escalante, an elegant urban oasis renowned for its innovative cuisine. As conversations flowed well into the evening, it was clear that the experience had achieved exactly what every great incentive program should: strengthening relationships while creating memories that would endure long after the journey ended.
The following morning, participants departed with suitcases a little heavier, friendships a little stronger, and a newfound appreciation for the spirit of Pura Vida.
To plan a pura vida experience for your superstars, let our event architects create an itinerary that will leave them motivated for years to come.