Out & Wild: The Ultimate Queer Waterfall Adventure

03/03/2025 - 03/09/2025
AS SEEN ON

In-Depth Retreat Overview

Get ready to unleash your inner explorer on Out and Wild: The Ultimate Queer Waterfall Adventure, a 7-day extravaganza that combines heart-pounding adventure, jaw-dropping landscapes, and the kind of queer joy that could turn the straightest waterfall gay. Led by legendary adventurer and ‘Naked and Afraid’ champion Dan Link, this retreat is your chance to rappel, hike, and cannonball your way through Costa Rica’s most iconic waterfalls—all while forging deep connections with nature and a vibrant queer community.

Your adventure begins with the majestic Diamante Falls, Costa Rica’s tallest waterfall, where you’ll spend a night sleeping in a cave (yes, a cave!) behind the cascading water. From there, it’s nonstop thrills: canyoning through waterfalls, a river hike with an optional 🍄 microdose (because we believe there is no better place to experience the wisdom of plant medicine than in nature), and splashing your way toward the breathtaking Nauyaca Falls, Costa Rica’s largest and most famous waterfall (quite a title considering all of the magic of Costa Rican waterfalls). When you’re not hiking or hanging from a rope, you’ll enjoy daily yoga, aerial arts workshops, and soothing sound baths back at the Jungle Gayborhood, our little slice of queer paradise.

Whether you’re braving the surf at Dominical Beach or marveling at the Goddess Falls, this retreat is more than an adventure—it’s a journey into authenticity, connection, and your wildest queer dreams. Beginners and seasoned explorers alike are welcome; all you need is a love of nature, a sense of humor, and a willingness to say “yes” to unforgettable moments. By the end of the week, you’ll have rappelled down cliffs, danced under the stars, and formed bonds as deep as the pools beneath the waterfalls.

This isn’t just a retreat—it’s a celebration of queerness, community, and Costa Rica’s untamed beauty. 🌈

This adventure will be led by the Discovery Channels “Naked and Afraid” Legend Dan Link, an internationally renown biologist and primitive survivalist, Dan is celebrated for his extraordinary resilience and leadership on the hit show including his recent victory on Naked and Afraid: Last One Standing. His knack for adventure, experience in navigating extreme environments and passion for breaking societal norms in the outdoors bring a unique depth to this one-of-a-kind adventure.

While Dan is known for rugged survival in the wilderness, this retreat will be quite luxurious in the comfort of the Jungle Gayborhood. That said, Dan will offer an optional hands-on Primitive Wilderness Survival workshop, where you’ll jump right into mastering key survival skills in a fun, immersive setting! Practice the art of crafting quick and effective shelters, learn how to identify edible plants, and gain valuable tips for water purification. You’ll also get the chance to practice primitive fire-starting techniques to help you thrive in the wild. This immersive workshop is designed to provide an exciting experience which lays the foundation for skills you’ll continue to refine throughout the week.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

  • A hike to Diamante Falls with a 90ft rappel
  • Sleep overnight in a cave behind Diamante Falls (bedding and meals included)
  • Navigating between 8 (!!!) epic waterfalls
  • An (optional) 🍄 microdose and epic nature hike with glorious swimming hole dips
  • Two days of canyoning and river adventures from Diamante Falls to Nauyaca falls
  • A rest day of leisure, massage, sound baths and yoga
  • A surf lesson (all levels) and beach day in nearby Dominical
  • Morning yoga (offered on days without an early start to the river)
  • Evening playful practices including ecstatic dance, aerial workshops, and a spicy temple of sensuality (all optional)
  • An (optional) hands-on Primitive Wilderness Survival workshop with Dan Link

WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?

  • Individuals of any sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or ethnicity
  • LGBTQ+ individuals looking to connect and strengthen their bonds with nature and a supportive, vibrant community
  • Allies. While this experience is curated for the LGBTQ+ community, allies are warmly welcomed to join us
  • Physically active individuals who are in good health and capable of participating in moderate to strenuous physical activities like hiking, canyoning, and river adventures
  • Adventurers and Nature Lovers ready to step outside their comfort zone and try new experiences, including canyoning, rappelling, and yoga in the serenity of the outdoors
  • Curious and open-minded people looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationship with the environment
  • Community-oriented individuals who enjoy being part of an inclusive, playful, and supportive group dynamic
  • Beginners in outdoor activities who are comfortable trying new things and who are also prepared for physical challenges
  • This retreat is designed for anyone who’s ready for an unforgettable adventure, whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time adventurer. No prior canyoning experience is necessary, but a love for nature, community, and new experiences are key!

ADVENTURE ITINERARY

(*subject to change)

Day 1 – Welcome to the Jungle Gayborhood!
Arrive in time to settle into our vibrant community nestled in the lush rainforest. Share a delicious dinner and connect with your fellow adventurers as we prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2 – Diamante Waterfall Hike & Cave Yoga
An early start takes us from the Gayborhood to the towering Diamante Falls, Costa Rica’s tallest waterfall. We’ll hike through pristine jungle trails to discover hidden cascades before reaching the top of Diamante Falls, where we’ll spend the night together in a spacious cave tucked behind the falls (mattresses and bedding provided).

Day 3 – River Adventure
Begin the day with an inspiring yoga session overlooking the Diamante Valley and the coast all the way to the ocean. Then we’ll descend from Diamante, followed by an exhilarating nature hike along the Diamante River with a number of stops at glorious swimming holes. There will be an optional 🍄 microdose offered during the hike. Please note there will be no swimming or river navigation following the optional microdose.

Once we’re back in the comfort of the Gayborhood, we’ll heat things up with an optional primitive survival workshop with immersive activities like shelter building and fire-starting!

Day 4 – Canyoning Adventure
Swim, wade, and marvel at the waterfalls and pools as we explore this unforgettable waterway. By mid-afternoon, we’ll return to the glory of the Gayborhood to rest and reconnect.

Day 5 – Nauyaca Falls Exploration
Costa Rica’s largest and most famous waterfall awaits! After a hearty breakfast, we’ll hike through lush forest trails to the Nauyaca Falls, a mesmerizing cascade perfect for photos, swimming, and picnicking. We’ll return to the Gayborhood in the afternoon to relax and unwind.

Day 6 – Dominical Surf Day + Sendoff party
Cap off your retreat with the thrill of riding waves at Dominical Beach. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a curious beginner, this beach day is the perfect way to embrace the ocean’s energy before we say goodbye. We’ll wrap the week with a fun and fabulously queer dance party.

Day 7 – Farewell for Now
Depart with memories to last a lifetime and a community you’ll always carry in your heart.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

  • Accommodations at the Jungle Gayborhood and Diamante Cave
  • All camping materials for a night in Diamante Cave
  • All meals and snacks – local, fresh, and delicious! (Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated)
  • Waterproof backpacks
  • Guided waterfall hikes, and river adventures. Waterfall rappelling will be led by local experts.
  • Yoga and wellness activities
  • Transportation for all excursions

SAFETY

Your adventure on Out and Wild: The Ultimate Queer Waterfall Adventure is all about embracing exploration, but your safety is our highest priority. This retreat includes exhilarating activities like rappelling, river navigation, and surfing, which carry inherent risks. To ensure a safe experience, participants should be in good physical condition and stay mindful of their body’s limits, recognizing signs of fatigue or discomfort and stepping back when necessary. Each activity—whether hiking, rappelling, or canyoning—will be led by insured, experienced guides who are there to support, instruct, and keep you safe, and will include appropriate safety gear. We also strongly recommend that participants obtain travel insurance that covers high-risk activities, so you can fully enjoy the adventure with peace of mind.


To create a safe environment conducive to healing and community development, we will ask all participants to adhere to these agreements throughout the week. While we will explore topics of sexuality, we will ask participants to refrain from sex during the retreat. This helps to create a safe environment, and encourages deep connections without the motivation of sex, which past participants recognize as a very refreshing change for queer men.


All Details at one Glance:

$2,600.00 – Shared 4 Bed Jungle Cabin
$3,350.00 – Private King Cabin
$3,050.00 – Shared Twin Jungle Cabin
$3,650.00 – Private Deluxe Cabin
$2,150.00 – Camping (Gear Provided)

DATE & TIME DETAILS: Monday, March 3 - Sunday, March 9, 2025

LOCATION: 'The Jungle Gayborhood' San Salvador de Baru, Diamante Valley, Costa Rica

CONTACT: Team [email protected]

Included:
- Group shuttle airport transfer to and from the Jungle Gayborhood (at a specific time and date).
- Accommodations at the Jungle Gayborhood and Diamante Cave
- All camping materials for a night in Diamante Cave
- All meals and snacks - most dietary restrictions can be accommodated
- All listed activities, transportation and practices
- Guided waterfall hikes, and river adventures
- Transportation for all excursions

Not Included:
- Flight
- Any visas that may be required

Cancellation Policy: A 50% Deposit payment is required to book your space. The remaining 50% will be processed 30 days prior to the start of the course.

90+ days prior to the start date: Full refund
89-30 days: 50% refund
29 days or less: No refunds

Please note: 13% tax will be added to all costs.

We know that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes plans need to change, but our cancellation and refund policies are absolute. We recommend trip insurance that includes coverage for cancellations made for any reason. We recommend insurance companies such as: Travel Guard or World Nomads any other well-known travel insurance company.

Scholarship Options: Participants who would like to join the course but are facing financial challenges can opt for one of a limited number of scholarship options. They will be able to access the course at a greatly reduced price. Accommodation will be in a camping tent rather than a cabin.

In order to qualify, please fill out this Scholarship Application Form to let us know about your situation and the scholarship amount you are seeking.

Precio Tico: For Costa Rican nationals we offer a 50% discount on listed prices. Please email [email protected] for further information. A Costa Rican passport or identity card is required.

Digital Detox: You will be strongly encouraged to switch off all electronics for the duration of the course in order to connect more deeply to nature and to yourself. Use of electronics will be strictly limited to the bedrooms. Electronics such as phones, iPads or laptops will not be able to be used in any public areas.

Doggo Notice: We have two very loving and friendly pups - Bodhi and Luna - who live here at the Gayborhood. Aside from the occasional barking spree at incoming cars, they are quiet, harmless, and very sweet. If you have any concerns about dogs being onsite, please reach out to discuss.

4x4 (4WD) Notice: Please note that the road leading to our property is a dirt road, and during heavy rains it can be challenging for non-4x4 / 4WD vehicles to exit. In this case, non-4x4 vehicles may need to wait until any heavy rains subside before attempting to leave. Please keep this in mind when renting a vehicle or booking transportation.

Free Shuttle:
Arrivals: Optional shuttle departs San Jose International airport at 10am on Monday, March 3, for a 4pm arrival at the Jungle Gayborhood.
Departures: Optional shuttle departs the Jungle Gayborhood at 8am on Sunday, March 9, for a 2pm arrival at SJO.

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Your Instructors / Teachers

Shelby Clark

Shelby Clark

Following a life-changing sacred plant ceremony at the tail end of yoga teacher training, I have focused my life on providing consciousness-expanding experiences to people that could benefit from t... Read More
Dan Link

Dan Link

Dan Link is an internationally renowned biologist, adventurer, queer rights advocate, and primitive survivalist who brings a unique perspective to the outdoors. Growing up as a self-proclaimed 'wei... Read More
Pacific Journeys

Pacific Journeys

Pacific Journeys offers professionally guided experiences to the Diamante private cavern located behind the stunning Diamante Falls, the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica. All experiences are led by ... Read More
Authentic Connection

Why Retreats with Jungle Gayborhood?

Dive into an experience that goes beyond just a getaway. Our retreats are crafted to provide you with a safe and welcoming space, where authenticity and connection take center stage. Whether you’re looking to unwind and recharge or eager to forge new friendships in an inclusive setting, our Jungle Gayborhood retreats offer a unique opportunity to connect with yourself and others in a meaningful way.

retreats in costa rica

Expert Facilitators:

experienced facilitators who will guide enriching experiences, helping you discover more about yourself and your connection with others.

Inclusive Community:

Join a diverse community that celebrates authenticity and diversity.

Exceptional Environment:

Immerse yourself in the lush nature, creating a unique backdrop for your moments of relaxation and reflection.

Holistic Well-being:

Enjoy activities designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit.

What’s it like to attend a retreat at the Jungle Gayborhood?

Our Retreat Amenities include

Luxurious accommodations, holistic wellness facilities, adventure opportunities, and an experienced team for an unforgettable experience.

Spectacular waterfalls

  • Enjoy six major waterfalls within walking distance along the Diamante River.
  • 11 Gorgeous Bamboo Cabins (25 beds sleeping up to 28)

  • 3 Deluxe Cabins (1 king/queen bed)
  • 5 Jungle Cabins (1 king bed or 2 individual beds)
  • 3 Bunk Cabins (4 individual beds)
  • All cabins include power, lights, fan, super comfortable beds and nice linens, and are fully enclosed in mosquito mesh netting. A/C is unnecessary in our region.

    Camping area

  • able to accommodate 10-20 people
  • Beautiful yoga shala

  • Our Shala Space is a beautiful covered bamboo structure reaching out into the jungle with a direct view of the Diamante waterfall
  • Communal bathroom and showers

  • All cabins share a beautiful bamboo bathhouse with hot water.
  • Communal 5 person outdoor shower
  • 3 private individual showers
  • Kitchen + dining to accommodate 30+

  • Gourmet meal plan available
  • Gym

  • Comprehensive collection of free weights (machines and cardio not available)
  • Pristine Nature

  • Located on a gorgeous 300 acre property in one of the world’s most biodiverse places in Costa Rica.
  • Abundant hiking

  • Explore several kilometers of private hiking trails right on the property.
  • On-site bodywork

  • Relax and care for your body with massage with the soundtrack of nature (additional cost)
  • Offered right in your cabin or in our massage temple.
  • Accommodations include

    All cabins are handmade primarily from locally-sourced bamboo, and while they are protected from the elements and enclosed in mosquito netting, they are open air and have spectacular views of the jungle. Private and shared accommodation options are available.

    All cabins come with:

    All cabins share a gorgeous bamboo bathhouse and shower facilities.
    A/C is unnecessary in our region.

    Price includes accommodation, use of facilities, and morning embodiment classes (such as yoga, meditation, etc) offered several days per week.
    This price does not include the cost of meals ($50/person/night).

    Meals include

    We have an in-house chef who prepares fresh and delicious meals daily, using local, organically grown ingredients whenever possible. We will do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions.

    Vegan

    Vegetarian

    Pescetarian

    Includes Meat

    Organic

    Gluten Free

    Dairy Free

    Nut Free

    Register now for our retreat

    What participants say

    Kyle Philipp QJan 06, 2023
    This trip helped me to ground myself in the beauty of nature, to shed the veil of constant distraction of life, technology. social media and the city and really 100k at myself. The compassionate nature of the facilitators, the community coming together each on their own healing journey and the delicious local food came together perfectly,
    Rafael GMar 30, 2022
    This retreat was one Ot the most transformational oxporioncos thot hod in my ontiro life, If you aro looking to build community, connect with yourself, and tap into your solf worth and power. this experience is for you. Looking forward to the next one already.
    John l.aUG 6, 2023
    I was going through a rough patch with my mental wen- being and finding those that shared the same desire to better themselves. This experience introduced rne to a healthy gay community of men that were more than their trauma, without judgment or prejudice. I felt liberated, free, loved ond heard. There were so many beautitul souls here that shared their stories with me. I found that the key was to take a leap Of faith and come with on open heart and
    Dale D.Dec 19, 2022
    I'm so glad I attended Remembering Wholeness- The food. the shelters. the facilities, the movement, the ceremonies, and the natural environment were worthy Of accolades_ Mostly, basked in the cornpany Of other queer men. all of us sharing our joy and spirit with each other. 1 highly recommend the retreat and stays offered by the Queer wellness Collective.

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    frequently asked questions

    FAQs

    Got questions about our retreats in Costa Rica? Read the FAQs or get in touch via the contact form below.

    Our retreats take place at the luxurious and bohemian Jungle Gayborhood in Diamante Valley, Costa Rica, offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all couples.

     

    The Jungle Gayborhood offers a paradisiacal oasis of calm, seamlessly integrating the natural beauty of Costa Rica with the peaceful practices of yoga. It’s not just about the asanas here; it’s about tapping into the serenity of an untouched paradise and reconnecting with one’s inner peace.

    Costa Rica’s yoga retreats in the vibrant Jungle Gayborhood are designed to cultivate wellness by harmonizing the vitality of the lush rainforest environment with the restorative power of yoga. It’s wellness with a pinch of wild charm, and a whole lot of soul!

     

    Yogis rave about Costa Rica’s retreats because they provide a tranquil setting that fosters both personal growth and relaxation. The country’s reputation for top-ranked retreats stems from their ability to deliver transformative experiences that go far beyond just the physical aspect of yoga.

     

    Sacred sexuality is a practice that elevates sexual experiences to a spiritual level, aiming for a deeper connection with oneself and one’s partner.

     

    Our retreats aren’t just set in nature; they give back to it. The eco-friendly practices and sustainable living ethos are woven into the experience, ensuring that your journey towards inner peace also contributes to the health of our planet.

     

    The Jungle Gayborhood is more than inclusive; it’s a celebration of diversity. It’s a place where the LGBTQ+ family can find unity and peace, an environment that resonates with the essence of ‘Pura Vida’ and welcomes every individual with open arms.

     

    Yes, Costa Rica has a good track record in terms of safety, and its growing social acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community makes it a relatively safe destination.

     

    Get in Touch

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    Reach out via our contact form to learn more