Our Story
Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat is a family run conservation and sustainable tourism project in the heart of the rainforest in Chilamate, Sarapiqui, Costa Rica.
Our Story
Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat began in 2006 as a shared vision between Davis Azofeifa, born and raised in Sarapiquí, and Meghan Casey, an Irish-Canadian. Rooted in care for the land and the people who call it home, they imagined a place where rainforest conservation and community wellbeing could grow together.
What began as an 18 hectare riverfront property became a home, a conservation project protecting over 42 hectares of rainforest, and a living classroom. Davis built the Retreat by hand, guided by sustainability principles: recycled materials, solar power, rainwater harvesting, and deep respect for the land. From the start, they partnered with Rainforest Alliance and EARTH University to learn, improve, and lead by example.
Their impact goes far beyond tourism. They’ve offered free English classes, launched environmental and tech education programs including the non-profit TeachUNITED, and support rural families through homestays, fair employment, and local sourcing.
As Chilamate enters a new chapter—post COVID, guided by a growing team including Davis and Meghan’s daughter Lluvia—the focus is renewal and impact. As they restore and reimagine the Retreat, their mission stays clear: to protect the rainforest by making it meaningful for the people who live around it.
When you visit Chilamate, you don’t just explore the jungle—you become part of a shared story of care, community, and hope.
WLS Partnership
Since 2009, we’ve hosted leadership and education programs through a cherished partnership with World Leadership School. Together, we connect rural schools in Sarapiquí with international students in meaningful exchanges. These visits support infrastructure projects, teacher training, and lifelong friendships that cross borders and generations.
TeachUNITED
Born from a dream to transform education in rural Costa Rica, TeachUNITED Latin America began right here, working side-by-side with teachers, bringing tech, coaching, and hope to underfunded schools. Today, its reach spans across Latin America, but its heart remains in Sarapiquí.
Chilamate Soccer Camp
Every Saturday morning, local kids gather on the field—not for trophies, but for joy. With donated gear, fruits and community spirit, our soccer camp is free and open to all. It’s a space to laugh, play, and grow, and visitors are always welcome to join the fun and bring supplies to support.
Sarapiquí River Festival
Born from the love of water, adventure, and community, the Sarapiquí River Festival is a celebration of life on the river. Since 2011, we’ve organized this vibrant gathering with neighbors, kayakers, and dreamers from around the world. The three-day festival includes adrenaline-filled races like Boater Cross and Poza Azul Extreme, but also quiet moments—kids trying rafting for the first time, families picnicking by the river, and stories shared between generations.
This is not just a sports event. It’s a joyful, grassroots reminder that protecting rivers starts by experiencing their magic—together. After a pause in recent years, we dream of bringing the festival back… and you’re always invited.
Nosara Beach Camp
🌿 A Simple Life by the Sea
When we’re not in the rainforest, you’ll find us by the sea. Our simple camp in Playa Pelada (Nosara) offers a peaceful escape among howler monkeys and sea breezes. It’s rustic, real, and rooted in the same values: nature, community, and simplicity.