Jungle backdrop — Jungle Mat origins

Finding inspiration
in every turn


Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to Jiu-Jitsu, our studio in the heart of Costa Rica's tropical forest provides the ideal setting for your martial arts journey. Embrace nature, train with world-class instructors, connect with a thriving community, and retreat to tranquility. Join us today and discover the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of Costa Rica's tropical paradise.

Roots in Jungle Mat


Jungle Mat is where the journey began—a real school and community in Uvita. Retreats and jungle experiences on this site grow from that same community on the mat, open to families and travelers along the same coastline.

Where the trail started


Our story began when Ernesto Fallas, a dedicated Jiu-Jitsu professor and fervent fitness enthusiast, discovered his calling in the heart of Uvita. With unwavering determination, he founded Jungle Mat, a sanctuary that encourages individuals to harmonize their fitness journey with a path of enlightenment. Today, our mission remains to inspire others on their transformative quest, fostering a profound balance between physical well-being and spiritual awakening.

Jungle Mat main entrance

Coaches · mentors · hosts

Ernesto Fallas — Founder of Jungle Mat
Founder

Ernesto Fallas

Founder & Professor


  • Personal Trainer with ten years of experience.
  • National and international certifications in physical training.
  • Purple Belt, seven years of Brazilian Jiujitsu practice.
  • Academic background in Business Administration.
Daniel de León — Black Belt BJJ Professor

Daniel de León

Professor


  • More than fifteen years as a martial artist.
  • Black Belt in Brazilian Jiujitsu.
  • Ten-plus years as a professional MMA fighter.
  • Five-plus years judging, officiating, and cornering domestically and abroad.
José Cruz — Kung Fu and martial arts professor

José Cruz

Professor


  • 2007 — Initiated into Shaolin Kung Fu at the Wuwei Temple, Dali, Yunnan, China.
  • 2008–2012 — Shaolin Temple Spain, Madrid: internal/external arts with Shi Yan Ya and Shi Fu Carlos Álvarez; Kung Fu, Chi Kung, Tai Chi, meditation, Sanda.
  • 2013–2016 — Muay Thai with coach Jesús Sánchez.
Adrián Calderón — Brown Belt BJJ instructor

Adrián Calderón

Professor


  • Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiujitsu; five years as a BJJ instructor.
  • Previous academies include Roger Coelho, Fight Club, Avenue Jiujitsu, Striking Performance, and Jungle Mat.
Alana Giannotta-Ortiz — Yoga and wellness educator

Alana Giannotta-Ortiz

Yoga & wellness educator


  • 500hr E-RYT · Nine years teaching experience.
  • Certified in hatha yoga, restorative yoga, power vinyasa, yoga nidra.
  • Retreat curator and host.
  • Yoga mentor & transformational coach.

Visit Jungle Mat

Schedules, rates, and mission live on the Jungle Mat page.