Get ready for an unprecedented new chapter in poker as the prestigious Malta Poker Festival (MPF) extends its reach to the breathtaking Country of Costa Rica! The 2025 Costa Rica Poker Festival (CR) is not just another poker event. It’s a unique experience that flawlessly combines the excitement of poker with the enchantment of Costa Rica’s natural beauty, offering a one-of-a-kind setting for intense poker action.

Key Figures Behind the Festival

The 2025 Costa Rica Poker Festival results from a groundbreaking partnership between Ivonne Montealegre, the visionary owner of MPF, and Paul Sergi, the owner of Kickers Club Poker Club. This extraordinary collaboration, combining Montealegre’s global influence and Sergi’s local expertise, is set to deliver an event that exceeds all expectations. Together, they form a dynamic team with a vision of a vibrant, diverse poker community.

Montealegre is deeply committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity within the poker community. She strongly advocates for women in poker and serves as the Vice President of the International Division of the Women’s Poker Association. Additionally, Montealegre has established the “Women In Gaming” WhatsApp Group to facilitate networking, idea exchange, and motivation among female gaming industry professionals. Her active involvement ensures that the CR Poker Festival will offer all participants a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Ivonne’s achievements and advocacy did not go unnoticed by her partner, Paul Sergi. He stated, “We have been following her brand for years, and we are thrilled to arrange an unforgettable poker experience for her clients.”

Value Added / Satellites

From January 27th to Monday, February 3rd, the Kickers Poker Club at the Sheraton Hotel and Casino in San Jose, Costa Rica, will be the 2025 CR Poker Festival hub. The week will be packed with various tournaments, leading up to the Grand Event with a 100,000 USD Guaranteed Prize Pool, set in the beautiful destination offering a significant value addition for all players.

“We are confident that our venue will impress the players and provide them with an unforgettable experience. In addition, our local Costa Rican players will benefit from early scheduling, larger prize pools, and a wide range of tournaments and cash games where they can play against international poker players. We will host satellite qualifiers at our poker rooms in Costa Rica, Panama, St. Maarten, and the Dominican Republic – Paul Sergi Owner of Kicker Poker.”

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is special to Mrs. Montealegre as it is her homeland. Her intimate connection and sense of Latin pride will bring exciting new dimensions to the tournament, and she is eager to share her culture with the poker world.

Nestled in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica proudly showcases the lively hub of San Jose as its dynamic capital. The CR Poker Festival will be held in this captivating province, a gateway to the country’s rich culture, history, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Surrounded by lush mountains, San Jose offers a variety of attractions, including lively markets, serene parks, and a diverse range of Latin cuisine to cater to a wide range of interests.

The tournament will take place inland, but the Festival organizers encourage participants to extend their stay in the country to explore its natural beauty and wildlife. Costa Rica has over 800 miles of coastline and around 300 beaches, allowing players to enjoy the Pacific or Caribbean shores, lush rainforests, and ecological wonders.

Sheraton San José Hotel & Casino

The Sheraton San Jose Hotel in Costa Rica is part of the Marriott Bonvoy family and is located in the trendy, upscale suburb of Escazú. It offers a prime location for the Poker Festival and is close to metropolitan attractions and conveniences, yet it has a more laid-back vibe.

The hotel is only 13 km (8.3 miles) from Juan Santa Maria International Airport and provides convenient transportation options. Players can use the hotel’s airport shuttle service for a fee. Alternatively, they can opt for a more budget-friendly choice by taking an Uber from the airport to the hotel, which costs approximately USD 17  (CDC 9000 ). Additionally, the hotel provides on-site car rental services and complimentary parking for exploring the town.

The hotel offers a variety of upscale amenities to enhance Festival participants’ stay. It includes elegant luxury rooms with convenient free high-speed WiFi, dry cleaning services, an on-site fitness center, and room service. After a long day, players can choose from diverse dining experiences, from the European-inspired culinary delights of Curu to the stylish ambiance of the ARDE Rooftop Gastro-Bar, situated poolside.

Travel Tips

Costa Rica’s official language is Spanish, although the country ranks second in Latin America for English proficiency. Participants at the CR Poker Festival can expect the English-only rule to be applied during the tournament. However, for all other activities outside the game, they can use a service such as Google Translate, which even offers image translations for tasks like reading a menu.

The official currency in the country is the Costa Rican Colón. Currently, the exchange rate is USD 1 = CDC 525.06. However, since currency values can change rapidly, players should have a currency converter app on their phones to stay informed about the most up-to-date rates.

Costa Rica’s standard voltage is (120 V). Travelers from the United States visiting Costa Rica typically will not need a voltage converter. Still, they may require an adaptor to convert a two-prong plug to a three-prong plug (always check the label on your devices before plugging them in). However, most travelers from other countries will need a voltage converter and an adaptor. Players can check what is required at www.power-plugs-sockets.com.

Pack light. The early months of the year are the best time to explore the country. There will be little rainfall and an average temperature of around 78°.

Beyond the Felt  

The 2025 CR Poker Festival is offering thrilling off-the-felt entertainment packages. It has collaborated with Localista, a professional tour operator specializing in authentic, local experiences.

The package includes:

  • Seven nights at the luxurious Sheraton Hotel in Escazu for two, including breakfast.
  • 550 USD buy-in to the Grand Event with a 100,000 USD guaranteed prize pool
  • One off-the-felt activity day is available for one player to choose from (tour dates January 29th & 30th, 2025).

Tour Options:

  • Coffee Tour in the Mountains: Explore the renowned coffee plantations and learn about Costa Rica’s rich coffee culture.
  • Pacuare White Water Rafting Adventure: Experience the thrill of rafting on one of the most beautiful rivers in the world.
  • Zipline Adventure: Soar through the treetops and enjoy breathtaking rainforest views.
  • Beach/Surf Day: Relax and unwind on the pristine beaches of Costa Rica. Catch some waves and enjoy a day of surfing in one of the top surf destinations.
  • Golf Day: With other players, enjoy a golf day near the Sheraton Hotel.

 

 

Must-Attend Event

The 2025 CR Poker Festival has quickly become a must-attend event in the poker community, attracting players who seek to combine their love for the game with a passion for exploration. Join us for this historical gathering that promises unparalleled poker action amidst the enchanting backdrop of Costa Rica. Online satellites are available at the Ipoker Network, home of brands such as Betsson, Coolbet, and Guts.