Magic Jungle Retreat

 FAQs:

• What time is it recommended to book my flights?
  The shuttle leaves Mérida Airport on February 11 at 11:30 am. If you can’t get an early flight, we recommend arriving one day ahead in Mérida to enjoy the city. There’s a full day of activities starting the day you arrive.

• On the last day, there’s a farewell breakfast and check-out is at 12:00 pm, so we recommend booking a return flight in the afternoon.

• What if I miss the shuttle?
  You can take a taxi or Uber from Mérida or Izamal to Shambalanté without problem.

• How long is it from Mérida airport to Shambalanté?
  About one and a half hours. They suggest reserving a return flight from around 4 pm on Sunday so you're not rushed. If needed, they’ll help coordinate a taxi.

• Can I arrive from Cancún?
  Yes. You can use your own transport if you wish. The Hacienda is about 2 hours and 50 minutes from Cancún.

• What are the cancellation terms?
  You are asked to be sure you can attend before signing up. This is a very personalized event that requires a lot of planning from the moment you enroll. For this reason, the deposit is non-refundable, though under an emergency the rest of the credit can be transferred (according to their cancellation policy) before the date set in the policy.

• Where is the Hacienda located?
  Shambalanté is less than 10 km from the magical town of Izamal and about one and a half hours from the city of Mérida, in the state of Yucatán. You can also arrive from Cancún in approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.

• Can I bring my own car?
  Yes. There is an option for shuttle, but if you prefer to drive, no problem — there is plenty of parking space inside the private property of the Hacienda.

• How much cash should I bring?
  We recommend around $500 MXN to leave as tip at the end of the retreat for the Shambalanté staff (cooks, kitchen assistants, etc.). If you want any extra services outside the retreat program (massage, etc.), you can request them once at Shambalanté and it’s recommended to bring extra cash.

• What should I bring?
  Once your registration is complete and the retreat date approaches, you will receive an email with a full list of recommendations.

• Is there WiFi?
  Shambalanté has WiFi only in the dining hall. ✨ It’s a wonderful opportunity to disconnect.
  There is cellphone signal.

• Will there be Yoga?
  The program does not include guided yoga classes, but if yoga is part of your routine, feel free to bring your mat! There is time and space to practice independently and casually.

• I’m not sure if I’m advanced or beginner as an artist — is this retreat for me?
  To attend this retreat, you should already have some kind of creative practice or artistic project. All levels are welcome as long as you've taken a previous Magic Jungle retreat or workshop; the work is individual and the program manifests differently in each person. They have had participants who are very advanced in their art careers, as well as those who are just starting a new creative adventure.
  This retreat is not for learning basic skills (e.g. just how to paint). We’ll work more on developing your artistic practice from your personal style.

• Do I have to be a painter or illustrator?
  No. Magic Jungle considers all creative media as “art.” Over the years they’ve had fashion designers, crafters, makers, therapists, and more. In painting sessions, perfection is not the goal. Their exercises are about self-discovery, not refining technique.

• Can I room with a friend or family member?
  Of course! Double rooms and suites are for two people. If you want to share a room with someone special, include that in your registration form.