FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Know Before You Go

We know joining a retreat can come with a lot of questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones — so you can plan your stay with confidence.
LOGISTICS
How do I get to Casa Apnea?
You can travel from either the Cancún (CUN) or Mérida (MID) airports. We currently provide airport transfer options to/from Cancún for retreat dates. If you’re arriving in Mérida, reach out once you know your flights – we can help coordinate your travel here.
How should I schedule my arrival and departure?
We offer airport transfers from Cancún (CUN) on Day 1 of the retreat, scheduled around guest arrivals. On the final day, the transfer leaves early in the morning – so we recommend booking afternoon or evening departures.
What if I want to stay longer than the retreat dates?
You're welcome to extend your stay before or after the retreat. Please contact us for pricing and availability.
Will someone meet me at the airport?
Yes. For scheduled retreats, we can coordinate airport transfers from Cancún. You’ll receive detailed arrival instructions and a WhatsApp contact after booking.
Do I need a visa to visit México?
For most nationalities, a visa is not required for stays under 180 days — but please check requirements for your country before travel.
What’s included in the retreat price?
Retreat pricing includes lodging, daily cenote training, pool access, cultural excursions, breakfast and dinner each day, and gear use. Airport transfers are available from Cancún. For full details, see our Retreats Page.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and most dietary needs — but please let us know in advance when you book.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that plans can change. Here’s how our cancellation policy works:
  • More than 60 days before arrival: Full refund of your deposit, minus $100 USD administrative fee.
  • Between 30 and 60 days: 50% of your deposit will be refunded.
  • Less than 30 days before arrival: Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer a refund of your deposit at this stage.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers both medical care and trip cancellations. Some freedivers also opt for DAN (Divers Alert Network) insurance, which includes diving-specific coverage.
How do I reserve my spot?
You can reserve your place with a deposit by Contacting Us. See our upcoming Retreat Dates. A 30% deposit is required to book your spot.
How do I pay my balance?
We accept payment via credit card, bank transfer, or cash. We will reach out to you with details for paying your remaining balance after your deposit is made.
What should I pack?
México (especially Yucatán) is warm year-round, so be sure to pack light clothing, swimwear, and sun protection. During the winter months, you may want a light jacket for the mornings and evenings.
FREEDIVING
Do I need to bring my own freediving gear?
Nope. We provide everything: wetsuits, masks, fins, lanyards, weight belts, snorkels. But you’re more than welcome to bring your own gear (always more comfy!). We have a dedicated dry room for gear storage while you’re here.
Is Casa Apnea a good option for beginners?
Our retreats are designed for certified freedivers. Beginners are welcome but should plan to arrive a few days early in Mexico to complete their AIDA 2 (or equivalent) requirements before the retreat begins. If you'd like to arrive early to complete your course, we can help coordinate training in Playa del Carmen through our partner school, GM Freediving.
Can I get certified during the retreat?
It may be possible to complete your AIDA 3 or AIDA 4 certification during the retreat — but space is limited, so please reach out to us in advance to confirm availability. Alternatively, we can often accommodate certification in the days immediately following the retreat.
What is the depth range of the cenotes?
Cenote Ucil (just five minutes from Casa Apnea) goes beyond 90m. The other cenotes we visit range from 45 to 70 meters deep. The cenote schedule can be arranged to accommodate the group’s diving level and goals.
What kind of pool training is available?
Our 25-meter semi-Olympic pool is open daily for optional pool training. We can provide additional coaching in static, dynamic, or technique on request. If you’re interested in pool, keep your eye out for our combined pool/depth retreats that put an extra emphasis on pool training.
What are the group sizes?
We intentionally keep things small — typically 6 to 8 divers max per retreat. This ensures quality instruction, multiple dives per session, and a close-knit group dynamic.
Do you host any competitions at Casa Apnea?
Yes! Hosting competitions is part of our long-term vision. We plan to organize pool competitions at Casa Apnea in the near future. And each April, there is a depth competition at Cenote Ucil — just five minutes from Casa Apnea. Stay tuned for upcoming competition dates!
GENERAL STAY
Can non-divers join?
Our retreats are designed with freedivers in mind — but non-diving partners or friends are welcome to join if they understand the primary focus of the experience. They’ll still enjoy access to Casa Apnea’s amenities, cultural outings, and the beauty of the cenotes from the surface. Please contact us for non-diver pricing and availability.
What cultural experiences are included?
We offer excursions to places like Chichén Itzá, Izamal, local markets, and cenotes. Some retreats also include optional day trips to the coast or Mérida.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes, we have fast, reliable internet everywhere on site thanks to our Starlink Business (Performance) system.
Is there cell reception at Casa Apnea?
Most guests find cell service to be reliable. But we also have strong Wi-Fi throughout the property if you need to stay connected.
Is it safe to drink the water?
We provide filtered drinking water for guests. Please avoid drinking tap water directly–though it’s fine for brushing your teeth.
Is there A/C?
Yes—all guest rooms have air conditioning.
Are there laundry facilities?
Yes, laundry is available on-site for guest use.
Can I book a massage during my stay?
Absolutely — massage therapy is available on-site by request, and we work with experienced local therapists.
Is there daily yoga or movement?
While we don’t offer formal classes, yoga mats are available for personal practice, and some retreats may offer optional movement sessions (including guided gym workouts).

Planning a Group Trip?

Whether you’re an instructor with students, a group of friends looking for a private retreat, or a training team wanting to go deeper together — we’d love to help you create the perfect experience. We can also offer discounts for groups traveling together.

Contact us to start planning

Not a Freediving Group?

Casa Apnea was built with freedivers in mind  —  but it’s also an ideal space for other kinds of retreats. From yoga and meditation to bird-watching (Yucatán is home to many life-list species!), we’re happy to help you design a custom experience that fits your group’s goals.

Contact us to start planning

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