Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you’re wondering, and a few things you hadn’t thought to ask.

Planning Your Stay

1. How do I get to Mérida?

Fly into Mérida International Airport (MID) in Yucatán, or for more flexibility and possibly better prices, try Cancun International Airport (CUN) in Quintana Roo. Cancun is approximately 3.5 hours from Mérida, and has train, bus or private car options.

Once you register, you’ll receive detailed arrival and departure instructions to help plan your travel with ease. Please note, airfare and travel to Mérida are not included.

2. How do I get to Camp Joya

We arrange group transport from Mérida to the hacienda — think of it as the first step of the adventure!

The day of arrival, we provide a morning and afternoon transportation service between the Mérida airport and camp for all participants (service time will be determined based on camper arrival times).

For those who arrive in Mérida prior to camp start, we’ll arrange a designated pick-up spot in the center of town (location shared with your booking confirmation).

3. Do I need to be at a certain level of fitness or have prior experience for any activities?

Not at all! Camp Joya is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all bodies and ability levels. Activities range from restful to active, and everything is optional. Whether you want to join a gentle morning movement session or simply relax in a hammock, you’ll be supported in doing what feels right for you.

4. Can I arrive late or leave early?

We strongly encourage arriving and departing with the group to get the full Camp Joya experience. However, if your schedule requires flexibility, please contact us in advance — we’ll do our best to accommodate your travel needs.

5. What should I pack?

We’ll send a suggested packing list before your trip, but generally, think comfortable clothing, light layers and linen, swimwear, walking shoes or sandals. We also recommend bringing a journal, a reusable water bottle, and your sense of adventure.

6. Will I receive info before arriving?

Yes! Once you register, you’ll receive a welcome packet with travel guidance, packing tips, safety information, and everything you need to prepare for camp. We’re also available via email or phone to answer any final questions.

7. What’s the weather like at Camp Joya?

The Yucatán Peninsula, world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, is equally famous for its warm tropical climate. Temperatures typically range from the mid-80s°F (around 29°C) in the winter months to the high-90s°F (around 36–37°C) in the summer, with high humidity year-round. Afternoon breezes and evening cool-downs offer some relief, but you’ll want to pack light, breathable clothing.

Our founder, Casey, likes to joke that she is always melting away—yet she promises the magic of the Yucatán and the Camp experience are more than worth the heat. We plan camp sessions based on the best weather months. If you are nervous about the heat - we recommend December or Febraury sessions!

8. What kind of plants and animals might I see?

Camp Joya is surrounded by nature, where you may spot tropical birds, butterflies, iguanas, and native plants. Since most activities take place outdoors, insects and mosquitoes are common at dawn and dusk. We suggest packing light long sleeves for comfort — and don’t worry, we’ll provide the insect repellent!

9. Can I connect with campers before arrival?

Absolutely! We’ll invite you to join our private Facebook group for Camp Joya attendees once your spot is confirmed. It’s the perfect place to introduce yourself, share your excitement, ask questions, and maybe even find your travel buddy before camp begins.

10. Are health services available in an emergency?

Mérida has several high-quality hospitals with modern facilities and bilingual staff, like Centro Médico de las Américas, about 30 minutes from camp. For extra peace of mind, you’re welcome to arrange traveler’s insurance before your trip.

Camp Life

1. Is there a schedule, and do I need to reserve activities in advance?

Each day at Camp Joya offers a thoughtfully curated list of activities in the morning, afternoon, and evening — from movement and creative workshops to group discussions and local adventures.

No need to reserve in advance — simply choose what feels good in the moment. We do ask that you let us know your group excursion preference on the booking form.

2. Will I have time to rest or be alone?

Absolutely. You may do as much or as little as you like.
There’s space to sleep in, find a quiet spot to read or journal, take a leisurely walk, or simply lounge by the pool.

3. What amenities can I expect?

The estate centers around a majestic hacienda house, complete with spacious outdoor dining and lounge areas designed for relaxation and gathering. Scattered throughout the lush gardens are a collection of private villas, offering intimacy and immersion in nature. Campers can enjoy three swimming pools and villa plunge pools for ultimate rejuvenation. For comfort, air conditioning is available in all bedrooms, while Wi-Fi and cell service are accessible throughout the property (strength may vary by spot).

4. Are there any rules?

At Camp Joya, our rules are simple — respect yourself, respect others, and respect the space we share:

You – Alcohol may be enjoyed responsibly at meal times. Smoking is permitted in designated outdoor areas .Please refrain from bringing and using drugs.
Community – We welcome women of all backgrounds and expect kindness, openness, and mutual respect in every interaction.
Playground – Be mindful that camp is a community experience. Take care of the common areas, give others space to rest or reflect, and help keep the energy supportive for all.

Food & Rooms

1. What will we eat and drink?

We’ll enjoy fresh, nourishing meals prepared daily by local cooks. The menu highlights regional Yucatán flavors, with a mix of traditional and international dishes. Meals are made with seasonal ingredients and designed to feel both grounding and celebratory. An array of beverages will also be provided such as water, flavored waters, coffee, tea, soda, beer and wine (we ask everyone to please enjoy responsibly).

2. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, we’re happy to accommodate dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, any allergies, and others. Let us know your preferences on the booking form, and we’ll make sure you’re well fed and cared for.

3. Is the water safe to drink?

We provide clean, filtered drinking water throughout the property and encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. While tap water is not recommended for drinking, it is safe for hand washing and teeth brushing.

4. What are the rooms like?

Campers will stay in shared rooms with a mix of king, queen, and individual beds, each with a shared bathroom. Rooms typically accommodate 2 to 5 women, depending on the number and type of beds. Lodging is cozy and communal — ear plugs and fans are provided for extra comfort.

5. How do I request bed or room mates?

You’ll have the chance to share your bedmate and roommate preferences on the reservation form. We do our best to honor all rooming requests while creating a comfortable environment for everyone.

We encourage those coming with a friend or relative to consider sharing a bed (queen or king) as it helps us accommodate more women at camp. As a thank you, you'll receive a complimentary spa treatment!

6. How are the bathrooms?

Each room has a spacious bathroom with enclosed vanity, toilet and shower. Bathrooms have an open air design, so please note that sound can carry and your roommates may hear you singing in the shower.

7. Is smoking allowed at Camp Joya?

Yes, smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor green spaces. We ask everyone to respect these areas to keep the environment comfortable and clean for all campers.

Booking & Policies

1. How much does a week at Camp Joya cost?

Your week at Camp Joya costs $2,500 USD.

This cost covers transportation from Mérida to camp, lodging, meals, activities and treasures. Please remember airfare is the one thing we ask you to take of care.

At Camp Joya, for those booking well in advance, you can choose between two payment options:

Pay in Full
- $2,500 due at the time of booking.
- Eligible for refunds per our cancellation policy:
  - Full refund if canceled more than 3 months before camp.
  - Credit toward a future session if canceled up to 3 month before camp.
Payment Plan
- $1,000 deposit at booking.
- $1,000 due 3 months before camp.
- $500 due 1 month before camp.
- Payments under this plan are not refundable, but you may:
  - Transfer your spot to another participant, or
  - Apply your balance as credit toward a future Camp Joya within one year.

For those booking will camp right around the corner, 2 months or less, we ask for you to please play in full.

2. How do I reserve my spot?

You can reserve your spot by completing our registration form and submitting your payment through our website. Spaces are limited and tend to fill up quickly, so we recommend booking early to secure your place.

3. What’s your cancellation policy?

We know that sometimes life happens and plans can shift. Here’s how we handle cancellations to keep things fair and flexible:

More than 3 months before Camp: Guests who paid in full are eligible for a full refund.
Between 1–3 months before Camp: Payments are non-refundable, but may be applied as credit toward a future Camp Joya session within one year, or you may transfer your spot to a friend.
Within 1 month of Camp: Payments are non-refundable, but you may transfer your spot to a friend.

4. What information do I need to provide when booking?

You’ll be asked to fill out a short form with basic details — your contact information, dietary needs, room and activity preferences, and other details that help us personalize your experience. After booking, we’ll follow up with a welcome packet and next steps.

5. Are there add-on fees?

Remeber we've got you covered from ground transportation to and from Mérida, lodging, meals and camp activities.

If you'd like to take advantage of the hacienda's beautiful spa, you may book treatments for a fee. Other than that, the only additional costs would be optional personal expenses during the excursion, like souvenirs or extra snacks.

6. What payment methods do you accept?

We accept major credit and debit cards through our secure online platform or bank transfer.

7. How can I book with a friend or as a group?

It’s easy! When you register, you’ll find a space to list the friend(s) you’d like to share your room with.

If you’re booking as a group, one person can make the reservation for everyone, or you can each book separately and mention each other’s names so we can link your bookings.

We can also split the payment between guests if needed—just email us at hellojoy@campjoya.com.

8. Can I give this experience as a gift?

Absolutely! Camp Joya makes a beautiful and meaningful gift. Just indicate during booking that it’s a gift, and we’ll coordinate with you to make it special. We can even create a digital gift certificate to send to the recipient.

The Basics

1. Who is Camp Joya for?

Camp Joya is designed for women of all ages (18+) and backgrounds who are seeking joy, connection, and restoration. You'll be part of a vibrant group of 20 to 30 women gathering to celebrate themselves and each other. No prior camp experience needed — just an openness to enjoy.

2. What’s included in the experience?

Your registration includes:

Beautiful lodging in a private hacienda.
Delicious meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
All activities, group experiences and a regional excursion.
Camp Joya treasures.
Ground transportation between Mérida and Camp Joya.

Optional spa treatments are available at an additional cost.

3. What will we be doing at Camp Joya?

Each day is thoughtfully planned to balance joy, rest, and connection. You can expect a mix of group activities like creative workshops, movement sessions, and guided expeditions alongside plenty of free time to relax by the pool, wander the gardens, or simply recharge. While the schedule provides structure, everything is optional, you’re always welcome to follow your own rhythm and choose what feels best for you. To get a closer look at what the week might feel like, check out the Your Week section.

4. Where is Camp Joya located?

Camp Joya takes place in a 17th-century hacienda about 30 minutes outside of Mérida, Yucatán. The region is known for its cultural richness, and warm hospitality. Transportation is simple, we organize a group pick-up from Mérida, so getting to camp is easy and secure. We also partner with trusted local providers to ensure a comfortable and safe experience throughout your stay.

5. Can I come alone or do I need to book with someone?

Absolutely, you can come solo — many do! Camp Joya is intentionally designed to make solo travelers feel safe, included, and connected from the start. You're also welcome to book with a friend, sister, cousin, or your whole crew. Either way, you'll leave with new friends and unforgettable memories.

6. What language is spoken at Camp Joya?

Camp Joya welcomes women from around the world and has staff bilingual in English and Spanish. The hospitality team primarily speaks Spanish and Maya and would be happy to teach campers interested in learning.

7. Is Camp Joya a safe space for all women?

Camp Joya is a safe and supportive space for all women—inclusive of sex, gender identity, religion, ethnicity, culture, and background. Every participant is invited to bring her full self, and we ask that all uphold the values of respect, kindness, and community that make Camp a meaningful experience for everyone.

Still have questions?

We’re happy to help. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, just reach out, we’d love to hear from you.