Frequently Asked Questions

What is required to enter Guatemala with COVID?

Proof of negative COVID test result is no longer required in Guatemala for US citizens if they can present evidence of either a COVID-19 vaccine completed at least two weeks before arrival or recovery from COVID-19 within three months of arrival. A negative COVID test within 72 hours prior to entry is required otherwise.

Do you offer food?

Yes, we offer vegan sattvic meals three times daily.

Do I need to bring my own yoga mats and meditation cushions?

No, we offer yoga mats, meditation cushions and chairs.

Do you offer work-exchange?

No.

What days and times can I arrive?

Check-in is 3pm, and check-out is 11am Monday - Saturday. Kindly arrive by 5 pm.

Are there days off during the Yoga Teacher Training Courses?

Yes, there is one day and a half off a week. 

Is there an internet Wi-Fi connection available in the center?

Yes, we provide limited Wi-Fi connection since we wish to minimize the use of mobile devices during retreats and trainings. Wi-Fi access is provided during the lunch break and evening for a few hours only. On days off the Wi-Fi connection will be available all day long.

Can I cancel my retreat or course?

See cancelation policies on our policies page.

Do you provide laundry services?

Yes, we offer laundry services in our home, offering wash/dry service by machine if you prefer, cost is Q50 per load.

Can I swim in the lake?

Lake Atitlan is the deepest lake in Central America (340 m) and offers a unique swimming experience. Due to volcanic activity, the lake temperature is warmer than usual for its altitude (1562 m). It’s a 10-minute walk down to the lake beach from the center. There are several kayak renting options in town. In the next village you can find a scuba diving center if you wish to explore diving.

How can I pay?

We accept direct deposit, bank transfer, and PayPal.

How can I withdraw money in your area?

There is an ATM in the town of San Marcos. The closest ones are in San Marcos & San Pedro, a few minutes away by public transport. We accept GTQ, USD & PayPal.

What do you recommend to bring?

  • It is necessary to bring your own biodegradable toiletries, a towel, and layers of clothing to suit varying temperatures during the day and night. All bedding is provided. Natural insect repellent comes in handy and a headlamp is a necessity. Travel bath towel.

  • Journal and/or Notebook (Pens/Pencils)

  • Comfortable hang-out and warm clothes for the nights, long sleeve shirts, trousers, and socks.

  • Sandals/flip flops & walking shoes

  • Organic mosquito repellent

  • Toiletries (Organic & Biodegradable - including hand & body soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush)

  • Personal Medications 

  • GSE, Oil of Oregano, Probiotics for possible upset bellies

  • Water bottle

  • Headlamp with batteries

  • Solar rechargeable power cell to charge phones or devices if you are bringing them

  • Alarm clock

  • Any Books you would like to read or share

  • Loose comfortable clothes for yoga practice

  • Long pants and sleeves if you are prone to bug bites

  • Shoes for hiking 

  • Wet weather gear for stays during the wet season, including a rain jacket and rain boots (simple rain boots can be bought in nearby villages) and an umbrella

  • Pepper spray (optional) for additional safety whilst traveling

  • A moon cup or reusable menstrual pads (for ladies)

Health

Your health is of the uppermost importance to us and we take great measures to ensure it!

We offer filtered water and our food is prepared in a safe and clean manner but we also encourage you to take responsibility for your health during your stay. Therefore we recommend being mindful of hygiene by regularly washing your hands with filtered water and soap (especially before meals). It is common for travelers in Guatemala to suffer from upset stomachs, diarrhea, and/or vomiting from exposure to different bacteria, therefor we recommend bringing natural remedies such as GSE and probiotics if you have a sensitive system.

In case of distress or emergency, there are options for public hospitals, private clinics, stool and blood tests, and pharmacies around the lake. 

Safety

Your safety during your stay is important to us! We recommend traveling to San Marcos during the daytime only and taking tourist shuttles or private transport. For later arrivals to Guatemala City, we recommend spending the night in the city and traveling to the lake on the following day. Private safes are provided in the rooms. Guides and private Tuk Tuks (3-wheeler taxis) can be arranged for tours and sightseeing trips.

While traveling and when visiting towns and villages, we advise mindfulness. Don’t flash expensive devices or carry large amounts of cash. Theft tends to be petty and opportunistic. Take care of your valuables and lock them away safely in the safe provided during your stay at Shamana.

How is the weather in your area?

Lake Atitlán is known as 'the Land of Eternal Spring’ since the climate is usually very mild. Most days the temperature is around 17-24 degrees Celsius, however, due to the altitude (1500m), nights can be as low as 8 degrees and can still feel chilly in the early mornings or when it's raining.

Guatemala has a dry season (November to April) and a wet season (May to October) each year. July and August are often also dry with a break in the rains. Please pack accordingly to stay dry during the wet season.