Dive into...
Immerse yourself into the Mayan culture both above and below the water.
A week diving in the hidden cenotes of Yucatán, visiting Mayan ruins (of course we cannot miss one of the 7 wonders of the world) and breathing one of the most colorful atmospheres in the world, while indulging in tasty food and great drinks.
For those of you who don’t know: cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with fresh water, formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, revealing hidden pools of crystal-clear water beneath the surface.
Fascinating but full of mystery and magic at the same time, the cenotes are the most beautiful gems of the Yucatán Peninsula. Sheltered by the jungle, taking a swim in a cenote isn’t just an adventure—it’s a journey into the depths believed by the Mayans to be gateways to the underworld. And trust us, you’ll feel it!
We will also explore the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve by boat: countless species of birds are found here and, among mangroves and crystal clear waters, hundreds of pink flamingos breed, creating a real sight for the eyes.
This won’t be your average tour of Yucatan. During this week you’ll be able to appreciate the culture and magic of the people living there today as well as the Mayans who lived there centuries ago.
What ?
An epic week-long retreat in Mexico, where hidden cenotes, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant traditions await. This adventure has it all, from nature’s marvels to cultural treasures.
A trip extension is available for certified divers.
Where ?
Yucatán, Mexico.
We will start our journey from Valladolid, exploring the first cenotes and UNESCO World Heritage site of Chichén-Itzá, but this won’t be the only Mayan treasure we will look for.
For the second part of the trip our base will be in Mérida: from there we will keep exploring the best and most secret cenotes of the region and head to Celestún. A boat will lead us through mangroves and crystal clear waters in search of pink flamingos and a myriad of other animals.
When ?
November 30th to December 7th 2024.
Join us for a 7 night adventure exploring the mystical cenotes of Mexico in the best period. This is also the season when nature reveals its most breathtaking wonders.
Who ?
You will be travelling with a small group of young like-minded ocean lovers, up to maximum 16 guests.
The group will be led by 4 freediving instructors: us (Carlo and Miki) along with our partners for this trip, Alberto and Francesca, from Alma Libre. As well as being really good friends of ours, these two beautiful people live in Merida and have a deep passion and expertise in cenotes, that will really take us off the beaten path for the adventure of a lifetime.
What ?
A full-blown underwater retreat. We will literally be spending every day in the water, taking full advantage of all the beauty of the Red Sea.
You will have the chance to encounter wild dolphins and swim with a whole pod. You will explore the most pristine and gorgeous underwater coral landscapes you can imagine.
You will learn more about underwater photography as we will guide you into filming content with your own camera or ours.
You will enjoy the very best of the Egyptian coast and Deep South.
Where ?
Marsa Alam, Egypt.
We will not be staying in Marsa Alam, but we will start our journey from there, heading south.
We will spend the first 4 nights at Red Sea Diving Safari – in Wadi Lahami Village – while we explore the sea from land.
After that, we will spend 4 nights onboard Aziab Seafaris 50.5 foot Beneteau Cyclades sailboat while we journey to the Dolphin Reef for a memorable diving experience.
When ?
19th to 27th Oct 2024.
Join us for a 8 night adventure exploring the underwater beauties of the Red Sea.
October is a beautiful month in Egypt. The weather is warm but not scorching, averaging between 25° and 30°C (82-93°F) night and day. But the sea is pretty warm, hanging around 26-27°C (84°F). This is the prime reason for our choice of dates.
This way, you will enjoy the very best conditions to live by these incredible waters.
Who ?
We will be travelling with you together with a very small number of people, up to maximum 8 guests. All will be young like-minded ocean lovers, with a passion for adventure and with whom we will have the best underwater fun.
Want to join with a friend or group of friends? No problem.
Want to join with your boyfriend or girlfriend? No problem. Are you travelling solo and would love to meet new friends? No problem. This is the perfect opportunity!
Anyone is welcome!
Highlights of the Trip
Accommodation
Fully embrace local life by staying in authentic Mexican accommodations.
In the first part of the week we will stay in a boutique Mexican hotel, nestled in the heart of Valladolid. Then we will move to a villa in Mérida’s historic center, which will host us for the following days of our adventure.
Both buildings combine historical elegance and luxury with lush gardens, spacious rooms, and huge outdoor environments, promising a truly memorable stay.
Forget youth hostels: we are also going to have a swimming pool 😉
Accommodation options include twin and double occupancy rooms, all fully equipped with WiFi and air conditioning. All rooms have en-suite private bathrooms.
We will pair up participants in the shared rooms based on sex, age and interests, to make it the best experience for everyone! Single occupancy is not available.
*Photos are a mix of both accommodations
Fully embrace local life by staying in authentic Mexican accommodations.
In the first part of the week we will stay in a boutique Mexican hotel, nestled in the heart of Valladolid. Then we will move to a villa in Mérida’s historic center, which will host us for the following days of our adventure.
Both buildings combine historical elegance and luxury with lush gardens, spacious rooms, and huge outdoor environments, promising a truly memorable stay.
Forget youth hostels: we are also going to have a swimming pool 😉
Accommodation options include twin and double occupancy rooms, all fully equipped with WiFi and air conditioning. All rooms have en-suite private bathrooms.
We will pair up participants in the shared rooms based on sex, age and interests, to make it the best experience for everyone! Single occupancy is not available.
*Photos are a mix of both accommodations
Program
Cenotes & Mayas, that’s all you need to know 😉
DAY 1 – 30th Nov - Arrival
We will be welcoming you at our accommodation in Valladolid on Saturday, anytime after 2pm. After a refreshing drink you can start checking into your room. If everyone arrives on time, we will have the first dinner together to start knowing each other.
DAY 2 – 1st Dec - First Cenote 👀
Ready to dive into our first cenote? After a short briefing we start our activities for the day: all we can tell is that during these days you will experience the best and most mystical cenotes in the whole Yucatán. We will dive -literally and metaphorically- into the Mayan culture. Please have your camera ready under and above water, it will be worth it.
DAY 3 – 2nd Dec - Chichén Itzá 🤩
Today is gonna be a big day, so better arrive refreshed and rested: if you cannot wait to check one of the 7 wonders of the world, Chichén Itzá, off your bucket list, you are in the right place as this will be there first activity of the day.
We will then chill in a nearby cenote and have lunch before heading to Ciudad Amarilla (yellow city), a small jewel that blends colonial architecture and Mayan ruins: the blue sky and the intense yellow of its buildings create a wonderful contrast for the eye (and for our pictures!).
After the activities we will head to Mérida aboard our van, to arrive at our second accommodation for the week.
DAY 4 - 3rd Dec - Flamingos 🦩 & beach 🏝️
Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve is today’s highlight: we are going ride a boat through a mangrove forest to spot the colonies of pink flamingos and tons of other native and migratory birds.
Lunch on the beach and a good swim in the ocean, will be the icing on the cake of this perfect day.
Day 5 to 7 - 4th to 6th Dec - Secret Cenotes 🤫
Our adventure continues, diving into hidden cenotes, exploring Mayan archaeological sites and traditions, soaking up mesmerizing sunsets, and indulging in guacamole & ceviche paired with margaritas, all wrapped in endless fun amid lush vegetation.
During these days there will be plenty of chances for Freediving and Underwater Photography Workshops with the whole group, also thanks to the help of Francesca and Alberto, freediving instructors and our co-hosts of this trip.
Scuba diving day: one day will be dedicated to scuba diving! Everyone will get a chance to try scuba diving, certified divers will have the opportunity to explore a little deeper in one of the most amazing cenotes and its magical plays of light and reflections.
Day 8 - 7th Dec - Departure 😢
After our last breakfast (did we mention we will have a cook preparing our breakfasts every day?), we will pack our bags and, and visit the beautiful city of Mérida. Then we will head back to the Airport for everyone’s return flights home.
Everyone except for the ones who will decide to keep the adventure going by joining our optional extension!
Optional Extension – 7th to 12th Dec 😎🤿
For certified freedivers/scubadivers only
Further epic days of adventures await those who dare to extend their journey with us!
Aboard our van we will move to Tulum to a smaller but always charming accomodation.
Aim of the next days: exploring the most stunning cenotes of the area. Fame doesn’t mean less beauty, you can check it by yourself simply searching them on Google or Instagram: Kaan Luum, El Pit, Dos Ojos, Nicte Ha, just to name a few.
Please note: the price and a more detailed program will be shared soon, in the meantime you can look at this PDF teaser. Please express your interest in joining this extension during the deposit payment of the main part of the trip.
Please note the order we mentioned the activities is only indicative and the program may undergo minor changes.
Pricing
CHF 2'400 pp
CHF 2'300 pp
Discount valid until May 31st
ROOM ARRANGEMENTS: Double bed with private bathroom or twin bed with private bathroom.
We will pair up participants in the shared rooms based on sex, age and interests to make it the best experience for everyone! Single occupancy is not available.
Our goal is to offer a closed package deal. Unless you have some particular or special requests, once you have paid for this deal, the transfers from/to the airport and the few meals not included, it is unlikely you will have to spend large amounts of money during this trip (excluding international flights from your country).
Extra days for advanced divers only: price will be shared soon, for now you can look at this PDF teaser. Please express your interest for this optional extra during the booking of the deposit.
CHF 2’400 pp
CHF 2’300 pp
Discount valid until May 31st
ROOM ARRANGEMENTS: Double bed with private bathroom or twin bed with private bathroom.
We will pair up participants in the shared rooms based on sex, age and interests to make it the best experience for everyone! Single occupancy is not available.
Our goal is to offer a closed package deal. Unless you have some particular or special requests, once you have paid for this deal, the transfers from/to the airport and the few meals not included, it is unlikely you will have to spend large amounts of money during this trip (excluding international flights from your country).
Extra days for advanced divers only: price will be shared soon, for now you can look at this PDF teaser. Please express your interest for this optional extra during the booking of the deposit.
Reviews by our Guests
Vittoria
“On this journey I have amplified the connection with other people. People I didn't know, that I had never seen before. I left not knowing who to expect. Everything was born in a natural, harmonious, clean, simple way. People, like me, passionate about my own things, able to get excited about the same things I got excited about. It is a kind of feeling and energy that only those who connect can understand it. It's strong, it's pure, it's solid."
Maurizio
A wonderful experience that I recommend to everyone who loves dolphins and the sea!
You give up a little comfort in exchange for excitement, unforgettable moments and close encounters with dozens and dozens of dolphins! The group was fantastic and there was an immediate spontaneous connection and friendship that made the vacation even more special.
The helpfulness, kindness and enthusiasm of Carlo and Miki then helped make it all special and unforgettable! A heartfelt thank you for giving us the opportunity to live an experience that will remain forever in our hearts and in my memories!
Veronica
"The retreat organized by Carlo and Micky was more than a diving trip to the Maldives. It was an experience, an emotional and personal journey. It made it possible for me to improve my skills in the water, to enjoy the wonders that only the ocean can give you, to consolidate that magical bond between me and nature and to create new bonds with amazing strangers, where each of them brought passion, joy, lots of laughter and shining eyes full of wonder and emotion."
Sarah
“Thanks for making this trip so wonderful and a safe place for us!!! I will repeat it over and over again, this trip was truly magical and unforgettable. Thank you thank you thank you!
❤✨🤟”
Christian
These retreats 🥰 I can't wait for the next one 🥹
Marie
“Thank you for organising an absolute dream of holidays! Couldn’t have wished for better than this! Love you guys!!”
Marius
From an organising point of view, it was super smooth! Transfers, activities, everything! I also loved the underwater places a lot, probably I wouldn’t have found most of them, only knew about Sataya Reef before this trip.
Loved that we also got to practice scuba, although unintended, seems like we need to practice a little more of it and this came at the right time. Also liked the photography and freediving workshops, it made the trip different from other group trips.
Veronica
"The reality is that beyond defining it all as ‘wonderful', finding the exact words is really difficult...it was all a matter of emotions and hearts, because yes, these two guys here put their hearts into this retreat and you could feel it all. I will never be thankful enough to them for the gift they gave me, for the courage they lent me in stepping out of my comfort zone, for the hugs, the laughter... from the beginning to the end, all wonderful.
And you, are you still thinking about it?
Book that flight, trust me, you won't regret it 💙 "
Vittoria
"I'm happy to have stepped out of my comfort zone to realize what I imagined, to give it real proof and believe even more in myself and in my thoughts, in what I feel and believe.
There is satisfaction in saying: you were right. And I was in fact right in believing that there are reasons that drive people to connect with each other by merging their life paths because one's aura is on the same wavelength. With people like this you don't have to struggle to prove who you are, because it's as if they already know you, and it's beautiful because it's like feeling at home. The most intense and craziest experience of my life, a trip I will never forget, looking forward to the next one!”
Katrin
“The Retreat in the Maldives by Bonny and Gava was a lifetime dream come true. At just 20 years old I was visiting the paradise. The Hotel and their food was great, the staff was very courteous and the rooms clean and with AC. On the organised day trips I could freedive with whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins and nurse sharks. I learned to improve my breathing and equalise technique in their workshop as well as editing underwater pictures. The organisation was so smooth and we were bonding quickly with the other retreat guests and even learned how to sign dolphin and our names in sign language. Overall it was an amazing experience I will never forget and be forever grateful for.”
Mixed comments from our clients
Loved every second of every day!
One of the best trips I've ever taken, thank you so much for creating this magic.
We were so blessed with magical moments every day!
The most beautiful and intense experience of my life. Thank you Ocean and thank you @bonnyandgava for helping me fulfil this wish 🫶🏻 I love you so much
Thank you for organising an absolute dream holiday, couldn't have wished for better than this!
Memories we will have for a lifetime
Sara
I would say that the trip far exceeded expectations.
We definitely got lucky with the weather and the dolphins and the group was really great so I had a really good time🥰 (translated with Deepl)
Carolina
This retreat was an amazing experience! Highly recommend to everyone who loves the ocean and its underwater life: we swam with sharks, manta rays, turtles and hundreds of colorful fishes. Dhigurah Island is a tropical paradise, the hotel, food and all accommodation were great. Miki and Carlo are so kind and took incredible photos and videos of every magic moment.
Loredana
I absolutely loveeed this trip! Its a dream coming true. You're in paradise and having the best time of your life and see so many animals! It was insane, every day we saw different animals and had different experiences outside & under water!
The workshops are a PLUS for this trip we learnt a lot about freediving, underwater photography and editing! Carlo & Miki made it really special & super personal, they cared for every single one of us - no matter if it's about seasickness, fears or camera problems! Would absolutely recommend and doing it again! 😍
Auriane
The trip was absolutely amazing on all accounts and will stay forever in my memory. I'm used to traveling solo and you definitely convinced me to try group trips more often. It was great to share memories and I'm so happy I was able to make new like-minded friends ☺️ The organization was perfect, everything went super smoothly and i liked that you were able to reorganize some parts of the trip to fit the group, the weather conditions, the Ramadan, etc. And of course, you were always super attentive to our needs and our comfort. All in all, thank you so much for this unforgivable experience. I was so glad to meet you in person, you are both very beautiful persons and I really hope to share more trips with you guys 🥰
Emmeline
Thanks you so much for this trip in Maldives ! It was amazing. The organisation was perfect between transfert and excursion. Thanks you so much to share with us your passion for the ocean. If you are an ocean lover, this retreat is for you !
The workshop about freediving and photographie was great!
Noël
Miki and Carlo, thank you for the wonderful trip I was able to have with you all! I am infinitely grateful for what you organised and all of the work you put in! I will never forget this trip and it has a permanent place in my heart! What you can achieve with your trips is simply amazing. Thank you once again from the bottom of my heart for the great time! And we will definitely see each other again! 🙏🏼❤️
What's Included
7 nights in a real Mexican villa, in Valladolid first and then Mérida.
Excursions EVERY SINGLE DAY, underwater, above water and even underground!
Entrance tickets to all the activities proposed: cenotes, Mayan ruins, Ria Celestún Biosphere Reserve and others.
All transfers by private sprinter van; the tour will begin at our accomodation in Valladolid and end at our hacienda in Mérida.
Most meals: excluding a couple of dinners (we would like to leave a bit of decision-making autonomy to everyone). The average price of a meal in Mexico is very low, compared to the rest of the world.
Underwater photography workshops with Bonny & Gava in which we will spill all our professional secrets.
Visit to local towns full of Mexican culture and beauty
Freediving coaching to start or improve your freediving no matter your level
Full day scuba diving for certified divers or a discovery dive for those who have never tried it before.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Chichén-Itzá with a private guide
Freediving workshop for beginners to learn the basics and enjoy the week!
A super fun group to share your adventures and become best friends with
Underwater photography workshop
Throughout this retreat an active underlying photography workshop will take place.
During the dives you will either be tutored on your own camera settings and skills, or you will have the opportunity to test our gear, either our professional-level Sony with underwater housing, our GoPro or our Insta360.
But the best part will be later, once back in the hotel/sailboat. During the free times before or after dinner we will be sharing our best tips on how to edit underwater photos and videos. Editing is such an essential part of underwater photography!
Discover all of our insider tips on how to make beautiful and successful underwater content. We will spill all the beans on years worth of practice and self-teaching. Don’t hesitate to ask us ANY questions, we will be excited to share everything with you.
Oh, and as an extra bonus, we will provide all of you with our Underwater Preset Pack for free to quickly edit your content on the trip.
Take home the very best memories you could ask for.
P.S. All guests will be participating in the Bonny & Gava videos on our platforms, so be ready for some fun times 😉
Throughout this retreat an active underlying photography workshop will take place.
During the dives you will either be tutored on your own camera settings and skills, or you will have the opportunity to test our gear, either our professional-level Sony with underwater housing, our GoPro or our Insta360.
But the best part will be later, once back in the sailboat. During free times before or after dinner we will be sharing our best tips on how to edit underwater photos and videos. Editing is such an essential part of underwater photography!
Discover all of our insider tips on how to make beautiful and successful underwater content. We will spill all the beans on years worth of practice and self-teaching. Don’t hesitate to ask us ANY questions, we will be excited to share everything with you.
Oh, and as an extra bonus, we will provide all of you with our Underwater Preset Pack for free to quickly edit your content on the trip.
Take home the very best memories you could ask for.
P.S. All guests will be participating in the Bonny & Gava videos on our platforms, so be ready for some fun times 😉
Requirements
CAve comfort
Cenotes can be open wells or small caves, so it’s essential to feel at ease climbing through narrow spaces and being in a cave with a low vault. You will never be in danger of any kind and you can always opt out.
Ocean Comfort
Free diving or scuba diving certifications are NOT necessary to participate, but a very good level of swimming and comfort in open waters is essential to enjoy the experiences. Of course, certification is welcome and training will be based on each individual’s level.
Insurance
A dive insurance is mandatory for this trip, we recommend DAN. Travel insurance is not mandatory but recommended.
Gear
Please bring your own gear if you own it (masks, fins, snorkels, wetsuits, cameras, weight belts..etc). We will provide everyone with weights. If needed we can also organise to provide other missing gear, when duly noted.
Language
It’s important for every participant to speak English at a basic level so that we can all have a fun time together without leaving anyone out.
Speaking Spanish is not necessary.
Keep in Mind
Note: it is not a requirement to be free divers, however, free divers will most likely enjoy the retreat more. For this reason we really recommend training at least the basics before participating at this retreat.
Packing list:
the temperatures in Mexico in December are very warm but nights can always get a bit colder. Be sure to bring:
- Layers layers layers. It can be super warm and also a bit chilly so make sure to bring all sorts of layers to always feel good.
- Comfortable clothes. This is quite an adventurous trip so be sure to bring clothes you feel good in.
- Sneakers with a good sole that won’t let you slip, for climbing and walking on Mayan ruins + sandals and/or filp flops.
- Hat and sunglasses to prevent sunstroke during our visits to the archaeological sites.
- Bikinis and board shorts and rash guards.
- Very recommended: a wetsuit for free diving or scuba diving, if you own any or are used to them. If you don’t have your own, please let us know in advance and we will arrange for you to have one.
- Free diving and scuba diving gear, if you own anything please bring it, especially long fins or masks. If you don’t own anything, please let us know in advance so we can find a solution together.
- Underwater camera if you own one (including action cams).
- Windbreaker and/or rain jacket if it gets very windy or in case of sudden showers.
- Towels for drying up after dives (1 or 2 is up to you) – if you own a poncho it is probably a good idea to bring it with you.
- Shampoo and conditioner (absolutely eco-friendly and reef-safe!!!). It is forbidden to enter cenotes with anything on you, because the environments are protected. This also applies to sunscreen.
- Mosquito spray (this is an area that has a very low, but still existent, risk of dengue) so better be safe.
- A waterproof bag is not required but may be convenient for the excursions and for the stay onboard the boat in Celestún. Same applies for a fin bag to carry around your wetsuits and diving gear.
- Note: foreigners are allowed operate their drone for recreational purposes in Mexico, as long as the drone weighs under 250 grams. Only a Mexican citizen can register or request flight permits in the Mexican airspace (which is necessary to fly drones weighing over 250 grams).
Terms & Conditions
Deposits
To secure your spot on this retreat you will have to agree to our T&Cs and pay a non-refundable deposit of CHF 200.
You can book your spot here.
Payment
The remainder of the payment after the deposit will be asked via invoice and payed via bank transfer.
The total will be due 75 days before the beginning of the trip.
Cancellation
Once the deposit has been made, if you cancel before 75 days prior to departure, then you will not be charged anything extra, although we will keep the deposit.
If you cancel after 90 days prior to departure, then unfortunately as we are a very small business we will not be able to refund you. Should we be able to find someone else to fill your spot in time then we might be able to return the full amount (excluding the deposit of CHF 200 and any bank fees).
Very Important Note for Everyone: this retreat is subject to a minimum number of participants. We will make sure we can confirm the trip to everyone as soon as possible (at latest 75 days prior to departure) but until then we recommend to refrain from purchasing non-refundable flights to avoid useless expenses.
F.A.Q.
Still wondering if you should come with us? Here are some answers to your questions
What is the starting time of the trip?
The official beginning of the trip is in the evening of November 30th 2024. Should everyone arrive in time for dinner we will start with a welcome dinner, if not we will do introductions on the next day after a good night of rest.
What is the ending time of the trip?
The trip will end with a visit to the city of Mérida after breakfast on December 7th.
Depending on the time of your flight you can decide to leave early in the morning or stay longer but please have in mind check-out time at our accomodation is 11:00am.
Once we will know everyone’s departure time we will help you in arranging the most efficient transfer to go the airport.
How do I get to Valladolid?
You can fly to Cancun International Airport (or Merida or Tulum International Airports, feel free to choose the most convenient for you, the distance to Valladolid is similar).
We will help you arrange a transfer from the airport to our accommodation, this will take approximately 2 hours.
Are there any optional extra activities?
We left a few afternoons of free time, to relax, work from remote if someone has to (our villas are equipped with WiFi and quiet spaces), chill by the pool, attend our photography workshops and explore the area.
Does Mexico require a VISA?
Please check: https://www.inm.gob.mx/gobmx/word/index.php/paises-requieren-visa-para-mexico/
You shouldn’t need a visa if you meet all the following criteria but always check your country’s official sources:
1. you are travelling for tourism
2. you’ll stay for less than 180 days
3. you have a valid visa from the United States of America or have documents to prove permanent residence in one of the following countries: Canada, United States of America, Schengen countries, Japan or United Kingdom.
Is there wifi or signal in the accommodations?
Yes, both our villas have WiFi and it should be good enough for everyone. Alternatively you can always purchase a local SIM card, or an eSim if your mobile phone allows it. However please keep in mind that mobile connection in the cenotes is usually zero, mostly due to the fact that we will visit super secret and remote cenotes!
Should I bring extra cash?
Yes, you might need it for some meals or if you want to have drinks, look for souvenirs and gifts to take home or extra activities (card is often fine too but just to be sure). Although Mexican Pesos is the official currency, US dollars are accepted in tourist areas.
What are the sleeping options?
You can either have a shared twin or double, room based on availability (you can share it with a friend or partner travelling with you). Otherwise you can share it with someone else joining the retreat.
What if I'm travelling solo?
This is a great opportunity then! The majority of our guests are young (<40 years old) solo travellers looking to make awesome ocean friends. We also get couples who are up to have some fun with other like-minded people. All in all, we’ve always had AMAZING groups and EVERYONE has made incredible friendships during our group trips. It’s usually a highlight!
What if I am vegan? Or have allergies?
Please let us know of any dietary requirements and we will do our best to fit your needs.
Still not sure?
Write to us so we can clear your doubts!