Know before you go
Questions & answers
Everything you’re wondering (and a few things you didn’t know you should ask).
Guest info
Staying at Free Cerveza
What kind of rooms do you have?
You can choose from shared glamping tents with 4 beds, private glamps for 2-3, bamboo casitas for 2-3, or our lakehouse right on the water. All are glamping-style with real mattresses, electrical outlets, soft lighting, and access to shared bathrooms and showers.
Are the tents really hot?
They do heat up in the afternoon sun. Mornings and evenings are much cooler, so you’ll be comfortable sleeping. Most guests spend afternoons on the dock, in hammocks, or in the common area where it’s breezier.
Do the shared tents lock?
The tents themselves don’t lock, but we provide a bag room with lockers for valuables. Just bring your own padlock to keep things safe.
Are the bathrooms private?
No. Bathrooms are shared by all guests. We use eco-friendly compost toilets that are cleaned multiple times each day, and there are hot showers available just a short walk from the rooms.
Is there Wi-Fi in the hostel?
Yes! It’s fine for messaging, social media, and browsing, but not always strong enough for long video calls or streaming. The idea here is to disconnect a little and enjoy the lake.
What should I pack for my stay?
Bring enough cash for your stay, as Santa Cruz only has one ATM (not reliable). You’ll also want a swimsuit, beach towel, sandals, light clothes for the day, warmer layers for the evening,a reusable water bottle, and a padlock for the lockers. Earplugs can also be handy.
What’s cookin’
Food & drink
What meals do you serve?
Our kitchen is open for breakfast, lunch, and a nightly three-course family dinner. Breakfast and lunch are casual, order-when-you-like (during the kitchen hours). Dinner is a set menu that changes daily.
How does the family dinner work?
Dinner is served at 7 PM with a starter, main, and dessert for Q80. You’ll need to sign up by 3 PM so our kitchen can plan. If you’re signed up, you also get free beer from 5–6 PM.
Can you accommodate dietary needs?
Yes! There is always a vegetarian option at dinner, and we can adjust for vegans or other dietary needs if you let us know in advance.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No. Outside food and alcohol aren’t allowed, and we don’t have a guest kitchen. Our bar and restaurant provide everything you’ll need, and filtered drinking water is available for free all day.
Don’t get lost
Getting here
How do I get to Free Cerveza?
First, get to Panajachel by shuttle or car. From there, take a public boat across the lake to Santa Cruz la Laguna. Ask the driver to drop you at the Free Cerveza dock. You can see the full instructions here.
What time do the boats stop running?
Public boats run every 20–30 minutes until around 7 PM. We recommend aiming to arrive in Panajachel no later than 6 PM to make sure you catch one in time.
What if I arrive late?
Boats don’t run after 7 PM. If you’re cutting it close, message us in advance and we can help arrange a private boat at an extra cost.
Where can I park in Panajachel?
Secure overnight parking is available near the Tzanjuyú Dock, which is the main departure point for boats to Santa Cruz.
Can I drive directly to the hostel?
No. There’s no road access to Free Cerveza. Do not follow Google Maps or Waze – they’ll send you onto a road that is NOT actually connected to Santa Cruz. The only way here is by boat.
The lake is calling