Important deets
Policies & info
The not-so-fun stuff, but still important. Here’s everything you need to know to make your stay smooth, easy, and exactly what you’re hoping for.
Please be aware that by booking you are agreeing to our policies and house rules.
Start here
Our policies
Booking & cancellations
Age requirement
You need to be 18 or older to stay with us. We love kids, but staying here is an adults-only experience – no exceptions.
Where to book
Reservations can only be made through our website or Hostelworld. To lock in your booking, a full deposit is required at least 10 days before your arrival.
Shared tent policy
Shared glamping tents are booked by the bed, one per guest. A 4-person tent can’t be reserved for fewer guests. Want your own space? Go for a private tent or casita instead.
Cancellation policy
We have a 3 day cancellation policy. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel at least 72 hours before your check-in date (2PM). Cancellations within 72 hours are non-refundable.
Check-in & check-out
You’ll need to show a valid passport or Guatemalan DPI at check-in. We can’t check you in without it.
Check-In: From 2:00 PM
Check-Out: By 11:00 AM
Arriving early? You’re welcome to use the dock, paddleboards, or hang in the common areas until your room is ready.
Payment & tabs
We are a cash-only hostel. There are is only one ATM in Santa Cruz (and it isn’t always working), so bring enough quetzales for your stay (or USD if necessary – we accept it at our own exchange rate).
We run on a tab system. All your food, drinks, and extras get added to your tab under your name. You’ll pay the full tab in cash at check-out.
Quiet hours
We’re social, but we keep it respectful. Quiet hours are from 10PM to 7AM every day – no music, no shouting, no late-night noise. If you’re looking to stay out late, there are bars nearby that keep the night going.
Please note: if quiet hours are repeatedly ignored, guests may be asked to leave without a refund.
Accessibility
Due to the terrain and boat-only access, Free Cerveza is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. We’re built into a hillside with stairs, uneven paths, and no road access.
If you’re unsure whether this will work for you, please reach out. We’ll give you an honest overview so you can decide with confidence.
Lost property
Free Cerveza can’t take responsibility for lost, stolen, or unattended belongings. Guests are responsible for their own items, and lockers are available on-site – just bring a lock to keep your things secure.
During your stay
House rules
To keep things safe and enjoyable for everyone,
these rules are non-negotiable:
Respect the space & each other
Aggressive, unsafe, or disrespectful behavior toward staff or fellow guests will not be tolerated. Any guest who violates this rule will be asked to leave immediately without refund.
No outside food or alcohol
Outside food and alcohol are not permitted on the property. Free Cerveza operates a licensed bar and restaurant, and we do not provide storage for guest food or drinks. Any guest found bringing outside food or alcohol onto the premises may be asked to leave without refund.
No pets
We already have two dogs who live here full-time. They’re friendly with people but not with other animals, so outside pets aren’t allowed.
No smoking in rooms
Smoking is only permitted in designated common areas. It is strictly prohibited inside tents, casitas, or any other accommodations due to fire risk. Guests found smoking in restricted areas will be fined Q1,000 and removed from the property without refund.
No drugs
We have a blanket ban on the use or possession of illegal drugs on our property. Any guest found with drugs will be asked to leave immediately without refund and local authorities may be contacted.
No weapons
Absolutely no weapons are allowed on the hostel premises. This includes firearms, knives, or weapons of any kind. Anyone found in violation will be removed immediately and the police will be contacted.
Traveling with the crew?
Group bookings
Any reservation for more than 8 people is considered a
group booking and is subject to our Group Booking Policy.
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Who can book: We accept group bookings from individual groups and travel agencies.
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When you can book: We only accept group and agency bookings for stays between June and October each year.
- Maximum group size: Group bookings are capped at a maximum of 16 people, regardless of the type of accommodation.
- Minimum & maximum stay: Group bookings require a minimum stay of 3 nights and a maximum stay of 5 nights.
- Boat transfers: To ensure smooth check-ins and check-outs, boat transfers on arrival and departure days will be automatically included at an additional cost.
- Guest registration: All group members must complete a guest registration form in advance, including their full name, email address, passport number, nationality, and passport expiration date.
- Additional charges: Group bookings may be subject to additional fees.
- Meal requirement: All members of the group must pre-pay for both breakfast and dinner as part of their stay.
- Policy compliance: We reserve the right to cancel any group booking at our discretion. In the event of cancellation, we will notify the group leader promptly.
Questions or ready to book? Email in**@***************el.com.
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