Travel with Purpose

At Cosa Buena, we believe in responsible travel that leaves a lasting impact. Our travel programs are designed to immerse you in the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Oaxaca while supporting local communities. What sets Cosa Buena apart is our commitment to ensuring that every experience we offer leaves a positive, lasting impact on the local community. We achieve this by reinvesting 10% of profits from our retreats into social impact programs that are self-determined by our community partners and carried out by our 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization The Cosa Buena Foundation.

The Cosa Buena experience is much more than a vacation; it is a transformative journey that will not only change your life but also positively impact the local community. Our retreats will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and deeply connected to the authentic essence of Oaxaca.

Our retreats are for travelers who seek culturally immersive and connected travel experiences. We believe that travel should be a transformative experience, an exploration of not just a place, but also of oneself. Our retreats are designed not only to enrich your understanding of Oaxaca, but also to create a sense of community as you engage with fellow travelers and locals alike. Our participants come from all walks of life, and attend our retreats as solo travelers, or with friends, partners, and family. Whether you're an artist seeking inspiration, a foodie eager to delve into Oaxacan cuisine, a nature lover drawn to the breathtaking landscapes, or you’ve been curious to learn about the rich traditions of Oaxaca, Cosa Buena offers an inclusive space for you.

We strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants. However, some of our activities may have age and physical limitations in place to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Retreats are open to all ages 18 and up. Participants requiring any form of assistance, including travelers with physical disabilities, sight, hearing or mobility impairments, are required to notify Cosa Buena when they apply for a retreat. If you are interested in traveling with someone under the age of 18, please contact us.

No, our retreats are facilitated by bilingual guides who speak Spanish and English. They will translate throughout the retreat.

Our retreats range in size from 5-13 people. We can accommodate large groups via private bespoke travel experiences.

Our itineraries are usually full and offer a range of activities, but each day we schedule some down time for you to explore on your own or rest. We encourage you to do what feels best for you. Our facilitators will share suggestions with you for free time.

No. For each retreat, a nonrefundable deposit is required to secure your spot. After you make your deposit, you can pay for the remainder of the retreat cost all at once or in two installments. The total for the retreat is due one month before the retreat start day.

All workshops, in-country transportation, accommodations, guides and translation, meals (with the exception of one to two meals depending on the retreat so you can explore on your own).

Airfare, airport transfers outside of the retreat dates, travel insurance, and alcohol (with the exception of mezcal tastings in the itinerary).

Yes. We require all participants to have proof of travel insurance before departure. You are responsible for acquiring your travel insurance.

It is mandatory that all attendees obtain travel insurance that covers personal injury, medical expenses, loss of or damage to luggage, repatriation expenses, and a minimum coverage of $200,000 USD emergency evacuation expenses.

Insurance typically runs $60-$100 USD depending on the provider. you are free to choose any company, we recommend: world nomads , USI or , Allianz

Whether or not you need a visa will depend on your home country. Travelers from the U.S. Canada, and E.U. do not need a visa for travel to México (if you are only traveling the length of our trip). If you plan to stay longer, or are not from the U.S., E.U. or Canada, you should inquire about a visa with your embassy. We are also happy to assist you with this. For more information, click here.

Yes, we can help you with transportation. We can give you instructions for taking a shuttle, or help you reserve private transportation.

Yes.

The $500 retreat deposit is non-refundable.

Please note that there will be no refunds or discounts for arriving late, leaving early, flight cancellations, travel delays, illness, or change of accommodations.

Policy: If a Participant needs to cancel more than 90 days prior to the start of the retreat, 50% of payments made towards your retreat will be refunded (not including the deposit.) All non-refunded payments may be applied to a future retreat for the Participant.

A minimum of six registered Participants is required 45 days prior to the retreat in order for the retreat to take place. If the minimum is not met, the retreat will be canceled, and all deposits and retreat payments made to Cosa Buena will be refunded to registered Participants. For this reason, we ask for you to purchase travelers insurance to protect your flight should you have to cancel it.

Cosa Buena may, at its discretion, elect to run a retreat with fewer than six Participants. In this event, the retreat will be held at a smaller bed & breakfast than the one advertised.

Retreat itineraries are subject to change due to unforeseeable events or circumstances.

Thank you for understanding.

Yes, please send us an email.

You will be given the opportunity to apply for a scholarship when you fill out the general application. The scholarship question is at the bottom of the application.