Jungle Gayborhood

We loved our time at the Jungle Gayborhood. The retreat center is beautifully designed and comfortably nested on the edge of the jungle, close enough to feel nurtured by its vibrancy and just out of it enough to see it and have plenty of fresh air and vistas. Staff was kind, supportive and helped bring out physical healing and pleasure. Programming was light on our particular weekend but it was perfect for us: trekking, spiritual journeys, yoga, social gatherings and fun (optional) games. And they have the best mattresses so you will sleep like a baby!

This excursion was planned in less than a week, but sure glad we took a chance. It’s like glamping in the jungle with three home-cooked meals a day. We stayed a week, and what a relaxing week it was. Several waterfalls were within a short hike from camp. Being naked is optional. Yoga is every morning. Some nights are movie nights, some nights are sound bath nights. Some nights are fire performer and campfire nights. Although we didn’t go on a retreat week, it was still fun and invigorating. We even got the chance to try ayahuasca, kambo, and rapé one evening, but wasn’t prepared for this unique opportunity. Thanks to Shelby and Jose, Ryan, Eric, Jesse, Mauricio, Brandee, Chef Eric, and Marconi for a great week! We’ll be back.

Wow! What an experience!
Firstly, the gayborhood is absolutely amazing. It's evident there's been time, effort, and planning involved to make it what it is. It had everything I needed to make my stay comfortable and at home. Special shout-outs to the chefs, cleaning team, and gayborhood staff. It's clear that it's a space individuals WANT to be at and spend their time.

The retreat was beautiful. It was an opportunity to release, to be free, and love continuously (sometimes literally!). I've never been to a retreat that was considered party AND retreat and I was a little unprepared mentally and emotionally I discovered. In talking with the staff and learning more, I realized I needed to take more intentional time for me to do more of the work I wanted to personally. That said, the description was on, I just didn't think broad and liberal enough.

Notes for the future. There were times it felt like things were mandatory, or highly encouraged to attend, yet optional. Of course you can't make anyone do anything they don't want to, but in the schedule I do think there should be an asterisk for events that are highly encouraged to attend. For example, the cabaret. What a powerful closing to the retreat. It introduced us to another part of someone we may not have gotten to see. It showed the bravery and confidence that maybe someone channeled just that weekend. And it symbolized a great level of community and support, which I think the gayborhood prides itself on.

I plan to come back next year. And as I continue to talk to participants and continue these relationships, they too want to come back and bring a friend. Thank you for this opportunity and place of love. Looking forward to more with you.

I cannot begin to describe how transformative this past weekend was for me. I went in with intention, many of which changed when I got there. Within the first 15 hours of being there I felt relaxed, centered, and excited for everything else that was to come.

Immediately after arriving, Ryan and Brandee welcomed me with big hugs. Ryan encouraged me to be fully myself, try new things, and explore every part of myself. Shelby and his staff have put love into every detail of the Jungle Gayborhood, and through each session you can feel their effort shine through.

The Jungle gayborhood will make you feel everything you need to and more. If you're at all on the fence about booking an experience here, do yourself a favor and take the leap. I cannot wait to return.

My experience at the Jungle Gayborhood, particularly the Jungle Fag Retreat, is one I will treasure forever. It opened my heart to the importance of community and gave me a genuine sense of belonging. While much of the magic comes from the attendees themselves, the facilities, staff, and breathtaking jungle setting serve as catalysts for fostering connection and joy.

The accommodations are exceptional—super comfortable beds, amazing food, and a stunning space that radiates beauty and tranquility. The waterfalls are nothing short of enchanting, but it’s the incredible people who elevate the experience to something truly unforgettable.

If I could make one small suggestion, it would be to provide paper towels near the sink for drying hands after washing dishes (a practice I love and fully support!).

Words can hardly capture the depth of my gratitude for everyone who played a part in co-creating this experience. From the bottom of my queer heart, thank you!