5. Lakebound Forest Wanderers (June 29-July 13, 2025) - Ages 13-18
This transformative journey will have you:
- Volunteering on a local farm and giving back to the community
- Boating on pristine lakes and hiking through lush forests
- Paragliding through the treetops for a bird's-eye view of Valle de Bravo
- Exploring mysterious caves and climbing to panoramic viewpoints
- Soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by pine forests
- Discovering the island that inspired the Land of the Dead in Coco
- Interacting with local teens and experiencing authentic Mexican culture
- Feasting on regional cuisines that'll make your taste buds dance
Parents, while your teens are having the adventure of a lifetime, they're also gaining valuable life skills, environmental awareness, and cultural understanding. Our experienced guides prioritize safety while fostering an atmosphere of growth, learning, and fun!
Join Us
Don't let this incredible opportunity float away! Join us for Lakebound Forest Wanderers and dive into an experience that'll change the way you see the world - and yourself. Let's unplug, reconnect, and change the world, one lake and forest at a time!
Hey lake lovers and forest explorers! Ready for an aquatic adventure mixed with cultural immersion? Our Lakebound Forest Wanderers camp is calling your name! This isn't just any old summer camp - it's a chance for teens ages 13-18 to dive into an unforgettable journey through the stunning lakes, forests, and historic towns of central Mexico. You'll boat on pristine waters, hike through lush forests, and discover the real you amidst some of Mexico's most breathtaking landscapes and richest cultural sites.
Overview
Join us for two weeks of non-stop adventure in the heart of Mexico's lake country! Starting in the colorful city of San Miguel de Allende, we'll journey to the picturesque Valle de Bravo, the pine forests of Los Azufres, and the enchanting town of Pátzcuaro. Get ready for adrenaline-pumping experiences as we paraglide through forests, boat to mysterious islands, and hike to breathtaking viewpoints. We'll immerse ourselves in nature's wonders and local cultures, from soaking in natural hot springs to exploring the cobblestone streets that inspired the movie Coco. This isn't just a trip - it's a chance to unplug, push your limits, and create lifelong friendships!
APPLICATION PROCESS
There are 3 steps to apply:
1. Book a call with us to see if these camps are a good fit for you and to ask any questions you may have.
2. Fill out the registration form on the top right of this page.
3. Make your payment.
Your application and registration is not finished until you have completed all 3 steps. You may complete them in any order you wish. If you pay first and for some reason on our call we decide its not a good fit, you will be refunded everything but the processing fees. We are excited to have you join us!
Day 1: June 29
- Arrival in San Miguel de Allende
- Welcome dinner and orientation
Day 2: June 30
- Volunteer project on a local farm
- Learn about sustainable agriculture and give back to the community
Day 3-6: July 1-4
- Head to Valle de Bravo, a picturesque town on a lake
- Camp near the lake for three nights
- Go boating and hiking
- Explore the mysterious Devil's Cave
- Hike to La Peña for breathtaking views
- Visit local waterfalls
- Experience paragliding through the forest (optional)
- Shop at local markets and sample regional cuisine
Day 7-8: July 5-6
- Travel to Los Azufres
- Camp in the pine forest next to Laguna Larga
- Enjoy boating on the lake
- Soak in natural hot springs surrounded by forest
Day 9: July 7
- Pack up camp and head to Morelia
- Explore the beautiful historic city center
- Overnight in Morelia
Day 10-11: July 8-9
- Continue to the charming town of Pátzcuaro
- Boat to the Island of Janitzio
- Climb to the monument at the island's peak for 360° views
- Shop in callejones filled with artisanal market stalls
- Two nights on Janitzio
Day 12: July 10
- Return to Pátzcuaro
- Visit the famous Casa de los Once Patios (House of 11 Patios)
- Explore the city center
- Try the renowned Michoacán ice cream
Day 13-14: July 11-12
- Return to San Miguel de Allende
- Horseback tour of the countryside
- Visit a local thermally fed water park
- Enjoy a rooftop dinner with panoramic views
- City tour led by local San Miguel teens
- Farewell dinner and reflection on our incredible journey
Day 15: July 13
- Departure day from San Miguel de Allende
Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions and other factors. Safety is our top priority, and we'll communicate any changes promptly.
We've got your back from the moment you land! We provide shuttle services from MEX (Mexico City International Airport) the day before camp starts, as well as from BJX (Del Bajío International Airport) and QRO (Querétaro Intercontinental Airport) on arrival day to our meeting point in San Miguel de Allende.
Airport Options:
- Mexico City International Airport (MEX) - Day before camp
- Del Bajío International Airport (BJX) - Arrival day
- Querétaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO) - Arrival day
Arrival Date: June 29
Our awesome team will be at the airport to greet you as soon as you arrive. Just look for the Teen Connect Adventures sign!
Don't forget to send us your flight details when you register so we can make sure we're there to scoop you up.
Questions? Last-minute changes? No worries! Contact our camp coordinator, Kirsten, via WhatsApp: 1-469-595-6422.
As our adventure wraps up, we'll make sure you get back to the airport safe and sound. Our shuttle services will take you from San Miguel de Allende to either BJX, QRO or MEX airports.
Departure Date: July 13
We'll make sure you've got plenty of time to catch your flight. Our team will be with you every step of the way, helping with check-in and making sure you're all set for takeoff.
Remember to confirm your departure details with us before the big day!
Pack light, pack right! Here's what you'll need:
Clothing:
- Lightweight, quick-dry shirts and pants
- At least 1 long sleeve shirt (it can get chilly up there!)
- Sturdy hiking boots or sneakers
- Water shoes for splashing around (no flip-flops!)
- 2 swimsuits (you'll be in the water a lot, and this gives them time to dry)
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Light jacket for cool evenings
- Warm jacket for high elevations (we'll be above 7,000 ft at times!)
- Rain jacket or poncho (just in case)
- Warm layers for chilly nights
Gear:
- Backpack or daypack for daily adventures
- Sleeping bag
- Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Toiletries
- Towel
- Camera (waterproof if possible)
Don't Forget:
- Passport
- Any necessary medications
- Notebook and pen for journaling
- Portable charger (we won't always have electricity)
Do not bring: Cel Phones! (or if you bring, you can let the staff care for your phone, so you can enjoy the unplugged experience with the rest of the campers)
Remember, you'll be carrying your own gear, so pack only what you can handle! But don't skimp on those warm layers - you'll thank us when we're up in the mountains!
We've got you covered:
- All transportation during the camp
- Three delicious meals a day (snacks too!)
- All scheduled activities, tours, and entrance fees
- Camping gear (tents, sleeping pads)
- Experienced guides and camp leaders
- First aid and safety equipment
You'll need to handle:
- Flights to and from Mexico
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Optional activities not in the itinerary
- Travel insurance (required)
- Any travel or shuttles if you come early or stay after camp is over
Ready to kick off the adventure? Here's what to expect when you arrive:
- Our team will greet you and help you get settled
- We'll run through some paperwork (boring but necessary!)
- Then it's time to meet your fellow adventurers and start the fun
- You'll get the lowdown on camp rules and safety guidelines
- Time for a quick orientation to answer all your burning questions
- Let the Adventure Begin!
What else do you need to know?
- Passport: You'll need a valid passport that doesn't expire for at least six months after the camp ends.
- Family Tag-Along: Parents, why not plan your own getaway to San Miguel de Allende while your teen is with us? We'd be happy to help with recommendations!
- Safety First: We've got first aid kits and trained staff, but your safety is our top priority. We'll brief you on all safety protocols at the start of camp.
- Registration: Fill out our online form, sign the waiver, and chat with our camp leaders to make sure this is the right fit for you.
- Questions? Shoot us a message on WhatsApp: 1-469-595-6422. We're here to help!
APPLICATION PROCESS
There are 3 steps to apply:
1. Book a call with us to see if these camps are a good fit for you and to ask any questions you may have.
2. Fill out the registration form on the top right of this page.
3. Make your payment.
Your application and registration is not finished until you have completed all 3 steps. You may complete them in any order you wish. If you pay first and for some reason on our call we decide its not a good fit, you will be refunded everything but the processing fees. We are excited to have you join us!
We get it, plans change. But as a small operation, we've got to have some guidelines:
- Cancel 3+ weeks before camp: 50% refund
- Cancel less than 3 weeks before camp: Sorry, no refunds
- If we have to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances, we'll offer alternative dates or credit for future camps
By signing up, you're agreeing to these terms. Let's make this adventure happen!
