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Frequently Asked Questions
Centro Intacto is located in Tecate, Baja California, Mexico: 45 road miles inland from downtown San Diego and the San Diego Airport (SAN). All but the last 15 miles of the drive are on U.S. roads. Elevation is 1,700 feet (note: we are not in the desert). The terrain is mountainous, with sacred Mt. Kuchumaa the dominant landmark above our valley of oak groves, grasslands, and a seasonal stream. In all, Rancho La Puerta owns 4,000 acres here—2,000 of which we declared a permanent Nature Preserve and home to our extensive hiking program.
Travel Faqs
At The Center
Health Concerns
Culinary FAQ'S
Contact Us
Travel FAQ's
Frequently asked questions
Business Offcies
Driving Direction to the Tecate Border
Contact Us
Culinary Faqs
Health Concerns
At The Center
General
Proposals, media relations, advertising, community events, other marketing ideas and opportunities can be directed to:
Juan Manuel or Miguel J
Tel:1.760.238.2823
WhatsApp: 1.619.539.9817
ce(mailto:rmaxwell@rancholapuerta.com)ntrointactoholistico@gmail.com
Public Relations
Tel:1.760.238.2823
WhatsApp: 1.619.539.9817
ce(mailto:rmaxwell@rancholapuerta.com)ntrointactoholistico@gmail.com
Frequently asked questions
Business Offcies
Driving Direction to the Tecate Border
Contact Us
Culinary Faqs
Health Concerns
At The Center
General
Proposals, media relations, advertising, community events, other marketing ideas and opportunities can be directed to:
Juan Manuel or Miguel J
Tel:1.760.238.2823
WhatsApp: 1.619.539.9817
ce(mailto:rmaxwell@rancholapuerta.com)ntrointactoholistico@gmail.com
Public Relations
Tel:1.760.238.2823
WhatsApp: 1.619.539.9817
ce(mailto:rmaxwell@rancholapuerta.com)ntrointactoholistico@gmail.com
Frequently asked questions
At The Center
We provide internet access throughout the property. Guests can connect to Wi-Fi in various common areas and accommodations, ensuring that you can stay connected with ease during your stay. Whether you need to check emails, share moments with friends and family, or attend to any urgent matters, our reliable internet service is available to meet your needs.
Yes, we ensure that fresh spring water is always available for our guests at Centro Intacto. You can find plentiful supplies of clean, refreshing spring water in the kitchen and throughout the property. We are committed to providing you with healthy hydration options at all times during your stay, allowing you to refresh and replenish effortlessly as you enjoy your time at our facility.
To ensure a smooth and comfortable start to your stay, we recommend contacting our Front Desk in advance to confirm your expected arrival time. This allows us to prepare for your check-in and provide any necessary assistance upon arrival. Similarly, for check-out, please consult with our Front Desk to verify the time and to make any needed arrangements for your departure. Our team is here to assist you and make sure your transition in and out of Centro Intacto is as smooth as possible.
Centro Intacto is a sanctuary dedicated to healing, rest, and personal transformation. To preserve the peaceful and intentional atmosphere we cultivate, we kindly ask that guests refrain from selling products or soliciting business from other guests during their stay.
Our space is designed to support connection, reflection, and rejuvenation—free from commercial distractions. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in honoring this shared experience for everyone.
Yes, we offer a thoughtfully curated selection of books available for our guests to enjoy during their stay. Our collection has been personally chosen by our founder and includes titles that reflect the values of healing, consciousness, natural living, and personal growth. Whether you're looking for quiet inspiration or deep reflection, you'll find plenty to explore in our library.
Gratuities at Centro Intacto
Centro Intacto is a small, intimate retreat center with a dedicated team committed to making your stay truly nourishing and memorable. With just one kitchen and 1–2 chefs (who also personally serve each meal), and a single housekeeper maintaining our space, every detail is handled with care and intention.
While gratuities are entirely optional, they are deeply appreciated by our small team. Many guests have asked for guidance, so here are suggested amounts based on common offerings:
• Luggage assistance (if applicable): $10–15+ per guest
• Housekeeping (at the end of your stay): $15–20+ per guest
• Kitchen staff (who also serve your meals): $25–30+ per guest
Because our team wears many hats, feel free to express your appreciation as you feel moved. Whether it’s a kind word, a note, or a tip, your gratitude means the world to us.
Bringing cash is completely optional, but it can be helpful depending on your personal preferences and interests during your stay.
Here’s what to consider:
• If you're interested in taking home natural remedies or special souvenirs, cash may come in handy, especially for smaller, personal purchases.
• Tipping is optional, but many guests choose to leave cash tips for services they find particularly meaningful (see our “Tips on Tipping” section).
• For guests staying 7 nights or more, Mexico Customs and Immigration requires a $40 cash payment for the FMM tourist permit upon entry.
Optional Cash Amounts to Consider Bringing:
• For tipping and small purchases: $50–$400
• For the tourist permit (if applicable): $40
• Total suggested: $100–$450 USD in cash should be more than sufficient for most guests.
Yes, we have a laundry room available for guest use. As a small center, we offer one shared laundry facility on the property. Guests are welcome to use it during their stay for personal laundry needs.
Please feel free to ask the Front Desk if you need detergent or have any questions about availability and usage times. We're happy to assist!
Centro Intacto strictly complies with Mexican federal law, which prohibits the possession and use of illegal drugs, including recreational cannabis—even if it is legal in your country or state of residence.Visit https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/cbp-reqs-mexico (https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/cbp-reqs-mexico)for more details.
At Centro Intacto, we maintain a serene, healing environment rooted in natural living and inner balance. To support this atmosphere, we do not serve or permit alcohol in public areas or the dining space throughout the week.
Exceptions & Special Occasions:
• Ceremonial Use: On rare and intentional occasions, we may offer a small serving of traditional mezcal during specific cultural or spiritual ceremonies. This is optional, guided, and part of a curated experience—not recreational consumption.
To preserve the peaceful and restorative atmosphere of Centro Intacto, cell phone use in public areas is not permitted. We kindly ask that you only use your phone inside your private room.
Out of respect for the quiet retreat experience, we also request that phones not be used on your room’s patio, as nearby guests may be enjoying the natural stillness and personal reflection in their own spaces.
Why This Matters:
Centro Intacto is designed to foster deep presence, genuine connection, and mental clarity. Studies have shown that even the presence of cell phones can be distracting and mentally fatiguing. We invite you to use this opportunity to truly unplug and reconnect—with yourself, others, and nature.
Important Note on Coverage:
Please be aware that not all U.S. or international carriers provide reliable service in the Tecate region. Before your visit, check with your provider regarding coverage, roaming fees, and international plans if you intend to use your phone at all during your stay.
Health Concerns
Our top priority is for our guests to have an amazing and healthy experience all week long. If any health issues or injury arise during your stay, we got you covered!
Tips for a safe stay
Stay hydrated: There are many drinking water stations located throughout the property. We recommend bringing your own water bottle and keeping it with you throughout the day.
Pro tip: add a squeeze of fresh lime juice into your water! It adds not only a refreshing citrus taste but also essential vitamin C and minerals.
Avoid “Tired Tuesday”: Many guests pack their schedules in the first few days and end up feeling exhausted by mid-week. Instead, we suggest gradually increasing the level of your physical activities as the week progresses.
Use sun protection: This is important all year long. We recommend applying sunscreen at least 30 minutes prior to being outdoors to allow for better absorption. Pack a sun shirt with long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat for pool classes and other outdoor activities.
Prevent injuries by wearing proper footwear: We recommend traveling with the appropriate footwear:
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Court Shoes: tennis or pickleball shoes have the proper amount of lateral support and a sturdy toe box specially designed for both forward and lateral movement.
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Cross Trainers or Running Shoes: designed for flexibility and movement in cardio activities and in the gyms.
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Hiking Shoes or Lug-Soled Trail Runners: Hiking boots offer excellent stability and ankle support.
Hiking safely: Be aware of the trail ahead of you, as some segments of our trails may have loose gravel and protruding rocks. Pack a water bottle and a sunhat. Review our scheduled hikes ahead of time and carefully consider the difficulty level that is right for you. Remember, a safe day is a fun day.
Health Concerns
At Centro Intacto, we understand the importance of maintaining your health regimen while away from home, including the use of prescribed medications.
Guidelines for Traveling with Medications: We advise that all medications you bring are kept in their original prescribed containers, clearly labeled with your information to avoid any issues during your stay.
Recommendations for Packing Medications: To ensure continuity in your health care, we recommend packing a 14-day supply of each medication in its original bottle, complete with labels. It’s also prudent to carry a written list detailing the names, strengths, and dosages of all your medications. This precaution is especially helpful if you need to arrange for refills while at our facility.
Cannabis Products: For guests who use cannabis products, please refer to our drug policy for specific guidelines and restrictions related to the possession and use of these products at Centro Intacto.
These measures are designed to help you manage your health effectively during your stay with us, ensuring a worry-free and rejuvenating experience.
At Centro Intacto, our Front Desk teams are here to assist you with any medication needs you might have during your stay.
Assistance with Medications: If you need to replenish your medication or if you're unsure about its availability in Mexico, please speak with our Front Desk staff. They can help verify with local pharmacies whether your medication is available over-the-counter in Mexico. Be sure to provide them with the exact name and dosage of the medication to ensure accuracy.
Prescription Requirements: Should your medication require a prescription in Mexico that you do not already have, our team can facilitate obtaining one for you. Please note that there may be an additional charge for this service.
Our goal is to make your stay as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, ensuring you have access to everything you need for your health and well-being.
At Centro Intacto, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. To ensure that we can provide the best possible care during your stay, we kindly request that you provide the contact information of an emergency contact who will not be traveling with you.
Providing Emergency Contact Information: Please share this information with an Experience Planner at your earliest convenience. Having a reliable emergency contact helps us swiftly
coordinate any necessary communication or actions in case of an urgent situation.
Your cooperation in this matter greatly assists us in maintaining a safe and responsive environment for all our guests. Thank you for your attention to this important detail.
At Centro Intacto, we are committed to ensuring that every guest has a fulfilling and enriching experience. If you have any specific needs or concerns regarding your ability to participate in any aspect of our program, please let us know in advance.
Accommodating Your Needs: We strive to accommodate all guests, regardless of physical limitations or health concerns. When you inform us about your specific requirements, we can tailor our services and activities to better suit your needs, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.
Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to support you in every way possible. Do not hesitate to reach out to us with any concerns or requests you might have. We are dedicated to making your time at Centro Intacto as rewarding and accommodating as possible.
Guidelines for Expectant Mothers:
• Third Trimester: We respectfully request that women in their third trimester of pregnancy consider postponing their visit until after the birth. This precaution is advised to ensure their safety and well-being, as well as that of their unborn child.
• Before the Third Trimester: Expectant mothers who are not yet in their third trimester are advised to consult with their physician before booking. This discussion should cover the specific activities available at Centro Intacto and any potential risks, ensuring that both mother and baby remain safe during their stay.
At Centro Intacto, we prioritize the health and safety of our guests by ensuring that medical support is readily available at all times.
Medical Support Services:
• Onsite Medical Staff: Our First-Aid department is staffed with qualified nurses available from 8 am to 4 pm daily to address any immediate health concerns or emergencies.
• After-Hours Coverage: For evenings and nighttime, we have a dedicated medical volunteer—either an American physician or nurse—ensuring that a trained medical professional is on call 24/7.
Additional Medical Considerations: For conditions that require more than basic first aid or involve prescriptions, we may need to consult with an external physician. Please note that this service may incur an additional charge.
Proximity to US Medical Facilities: Should it be necessary, the nearest US medical facility is approximately 60-90 minutes away from Centro Intacto. This proximity allows for access to further medical care if required.
Culinary FAQ's
The Ranch’s diet is lacto-ovo pescatarian including dairy, eggs and seafood but no meats or poultry. Meals are a balanced offering of fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, dairy, egg and seafood. Menus are based on low glycemic carbohydrates, plant-based protein, healthy fats and an abundance of antioxidants. Use of sodium, natural sugars and refined flour are kept to minimum. Our cuisine is designed to provide plenty of protein, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics to fuel your active fitness week.
Culinary Faqs
General
At Centro Intacto, we maintain a serene and restorative environment by generally not permitting alcohol in our dining room or public areas throughout the week. However, we provide a unique exception for the culturally rich experience of mezcal tasting.
Mezcal Offerings: Mezcal may be offered during specific ceremonies or at particular times during your stay, enhancing the cultural immersion and providing an opportunity to enjoy this traditional spirit in a meaningful setting.
At Centro Intacto, we are committed to supporting a holistic and alkaline-focused dietary regime, avoiding all hybrid foods to maintain the integrity of our nutritional philosophy. While our menu is carefully curated to align with alkaline principles, we understand the importance of addressing individual dietary needs and allergies.
Special Dietary Accommodations: Should you have any allergies, even to foods that are generally considered alkaline, please inform us during your one-on-one consultation. This allows us to tailor your meals to meet your specific health requirements effectively.
Booking Instructions: We ask that you advise your reservationist of any dietary restrictions, especially if they are life-threatening, at the time of booking. This proactive communication helps us ensure that your dining experience is safe, enjoyable, and in harmony with your health needs throughout your stay at Centro Intacto.
At Centro Intacto, we uphold a commitment to purity and sustainability in all our culinary offerings, particularly when it comes to seafood. We proudly serve only intact, wild-caught fish, sourced in alignment with ethical fishing practices that ensure the conservation of marine ecosystems.
Seafood Offerings: Our menu features a meticulously selected "catch of the day," available four times a week for dinner and occasionally for lunch. This selection is sourced directly from the vibrant waters around Ensenada, Baja California, known for its sustainable and rich marine biodiversity.
Catering to All Dietary Preferences: Understanding that some of our guests may have different dietary preferences, we always offer a vegetarian alternative alongside our seafood dishes. This ensures every guest at Centro Intacto can enjoy delicious, nutritious meals that align with their personal health and wellness goals.
By choosing only wild-caught fish, Centro Intacto remains dedicated to preserving the natural integrity of our ingredients and offering our guests a genuine experience that reflects our holistic and environmentally conscious values.
At Centro Intacto, our commitment to natural, alkaline nutrition extends to every aspect of our dining experience. We provide meals free from hybrid and high-starch foods, focusing exclusively on naturally alkaline and wild ingredients.
Gluten-Free and Alkaline-Focused Options: Understanding the diverse dietary needs of our guests, we ensure that gluten-free options are available at every meal. These choices are carefully prepared to align with our alkaline dietary principles, using ingredients that promote health and well-being.
At Centro Intacto, our culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles of natural wellness and environmental stewardship. We are diligently working towards sourcing our ingredients in the most organic and wild manner possible, focusing on foods that are as close to their natural state as can be.
Pursuing Organic and Wild Sources: We actively seek out and prioritize relationships with purveyors who harvest wild, silvestre (wild-grown) ingredients and practice organic farming. This commitment helps us ensure that the fruits and vegetables we offer are not only fresh and seasonal but also cultivated in ways that support the ecosystem and reduce environmental impact.
Our Ongoing Commitment: While we are not allowed to say we are "100% organic," our goal is to continuously increase the proportion of organic and wild-sourced ingredients in our meals. This endeavor reflects our dedication to enhancing the health of our guests and the planet, embodying our mission to provide a dining experience that is truly in harmony with nature.
At Centro Intacto, while we are not explicitly a weight-loss program, we cater to those who seek a healthier lifestyle, including potential weight management benefits. Guests who engage with our fitness activities and adopt our mindful eating practices often find that their bodies naturally respond positively to their time spent with us.
Holistic Approach to Health and Well-being: Our program is designed to support overall well-being through a combination of physical activity, relaxation, and nutrition based on natural, alkaline, and wild-sourced ingredients. This holistic approach encourages a balance that can naturally lead to weight management and a sense of physical rejuvenation.
Encouraging Natural Body Response: Guests who fully immerse themselves in the lifestyle we promote at Centro Intacto are likely to be pleased with how their bodies respond. Whether your goal is to manage weight, detoxify, or simply enhance your overall health, our environment is crafted to support these outcomes through natural and sustainable methods.
Contact Us
Contact at The Ranch
Front Desk Operator
By telephone: 858-925-1214 or (011) 52-665-654-9155
By Facsimile: (011) 52-665-654-1108
Contact Us
Sending an Overnight Letter or Package to a Guest at Rancho La Puerta
If you need to send a small package, letter, or a special gift such as a birthday present to a guest or staff member at Rancho La Puerta, please use the following mailing address:
Address for USPS, FedEx, and UPS:
• Guest or Staff Member's Name
• c/o Rancho La Puerta
• 441 Tecate Road
• Suite 69
• Tecate, CA 91980
•
Contact Number: Tel:1.760.238.2823
WhatsApp: 1.619.539.9817
ce(mailto:rmaxwell@rancholapuerta.com)ntrointactoholistico@gmail.com
Important Considerations for Larger Packages: Please be aware that sending larger packages or boxes can be more complex. Most items larger than standard overnight letters typically require the recipient to pick them up in person on the U.S. side of the border in Tecate, USA. This process involves leaving the Ranch with one of our drivers, returning to the border, and crossing into the U.S.—a procedure that can significantly disrupt the tranquility of their stay.
Gifts and Special Surprises: For those wishing to surprise a guest with a gift or flowers, contact our Concierge directly. They can handle all the details, ensuring your gift is both thoughtful and beautifully presented, without the need for you to ship anything. This service is designed to enhance the experience of your loved one while they stay with us, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free gift-giving process.
CONCIERGE*
concierge@rancholapuerta.com
*Please use the concierge email to contact a guest, inquire about lost items, etc. Please do not send advertising and/or marketing proposals to this address.
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