Anonymous says, "I was extremely nervous about this ayahuasca journey, to the point where I almost cancelled my retreat about a week or two before. But I am so grateful I attended." See more
Jeronimo says, "Calm,relaxing, nature! a place you can't forget to return. I wish to travel again..." See more
Nicholas says, "Solete is full of light and love. Her voice is increíble. She makes sure to answer all your questions and concerns, and that you are comfortable. The space is lovely and peaceful." See more
Susan says, "Reunion is truly a place to heal. Everything is thoughtfully orchestrated with the goal of healing in the most beautiful place imagineable - the preparation, welcome, orientation, grounds, delicious food, the ceremonies, music and, most of all, each person I met there." See more
Ciji says, "When I first got to the retreat center, I learned that the location where I was staying was a new space for the retreat. La Casa de Mendez was an absolutely stunning place and I felt like that made the whole retreat experience richer." See more
Jonas says, "When I first had the calling to experience Plant Medicine, I questioned a bit where to go and what to do or how to make sure I choose a good place. And somehow the Universe presented me with this option SOL Circle Florestral In Costa Rica! The incredible Costa Rica! And I must say it was the best decision I have ever taken in my life! I loved and enjoyed every second of the retreat, I have fully absorbed every information and insight received during the ceremonies, the people are just wonderful and skilled, the music of the jungle and of the Daime tradition are out of this world." See more
Anonymous says, "Pandorita was a very profound, healing experience for me, it touched me deeply – and I am still in inner contact with this special energy from this special, wonderful place." See more
Andy says, "If you're considering an Ayahuasca retreat, Sowa Nete is something truly special — but it's not something to take lightly. This experience is not for everyone." See more
Learn about the retreat center & ceremony facilitators
Understand the practical aspects of the retreat
Ask Retreat Centers Questions Directly
Your comfort level is paramount for a safe and fruitful journey. If you feel drawn to a certain retreat, but the listing doesn’t provide all the information you need.
Feel free to inquire with the organizers or facilitators directly. The Contact option is available just under the Booking button on every listing.
Aside from getting the responses you need to put your mind at ease, opening a line of communication with those who will be taking care of you will enhance your intuition into whether you’ll be in good hands.
Another good way to get insight into details not mentioned in the listing is by checking the Review section — those who have already attended are best at pointing out the virtues and flaws.
Having a clear intention before the ceremony can make an incredible difference in how your experience unfolds.
Maintaining psychophysical purity, or some form of dieta can go a long way in warding off unnecessary suffering once you drink.
Make sure that your intentions are not actually your expectations. It’s in your best interest to let go of the illusion of control.
The effects of ayahuasca typically unfold across distinct phases over 4-6 hours, though the full journey can last up to 8 hours for some people. Traditional Amazonian ceremonies usually begin in the evening and continue through the night, with the most intense period occurring 1-2 hours after drinking the medicine. The physical effects often start within 30 minutes, while the visionary phase commonly peaks between hours 2-4. After the main journey subsides, many experience a gentle "landing" period of 1-2 hours where insights continue to emerge. In traditional contexts, integration begins immediately after the ceremony and extends for days or weeks - this is considered an essential part of the medicine's work. Some retreat centers observe that certain participants may feel subtle energetic shifts for several days following a ceremony, though these are typically mild and manageable. Each person's experience with the medicine follows its own timing and rhythm. Traditional healers emphasize that the effects aren't limited to the ceremonial hours - rather, the ceremony opens a door through which healing and understanding continue to flow long after the acute effects have passed.