Michael says, "The experience at Soltara is sacred. It is steeped in respect, regard, and honor for the roots of this medicine experience. The facilitators and staff also deeply honor the tradition and hold you in the safest and most tender container, so you can do the healing work we are all here to do." See more
André says, "I thought long and hard for years before deciding to participate in an Ayahuasca ceremony. I’m eternally grateful for finally arriving at Ayahuasca Costa Rica as my choice." See more
Nikki says, "I couldn't have chosen a better guide and setting for my first ceremony. After researching Aya and looking at different retreats I found Mar and, although I was a bit nervous going forward with it, I felt I made the right decision after my first video call with her." See more
Jill says, "I did an individual session with Soledad and Shakti Healing. I received changa medicine and the whole experience from start to finish was beautiful. I loved how there was a ceremony honoring the medicine and healers." See more
Brandon says, "I had such a wonderful experience with Nikki. She's such a kind and honest soul which is something I highly appreciate. Really good at helping people navigate their own experiences while also allowing the person to apply meaning for themselves." See more
Monica says, "My husband and I did a five-day couple's retreat at Blue Butterfly Center and are so happy that we did. Aya and Kay put a tremendous amount of work into creating a meaningful experience for us, from a beautiful location and thoughtfully prepared meals to the ceremonial aspects of the retreat." See more
Ryan says, "I fell in love with this place in just two days. I’m coming back right away. I cant express how grateful I am for Jim and his team. This was one of the best experiences of my entire life." See more
Jessica says, "The most inclusive, accepting & genuine environment I’ve ever experienced. From mealtimes to ceremonies, the sacred space created couldn’t have felt more safe." See more
Anuradha says, "Maria supported me with so much love and care throughout my journey. Her presence is gentle yet powerful, she carries such a beautiful, calming energy. The meditations she guided were deeply soothing and grounding, helping me release tension and come back into my body with ease and trust." See more
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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.