Paul says, "You cannot explain how much more at peace and in balance you will be after this amazing retreat. The location is perfection. Danilo and Ilse also daughter Gaia and dog porchie make the experience life changing and if your lucky like I was, the other participants will complete this life changing experience." See more
Ugis says, "Very experienced healer/shaman. Great sense understanding of life, humour, people and medicine. Had one retreat together and looking forward to meet and heal again." See more
Anonymous says, "Thank you for a beautiful experience" See more
Lulu says, "I had many worries walking into this experience- I am in a peculiar time in my life, a dark time where I inately knew that I would need to be in concious and safe hands." See more
Luis says, "I can honestly and proudly say, it was the best decision of my life to do the 3 day ayahuasca retreat. I also feel lucky and blessed to find Vera, Bogi, Alex and Gabor." See more
Anonymous says, "Ayaspirits' Fred, Ceylo and Martain have lovingly and respectfully held me in utmost safety during this step of my journey of delicate arrival into more fullness, and with their whollistic and considered approach they have allowed me to experience a step of profound transformation in my human consciousness; they have supported the arrival of greater spiritual awareness into my life and for that I am to them eternally grateful." See more
Ute says, " I was happy to find such kind, welcoming, caring and loving people to accompany me through my deep and challenging journey. The location is just great and Sanne and Bertrand are the best psychedelic travel guides I have ever experienced." See more
Anthony says, "I had a very pleasant experience at the Mezquita. They started me with light dosage, then we moved deeper in the experience once we felt more comfortable in that state." See more
Anonymous says, "I did a lot of searching online for a location to experience my first ayahuasca ceremony and as soon as I came across Ariana & Colin's website I knew it was for me." See more
Eve says, "This retreat wasn’t my first time at Amayama ! Going back brings a strong feeling of coming home and at the same time of a new beginning. Layer by layer, Axis and Chiara have accompanied me, with their wisdom, incredible experience, love, care and healing abilities, in what I can only describe as a spiritual and physical rebirth." See more
Anonymous says, "When I arrived at Faro airport, I honestly did not know what to expect. Feelings of apprehension were strong, but as soon as I found João waiting for me in arrivals they dissipated." See more
Scott says, "There is not a ratings system in place that would do Ayayni justice. The energy throughout the retreat was truly magical. From the moment of arrival, guests are treated with love, honesty and truth." See more
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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 story of ayahuasca in Europe reflects a broader narrative of ancient practices finding new roots in contemporary soil. This sacred brew, traditionally used for healing and spiritual insight by indigenous Amazonian peoples, has gradually established a presence across Europe over the past few decades. Modern European retreats range from intimate gatherings in rustic farmhouses to more structured programs in dedicated centers, each offering their own interpretation of this ancestral practice. The movement represents both preservation and evolution - while core ceremonial elements remain, they've been thoughtfully adapted to serve contemporary seekers in a European context.
Today's European ayahuasca landscape reveals a delicate balance between honoring traditional wisdom and meeting modern needs. Some centers maintain close ties with indigenous lineages, bringing recognized healers from South America to lead ceremonies. Others blend traditional practices with Western therapeutic approaches, creating hybrid models that speak to contemporary European sensibilities. This diversity allows seekers to find settings that resonate with their own path, whether that means a traditionally-oriented ceremony or a more modernized approach.
Making the choice to attend an ayahuasca retreat involves careful consideration of various practical elements. European retreats typically range from weekend intensives to week-long programs, with costs varying significantly based on location, duration, and included services. A typical 3-day retreat might cost between €500-1000, while more comprehensive week-long programs can range from €1500-3000 or more. These fees generally cover ceremonies, accommodation, meals, and integration support.
Time investment extends beyond the retreat itself. Proper preparation begins weeks before, involving dietary restrictions, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional preparation. Many centers require participants to follow specific dietary guidelines for 1-2 weeks before ceremonies, eliminating certain foods, medications, and substances that could interact adversely with ayahuasca. Integration work continues for weeks or months afterward, as insights and realizations continue to unfold. This commitment to preparation and integration forms an essential part of the healing journey.
The question of safety in European ayahuasca retreats requires careful navigation of both practical and spiritual considerations. Trustworthy centers prioritize thorough medical screening, maintaining clear safety protocols, and ensuring appropriate support during ceremonies. They should inquire about medications, mental health history, and any medical conditions that might contraindicate ayahuasca use. The presence of experienced facilitators, reasonable group sizes (typically no more than 15-20 participants per ceremony), and clear emergency procedures all signal a responsible approach.
Authentic teachings often reveal themselves through subtle signs rather than grand promises. Genuine facilitators demonstrate humility, transparency about their training and lineage, and deep respect for both participants and the medicine. They prioritize participant well-being over financial gain, offering clear information about their practices while acknowledging the serious nature of working with ayahuasca. Red flags include pressure tactics, guarantees of specific outcomes, or dismissal of safety concerns.
European ayahuasca retreats often serve as cultural bridges, creating spaces where ancient wisdom meets contemporary understanding. This meeting point requires careful consideration of cultural appropriation versus appreciation. Responsible centers acknowledge and honor ayahuasca's indigenous roots while thoughtfully adapting ceremonies for European contexts. Some maintain direct relationships with indigenous communities, supporting their land rights and cultural preservation efforts.
Modern adaptations might incorporate elements familiar to European participants, such as integration circles or therapeutic support, while maintaining core ceremonial practices. This evolution reflects an ongoing dialogue between traditional wisdom and contemporary needs, creating containers that remain true to ayahuasca's essence while being accessible to modern seekers. The key lies in finding centers that strike this balance with integrity and respect.
The ceremonial experience itself unfolds as a deeply personal journey, though common themes often emerge. Ceremonies typically begin in the evening and continue through the night, held in comfortable, safe spaces with experienced guidance present. The medicine often works in waves, with periods of intensity followed by gentler phases. While experiences vary widely, many report encounters with personal insights, emotional releases, and occasionally challenging psychological material that ultimately serves healing purposes.
Integration proves equally important as the ceremony itself. Quality retreats provide structured support for processing and incorporating insights into daily life. This might include group sharing circles, individual consultations, or ongoing contact with facilitators post-retreat. Some centers maintain networks of integration therapists and community groups across Europe, helping participants find local support for their continued journey of healing and growth. The work of integration often continues long after returning home, as insights continue to unfold and new patterns of being take root.
Ayahuasca is often portrayed as a quick fix or a magical cure-all. While it can indeed be transformative, it is not a substitute for the hard work of personal growth. The medicine can shine a light on the shadows, but it is up to the individual to do the work of integration. This process can be messy, uncomfortable, and slow, but it is also deeply rewarding. Another common misconception is that ayahuasca is inherently dangerous. While it is true that the brew carries risks, these can often be mitigated through proper preparation, screening, and support. The key is to approach the medicine with respect, humility, and a commitment to safety. When used responsibly, ayahuasca can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.
Finally, it is worth remembering that ayahuasca is not the only path to wholeness. For some, it may be a vital part of their journey. For others, it may not be the right fit, and that is perfectly okay. The true essence of spiritual growth lies not in any particular practice or substance but in the recognition of one’s own inherent completeness. Ayahuasca can be a mirror, reflecting back the beauty and wisdom that have always been there. But the reflection is not the source. The source is you.
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.