Jason says, "Very intense week of release and self exploration. Danillo, Ilse and family provide a truly wonder experience in plant-based medicine. They are truly authentic in their communication and the way they live and the way they invite you into their home and family." See more
Nasanin says, "This past weekend was my first experience with plant medicine and although it’s been a few days, I am still floating in the waves of Yagè! I was, like many others, worried about what my initial contact with plant medicine would be like! Would I even be able to make it through the experience?! As soon as I arrived at the beautiful and serene location in the countryside the Vision Mira team took such good care of me and were ready to answer all my questions." See more
Meg says, "It is almost impossible to express in words my gratitude and love for Avalon, their staff and volunteers, Taita José Antonio Jansasoy & Mama Yolimar, the beautiful souls who were also on this journey next to me, and plant medicine." See more
Anonymous says, "How to put into words Marc, Alex and Vera (as well as all the other incredible, and welcoming humans who have hosted me). I have returned twice, (which says a lot 🙏🏼😊)." See more
Marco says, "Boris and the entire team at APL delivered a very organised, professional and supportive experience. Everything from the pre-call to integration on site and even after care shows that APL takes great care and pride in their work - You really get the sense that these guys are switched on and love what they do." See more
Ahmed says, "I believe that this retreat is the best option for people trying plant medicine for the first time. Colin and Ariana have been very supportive and their approach is nothing short of perfection." See more
Iain says, "I had the best few days ever at this retreat in Mallorca. Can't really put into words how wonderful it was. Everyone from the staff to the guests were awesome and as for the ceremonies, as a nervous first timer." See more
Anonymous says, "My experience at the ayahuasca ceremony was exceptional. The event was well-organized in a beautiful location, with excellent food. The Shaman leading the ceremony was truly amazing, providing a transformative and safe experience." See more
Sofia says, "I was able to get a private retreat on very short notice, which I really appreciated. I was also impressed by how carefully I was prepared for the experience, it was clear that the team takes time to make sure this work is right for each person." See more
Akshay says, "As someone who had never tried ayahuasca before, I came here for a new experience. What I left with is a spiritual awakening, all the way from being a non believer to someone who is now convinced the world has more wonders and magic than we know." See more
Charlotte says, "This was my first time on a retreat ever. I didn’t know what to expect and was a little bit worried but could not have asked for a better experience. Literally one of the best experiences of my life." See more
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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.