Where to Do an Ayahuasca Retreat – A Comprehensive Guide by Plant Retreats

Embarking on an ayahuasca retreat is a powerful journey of healing and self-discovery. Guided by experienced shamans, these retreats help us release trauma, reconnect with our inner selves, and gain profound clarity. But with so many locations worldwide, deciding where to do an ayahuasca retreat can feel overwhelming.

From the depths of the Amazon to high-end wellness centers, location shapes the entire retreat experience. Factors like legality, cultural roots, setting, and facilitator expertise all play critical roles. Whether you’re seeking ancient traditions or modern comfort, the right retreat can transform your path.

Plant Retreats is here to help you make that decision with confidence. Our platform connects you to carefully vetted centers across the globe, ensuring safe, authentic, and transformative experiences rooted in integrity.

What Makes a Great Destination for an Ayahuasca Retreat?

Key elements define the best locations for ayahuasca retreats. Countries like Peru, Brazil, and Costa Rica offer legal protections or cultural legitimacy, ensuring ceremonies are conducted openly and respectfully.

Cultural connection matters. Retreats tied to indigenous traditions offer a deeper, more authentic experience. From Shipibo shamans in Peru to Taitas in Colombia, the wisdom of traditional healers enriches every ceremony.

Facilitator experience is non-negotiable. Centers should offer skilled shamans or trained guides who conduct medical screenings and provide emotional support throughout the process.

Setting also plays a big role. Whether in a dense rainforest, serene mountains, or coastal paradise, nature amplifies the retreat’s impact.

And finally, integration is vital. The best retreats include aftercare—through meditation, therapy, or workshops—to help participants apply their experience long after the ceremony ends.

Plant Retreats evaluates all these factors when curating its listings, helping you discover where to do an ayahuasca retreat that truly aligns with your journey.

Ayahuasca in Peru – The Heartland of Tradition

Peru is the birthplace of ayahuasca, with a rich cultural and spiritual legacy. Indigenous groups like the Shipibo have preserved sacred practices for generations. Ceremonies led by experienced shamans include rituals like icaros, plant baths, and deep jungle immersion.

Many retreats in Peru offer extended Master Plant Dietas, multi-night ceremonies, and integration work. Shamans are often trained over decades, ensuring safe and spiritually grounded experiences in one of the most respected ayahuasca destinations.

Ayahuasca in Brazil – Sacred Medicine Meets Ceremony

In Brazil, ayahuasca is legally practiced through religious groups like Santo Daime and União do Vegetal. This structure allows for safe, ceremonial use of the medicine.

Retreats often blend jungle immersion with sacred music, prayer, and group rituals. Participants benefit from experienced facilitators and serene environments. Some centers include yoga, meditation, and nature excursions, supporting deep reflection and healing.

Ayahuasca in Colombia – Indigenous Wisdom in the Andes and Amazon

Colombia offers deeply traditional ceremonies led by indigenous Taitas. These healers uphold yagé (ayahuasca) traditions passed through generations.

Ceremonies often take place in Amazonian or Andean settings. Many retreats include plant dietas, sacred songs, and integration work. The presence of tribes like the Inga ensures authenticity and cultural respect.

Ayahuasca in Costa Rica – Wellness and Integration in Paradise

Costa Rica is a top choice for those seeking structured integration, comfort, and safety. Retreats often take place in lush jungle settings or near tranquil beaches.

Centers like Soltara and New Life Ayahuasca combine Shipibo ceremony traditions with Western wellness programs. Small groups, high-end accommodations, and expert support create a nurturing space for deep healing.

Ayahuasca in Ecuador – Deep in the Amazon with Ancestral Roots

Ecuador offers immersive retreats in untouched Amazon jungle environments. Legal frameworks allow traditional ayahuasca use by indigenous tribes like the Achuar.

Programs typically include multiple ceremonies, spiritual rituals, and plant teachings. Participants gain access to ancient traditions while surrounded by pristine nature—an ideal setting for powerful transformation.

Ayahuasca in Portugal – Plant Medicine in a European Setting

For European seekers, Portugal offers semi-legal ayahuasca retreats in peaceful rural locations. Though not native to the region, these ceremonies are held with care and respect.

Some centers host shamans from South America, while others focus on wellness-based formats. Programs often include sound healing, yoga, and integration, making Portugal a practical yet soulful destination.

Ayahuasca in Mexico – Ancient Rituals and Expansive Landscapes

Mexico blends indigenous spirituality with beautiful settings—beaches, mountains, and jungles. Retreats range from traditional ceremonies to modern wellness-focused formats.

Locations like Valle de Bravo host experienced shamans, offering deep ceremony work and community healing. Others integrate yoga, meditation, and spa-style support, providing a balanced experience for healing and growth.

How Plant Retreats Vets Ayahuasca Retreat Centers

We know how important it is to feel safe, informed, and supported. That’s why Plant Retreats carefully evaluates each retreat using five key criteria:

• Ethics: Respect for indigenous traditions, cultural integrity, and fair compensation.
• Safety: Medical screening, trained facilitators, and structured support.
• Experience: Verified shamanic lineage or credible facilitator background.
• Setting: Locations that enhance the healing experience through immersion in nature.
• Testimonials: Real participant feedback that confirms consistency and quality.

Our directory exists to eliminate uncertainty so you can focus fully on your healing journey.

Find Your Ideal Ayahuasca Retreat with Plant Retreats

Our platform helps you navigate the world of ayahuasca retreats with clarity. Search by country, duration, style, and more—whether you’re looking for jungle ceremonies, luxury healing centers, or small group immersions.

We review each listing for transparency, safety, and integrity, ensuring your retreat meets high standards. Use Plant Retreats to compare, connect, and make informed decisions.

Start here, and find where to do an ayahuasca retreat that truly aligns with your goals.

FAQs – Choosing the Right Place to Do Ayahuasca

• Is it legal everywhere? 

No. Ayahuasca is legal or culturally protected in Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia. In Costa Rica and Portugal, ceremonies operate in semi-legal contexts. Always choose centers that operate safely and transparently.

• What’s better: traditional or modern retreats?

Traditional retreats offer ancestral depth, often led by indigenous shamans. Modern wellness retreats include comfort and support features like yoga, integration, and smaller groups. Choose what aligns with your goals.

• What are the safest places for first-timers?

Costa Rica and Peru are ideal for newcomers. They offer structured support, medical screening, and experienced facilitators in safe, serene environments.

• How do I know if a retreat is trustworthy?

Look for centers vetted by Plant Retreats. We only list retreats that pass our thorough evaluation for safety, authenticity, and participant care.

Final Thoughts – Your Journey Starts Here with Plant Retreats

Choosing where to do an ayahuasca retreat is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your healing path. With so many options, it’s vital to focus on what truly matters—safety, authenticity, guidance, and alignment with your intentions.

Plant Retreats is your partner in making that choice with confidence. We connect you to the world’s most trusted centers, from jungle immersions to modern wellness programs, helping you take the first step toward transformation with clarity and trust.

Ready to find your path? Explore trusted ayahuasca retreats today at Plant Retreats.