“Coming to La Medicina was the best decision I made to becoming a better person. My journey was beyond profound and life-changing.”
91% Exceeded Expectations
ABOUT LA MEDICINA
Retreat Center Overview
La Medicina is a traditional Shipibo ayahuasca retreat center on 75 acres of pristine jungle at the entrance to Cordillera Escalera National Park, 20 minutes from Tarapoto. Operating since 2011, we offer intimate retreats combining authentic ceremonial practice with modern safety standards and comfortable facilities.
We work exclusively with experienced Shipibo healers who have decades of traditional training in ayahuasca and master plant dietas. Our facilitator team averages 10+ years of plant medicine experience. Programs range from 6-day introductory retreats to 15-day Master Plant Dietas, all conducted in traditional Shipibo style with icaros (healing songs), daily flower baths, and plant medicine preparation.
Half our annual capacity serves military veterans through partnerships with Heroic Hearts Project USA and UK. The other half welcomes private retreats and public participants from around the world.
Our Mission: Empower people to empower themselves by providing a safe container to experience ayahuasca healing in a traditional environment, immersed in nature at the gateway to the Amazon rainforest.
KEY DETAILS
- 👤 Operating Since: 2011
- 📍 Location: Tarapoto, Peruvian Amazon
- 🗣️ Languages Spoken: English, Spanish, Shipibo, Czech
- 👥 Group Size: Maximum 12 participants
- 📅 Program Length: 6, 8, 10, or 15 days
- 💵 Price Range: $1,860 – $4,240 per person
- 💙 Specializing In: Traditional Shipibo healing, trauma/PTSD treatment, master plant dietas, military veteran support, integration support
- 🌿 Medicine Sourcing: Traditional ayahuasca grown on-property and sourced locally; prepared by Shipibo maestros
- 💊 Medicine Type: Ayahuasca; Master plant dietas available
- 🩺 Medical Support: Comprehensive pre-screening, 24/7 facilitator presence, medical facility 20 minutes away, mandatory insurance required
RETREAT HIGHLIGHTS
- 🌳 Off-Grid Jungle Immersion – 75-acre pristine property with safe jungle paths, visible master plants, natural creek, and abundant wildlife
- 🎵 Traditional Shipibo Icaros – Authentic healing songs from experienced Shipibo maestros with decades of traditional training
- 🌺 Daily Flower Baths – Traditional cleansing and energetic preparation before ceremonies with dedicated bath area featuring Shipibo vision mural
- 🎖️ Veteran-Focused Care – 50% capacity dedicated to military veterans through Heroic Hearts Project partnerships
- 📵 Digital Detox – Intentionally no WiFi or cell service for complete immersion and disconnection from external world
- 🍽️ Ceremonial Diet – All meals gluten-free and dairy-free, prepared fresh with locally sourced ingredients following traditional dieta requirements
- 🏞️ National Park Gateway – Located at entrance to Cordillera Escalera National Park with pristine jungle surroundings
- 📚 Comprehensive Resources – 850+ book library on plant medicine, shamanism, spirituality, and philosophy
PARTNERSHIPS
La Medicina proudly partners with:
- Heroic Hearts Project USA – Supporting US military veterans’ access to psychedelic healing
- Psychedelic Society UK – Non-profit promoting understanding and responsible use of psychedelics
- Heroic Hearts Project UK – Supporting UK military and emergency services veterans
- Psychedelic Society UK – Non-profit promoting understanding and responsible use of psychedelics
- Chacruna Institute – Promoting reciprocity, psychedelic justice, and protection of sacred plants
ACCOMMODATIONS
ECO-TAMBOS (ROOMS 10-11)
Facility Type: Traditional forest huts with maximum jungle immersion
Room Details:- Shared Maloka facilities
- Traditional forest setting
- Maximum connection to nature
- Hammock included
- Spring-fed drinking water
- Solar-powered lighting
Pricing:
- 6-Day Retreat: $1,860
- 8-Day Retreat: $2,220
- 10-Day Retreat: $2,560
- 15-Day Dieta: $2,600
CASA NUEVA (ROOMS 8-9)
Facility Type: Simple rooms in central location
Room Details:
- Shared bathroom
- Central location for easy access
- Hammock included
- Spring-fed drinking water
- Solar-powered lighting
Pricing:
- 6-Day Retreat: $2,140
- 8-Day Retreat: $2,700
- 10-Day Retreat: $3,260
- 15-Day Dieta: $2,600
CASA VISTA (ROOMS 6-7)
Facility Type: Hillside location with jungle views (stairs required)
Room Details:
- Private bathrooms with hot showers
- Jungle views
- Most private accommodation option
- Hammock included
- Spring-fed drinking water
- Solar-powered lighting
Pricing:
- 6-Day Retreat: $2,500
- 8-Day Retreat: $3,100
- 10-Day Retreat: $3,760
- 15-Day Dieta: $2,600
CASA HUÉSPEDES (ROOMS 3-5)
Facility Type: Central location with private bathrooms and shared living room
Room Details:
- Private bathrooms with hot showers
- Shared living room
- Central location
- Hammock included
- Spring-fed drinking water
- Solar-powered lighting
Pricing:
- 6-Day Retreat: $2,620
- 8-Day Retreat: $3,280
- 10-Day Retreat: $3,960
- 15-Day Dieta: $2,600
STUDIO SUITES (ROOMS 1-2)
Facility Type: Fully contained suites with kitchenette
Room Details:
- Fully contained with kitchenette
- Highest quality mattress
- Private bathroom with hot shower
- Central location
- Hammock included
- Spring-fed drinking water
- Solar-powered lighting
Pricing:
- 6-Day Retreat: $2,860
- 8-Day Retreat: $3,560
- 10-Day Retreat: $4,240
- 15-Day Dieta: $2,600
🏠 FACILITY AMENITIES
La Medicina Property Features:
- 🌿 Pristine Jungle Setting: 75 acres at Cordillera Escalera National Park entrance
- 🏛️ The Maloka: Sacred circular ceremonial space with optimized acoustics and attached bathrooms
- 🌸 Chiloka: Mesh-enclosed relaxation area with instruments, puzzles, chess, rocking chairs
- 📚 Library: 850+ books on plant medicine, shamanism, spirituality, philosophy
- 🌳 Nature Access: Safe jungle paths, visible master plants
- 💧 Daily Flower Bath Area: Dedicated space with Shipibo vision mural
- ♻️ Sustainable Systems: Off-grid solar power, hot water, flush toilets
- 📵 Digital Detox: Intentionally no WiFi or cell service
- 🐒 Wildlife: Monkeys, abundant birds, natural creek
- 🌺 Master Plants: Visible and accessible for meditation and connection
Venue Description:
La Medicina’s off-grid jungle property provides an optimal environment for deep healing and transformation. The pristine natural setting combines authentic traditional space with modern comfort—sacred ceremonial areas, comfortable accommodations, and sustainable systems. Every detail supports your healing journey with complete immersion in nature, disconnection from the modern world, and sacred atmosphere ideal for profound ayahuasca work.
MEALS & NUTRITION
- 🥗 Omnivore
- 🥦 Vegetarian
- 🌱 Vegan
- 🌾 Gluten-Free (all meals)
- 🥛 Dairy-Free (all meals)
- 🐟 Pescatarian
- 🥜 Allergy accommodations available
Nutritional Approach
All meals are gluten-free and dairy-free, prepared fresh by experienced cooks who understand ceremonial dieta requirements. Menu includes fish, chicken, whole grains, and vegetables—nourishing traditional Peruvian dishes with locally sourced ingredients.
Meals are designed to support the ayahuasca work, following traditional dietary restrictions that enhance the medicine’s effectiveness while providing proper nourishment. The culinary experience honors both ceremonial tradition and guest comfort—featuring three prepared meals daily, fresh local ingredients, traditional Peruvian dishes, fish and chicken protein options, whole grains and vegetables, and accommodations for additional dietary restrictions.
Important: Notify us of any additional allergies or dietary restrictions during intake process.
Travel & Arrival Details
- 📍 Venue Locations: Metamorfinca: Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica
- ✈️ Airport Transportation: Tarapoto Airport (TPP) – 1.5-hour flight from Lima
Arrival Process:
- Fly to Lima (LIM) internationally
- Take domestic connection to Tarapoto (arrive at least one day early to rest)
- Stay at our designated pickup hotel
- Group transport departs hotel at 11:30 AM on Day 1 (20-minute drive)
Travel Tips:
- Bring pristine USD bills for balance payment (ATMs have daily limits)
- Light-colored ceremony clothing recommended
- Biodegradable toiletries only
- Rain gear (rainy season: December-May)
- Comprehensive travel insurance mandatory
CLINICAL & CEREMONIAL TEAM
HEALERS & FACILITATORS
-
Shipibo Healers
Maestro Gabriel (Niwe – “Wind/Air”)
Experience:
- 15 years serving medicine publicly
- Trained by father from age 11
- Hundreds of ceremonies facilitated
Training:
- Traditional Shipibo lineage training
- Extensive master plant dietas
- Specialized in light-based healing
Approach:
Maestro Gabriel specializes in light-based healing and protective icaros. His work emphasizes clarity, protection, and connection to plant spirits through powerful traditional songs.
Signature Plant: Noya Rao (powerful teacher of light, healing, protection)
Languages: Shipibo, Spanish
-
Maestra Tania (Neten Yaca – “Bright World”)
Experience:
- 13+ years with ayahuasca
- From remote Shipibo village of Roaboya
- Family lineage of healers (grandfather Jose Lopez, cousin Gabriel Lopez)
Training:
- Traditional family lineage training
- Extensive master plant dietas
- Specialized in traditional women’s healing wisdom
Approach:
Maestra Tania brings deep traditional women’s healing wisdom from her remote village upbringing. Her work honors ancestral knowledge and feminine healing practices within Shipibo tradition.
Signature Plant: Marosa, Piñon Colorado, Shiwahuaco
Languages: Shipibo, Spanish
-
Maestra Sulmira (Siniveri – “All Equal”)
Experience:
- 23+ years treating with medicinal plants
- Started dieting at age 13
- Trained by father Melchiade Vela Lomas (renowned regional healer)
Training:
- Multi-generational family lineage
- Decades of master plant dietas
- Known for healing across all ages
Approach:
Maestra Sulmira brings over two decades of deep plant medicine knowledge. She is known for her ability to work with participants of all ages and backgrounds, treating each person’s unique healing needs with equal care and wisdom.
Signature Plant: Piñon Colorado, Albahaca, Bobinsana, Waira Caspi
Languages: Shipibo, Spanish
-
Maestro Jorge (Iscumeni – “Beautiful World”)
Experience:
- 30+ years total healing work
- 8 years as tobaquero
- 25+ years with ayahuasca
Training:
- Traditional tobacco healing
- Extensive ayahuasca training
- Specialized in tree medicines
Approach:
Maestro Jorge specializes in tobacco healing integrated with ayahuasca work. His decades of experience with both sacred tobacco and ayahuasca create a powerful combined healing approach rooted in traditional practice.
Signature Plant: Huacapurana, Icoja, Chuchuhuasi, Tamamuri, Murure (tree medicines)
Languages: Shipibo, Spanish
Lead Facilitators
-
Vlad — General Manager & Lead Facilitator
Experience:
- 14 years Peru-based
- Co-owner since 2022
- Temple of the Way of Light (5 years)
- Mestizo tabaquero healing in Iquitos (3 years)
- Quechua/San Pedro medicine (4 years)
- Bwiti/Iboga in Gabon (4 months)
- Soltara facilitator
Training:
- Master’s in Liberal Studies focusing on sustainable societies
- Extensive cross-cultural plant medicine training
- Multiple healing modalities
Approach:
Vlad creates safe containers bridging traditional wisdom with modern understanding. His diverse experience across multiple plant medicine traditions informs his comprehensive, culturally sensitive facilitation approach.
Languages: English, Czech, Spanish
-
Kasey — Lead Facilitator
Experience:
- 15 years with Huachuma and Ayahuasca
- 7 years with Shipibo families
- Maintains bio-dynamic gardens using permaculture
Training:
- Master’s in Art Education
- Degree in Sound Therapy
- Specialized in herbalism, flower essences, astrology, shamanic practices
Approach:
Kasey specializes in sound healing, herbalism, and creating nurturing containers for deep transformation. Her expertise in multiple healing modalities enriches the retreat experience with comprehensive holistic support.
Languages: English, Spanish
-
Matty — Facilitator
Experience:
- 7 years plant medicine journey
- Former self-defense instructor and MMA fighter (25+ years)
- Heroic Hearts Project specialist
Training:
- Expert in breathing exercises and meditation
- Specialized in movement practices
- Trauma-informed veteran support
Approach:
Matty specializes in veteran and trauma support through Heroic Hearts Project. His background in martial arts and discipline-based practices brings a grounded, structured approach to healing work, particularly effective for military veterans and those with PTSD.
Languages: English
TREATMENT PROTOCOL & MEDICINE INFORMATION
Primary Medicine: Traditional Ayahuasca
Source: Banisteriopsis caapi vine + Psychotria viridis leaf
Preparation:
- Prepared fresh by Shipibo maestros using traditional methods
- All ingredients grown on-property or sustainably sourced locally
- Traditional cooking process honors ceremonial protocols
Clinical Applications:
- Trauma healing and emotional release
- PTSD and complex trauma treatment
- Depression and anxiety
- Addiction recovery
- Spiritual awakening and consciousness exploration
- Deep introspection and self-discovery
Duration: 4-8+ hours typical duration; effects may continue into morning
Master Plant Dietas (15-Day Program)
Available Plants: Noya Rao, Chiric Sanango, Bobinsana, Piñon Colorado, Mucura—selected by maestros based on individual needs
Dieta Structure:
- 5 ayahuasca ceremonies
- 5-day dry fast in isolation (no food, no water)
- Noble Silence period
- Daily visits from maestro with dieta plant
- Deep meditation and dreamwork
- 3-month minimum post-dieta restrictions
Participant Experience:
Guests commonly report:
- Visions and profound insights
- Emotional release and catharsis
- Physical purging (vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, crying, shaking)
- Feelings of deep connection and unity
- Ancestral healing and understanding
- Clarity on life direction and purpose
- Deep introspection and self-understanding
Important: Not everyone experiences visions—some receive primarily physical or emotional healing. Purging is considered positive release of what no longer serves you. The medicine provides what each person needs.
Environment:
The Maloka: Sacred circular ceremonial hut with conical roof optimizing icaro acoustics. Multiple attached bathrooms for easy access during purging. Comfortable floor cushions, mattresses, blankets, and buckets provided.
Setting: Pristine jungle surroundings with natural sounds of wildlife, creek, and wind in trees. Off-grid location ensures complete darkness for ceremonies and deep connection to nature.
Atmosphere: Traditional Shipibo ceremonial practice conducted with reverence, authenticity, and safety. Intimate group size (maximum 12) creates close-knit healing community.
Philosophy:
La Medicina operates within authentic Shipibo tradition—an indigenous lineage from Ucayali region with hundreds of years of ayahuasca work. All healers have completed extensive dietas (samati) with master plants to become Onanyas (ones who know). Icaros are gifts from plant spirits or passed through lineage. The medicine is viewed as teacher, healers as channels, participant as active agent in their own healing.
SAFETY PROTOCOLS & GUEST SUPPORT
Clinical Oversight:
- Comprehensive medical pre-screening
- Facilitators present 24/7
- Minimum 2 facilitators + 2 healers per retreat
- Individual healer consultations to assess needs
- Emergency response training
- First aid supplies on-site
During Ceremonies:
- All facilitators remain present throughout entire ceremony
- Regular check-ins with each participant
- Immediate support available if needed
- Medical facility 20 minutes away (staff accompaniment in emergencies)
Emergency Protocols:
- Hospital Clínica San Martin (20 minutes)
- Emergency evacuation procedures documented
- All facilitators trained in crisis response
- All medical expenses are participant responsibility
Safety Record: No one has ever died or been seriously harmed at La Medicina.
PROGRAM SCHEDULE
6-Day / 5-Night Retreat (3 Ceremonies)
DAY 1 — ARRIVAL
Late Morning:
- 11:30 AM: Pickup from Tarapoto hotel
- 12:00 PM: Arrival, tour, flower bath
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Lunch
- 2:00 PM: Orientation in Maloka
Evening:
- 6:30 PM: Dinner
DAY 2 — VOMITIVO & CEREMONY ONE
Morning:
- 7:00 AM: Vomitivo
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast
- 10:00 AM: Ayahuasca education talk
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Flower bath
- 1:00 PM: Lunch
Evening:
- 6:30 PM: Pre-ceremony yoga
- 7:30 PM: Ceremony One
DAY 3 — CEREMONY TWO
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Morning yoga
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast
- 10:00 AM: Individual healer consultations
- Free time (rest, journaling, nature walks)
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Flower bath
- 1:00 PM: Lunch
Evening:
- 6:30 PM: Pre-ceremony yoga
- 7:30 PM: Ceremony Two
DAY 4 — CEREMONY THREE (ARKANA)
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast
- 10:30 AM: Morning yoga
- Free time
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Flower bath
- 1:00 PM: Lunch
- 2:00 PM: Integration tools talk
Evening:
- 6:30 PM: Pre-ceremony yoga
- 7:30 PM: Ceremony Three (Arkana/closing)
DAY 5 — INTEGRATION
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast
- 9:45 AM: Shipibo market & group photo
- Free time (packing, journaling)
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Lunch
- 2:00 PM: Group integration circle
Evening:
- 6:30 PM: Dinner
DAY 6 — DEPARTURE
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast
- 10:00 AM: Departure to Tarapoto
8-Day / 7-Night Retreat (4 Ceremonies)
Follows 6-day pattern with added rest day after Day 3 and fourth ceremony on Day 5. Additional time allows for deeper integration and rest between ceremonies.
10-Day / 9-Night Retreat (5 Ceremonies)
Expanded schedule with additional rest day and fifth ceremony, following same ceremony/rest/integration pattern. Extended time supports even deeper work as medicine effects build cumulatively.
15-Day Master Plant Dieta
Days 1-3: Arrival & Preparation
- Arrival, orientation, settling in
- Four steam baths with maestros
- Maestro announces dieta plant
- Plant meditation and preparation
Day 4: Dieta Opens
- Ceremony One
- Noble Silence begins
- 5-day dry fast starts (no food, no water)
Days 5-8: Isolation
- Isolation in private room
- Maestro visits twice daily with dieta plant
- No soap/reading/music discouraged
- Deep meditation and dreamwork
Day 9: Break Fast
- Break fast with light lunch
- Ceremony Two (often intense post-fast)
Days 10-11: Integration Ceremonies
- Ceremonies Three & Four with continued integration
- Gradual reintroduction to community
Day 12: Rest Day
- Rest and integration
- Gentle activities
Day 13: Arkana (Closing)
- Ceremony Five (Arkana/closing – seals the dieta)
Day 14: Transition
- Noble Silence ends
- Shipibo market
- Integration circle
Day 15: Departure
Post-Dieta Restrictions (3 months minimum):
Avoid: salt (reintroduce slowly after 1 month), sugar, caffeine, spices, fats/oils, pork, red meat, salmon, nuts/seeds, processed foods, nightshades, bell peppers, avocado, dairy, most citrus, cannabis, alcohol, drugs, other healers, energy work, sexual activity, TV/movies/social media (except work), extreme sports, tattoos.
FINE DETAILS
THIS IS DUMMY DETAILS CONTENT
REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.5/10 Average Rating
Overall Satisfaction: 91% exceeded expectations | 82% would return
Guest Testimonials
“Life-changing transformation in the jungle”
“Coming to La Medicina was the best decision I made to becoming a better person. They provide all the comforts while allowing a fully immersive experience in the jungle where the medicine is from. The facilitators are supportive, compassionate and hold space effectively. The healers and medicine are powerful agents of transformation. My journey was beyond profound and life-changing. If you are called to sit with the medicine, I cannot recommend La Medicina enough.” — Sophie, New Zealand
“Deepest healing of three ayahuasca retreats”
“This was my 3rd ayahuasca retreat. The healing was deeper and stronger at La Medicina—possibly due to the Maestro and Maestra’s many years of dietas, being in the jungle, and disconnecting from the world. For the first time I feel like my ayahuasca work is complete. The group size is wonderfully small—max 12. Kasey and Vlad are amazing guides. Maestro Gabriel and Maestra Tanya almost seem like magical unicorns who create the most safe container for healing.
I trust and 110% recommend La Medicina.” — Tara, United States
“Magical sanctuary for profound self-discovery”
“Traveling from Munich, what unfolded was nothing short of magical. Beyond powerful ceremonies, La Medicina is a sanctuary for profound self-discovery. The facilitators demonstrated extraordinary sensitivity, creating trust and understanding. Each ceremony revealed layers of myself I hadn’t encountered. The final revelation: ‘Love like there is no tomorrow, because there isn’t. It’s always now.’
To anyone contemplating the journey, I wholeheartedly affirm it is worth every mile traveled.” — Daniel, Germany
“Incomparable experience with traditional Shipibo medicine”
“We chose La Medicina to experience traditional Shipibo plant medicine without compromising safety, comfort or hygiene. The high-jungle location with fewer pests, mild climate, hot showers and easy hospital access put us at ease. We have previously attended a retreat elsewhere, which was great but this experience was incomparable.
I have no doubt about where I’ll be going for my next plant medicine retreat.” — Conner, Canada/New Zealand
Summary of Reviews:
Across all reviews, participants consistently highlight:
- Authentic Shipibo tradition: Experienced maestros with decades of training
- Safe, professional container: Comprehensive facilitation and medical screening
- Life-changing results: Profound healing from trauma, depression, anxiety
- Pristine jungle setting: Off-grid immersion enhances medicine work
- Intimate group size: Maximum 12 creates close healing community
- Skilled facilitators: Vlad, Kasey, and Matty provide exceptional support
- Powerful medicine: Traditional preparation and authentic ceremony
- Integration support: Tools and practices for lasting transformation
More testimonials: https://www.la-medicina.com/testimonials
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General Experience
-
Q: What is ayahuasca and is it legal?
A: Sacred brew of Banisteriopsis caapi vine (MAOIs) + Psychotria viridis leaf (DMT). Used for centuries by indigenous Amazonian tribes. Legal in Peru under protections for traditional indigenous practices (Ley N° 28538).
-
Q: How long do effects last?
A: Typically 4-8+ hours. Effects begin 30-45 minutes after drinking, peak at 2-4 hours, with gradual tapering. Some subtle effects may continue into morning.
-
Q: Will I have visions?
A: Not everyone experiences visions. Many receive profound insights, emotional releases, or physical healing without visuals. The medicine provides what each person needs.
-
Q: Is purging necessary?
A: Very common and occurs in many forms: vomiting, diarrhea, crying, sweating, shaking, yawning. It’s considered positive release of what no longer serves you. Not everyone purges in every ceremony.
-
Q: Is ayahuasca addictive?
A: No. The intensity and challenging nature means most approach it with great respect rather than seeking repeated recreational use.
-
Q: How many ceremonies are recommended?
A: Minimum 3 ceremonies (6-day) for meaningful experience. Many find 4-5 ceremonies (8-10 days) allow deeper work, as medicine works cumulatively.
-
Q: Why tobacco in ceremonies?
A: Mapacho (sacred jungle tobacco) is essential Shipibo healing tool used for grounding, protection, calling intentions, and feeding plant spirits. Participants may use for grounding if desired.
About Retreats
-
Q: What language is spoken?
A: English is primary facilitation language. Shipibo healers speak Shipibo and Spanish; facilitators translate when needed. Spanish helpful but not required.
-
Q: Is WiFi available?
A: No—intentional digital detox. No WiFi or cell service allows deep immersion without external distractions.
-
Q: What activities are available during downtime?
A: Morning/pre-ceremony yoga, jungle walks, visiting master plants, 850+ book library, chiloka (communal space with instruments, puzzles, chess), journaling, hammock time, creek exploration, meditation, creative arts.
-
Q: Can I attend alone or should I bring someone?
A: Both work well. Many attend alone and form deep bonds. Small groups (max 12) create intimacy regardless. Coming with a partner provides built-in support, but everyone’s journey is individual—respect each person’s unique process.
-
Q: Do you offer Master Plant Dietas?
A: Yes—15-day program including 5 ceremonies, 5-day dry fast in isolation, work with traditional master plants. For experienced practitioners ready for serious commitment. Post-dieta restrictions last 3 months minimum. Maximum 10 participants.
-
Q: Can I arrange private retreats?
A: Yes. Contact info@la-medicina.com for availability and pricing.
Preparation & Health
-
Q: What diet should I follow before retreat?
A: Key points:
-
4 weeks before: Avoid pork, recreational drugs, alcohol, cannabis, psychedelics
-
2 weeks before: Reduce sexual activity, energetic bodywork, heavily processed foods, high salt/sugar/oil, spicy foods, blue cheese, peanuts, soy, fava beans
-
1 week before: Eliminate caffeine, refined sugar, pickled/fermented/smoked foods, overly ripe fruits, dairy, red meat, ice-cold drinks
-
Full guide: https://www.la-medicina.com/ayahuasca-preparation
-
-
Q: Can I take my medications?
A: Depends on medication. Many pharmaceuticals (especially SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, stimulants, opiates) are absolutely contraindicated. Requires 4-8 weeks discontinuation under physician guidance. Never stop prescribed medications without medical supervision.
Full list: https://www.la-medicina.com/ayahuasca-contraindications
-
Q: Can I participate while menstruating?
A: Yes, menstruation is not a contraindication at La Medicina. Bring appropriate supplies.
-
Q: Will ayahuasca help my medical condition?
A: Reported benefits for PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma. However, consult healthcare professionals and our intake specialists regarding specific concerns. Not a guaranteed cure and not appropriate for everyone. Conditions evaluated case-by-case.
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Q: What is integration and why is it important?
A: Integration is translating ceremony insights into lasting life changes. Without it, profound experiences may not create real transformation. Involves: following post-retreat dietary guidelines, mindful action on insights, supportive practices (meditation, yoga, journaling, nature time), potentially working with integration coach, building community, giving yourself patience.
Full guide: https://www.la-medicina.com/ayahuasca-integration
Logistics
-
Q: Which airport?
A: Tarapoto Airport (TPP). International travelers fly to Lima (LIM) first, then domestic connection (1.5 hours). Arrive at least one day early to rest.
-
Q: What are age restrictions?
A: Minimum 18 years. No upper age limit, but health screening more stringent for older participants (especially cardiovascular health).
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Q: What’s the typical weather?
A: Tropical climate, 75-90°F (24-32°C) year-round. Rainy season: December-May. Dry season: June-November. High humidity always. Pack rain gear.
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Q: How can family contact me in emergency?
A: Family/friends can contact La Medicina via info@la-medicina.com or phone. Provide emergency contacts with our information before departure. Participants cannot be reached directly during retreat due to off-grid location.
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Q: Do you offer financial aid?
A: Not typically for public retreats. We work with Heroic Hearts Project (USA and UK) providing veteran scholarships. Veterans should contact Heroic Hearts directly. Occasional last-minute discounts—join newsletter for notifications.
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Q: What’s the refund policy?
A: See Cancellation Policy in Pricing & Booking section below.
-
Q: Can I attend for less than 6 days?
A: No. Minimum 6 days required for proper preparation, ceremony experience, and initial integration.
PRICING & BOOKING
Retreat Pricing by Accommodation
Accommodation Type: Eco-Tambos
6-Day: $1,860
8-Day: $2,220
10-Day: $2,560
15-Day Dieta: $2,600
Accommodation Type: Casa Nueva
6-Day: $2,140
8-Day: $2,700
10-Day: $3,260
15-Day Dieta: $2,600
Accommodation Type: Casa Vista
6-Day: $2,500
8-Day: $3,100
10-Day: $3,760
15-Day Dieta: $2,600
Accommodation Type: Casa Huéspedes
6-Day: $2,620
8-Day: $3,280
10-Day: $3,960
15-Day Dieta: $2,600
Accommodation Type: Studio Suites
6-Day: $2,860
8-Day: $3,560
10-Day: $4,240
15-Day Dieta: $2,600
15-Day Master Plant Dieta:
- Maximum Capacity: 10 participants (dieta only)
- Flat rate: $2,600 for all room types
- Recommended for experienced participants
- Includes 5-day dry fast in isolation
- 3-month post-retreat restrictions required
- 2026 dates to be announced
All Retreats Include:
- ✅ Ceremonies: 3, 4, 5, or 5 with dieta depending on program
- ✅ Accommodation: Full duration of retreat
- ✅ Meals: All meals (gluten-free, dairy-free, ceremonially appropriate)
- ✅ Daily Flower Baths: Traditional cleansing before ceremonies
- ✅ Vomitivo Preparation: Day 2 body preparation
- ✅ Daily Yoga: Morning and pre-ceremony sessions
- ✅ Transportation: Round-trip group transport between designated Tarapoto hotel and retreat center
- ✅ Education & Integration: Orientation, ayahuasca education, and integration talks
- ✅ Healer Consultations: Individual sessions with Shipibo healers
- ✅ 24/7 Maloka Access: During retreat
- ✅ Nature Access: Jungle paths, master plants, library, communal spaces
- ✅ Hammock: In each accommodation
- ✅ Drinking Water: Spring-fed
- ✅ Facilitator Support: All guidance and support
- ✅ Integration Resources: Post-retreat materials
What’s NOT Included:
- ❌ International Flights: To Lima
- ❌ Domestic Flights: Lima ↔ Tarapoto
- ❌ Hotel Accommodations: In Tarapoto (before/after retreat)
- ❌ Insurance: Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
- ❌ Private Transport: To La Medicina (if not using group pickup time)
- ❌ Personal Items: Toiletries, medications
- ❌ Tips/Gratuities: For staff (optional but appreciated)
- ❌ Shipibo Artwork: Purchases at market
- ❌ Medical Expenses: If emergency evacuation occurs
- ❌ Integration Coaching: Optional pre/post-retreat (contact info@la-medicina.com for pricing)