Aya Healing Retreats

The Journey

Find Deep Healing and step into the new you

How Aya Healing Retreats Works

Just one simple step and you are on the way to a life changing Ayahuasca Retreat

STEP ONE

Preparing for your journey

What you need to know

Preparing for Ceremony

The Traditional Ayahuasca Dieta

It is essential to prepare your body and mind for a life changing spiritual transformation and deep healing. You must exercise the utmost respect for yourself – and let go of the habits that are no longer serving you in the weeks both before and after your Ayahuasca Retreat. Additionally, dietary restrictions are part of an ayahuasca retreat that is setup to optimally maximize the healing potential of each ceremony. Sacred plant medicines take in an intimate group setting, have the potential to profoundly change the quality of our human experience, long after we have left the fireside, but we must prepare ourselves correctly.

Before immersion into the Amazon – you’ll also need to clarify your main intention. This will help you use your ayahuasca journey to adopt a new lifestyle which will aid in spiritual growth. With clear intent, we give the universe permission to deliver to us. When we focus on what we don’t want, then we’ll likely end up with the same drugery. To learn more and find a list of questions to contemplate, view our ayahuasca intentions page.

Our Peruvian Shipibo healers find it much easier to work with individuals who have taken the time to define a clear intent and mental preparation. Another benefit would be to generally educate yourself about ayahuasca, such as how it works, how it is made, or the history of ayahuasca.

Our Healers

Our curanderos or healers are of the shipibo tribe, one of the largest within the Peruvian Amazon and highly experienced with traditional plant medicine. You’re in safe hands with the combined wisdom and expertise to guide you through a powerful healing experience. We’re honoured to have the ancient wisdom of these incredible maestros with us on our retreats.

Your retreat will also be accompanied by a highly trained facilitator who will provide you with individualized attention. The role of our facilitators, is to ensure your wellbeing and help you have a transformative experience with personal growth. Our facilitators will create a loving, compassionate space in which all participants feel safe, respected and free to express themselves authentically. You can find more information on our facilitators on about About Us page.

AYA Healing Retreats is committed to creating a more compassionate, safe and equal world. Which is why we are donating 10 percent of the profits of our sacred medicine retreat to two extraordinary humanitarian projects.

Don Miguel

Shipibo Curandero

Maestra Juana

Shipibo Curandera

Safety

At Aya Healing Retreats, we have the highest level of safety standards in the industry. We are committed to providing the safest and most authentic sacred plant medicine healing modalities in the Peruvian Amazon. Together with the International Centre for Ethnobotanical Education, Research and Service (ICEERS) we have created the most comprehensive screening process available for our participants. Our dedication to creating the safest possible plant medicine journey ensures that each participant is given every opportunity to reach their true healing potential during their time with us.

What may be included in your ayahuasca retreat?

Mapacho

Mapacho (Nicotiana Tobacum) is a natural tobacco locally found in the Amazon rain forest. It is much more potent in terms of nicotine than commercialized cigarrettes, containing 15-20 times the nicotine and no tar. It is the tar and chemical additives which are so dangerous in western tobaccos. Although it is well known that nicotine has addictive properties, many shamans insist upon its profound spiritual and healing properties, with large doses creating trance-like states of consciousness.

ayahuasca retreat attendee receiving a vapour bath

Plant Baths

A plant bath involves immersing oneself in a bath tub filled with water and the plant ingredients that the curandero believes will be most beneficial to our healing process. Water is then poured over our heads and intentions are made for how we hope the purification process will positively transform us. These baths will normally take place on the side of the river, so as all the negative energy that is lifted from our bodies can be washed out and transmuted by the sea. Plants that may be chosen include Mocura, Piñon Colorado, and Baño de Florecimient, each with unique benefits.

FAQ

How much does ayahuasca retreat cost?

Our 11 day ayahuasca retreats include 5 ceremonies spread out every other day, and start at $3300. Your investment also includes a master plant dieta, a personalized consultation with Don Miguel, personalised treatments, plant vapour baths, transportation from Iquitos, accomodation, and much more. Some of our other retreats which include yoga classes or sound healing or if the retreat is outside of Peru or has additional ceremonies then the price will reflect our increased costs.

How does ayahuasca change you?

According to a survey from the Global Ayahuasca Project, 85% of people go on to make a profound life change after undergoing an ayahuasca ceremony. However, we believe in order to get the full benefit you must go into your ayahuasca experience with the right preparation, intention, and integration.

Which country is best for ayahuasca?

The Amazonian jungle is the most common place to take ayahuasca, the plant grows natively here, and has been consumed by local tribes for generations in sacred tradition.

There is definitely something to be said about being close to the home and origin of the medicine. Iquitos is probably the most popular hub, with many retreats located within short distance of the city. Other options in Peru include Puerto Maldonado, Pucallpa, and Tarapoto.

Whichever country or city you decide to endeavour in an ayahuasca retreat, be sure to do thorough research to find ethical providers with high safety standards and integration practices.

To read our full Frequently Asked Questions, please click the button below.

What Our Participants Are Saying About AYA Healing Retreats

The experiences of our participants speak volumes. Over the years, AYA Healing Retreats has been a place of profound healing and transformation, guided by the master shaman Don Miguel and a dedicated team of facilitators. We invite you to explore the reviews from those who have attended our retreats and see how these experiences have impacted their lives. Their testimonials reflect the healing power of our ancestral practices and the commitment of our team to the well-being of each participant.

Lusy Orchid

12:01 29 Aug 24

Ayahealing is a place where you can feel God and his love in the very first day you put your foot down in Lima. Thank you so much. Im leaving with the heart full of love and gratitude 🙏🏽🤍✨

Julia Nikolaev

04:03 08 Jul 24

It was one of the best decisions of my life to go to this specific aya retreat and I was lucky to do it with Mama Juana, Adelina, and Christina. It took me a few months to arrange my schedule around a two-week-long trip, but it was worth of every minute. The preparation process was impressive as Adelina made sure to learn my health history and psychological background, my goals and expectations and Christina made special arrangements for me as I arrived later and left earlier than other girls. The time at the jungles was awesome in every respect. They had the right pace to start, introduce, and go deeper into the experience. We had a few girls who had experience with Aya and diet, but I, as a first-timer, felt very taken care of at every step of the process. We had 5 ceremonies throughout 13 days with every-day sharing circles and workshops. I enjoyed somatic dance, singing, and drawing, flower baths, yoni spa, and massages. But the most profound was the last Aya ceremony when I believe I experienced my birth. It was extremely hard, but I don’t regret a second - it was amazing, eye-opening, and ground-breaking. And the entire ceremony Adelina and Christina supported me physically and emotionally, patting my back, refilling my water, and helping me to go through the process. Amazingly enough, the next morning after the ceremony, I discovered that the chrysalis (a butterfly pupa), which I found on the first day hanging on my tumbo’s deck, had been born into a beautiful butterfly and I caught to see it before it had yet flown away. This was a miraculous conclusion of my journey and I am still processing everything I got to experience there. Adelina, Christina, thank you very much! Can’t thank you enough.

Yuelin Linda Li

09:39 01 Jul 24

My 10-day retreat with AYA in 2024 was truly transformative. Participating in four aya ceremonies and a dieta with the master plant Noya Rao was a profound journey that exceeded all my expectations.The experience was nothing short of life-changing and mind-blowing - easily the most powerful plant medicine encounter I've ever had. The healer's attentive care and the professionalism of the helpers created a safe and supportive environment for deep inner work.Throughout the retreat, I received profound healing and felt touched by divine love in ways I never thought possible. The insights and teachings I gained have stayed with me, softening my heart and filling me with a sense of gentle loving-kindness.I left the retreat with a wealth of learnings, a renewed sense of purpose, and overwhelming gratitude. This AYA retreat has undoubtedly been a pivotal moment in my personal growth and spiritual journey. For those seeking genuine transformation and healing, I cannot recommend this experience highly enough.

Nidhi Dalwadi Mehta

00:52 17 Jun 24

I attended a 14-day women’s retreat with Aya Healing in May. This was my first exposure to plant medicine in this capacity and I was excited to be able to experience it in the heart of the Amazon jungle. The overall center was intimate and as mentioned in their site, is eco-friendly. It humbles and stripes you down quite immediately and allows you to really with yourself, Aya, and Noya Rao (recommend by our Shaman). We actually had amazing weather, with rain only the first two days, and the. Only night/early morning rain thereafter, so we did get spoiled to walk with sandals. The land and caretakers of the retreat were so wonderful, and very hard working, making sure each of us were taken care of food preference and allergy wise, cleaning our tamboo’s, laundry, and everything in between. The facilitators were communicative prior to, and it was wonderful meet them in person and have such an automatic beautiful connection, that you feel like you’re supported no matter what. Such pure hearts who truly believe in the power of plant medicine— as they have sat in ceremonies many more times before deciding to be healers in this path. So grateful for Adelina and Christina! The way they held us, the workshops, the support for the things we needed, and being our sisters as we worked with Mama Juanita. And what to say about Mama Juanita — powerful, intuitive, well-rooted in the Shipibo linage, snd all around adorable. She saw us individually at first to hear our intentions, and she was able to get to know us even more. Lastly, the other women, we really got raw, vulnerable, and shared so many personal stories, and intimate parts of our journey as humans. It was awe-inspiring to be around so many beautiful and amazing women. I’m already considering when I could potentially go back— and feel more prepared after this experience, but it moreso has to do with all the aforementioned people. Without them, I wouldn’t feel that I could do this again. And a quick shoutout to all the animals— the chickens, roster, dogs, boar, monkeys!A few things— mosquitos are a thing— plant based doesn’t really work. Just buy something when you get there if possible. And there are these things called “el sango’s,” which are microscopic little critters and most of us, if not all had to deal with it. They burrow under your skin, can’t see or feel them doing so. The caretakers tried to help and told us to use limes and rubbing it on our affected areas. Sharing so you can bring medicine for them, I don’t think you can entirely avoid them. Red bumps and scratching were really what we dealt with.

Anna Maria

06:25 06 Jun 24

I can’t put in words how much love and gratitude for this place, but I’ll try anyway:From the first meeting all the way to the last big hug, I felt home, safe and divinely guided.With the beautiful wisdom that Don Miguel, Elio, Franziska and Kris shared, I was able to expand my consciousness, calm the mind and regain a childlike sense of wonder. The whole team of Aya Healing created a sacred and also held so much space, by allowing us to explore, offering many group classes as well as one on one conversations to make sure everyone recieves the best experience. It’s not easy to live in the jungle or follow the Master Plant Dieta for a month, but again, the whole team made sure the process will be as smooth as possible. It was definitely a life-changing experience and I’d recommend anyone who is interested in re-connecting to themselves and nature on a profound level, to do it here.Special thanks to everyone, the team and my soul family - I love and appreciate you so much! ❤️

Erika Kibar

12:27 09 Apr 24

Beginning the Kambo Practitioner Program with AYA Healing Retreats from February 10th to 22nd was an immensely transformative experience, largely due to the exceptional guidance provided by Cristina. As the lead facilitator, Cristina's presence was pivotal in shaping the depth and quality of our journey.Cristina's leadership was marked by her deep empathy, love, and understanding, which created a supportive environment where each participant felt seen and valued.Her passion for plant medicine was evident in every interaction, and her commitment to helping others was evident throughout.Additionally, Cristina played a crucial role in facilitating the dieta with the Tree of Light Noya Rao. Her wisdom and insights enriched the experience, enabling us to establish a profound connection with the plant spirit and undergo deep cleansing of both body and spirit.One of the program's highlights was undoubtedly the Kambo Practitioner Training initiated by the Matses indigenous tribe, who graciously shared their wisdom with us as students for apprenticeship.This exchange of knowledge and cultural understanding added a deeper dimension to our learning experience.Another highlight was the Ayahuasca ceremony led by Don Miguel, an experience expertly facilitated and supported by Cristina's expertise. The ceremony, conducted with reverence and care, allowed for profound healing and spiritual insights to unfold.Cristina's guidance was instrumental in ensuring a safe and transformative experience for all participants.Overall, the Kambo Practitioner Program with AYA Healing Retreats was a journey of immense growth and transformation, largely thanks to Cristina's leadership and guidance.Her passion for plant medicine, coupled with her compassion for others, created a nurturing environment where healing could flourish.I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this journey under Cristina's mentorship, and I look forward to continuing to integrate the lessons learned into my life and practice I extend my heartfelt thanks for her invaluable contributions.with love and deep gratitude. 🌟🙏Erika Kibar

Delia Brown

07:19 16 Mar 24

I cannot say enough good things about Aya Healing Retreats. I have done 2 of their 10-day retreats, and hope to return for the 30-day shamanic initiation with Don Miguel when time affords it.The land where the center is located is amazing. You can feel the love the moment you step foot on the land, and see the faces of the kind-hearted staff, local people that seem very happy to be working there.In the jungle, the land is owned by the Shipibo maestro, which makes it extra special (as opposed to many other retreat centers that are owned by foreigners who hired Peruvian shamans to come and work there). Don Miguel gives guests a tour of the master plants growing all over the land, including bobinsana, chiric sanango, and many more — not least of which is the huge noya rao (“tree of light”) tree — apparently one of only five or six known trees in existence! In addition to your ayahuasca dieta Don Miguel offers a chance to work with another master plant for the duration of your stay. I have worked with bobinsana and noya rao in my two dietas, as well as chiric sanango both times (which healed chronic nerve pain in my neck and arm that had been plaguing me for months). I cannot explain what an incredible gift it has been.Don Miguel also taught us two different Shipibo icaros, which was an unexpected treat that I will always treasure. I try to sing them from time to time at home when I’m in nature.There are chickens and baby chicks running around all over the grounds, and beautiful black and yellow birds in the trees. There’s a little creek running through the property. The medicine area where you do the flower baths and saunas was a great place to hang out and chat with the guys who work there (en español). One day they were grilling alligator on the fire and gave me a taste (tastes like chicken of course)! Teo is the “bone doctor” and he’ll massage your neck or whatever you need (sweetest guy ever).The women who cook are all really lovely, and the food is good (obviously since it’s made for dieta it’s unsalted but they manage to make it interesting), and often they put out pitchers of fresh squeezed fruit juice which is a treat.I had my own tambo, and although they’re rustic and minimal, all tambos have bathrooms in them (cold water only) and electric sockets so u can keep your devices charged.Don Miguel is a very knowledgeable curandero and his icaros are powerful. You can really feel how they deepen the journey and take you to ancestral realms. His dietas include purgatives and some periods of fasting which also deepen the healing process. Don Miguel likes to joke and laughs a lot as well.The morning after ceremonies there is a sharing circle. It’s good to hear your fellow travelers’ experiences and have them bear witness to your own process. People come from all over, but mostly Europe and the US. I traveled solo and enjoyed getting to know the other folks.Elio is the director of the center, a sweet, kind person who makes you feel very welcome, and he co-facilitates when he is present. He and Warren (another facilitator) are amazing guitarists and singers (guests are also invited to sing or recite poems at the end of ceremony). Cristina is also a great support. There are other facilitators I haven’t met that I look forward to sitting with in future visits. I also hope to visit for a women’s retreat with Doña Juanita sometime.I have had ten ceremonies there, some of which were gentle and beautiful, and some of which were powerful and gave me a chance to do deep shadow work which I have been able to integrate into my life over time. My life has changed a LOT as a result, and I no longer suffer from depression, and have begun a new career path that is in greater alignment with my happiness and my desire to be of service.I always recommend this center to anyone thinking about going to Peru to have an authentic Shipibo experience with mother aya. The center is run with great integrity and care, and I felt very safe there. I can’t wait to return!

Estefania Isabel Paredes Llocclla

14:11 13 Mar 24

AYA Healing Retreats helped me connect more with my roots.I am from Pucallpa, a city in the jungle of Peru. For much of my life, I have been surrounded by nature and beautiful stories about the ancestral wisdom of my past generations.During my childhood, I had a great approach to plants; they helped me heal many diseases I suffered from as children.More than seven years ago, I was waiting for the right moment to do an ayahuasca retreat and a master plant diet, inspired by my paternal grandmother, who always told me about her great experiences in the jungle and her plant diets.I had many opportunities to participate in ceremonies, but I felt it was not the right time or place. I always let myself be guided by my intuition and continued waiting for the right moment to do it. I wanted to find a place where people feel safe and heard, helping people connect with the wisdom within the plants.When I met and saw up close the great work they do at Aya Healing Retreats each team member, I could understand that the wait was worth it.I did an Ayahuasca retreat accompanied by a diet of the sacred tree Noya Rao; it was a pleasant honor to learn from Master Juanita and her connection with the spirits of the plants and also to receive the guidance and accompaniment of the facilitators Elio and Mariri, who with great love and patience guided all of us participants during the 10 days of retreat. The kitchen staff prepared delicious food, a perfect potion to help us recover our strength after each Ayahuasca ceremony.I am very grateful for every lesson and care given by Don Miguel, the staff, and my fellow ceremonies. As I always say, I have never seen so much healing in one place. Thank you for helping to awaken our gifts, for helping us understand ourselves more, and for sharing that love that helps make the world a better place.Thank you, Mamita Aya, Mamita Noya Rao, Maestra Juanita, and the entire team. I will always carry you in my heart.

Embark on your journey

Interested in flexible pricing options? Speak to our program coordinator today or email info@ayahealingretreats.com

$ 3300+

11+ Life Changing Days
5+ Ayahuasca Ceremonies
Plant Baths, Icaros, Sacred Tobacco, Sound Healing
World Class Safety Standards
Industry Leading Integration Practices

FEATURED

Integration

Integrating your Ayahuasca experiences into your daily life is how you create lasting profound changes, long after leaving the healing center. In order to help facilitate this, we offer a free integration support session 30-days after your retreat. Delivered by Atira Tan, who has over 13 years of experience in trauma recovery and working with transformative spiritual retreats. Atira will guide you using Somatic Experiencing principles to help you preserve the wisdom and healing you’ve gained from your journey and help you feel comfortable.

These sessions will offer you the opportunity to discuss your sacred medicine experiences, and to work through tangible solutions to any real-world problems you are facing that are preventing you from fully integrating this work. We also have a private facebook community where individuals help each other work through issues and creatively explore ideas related to their ayahuasca ceremonies in a wonderful online sharing circle. For more on ways to maxmize your growth post retreat, check out our integration suggestions.

Ready to journey with us?

Book a free skype session and ask questions, or start your medical screening questionnaire. Prepare to be profoundly changed.

Aya Healing Retreats

The Journey

How Aya Healing Retreats Works

Preparing for your journey

Pricing / Retreat Schedule

Prepare for trip

Prepare for ceremony

Safety

faq

Preparing for Ceremony

The Traditional Ayahuasca Dieta

Our Healers

Don Miguel

Maestra Juana

Safety

What may be included in your ayahuasca retreat?

Mapacho

Icaros

Plant Baths

FAQ

What Our Participants Are Saying About AYA Healing Retreats

Embark on your journey

11-Day Ayahuasca Retreat

Integration

Ready to journey with us?

Don Miguel

Shipibo Curandero

AKA Senen Yoi - 'Speaking the Truth'

Don Miguel

Shipibo Curandero

AKA Senen Yoi - 'Speaking the Truth'

Maestra Juanita

Shipibo Curandera

Maestra Juana

Shipibo Curandera

Safety

The Legend of Noya Rao

Integration Tips