Find Authentic Retreats in Iquitos Peru

"Hi everyone, my name is Niels, from the Netherlands, I just finished my 3 weeks masterplant dieta at Mahāvana. Having experience with ayahuasca but not with the dieta, I was searching for a small and save place to go in the Peruvian jungle and follow a masterplant dieta. Searching on internet I found Mahāvana foundation and it instantly felt good. I had a video call with Peter, and afterwards decided that it was the right place for me to go, then booked my tickets. I slept one night in Iquitos after the travel (close to the airport) and next morning being picked up by Anna at my hostel. We took the motortaxi to the boat and then travelled to the jungle where Peter and their lovely dogs where waiting for us. The last part to the center was an easy walk thru the jungle if it wasn’t for me wearing my flipflops ( suggested to bring crocs :) Warm welcome at their jungle house where we ate nice lunch and then I got shown my tambo (hut) for my stay. The next morning started with a kambo ceremony and in the evening the first ayahuasca ceremony. Peter and Anna are really friendly and they are always there for you if you need something or need to share something. They are really helpful in your process and guide you through. The rest of your journey is up to you. The ceremonies are guided by Peter singing his beautiful icaros and playing his drum and chakapa. Peter studied at a Mestizo Maestro. The food you get served during your dieta is tasty and portions are as big as you can or want to eat. The medicine that Peter cooks traditionally is strong. I had some more difficulty times during my 3 weeks dieta, (which was a good thing) but overall I feel rested, heeled and awakened. I stayed a few days after the dieta and could hang out with Peter, Anna and their lovely animals. I’m going to miss them all!!! I would definitely suggest to go here if you’re looking for a small ayahuasca center, with super friendly, English speaking people, in an unspoiled and authentic environment. Much love for Mahāvana foundation family!💚"

"I originally attended Arkana at the end of 2018, shortly after unexpectedly losing my eye to cancer. Suddenly confronted with the fragility of my own mortality and the possibility of an early death, I attended the retreat in a state of introspection and vulnerability. The result was an experience that changed who I am as a person; and dramatically transformed and strengthened my character in the face of adversity. In April 2024, following a confirmation of metastases and a 12 month life expectancy, I returned to the jungle retreat with my fiancee, and found it to be as beautiful, necessary and transformative as the first, helping me to develop a relationship with my grief and a resolve to live the life I have, whatever that may end up being. Arkana is a wonderful location, with excellent food and attentive staff. The small group you share your experiences with bonds in a way that is outside the norm, for the bonding occurs in a space of truth and shared vulnerability that is difficult to replicate in the broader world. I cannot recommend Arkana enough. "

"There is something magical about that place and the staff ….that's my first retreat so I wasn’t having any expectations like everyone else out there i dot have words to describe that experience I am not the same person my anxiety went away i am more calm person which is fantastic and there is some more work to be done but so far i am happy Thanks "

"The retreat in the jungle was an insightful and mind-blowing experience. Will start with the organization of Arkana Spiritual Center. Very organized, kind, genuine and helpful. Starting from all the instructions and preparations you need before you start the retreat until the last good bye ceremony. The facilitators were very clear with their explanations for any activity done and insightful in case we needed their perspective on certain view. The venue itself is amazing as well. i could finally disconnect from the outer world and connect with the nature. The food was tasteful and delicious, so fresh and healthy. Each of the ceremonies brought to light things that i was avoiding to acknowledge and to work on. So grateful to have gone on this journey and have met some incredible human beings with whom i shared unforgetable moments. i would recommend this type of journey to people who are ready to work with the medicine, who trust the medicine and who trust the process and the incredible team of Arkana. "

"I came to Arkana from New York looking for answers for the next level of my spiritual evolution. In the 7 days that i was there, my questions were answered, the pain that i carried for many years was released, the connection with myself got strengthened, and my consciousness expanded in way that I could have never imagined. If you're looking for healing, or personal expansion, or reconnecting with your authentic self - this is the right place. It is a retreat with 5-star accommodations, top-notch chefs, and, most importantly, a team of facilitators and staff of incredibly kind people. This is a place of Love."

"This experience has changed my life as well as those who mean the most to me. My children. I came to Arkana wanting things that I didn't need. You will get what you need and not what you want. I heard this 100 times during my stay. Well it's true. I did get what I needed. It was a release of all the guilt and pain from being in the Marine Corps and not living up to being a good father to my 5 children. I was shown that I can't make up for it but I can be a better example for them going forward. I'm not going to say this was easy because it was, for me, the hardest thing I've ever been through but I did what facilitators asked me to do " Trust the Process" and it has made me want to walk the path that's best for me and my family. I'm forever indebted to Arkana and especially all the facilitators and the wonderful staff. I AM LOVE AND I AM LOVED now. Joe T"

"At the Arkana Spiritual Center, I had the opportunity to participate in an ayahuasca ceremony, and it was truly transformative. The staff members were not only professional but also incredibly courteous and supportive throughout the entire process. They created a warm and welcoming environment that immediately put me at ease. The ceremony itself was a profound and enlightening experience, and I felt safe and supported throughout. Overall, my time at the Arkana Spiritual Center was unforgettable, and I left with a renewed sense of self and purpose. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a profound spiritual experience."

"I spent two weeks at Arkana in the Sacred Valley, and it was nothing short of an amazing experience. Everything from the food, rooms, showers, maestros, facilitators, setting, location, schedule, and the medicines were all perfect. The maestros were extremely powerful and professional. They have dedicated their lives to working with the medicines, and have sacrificed a lot, doing many years of intense diets, to learn from the plants, and share their wisdom to hold ceremonies, and heal people from all over the world who come here. They care so much about helping people. I couldn’t imagine going through these strong medicine experiences without a guide of their caliber. Their songs and icaros in ceremony are magical. The food was way beyond my expectations. It is like gourmet food from a fancy restaurant. It follows all guidelines to adhere to the ayahuasca diet, but is bursting with flavor and incredibly fresh. Much of it is grown on site in the garden. You can tell the chef puts so much love into every dish. He was a chef at a fancy restaurant in Lima before coming to Arkana. The setting of the retreat is very serene and peaceful. It is right on the Urubamba River, and is a beautiful garden setting. Hummingbirds are flying all around the beautiful flowers. The rooms are very comfortable, and have amazing showers. They also have a nice gym overlooking the river. The facilitators are also top notch. They were so helpful every step along the way. Luke, Theo, Bob, Tunde, and Cinzia were all so great. They helped talk me through difficult times, and gave me advice along the way. They shared their experiences with me, and really helped encourage me to trust the medicine and the process. They did a wonderful job at helping me with every need I had during the ceremonies, and outside of the ceremonies. They play beautiful music during ceremony as well. They were always there to talk and help. They care very much about helping others, as many of them were originally guests at Arkana themselves. I can’t speak highly enough about them! They say the power of Arkana lies in the schedule. I found the way that each week is scheduled to be very beneficial for the way the different medicines work together. Two back to back Ayahuasca ceremonies, then a day off. Then, the Sapo ceremony, followed by another Ayahuasca ceremony, really allows you to go deep. Then, finishing off the week with a San Pedro on Friday is amazing! It is such a good way to bring everything together with such a beautiful, heart opening medicine. It really helped ground me, after intense Sapo and Ayahuasca experiences. It really connects you to nature, yourself and the group. Last of all, the medicines at Arkana are very powerful. They are known to have strong medicine with a high level of purity. No watered down medicine here! They work with you to figure out the right dose for each person. You can up your dose or lower it, depending on how you feel, always with the guidance of the Maestros and the facilitators. Rest assured, these medicines work, and will take you where you need to go. I will definitely go back to Arkana again in the future. I have been to other Ayahuasca centers that were also good, but Arkana is where I will be going back. I have so much trust in this place. Lots of intense, amazing healing is done here. It is a great place to go through whatever the medicine might put you through, and be so well taken care of along the way. You will come out of it with life lasting benefits! Thank you again, Arkana! "

"Thank you Arkana Sacred Valley for an incredible experience. The staff created a safe space for healing and growth. Luke, Tunde, Theo and Bob were phenomenal. They were always available to talk if you were having a hard time. The Maestro Misael was magical His compassion and wisdom are unmatched. I can’t wait to visit again. "

"It’s difficult for me to express in words what I experienced and went through during those ten days in the jungle. I wasn't even aware of what awaited me because if I were, with that awareness, I probably wouldn't have agreed to come. Thanks to Peter and Ana who guided me and supported me throughout my journey into myself and self-discovery, I freed myself from the fear of darkness. Thank you Momo and Bully for protecting me, thank you Pacha Mama for this wonderful journey, a journey towards myself! I've learned to love again, forgive, and be grateful! Thank you Peter for selflessly guiding me and ultimately setting me free!"

"I recently completed a 10-day retreat with the Ayahuasca Foundation, and the experience was nothing short of transformational. This journey was a profound breakthrough in my life, offering deep healing, cleansing, and nurturing moments that have unlocked new paths of discovery within myself. It was truly life-altering. The retreat fostered a significant improvement in my relationship with nature, myself, and others. Through this immersive experience, I gained invaluable spiritual insights and emerged with a profound sense of appreciation, gratitude, and connectedness. This experience has reshaped my outlook on life and equipped me with perspectives and tools that continue to enrich my daily existence. Highly recommended for those seeking meaningful transformation and growth."

"If you're looking for a transformative journey wrapped in warmth and wonder, look no further than this ayahuasca retreat nestled in the heart of the Amazon jungle. From the moment you set foot in this stunning location, you're enveloped in a sense of belonging and alignment with nature. The facilities are top-notch, with a refreshing pool to beat the tropical heat and comfortable beds to rest your weary soul after a day of exploration. The organization of the week is spot-on, striking a perfect balance between immersive activities in the Amazon and sacred ceremonies. And let's talk about the food - a delightful surprise on the ayahuasca dieta! Who knew such culinary delights were possible? The dedicated staff are more than just hosts; they're guides, companions, and wise souls who make you feel right at home. Speaking of ceremonies, they are nothing short of authentic, a true reflection of ancient traditions bridging the gap with the modern world. And the sapo ceremony? An unforgettable addition that I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing. But the true magic lies in the individual journeys experienced by each participant. For me, it was a profound spiritual awakening, a deep dive into the universe and the essence of self. And judging by the smiles and stories shared by my fellow travelers, I wasn't alone in this transformative experience. In short, this retreat was not just one of the best weeks of my life - it was a profound journey of growth, healing, and connection. Thank you, thank you, thank you to the incredible team behind this unforgettable experience."

"When I told Anna, "Thank you for everything you do," she was surprised, wondering why I was thanking her, claiming she hadn't done anything. I had to remind her then that all the little things she does make a huge difference in the bigger picture. Anna, thank you because of you I had peace knowing my girlfriend was okay. Thank you for giving me the feeling that if I needed to talk, you were there for me. I apologize if I was awkward by saying I didn't see what I could solve with you that I wasn't already solving with ayahuasca, and I want you to know that regardless of my response, the feeling that you were there for me meant a lot to me. Anna, just like Peter, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You both will stay in my memory for a lifetime."

"For Peter, words are not enough. The understanding I see in his eyes, the empathy I feel when I'm in distress, the beauty and tenderness of his verses and his voice as he sings us icaros, the security I feel knowing he watches over us – all of this only partially captures how great this man is and how much wisdom he holds within. Peter, thank you from the bottom of my heart!"

"After arriving in center I was impressed how emerged we are in jungle. All houses has no walls, only mosquito nests, so feeling of open space and feeling of jungle around us is astonishing. The entire center is completely isolated from civilization, and there's no other way but to fully connect with the jungle. Besides merging with the jungle, we all experience facing ourselves. La Dieta is not an easy process at all, but as I wrote in the title, I literally believe that 1 day spent there extends my life by 1 year. The hosts were available to us in every aspect, and all I can say are words of gratitude and admiration. The food is awful, but that's not the fault of the center and the hosts but the definition of "La Dieta," which requires food without salt and sugar. Personally, it opened my eyes to how much salt actually means in my daily diet. Apart from losing 5kg in 10 days, I quit smoking tobacco, stopped consuming sweets, and everyone who sees me tells me that I am very calm and relaxed. I definitely plan to repeat "La Dieta" after some time because it can only bring me good. I would also recommend to everyone who is hesitant to experience this because it's really worth a lot of benefits for both the psyche and the body of a person. Peter, Ana, Mihaela, and Lena, thank you for sharing such a wonderful experience worth remembering for a lifetime."

"For me Arkana was exactly what I needed. The whole week and each day’s itinerary was completely planned and thought-out so that I could have the best time, not have to stress about anything, and focus all my time and energy on my healing and manifesting. The staff at the Sacred Valley retreat is wonderful and they really care. Highly recommend for first time Ayahuasca, or those that want fully planned-out experience in Peru. Thank you!"

" attended Arkana by myself for a week long retreat. I had heard about Arkana over the years, but decided to attend after I had heard some fantastic personal recommendations (and I finally felt ready for this sort of experience). My expectations were far exceeded. First, there is such a feeling of professionalism, respect, and organization. I sensed how thoughtful and well run this retreat center was, which matters a lot to me. They do an incredible job making you feel safe and creating a genuinely very safe and supportive environment. The food was exceptional. The retreat space I beautiful! Much more beautiful than the photos do justice. I participated in four ceremonies and witnessed a level of healing I had never seen before. This is truly a world class healing hospital. There is so much integrity and heart poured into this place. I watched true service at work. That was transformative on my own. The ceremony experience is intense, as to be expected with any retreat of this kind, but the impact it has had on my life (which was already incredibly beautiful and aligned) is profound. I look forward to my return, and have recommended it widely to anyone who feels called to experience this medicine. You will be glad you came and very glad you chose Arkana. You are in excellent hands. - Sam Pfotenhauer P.S. I recommend you bring anti-itch cream, as there are mosquitoes in the amazon and you will get bites. I also recommend bringing a few light items of clothing that cover your body, like a light linen shirt and a light long skirt or pants. I also highly encourage that you closely follow the recommended diet before and really lean into the experience."

"Life changing the people staff community inside this small retreat center is a ture spiritual experience one full of love understanding and teamwork can’t wait to going to the one in the Amazon let go have faith and Arkana can help you heal❤️"

"I attended 4 ceremonys in this place that will change my life forever. Arkana is a paradise deep rooted in the amazon jungle. The facility itself is so beautiful, surrounded by a symphony of jungle sounds that are so peaceful. When the heat of day peaks you can cool off in the swimming pool. The set up of this place is a perfect mix of luxury and nature. The food is of ultimate standard and the facilitator's are there to make sure you are comfortable at all stages of your journey and make you feel safe and loved they are beautiful beings . The people who work here also teach you yoga and breathwork they are true healers along with the majestic shamans. The shamans are so humble and powerful , I had doubts going into this experience if what I read and heard were true, I never believed in magic but what I saw and felt has made me a believer, the icaros performed from these true healers were taking negative energy I had trapped inside of me for 30 years out of my body with their icaros , I can't explain this but it happened and I am forever grateful to jose the creater and to everyone involved in this project that could heal the world one heart at a time . The medicine itself has called you this far and the medicine itself is healing and magical but only in the right hands .If like me, you have doubts picking an ayahuasca retreat then please trust yourself and your intuition, something has led you to read this review and I hope my experience can give you the confidence to pick arkana. Be brave, trust yourself, trust the medicine and remember you are loved 🩵"

"I recently attended an Ayahuasca Retreat at Arkana Spiritual Centre in the Amazon and it was an absolutely transformative experience. The feeling of safety and support provided by the Shamans and facilitators was unparalleled. Their energy and compassion created a nurturing environment for inner exploration. The food was not only delicious but also nourishing, adding to the overall healing journey. The facilities were stunning, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the retreat. I highly recommend Arkana for anyone seeking profound personal growth and spiritual awakening. Five stars all the way!"

"Arkana is truly a magnificent home for one to heal. I received more than I could ever have the words for there, and I’m eternally grateful for everyone at Arkana for supporting this journey into my own self. Everything from the center itself, the facilitators, the staff, and especially the Shamans were just amazing. They are incredibly meticulous on their schedule and it truly does help the process of working with the medicine throughout the week. I felt so safe here, and very supported. I will hold the Shipibo shamans very dear to my heart for as long as I live. My week with Arkana brought so much more to me than I could have ever expected. I know I will return one day to the jungle. For it feels like home to me. Thank you Jose and everyone at Arkana, the Maestros; thank you for being the light that helped guide me home."

"Thank you for the positivity, for always being cheerful and always being there when someone needs. "

"Will always remember his singing during ceremonies. Thank you again so much for that warmth and calmness. "

"I started looking for a retreat a week before start of my travel. Contacted a few people, had calls with them, but the call with Peter kind of made my decision fast and unchangeable. It was really simple, warm and informative what will/might/could happen. Until the day of arrival Peter was always communicating, letting me know how everything will go. That made me feel welcomed and I was looking forward to it more and more. After meeting him at the airport I knew that a great adventure is about to happen. And it did. When I met Anna and I saw how interested she was in each of our stories, how easy is to communicate with both of them - I knew that I chose the most dedicated people I could’ve. And now, after spending 8 days of dieting, after all the conversations, happy and supportive words from them, after that much care I can assure each and every one of you, who wants to go on diet - go to Mahāvana Foundation. No matter where in the world you are. Go to Peter, Anna, Momo, Bully and Pushkin. You will find another place in this big world where you will feel like home, where there will be people who want to help and support you, where positivity, light and one of the best energies will surround you. Where you will see friendly faces and you will want to smile, because it’s impossible not to smile. Where every corner of each lodge, shower, plant and even toilet is made with love for you and to nature. And it’s not only support during the diet. After closing the diet, the last day, I didn’t feel how hours and hours went by, because we were sitting and chatting about everything. Starting from Anna drawing a map of Iquitos, where should I go to eat, grocery store, bank, beautiful places to visit to arranging me a tour, so I wouldn’t need to look for it myself. The time just melted, like a cone of ice cream on a very hot day. I was happy that the diet ended, I felt, and still feel amazing after it. But I wasn’t too happy about the fact that I had to leave them. Already miss the amazing five of Mahāvana Foundation. 🍀🤍"

"I had gone three years ago and had an enlightening experience but this past March 2024 was transcendent. The facilitators Cassandra, Brian, Mariela, Poncho and Miguel all helped to make this experience extremely comfortable and guided us every step of the way. Dona/Curandera Angela was incredibly powerful but so gentle. Her motherly, gentle but strong energy made this by far the most transcendent experience I've ever had in my life! Anyone looking to explore the unseen world should definitely experience this retreat! All of our group left changed in the most profound ways! "

"Such a wonder filled experience. Many profound insights into health, spirituality, friendship, love, forgiveness, empowerment. Mentally, emotional, and spiritually rewarding! I really can’t speak highly enough. You really can’t put words to this. Of course your hearts true intent will play a part. I truly believe you will find everything you are looking for and more. We’re all connected. So obvious during ceremony! Good Job everyone! You know who you are! 1 hundred stars!!!!"

"There are lots of retreat centers that one can attend for personal growth and healing. Ayahuasca Foundation offers the only opportunity for one to learn Shipibo traditions and practices from maestro Don Enrique. If you are interested in expanding your practice so that you can create space for others, this is the learning experience for you. During the 2 months you will have the opportunity to participate in two dietas from master plants, fasting, learn Shipibo icaros, participate in healing vapor baths, learn about the healing properties of numerous plants, receive personal healing from these plants, learn how to hold and navigate ceremony space, hold space during a student lead ceremony for all other participants, and more! Maestro Don Enrique opens up his community and shares his knowledge to be spread all over the world for all humanity to benefit. This is a tough course that will test your comfort level on a spiritual and physical level. If you are lookin for grow on this path, I highly recommend Ayahuasca Foundation. "

"Wow! This place is amazing. The staff are extremely professional and provide us with a beautiful experience. It was truly special. I felt at home and like part of a family. I had the opportunity to connect with my heart and deepen my self-awareness. I have no words to describe it. I just want to express my gratitude Arkana Team for their professionalism and dedication! I strongly recommend it. Love you all 💙 "

"I booked a 15 days experience at the Mahavana Foundation and it was a unique experience for me. Thank you Peter for the stay and the wisdom, I really enjoyed staying and discussing with you. I appreciated how the retreat went, Peter made sure I was fine through the overall process. It was indeed a challenge for me to be secluded in the forest and eating a special diet, it made me rethink my life, what I wish for and what is important, I think this kind of experience is priceless and a worthy investment for our health and mind. I thank ayahuasca for making me listen to my body more and my needs, how I feel matters the most even with social pressure, I will definitely continue to pursue my spiritual journey. Don't hesitate to book your retreat with Peter, you will be in good hands =) Thanks to Momo and pushkin <3 "

"I am the type of person who does his research. Just to put things into perspective, my last trivial purchase I scoured the internet for a few days reading every review good and bad just so I knew what I was getting. So you can imagine how much I research I did before choosing a retreat center. I will say that from the time I stepped off of the boat Arkana surpassed every expectation I had. I immediately felt like I was at home. The staff there are the most compassionate people I have met and made me feel like I was part of their family right away. The amazon facility is beautiful. The pictures and videos online did it no justice. The facility itself is laid out in a very user-friendly way with all the amenities you need to have a comfortable stay in the middle of the jungle. The food there is absolutely amazing. Being on a specific diet is no problem for Arkana either. Every meal was prepared like I was at a 5 star restaurant. Not only was it visually appealing but was absolutely delicious and, if there were certain dietary needs the food service would go out of their way to make sure they catered to everyone. Arkana has plenty to do as well. The extra-curricular activities could be a retreat in itself. From exploring the jungle to meeting monkeys, I never found myself bored and if there was any down time I got to enjoy the pool. I guess what I'm saying is if you are on the fence about where to go for your retreat the family at Arkana are truly devoted to giving you the best experience possible. They went above and beyond all expectations I could have had going into it and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone. I'll be going back next year without a doubt. -Dusty"