"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!"
Highly Rated Retreats in Loreto Peru
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Types of Retreat in Loreto Peru
Short Retreats in Loreto Peru
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Upcoming Retreats in Loreto Peru
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Experiences on Retreat
" 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!
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"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!!!!"
"I have been on the Spiritual journey for over 10 years. Throughout these years I have used Ayahuasca twice. Both times it’s been at kawsay. The amount of support and effort that is given by all the staff at Kawsay is absolutely incredible.
I am grateful and appreciative of the respect and dedication that is given to each individual person ,tailoring specific work that meets their needs.
There are no gimmicks here, only the best interests for each and every soul that seeks healing and connection to the Great Devine.
For a true, trustworthy, safe and authentic ayahuasca experience look no further then Kawsay. The shamans are experts in the medicine, the facility is amazing, the food is absolutely delicious and the location is magical.
I experienced true healing for my body, mind and spirit.
I will be back🙏💛💛💛
"
"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. "
"My journey with Kawsay Retreat has been nothing short of miraculous. Writing this review, my heart is full of love and appreciation for the incredible work done at Kawsay. Having visited thrice since my first encounter in January 2022, I’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation in myself, thanks to the compassionate care of William, Viviane, and the shamans (father and son).
My first visit was a desperate search for direction, at a time when life seemed bleak and hopeless. It felt like fate led me to Kawsay, a place centered around unconditional love. There, I found trustworthy people who guided me towards healing. In just one week, I experienced profound healing, akin to years of therapy. Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, along with dependencies on substances and unhealthy behaviors, began to fade away.
Months later, facing challenges with depression and romantic relationships, I was suggested a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The prospect of lifelong medication was daunting. Reaching out to Kawsay again, I spoke with William, whose insights prompted an invitation back, at no extra cost. This gesture of generosity and care affirmed my trust in Kawsay’s healing process.
The retreat’s philosophy is not about profit, but genuine healing and love. Each visit reaffirmed this belief. When I faced difficulties in accepting love in a healthy relationship, I knew Kawsay was the place to find answers. The healing and insights during my third visit came more naturally, solidifying my belief in this process.
To anyone seeking a genuine, authentic ayahuasca experience, Kawsay Retreat is the place to be. This retreat has become a second home to me, filled with love and healing. My gratitude towards Kawsay and everyone involved is immense. Kawsay isn’t just a retreat; it’s a life-changing experience where one can find hope, direction, and a deep sense of belonging "
"When we arrived in Iquitos (from London) 4 days before start of retreat we were told that there is “no retreat for the week we had booked” (19/1/24) because lack of clients and they didn’t have our booking in their system due to internal error. To save holiday we booked other open retreat fairly quickly. Unbelievable but true, Kawsay refuse refund, instead offering us credits to be used over 2 years ! … after we have already travelled to Peru! Human errors can happen, but the handling of it tells a lot about William Menech and Kawsay and their priorities. Despite the inconvenience we actually believe it happened for a reason and we are glad we didn’t end up doing ayahuasca at Kawsay. We spent a day in Iquitos with lawyers and notary to start legal proceedings against Kawsay, which are ongoing. Avoid!
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Response from Retreat Center:
Dear Jurgen,
We would like to address all of your concerns on the events leading up to your scheduled retreat with Kawsay Ayahuasca Retreat. Our recognition of your individual struggles, especially in light of the Covid travel situations of your initial scheduled booking, and your repeated requests for rescheduling demonstrate our dedication to supporting you in the face of these extraordinary circumstances.
Notably, from the beginning of our interactions, we have kindly granted your requests for many reschedulings. After your last cancellation, there was a crucial period during which you were unsure of the retreat's new date. In December 2023, when you chose to reschedule, communication was unfortunately directed to an ex-employee rather than Kawsay directly. This misdirection resulted in your not being scheduled for the retreat date you preferred.
Upon your unexpected arrival in Iquitos, almost a week before the retreat, we were made aware through a message forwarded by our ex-employee from you to her at that time. We contacted you right away, and you were scheduled for your desired retreat immediately. We truly regret the current legal situation, especially in light of our ethical principles of spiritual growth and healing, but despite our best efforts, your unhappiness resulted in legal proceedings.
In our more than 11 years of conducting business with the utmost integrity and providing excellent service and healing, this is the first time we have encountered this type of scenario. We've learned so much from it, and it has inspired us to improve our procedural and communication standards. We are still working toward a solution that serves the interests of both yourself and Kawsay, moving empathetically and rationally in the direction of a correct resolution.
We deeply apologize for the confusion and inconvenience caused by the miscommunication and oversight. We are committed to maintaining our internal procedures and learning from this experience, therefore, your opinion has been very important to us. Ensuring that our decisions and actions completely reflect the principles we uphold.
We are willing to continue the conversation as this issue develops in order to find a solution that benefits all sides in terms of mutual understanding and resolution. We appreciate your choices and the path you have chosen, and we offer our best wishes for your journey forward and well-being.
This message also serves as a commitment to our community and prospective guests, reaffirming our commitment to openness, growth, and the utmost regard for every person's experience working with us. Our mission is to keep Kawsay Ayahuasca Retreat a center for learning and healing, and we remain steadfast in our dedication.
Jurgen, we apologize for not living up to your expectations, but we are thankful for the chance to have had this experience with you. We wish you contentment and peace of mind going forward.
Warmly,
William Menech,
Director Kawsay Ayahuasca Retreat"
"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"
"They are good people good shaman good environment good facilitators.
One of the best learning experiences you can have .
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"I have done two retreats with Arkana, one at jungle location and another one at Sacred Valley. Both experiences were profound and very insightful.
I just returned couple weeks ago from Sacred Valley location and the trip was just dream that came true. Beside deep healing - I should mention nature is so beautiful there (also you must do Machu Picchu hike, if you there). Center location is next to Ururamba river, so you wake up to river flowing sounds and birds chirping . I would say even nature helps in healing process. Amazing facilitators, delicious & healthy food and of course beautiful Maestro and Maestra. Every single moment you feel so taken care of... beautiful feeling, especially when you at vulnerable state..You want that, you need that
Ayahuasca is the medicine that healed me and Huchuma (San Pedro) opened my closed heart. I have done Ayahuasca many times and truly love healing this medicine gives me. I have tried Huachuma first time there- i should tell you what a beautiful and gentle medicine it is. If Ayahuasca showed how to self forgive myself, Huachuma made me cry all day in gentle way and forgive people that hurt me. After coming back home, I do feel my heart is open, I can now give and receive love. I thank for that beautiful plant medicines
I am extremely grateful to Arkana for providing such a beautiful space for healing.
Experience there is really hard to describe in words. Its rather something that needs to be felt and experienced.
Thank you a lot from my heart,
Alla Dan"
"I went to Arkana to save my life.
I was so done with abuse from my narcissistic family and I was destroyed as a human being. I was so hurt!
Found out what really happened in my childhood. I had disassociated from myself at a young age because the truth was more than I could bear. The shamans, the Icaros and mother ayahauska healed me.
I’m returning to Arkana to learn more."
"Shame, grief, distrust controlled my life. Turns out I focused on distractions. At Arkana I learned the truth of what really happened to my body early in life that caused angst, unhappiness and addiction for years. Alcoholism is gone. I’m integrating, doing well. Arkana saved my life!
I’m going back to learn more! The Creator loves me, is in me."
"After a few false starts from a pandemic and a Peruvian Government coup, my partner and sister ended up in the Sacred Valley, Peru for a week's retreat. The Shipibo Tribe Maestros and facilitators were nothing less than amazing.
Professional, courteous, knowledgeable, caring, compassionate to be able to hold space for the 17 of us each in the way that each needed. Their preparation and ability to create a safe harbor for everyone to feel that they could open up and work on some real healing was so endearing. Plant medicine work is bespoke to each person and Arkana allows that to happen in an authentic way making it very easy to recommend this place if you seek to do some deep work.
The place, the accommodations, the food were really top notch and when I have fully integrated all that happened and want to sit again with La Medicina, this will be the place I return to continue on my healing path.
Light and Love,
Ted "
"Arkana is a truly special group, dedicated to respecting plant medicine and hosting guests from around the world. They provided an authentic experience and safe environment. My time there was nothing short of remarkable.
The Sacred Valley location is stunning. The shamans we worked with were very helpful. The hospitality (food and lodging) were so much nicer than I expected them to be.
I started the week unsure and a bit doubtful regarding my expectations. It was clear after the first ceremony that I would probably not have a life changing "huzzah" moment. That said, I did leave learning a good deal about myself and feeling more comfortable in my own shoes and that is certainly very valuable. Knowing myself better provides me with a stronger platform with which I can make life decisions.
I relearned what it means to make strong, lasting connections with people. As well as what it means to be 'family'. I was intrigued by how I felt so strongly for folks who were perfect strangers only days prior. There is of course a psychological element of going through challenging times with people at play here but learning how to speak 'from the heart' and doing so in a safe space that really rewards vulnerability -- consistently throughout the week -- was very telling. It showed me that this is the kind of conversation I want to engage in much more frequently and I will work to make this the case with relatives, friends and in my professional career.
Finally, they have a dedication to the environment that I think is not only commendable but extremely important now more than ever. I left with a stronger understanding of why protecting our planet is important and I hope to bring this to everything I do in future."
"This was such an amazing retreat ans so healing. The staff are so kind and knowledgeable. Don Ronor is an incredible maestro. Riosbo is a really nice comfortable center in the jungle. I highly recommend this place for healing! You get to experience a wide range of Shipibo treatments as well as breath work, meditation, and other western treatments. "
"I’ve been on 3 retreats with Arkana: Sacred Valley, Amazon and Cancun. I consider these retreats coming home now. They give me respite from my daily life, help me cleanse my body and energy, connect me with wonderful people and help remember the essence in everything. We. all have a choice to change in this life. This center is an opportunity to do so safely."
"From the pick up, to heading into the Amazon centre. Everyone makes you feel, safe, welcome & comfortable.
First rate and impeccable service from shamans, facilitators & all on site staff.
Everything is well organised, well run and above expectations.
The location in the Amazon, the classes, excursions, the facilities and accomodation A grade.
This retreat, the people in it and the medicine give you the tools to be able to turn your life around.
A beautiful life changing experience and there would be no other place I would rather have experienced all of this.
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"This retreat checks all the boxes! This is exactly what I needed: loved the people, loving and supportive atmosphere, and food was outstanding! Also the level of care and attention to detail are unmatched!"
"Arkana inspired me to write an article based on my experience there.
https://mtnweekly.com/travel/arkana-spiritual-center-ayahuasca-retreat-recap/"
"It’s amazing to be at a facility where every process is well thought out, complemented by facilitators that show commitment to what they do with passion, pass no judgment and attention to detail on every level.
Arkana enabled me to re-connect with myself, the universe, let go of judgements, expectations, ego and advance to a better future by feeling at peace with myself.
Thank you to all of the gifted facilitators, kind hearted Shamans and support staff for allowing myself and our group to transform to a better future!
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