Find Authentic Retreats in Azuay Ecuador

" Gaia sagrada saved my life. A mother to twin teenage girls and a four year old son, I was the lowest I have ever been. Everything to be grateful for, but my light had been dimmed to the point that I didn’t want to go on. I lost my power through years of childhood abuse and neglect, 19 year law enforcement career and sexual assault. I was drinking myself to death and there was nothing that was going to stop me. No therapy, no prescriptions, no circle of support could shine a light. I had never experienced any type of plant medicine retreat or any healing through shamanism. I had heard from a friend about a retreat but when I looked into it, it wasn’t my cup of tea. It was commercialized, celebrity endorsed, expensive and bougie. That was the last thing I needed. I kept on my search and stumbled upon Gaia Sagrada. As I read through the site, I could feel it in my gut that this was where I needed to go. I thank the Universe and the spirits that guided me to Gaia Sagrada, Christine and her extraordinary team. I am integrating what was shown to me. I am loving myself and all versions of me, throughout my life. I am loving others. I am practicing gratefulness and compassion. I know that we are all family, we are one. I hope that I can reach souls with this review. I am a being who was lost beyond recognition. I am not well off, but money does not matter. I went solo. If you need help, do this for yourself. You are worthy. When I returned, I sent my husband. There are no words to describe how transformative this beautiful place is. I felt safe. I found love. I connected with souls. I owe it all to Christine for opening her home and her heart. Thank you with all of my love and my whole heart. I send you positive energy and love for your journey of recovery. "

"I just finished my 7 day retreat with Gaia Sagrada and wow, what a wonderful experience. The whole trip was beautifully thought out and I felt very secure and safe. The facility is gorgeous, equipped with hot tubs, steam room, plenty of places to roam, lots of day time activities including yoga, chakra classes, breath work etc. The medicine ceremonies with the shamans were incredibly heart-centered and supportive. The price for this retreat was great! The volunteers were properly trained and I felt safe, even through the hardest parts of ceremony. I couldn’t recommend this place enough! "

"This was more than I could have ever hoped for. Every single person in the group that stayed for the duration of the retreat had a profound experience that deeply changed and helped them! I loved my time at Gaia! I felt safe in all of the ceremonies, the community feeling that was forged was amazing and so helpful in the healing process, the food was fantastic and the facilities were very nice! They have created something truly amazing here and I would recommend it to anyone who is seeking to find themselves or heal past trauma and finally become the person they’ve always wanted to be. "

"Coming here to regain your spiritual connection is something everyone should do. When you are ready, this is the place to do it. They run on love, deep wisdom and a true desire to see their guests thrive and become more than what their guests had expected when walking in the door. A beautiful team of genuine individuals. I am greatful to have taken part in the journey you provide. Thank you. Lots of love!"

"My experience at Gaia Sagrada was incredible from start to finish. The team worked tirelessly to make sure we had everything we needed and felt safe and comfortable before, during, and after our retreat. I was particularly impressed by the quality and detail of information shared before the retreat on how to prepare for the ceremonies (diet, activities, pineal gland decalcification, etc). I also very much appreciated the extra services and activities available on site including shamanic cleansing, massage, yoga, breathwork, music, shamanic tradition information sessions, and more. The integration sessions were a real highlight and were indispensable to my understanding of my experiences with the medicine and bringing the retreat guests together as a family. An immense amount of thought, work, and love has been put into this place, and it shows. Last but not least, the setting and the facilities are beyond beautiful. This is surely a special place and I am looking forward to returning. "

"Gaia Sagrada is a well curated communal experience in healing the heart, mind, and soul for those who are ready and willing. The staff genuinely care for your well being and guiding your personal journey with Ayahuasca and San Pedro. This retreat was my first experience and I could not have asked for a better environment to be exposed to plant medicines and shamanic healing. Although these rituals are not for the faint of heart and great care and consideration should be taken if you wish to do these medicines. You will be in good hands should you choose Gaia Sagrada. I am personally looking forward to revisiting this beautiful place in the future. "

"Gaia Sagrada helped me to remember who I am. This experience reminded me of my strength to heal and my capacity to love. I am reminded and empowered to be at peace with life in so many ways. I have so much respect for this experience, for the staff and volunteers, for the Shamans, and for Christine for creating this paradise where we can all connect with each other and with spirit in our own healing. There is no short way to express my gratitude and praise for Gaia Sagrada so, here goes.... Firstly, I'd like to mention that photos just simply don't do justice for the 55-acre property that the center sits on in the Andes Mountains. There is something so magical about this place and I felt it the moment I stepped foot from my transport shuttle. As if being welcomed home, welcomed to the most beautiful safe container I could ever hope for. The sight of the property is something out of a storybook, full of lush green vegetation, beautiful trees in every direction, the most precious wildflower assortment throughout the entire property, and a very active and lively variety of animal life as well - beautiful bird songs throughout the day, cows grazing in the fields, butterflies and even beautiful moths like you've never seen before. Not to mention, the furry, friendly residents of Gaia Sagrada - the sweet dogs who love pets and walks around the property, and a frisky kitty who will remind you not to take things so seriously. Also a huge bonus: the food is AMAZING! Gaia Sagrada is growing heaps in their gardens to incorporate into the meals and you also have the opportunity to help out with gardening which I loved. There are workshops just about everyday that you have the option of joining when it feels right to do so - yoga, meditation, breathwork, and more. This retreat center is a very special place organized in such a way to hold space for your healing on a truly quantum, cosmic level. The ceremonies are kept to a more traditional manner in many ways with the songs and prayer conducted, the teachings and connection shown to the guests throughout. I am so inspired by and in awe of the ways that Christine, the Shamans, and the staff pour their hearts into the ceremonies and the experience of Gaia Sagrada. I truly felt this with all that I am. I feel that my healing began the moment I chose to follow this medicine journey with Gaia Sagrada and that the momentum purely picked up speed and strength from there when I arrived at the center. I am so grateful for the wisdom shared by the shamans, for the ways they lead by example and guide us to what true connection feels like; the ways they support our healing, and the ways they helped me to come back to myself and my purpose. This is the greatest gift I ever could have hoped for. For me, the ceremonies themselves were so much part of the healing and the medicine, not just the Ayahuasca and Huachuma. I felt appropriately prepared by the staff at Gaia Sagrada for what to expect from the ceremonies (as much as possible - expect the unexpected here too, people) and appreciated the reminders of holding to my intention throughout ceremony. The Temazcal/Sweat Lodge was also an experience I will never forget. For me, this was an incredibly empowering ceremony. The ways that we all came together to support one another truly strengthened our bond, I feel, and reminded each of us that we can persevere through any obstacle that life puts in our paths. Each person who contributes their time and wisdom to Gaia Sagrada is in service to the healing of others in a way that I feel is so beautiful, that it deserves immense respect and recognition. I also admire and appreciate the ways the other guests shared their own willingness to heal; the vulnerability shared between us all gave me strength and hope. What a lovely way to meet and connect with really special people also on a path of immense healing and purpose. At Gaia Sagrada, I remembered who I am, I became empowered to follow my path of purpose, and I was guided in breaking free of these mental bars that I have kept myself locked behind for so many years. I feel at peace with so much that brought me pain in the past. I feel at peace within my heart for the first time since very early childhood, I feel capable of leading with so much more love and gratitude that I have ever known, I feel empowered to carry these teachings with me, and I look forward to the ways that I can also be in service to the healing of others because of the ways that Gaia Sagrada Retreat Center has inspired me and guided me. I will certainly be back to Gaia Sagrada for my own healing and hope to pursue the honor of being in service to the healing of others here as well. Christine is a true light warrior, a powerhouse at that. As are all on her team who are part of facilitating the ceremonies - shamans, volunteers, and staff alike. With every part of me, thank you all. What a profoundly beautiful, loving, and POWERFUL experience. "

"It’s hard to put into words just how utterly amazing this experience was. I had thought about sitting with plant medicines for many years but was scared mainly due to what you hear and read about Ayahuasca. After some life changing moments personally I felt the call and decided that it was my time and after hours of research looking at retreats across Peru and Ecuador, my heart landed on Gaia Sagrada. My magical journey started immediately at the airport when I was waiting for the transfer. Literally everyone I met was wonderful, open and ready. This increased ten fold when I got off of the bus at the retreat and met other travellers who later became my familia. The work exchangers and staff were second to none, so helpful, engaging and interested in you as a person. The retreat itself was absolutely beautiful, set on 55 acres of land up in the Andes mountains which you are able to walk around, beautiful art everywhere which I think may have been done by fellow travellers or workers, fantastic lodgings and amenities and the food was on point! I really enjoyed the hot tub and finally got into cold plunging. Now to the process itself. I was on a 7 day retreat which included one Ayahuasca ceremony (Grandmother), one San Pedro ceremony (Grandfather) and one Sweatlodge ceremony where we sat with both plant medicines. Obviously I was nervous of what was to come but I can only describe my journey as beautiful. I had already done a lot of work and self development, which I think really helped me to open up to the process and let go but I would say I got a years worth of therapy in one week!! The process is very detailed, it ensures that you understand the plant medicines, what will happen during the ceremonies, how you may feel physically and mentally, how to prepare and to make sure you truly have your intentions and purpose set. Which I found changed as the process unfolded. You could ask any questions at anytime and because you are with a group you can also discuss with others. You really do become as close as a family as the process really does open you up and show your vulnerability. The ceremonies themselves were so humbling, the two Shamans and fire keeper take you through your journey through prayer, setting intentions, gratitude and music. Wow the ceremonial music!!!! They are long ceremonies but it is what is needed and is what it is, you are on a journey and need to let go of the concept of time! Each one of us needs and deserves the time for us. I don’t want to give too much away but please be prepared to bare all and give love during these ceremonies, to everyone including fellow travellers and those supporting you, you will get the most out of the experience. For me the Sweatlodge was the one of was most worried about and which challenged me the most, however I was so proud that I made it to the end! The struggle was really worth it and at the end of the day it’s just uncomfortable and again everyone is there to support you!!! I am one week post retreat and still feel the power of my time at Gaia and have more clarity then I’ve every had. The hard work is now down to me but without the support of everyone at Gaia Sagrada and the amazing experience I’ve just been through I’m not sure I would have got to this point by myself. I would just like to stress again if you are thinking by of going to any plant medicine retreats that it really if down to you to make the most of it by being open to the process, vulnerable, showing up with love and gratitude and that you are truly ready to commit to taking the hard steps needed. This for me and after speaking to the members of my group, was the the most effective way to see growth. Thank you to Christine, Fernando (one of the happiest people I’ve every met), Paula, Anti, Wendy, Veronica and everyone at Gaia, I love you all and have no doubt I’ll be back to see you during this life journey. Sending all my love and respect your way ❤️. "

"I cannot express in words how amazing this retreat is. I have long suffered from depression, anxiety and chronic back pain from two serious injuries. I lost myself in a way I never thought I would. The professional use of this medicine at such an incredible facility- run by a caring, knowledgeable and unquitting staff created one of the best experiences of my life. Christine, with the help of her generous staff and volunteers has helped me overcome issues I thought I would live with forever. It’s not a cure all(nothing is), but it’s the healthy help you need to push forward into the better life you deserve. It’s safe, fun and effective. Please, please, please do yourself a favor and let them help you embark on a journey to your best self. I could not be happier with Gaia Sagrada. In fact, I’ll be volunteering at the next retreat to give back to the process that changed my life. If you are willing to face yourself head on, I promise you will not regret it. Thank you to everyone there and the incredible guests I had the opportunity to meet. I love you all….Aho!!!"

"When I decided on a plant medicine retreat, Gaia Sagrada stood out for me due to its location, legal legitimacy, native shamans, side activities like yoga, meditation, and massage, and a business model that was based on a professional staff, work exchangers, and reasonable pricing. After completing a 12-day stay, I can say everything was "as advertised," plus more. The grounds are stunning, there are numerous malokas and meeting spaces, the food is ample, super healthy, and delicious. There are hot tubs, hiking trails, and quiet places to reflect. The lodgings are equipped with comfy beds and bathrooms with hot showers. All these wonderful aspects are only the setting for what is really important: a loving healing experience surrounded by beautiful, caring souls. True healing is difficult, and if you aren't immersed in a loving, judgment-free environment, you are just making it more difficult. Gaia Sagrada effortlessly manages to hold space for everyone, regardless of where they are in their in their journey of self-understanding, taking on life's challenges, discharging trauma or addiction or toxic people, or any issue that keeps us from better knowing our own consciousness and realizing our inner strengths. In my own case, I dealt with alcohol use syndrome, learning self-love, accepting my own capacity for love and beauty, and reclaimed powers of intelligence, intuition, and generosity that I gave away long ago. I also experienced physiological healing related to inflammation and organ health. I am permanently changed for the better and now embarking on Life version 2.0. Gaia Sagrada is for brave souls who wish to rewrite their own personal trajectory, not so much for those who think of Ayahuasca and Huachuma as another psychedelic experience. The medicines, meditation, a loving outlook on life, etc., these things are just tools. You have to step up to do the work. Life's challenges are a counterpoint that help you remember how great life can be when you are in balance. The true work of becoming a conscious, loving human can be very hard, and to truly do that work, Gaia Sagrada embodies the right kind of healing setting and loving atmosphere. Plus, I was left with a new family of beautiful, kind brothers and sisters who I will know for the rest of my lives. I have a lot of work to do, and Gaia Sagrada showed me what it is. I am restored, energized, and enthused. I have direction and purpose. I have permanently removed many of the blockages that have held me back. And when I'm ready for a tune-up, I will surely be back."

"It is impossible to put this experience into words, so I will keep it simple. The healing I experienced at Gaia Sagrada exceeded all expectations. Thank you to the staff, volunteers, shamans, and fellow guests, who each opened their hearts to me. For anyone considering this experience, you can trust that you are in the best hands. The people involved in this retreat will handle your heart with care. If you feel called, this is your place. I look forward to coming back to this heaven on Earth. Thank you thank you thank you <3"

"I have nothing but great things to say about this place. Full of love, calmness, kindness and professionalism. I felt accepted and cared for. The food was great. The accommodations as well. All ceremonies were held by certifi9ed and very knowledgeable shamans, and Christine is just one of a kind! I am very grateful and happy I made the decision to go. You will not regret it! If you need a retreat, choose this one!"

"I expanded so much and processed so much trauma in such a short period of time. I feel 100 pounds lighter and 10x brighter. My energy is completely different from the way I felt and perceived mysef & the world when I entered this retreat. I feel like I have truly embodied the healing I’ve been psychologically working on for the last couple years and I feel so ready and empowered to move through the world as this new, upleveled version of myself! My heart and body have found true relief and renewal. So incredibly valuable. The staff are kind and helpful. The medicine is potent and pure. The shamans, specifically Numar (& Marlena) and Antay, were extremely competent and strong guides through the process. I will mention one thing: there is a lot of people in this retreat, so if you are an introvert/empath be aware that it may be a lot. It was difficult for me to handle at first, especially with everyone openly sharing heavy/dark experiences, but I was able to shift the overwhelm and integrate myself into the group and move through my time there with better energetic boundaries. Lastly, shout out to Grady for the amazing food! Overall, beautiful experience. I would recommend :)"

"Absolutely phenomenal experience. I went to the retreat for healing. I had an intention in mind. What I left with was far beyond what I could have imagined. It genuinely surprised me. We tend to imagine we know what our problems are. From the solution, however, the problem is completely irrelevant. This is what I know now, all thanks to the healing experienced at this place. Gaia demonstrated and provided that which we, as westerners, are missing. Community, connection, altruism, selflessness, and unity. I really didn't understand what these things meant. As words, they are quite nebulous. Gaia Sagrada gave birth to these concepts, which allowed me to move from an intellectual to heart centered experience. Love is an action, and that's what's being demonstrated here. If you're reading this and on the fence, allow my words to be the encouragement you need to take the leap. It's worth it. You deserve it. "

"We were picked up from the airport, driven to our location and the hospitality began... we were greeted like long lost family members. Hugs, handshakes, bowing and lovely words of welcome from friendly inviting faces. Even the dogs were there, smiling and wagging. Next we were given keys to our room, directions to get there, and assistance with our luggage. The rooms were warm with a solid feel, the beds were made, they smelled fresh and an excess of spare blankets were available in the cupboard. We met for a brief "family" time of introduction in the afternoon and then met with Christine that night after a warm vegetarian dinner, (soup, bread, vegetables, salad, fruit and dessert) for a brief of what to expect at the upcoming ceremonies. Ninety eight percent of us were first timers. I came with no real expectations, just a go with the flow kind of attitude and let's see what happens, other than wanting to get some insight into a recurring (it had become pretty nasty in the preceding year) skin condition that was causing my hands to split open and an itchy rash on various parts of my body. My first meeting with Antay revealed the cause within the first few minutes, and the healing began. AMAZING! The ceremonies for me were reverent, revealing, bonding and healing. I knew I needed some help, some insight, some truth, and that's what I got. A comprehensive reframe of my perception which allowed a flow of some hateful inner turmoil to release and I was breathing with a deep sense of forgiveness and understanding... for myself and those who I regarded as my enemy. Looking across the fire and talking with Christine, with my newly acquired family all around me, is a time I will always remember. Truth revealed, rage and hatred released. What to say, maybe unshackled!?! I have in the past called myself a "seeker of the truth". I have changed that now to "I am a finder of the truth" and of course there is much more to discover. Let the journey continue! Heartfelt thanks to all involved!"

"I got what I didn't even know I was looking for. Gaia is so beautiful, the volunteers are so kind and helpful, the facilities are great, and the ceremonies are life changing! This is not for the faint of heart of those not looking to give themselves fully to the experience. The ceremonies are long, but so so transformative. The shamans are fascinating and share their rituals with Westerners while maintaining the tradition. I went in with such specific intentions, but through the medicine ceremonies and my interactions with the wonderful people and staff I left with so much more than I came for. I feel so at peace and will cherish this experience forever."

"There is some strong energetic healing going on at this place. Many of us used the word “magical”. Not in the cheesy kind of way, but the kind of magic you spend your whole life searching for. You get in touch with your soul at Gaia Sagrada. The best way I can describe this place is it chooses you. If you’re meant to come here, it will happen. If you are chosen and life works out where you are able to come, your life will be changed forever. Ayahuasca taught me a lot about myself but it was the San Pedro that changed me. All of the shamans were brilliant and Christine has the most unique, beautiful soul. I fell in love with absolutely every single person I met there and my spiritual partner and I intend to put this place on the map. Not only are you doing some deep healing but you are surrounded by love. Everyone there is full of love yes, but the cows and the dogs and the trees and the fresh air. I have never felt so in touch with Mother Earth. Not to mention, you are being fed real soul food by Carol the chef! It’s delicious seriously!!!! I’m so grateful for Christine and her words of wisdom and for creating the safest space. I’m grateful for the volunteers and shamans. I’m grateful for those who came and healed along side of me. Thank you Gaia Sagrada for everything."

"I had such a powerful experience at Gaia Sagrada. I have never felt that much love in my life, from the medicines, the shamans, the staff and the atmosphere of the place. Extremely beautiful up in the mountains, comfortable climate and not to mention the most delicious food. I never thought Aya food could be so good. My first ayahuasca experience was quite difficult, so I went to ask the shaman for advice after. He was so kind and easy to talk to. It helped me clear anxiety I have been dealing with for years, so I am very grateful. Thank you so much Salvador. My second ayahuasca ceremony showed me how to truly love myself, and I cannot express the gratitude I feel for this experience. The medicines showed me what I needed in ways I could not have imagined, and I have so much respect for them. By the end of the retreat you feel like one big family with the other people attending the retreat and it is so beautiful to share this journey. The vibration of this place is just incredible, and I will be back to experience it again."

"It is difficult to put in words how grateful I am for my experience at Gaia Segrada. My daughter and I had discussed how we were both interested in attending an Ayahuasca retreat last summer and, in the fall, she told me that she had researched options and planned on attending Gaia in December. After her retreat, she described her experience to me (in the most glowing terms imaginable) and I started booking my own retreat right away. She had told me how amazing the shamans and the staff were, but even with all her praises, I wasn't expecting to meet such an incredible group of people. I have never had the privilege of meeting so many wonderful souls--Christine, the staff (including, Carly, Ross, and Carole xoxo), the volunteers, the shamans (omg the shamans!!!), and even the dogs:) I would be remiss if I didn't also mention my fellow attendees--a group of amazing people from all over the world that I had the privilege of sharing this experience with and who have now become life-long friends. The environment at Gaia is one of total support. I was nervous about experiencing Ayahuasca and San Pedro for the first time and had a couple of experiences with the medicine that were very difficult, but I ALWAYS felt safe, I ALWAYS knew that I would be cared for, and I ALWAYS felt nothing but love from everybody there. Everybody's journey with the medicine is different, but almost everybody encounters challenges along the way. That is why I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Gaia. This is the place you want to be when you inevitably encounter your own challenges with the medicine. This is the place where everybody will help you to work through those challenges. This is the place where those challenges can turn into insights, lessons, tools, and victories going forward. If life is a journey, Gaia is a lighted path. PS. If you can, sign up for the 12-day retreat. I had originally signed up for the 7-day and am SOOOOO happy I switched to the 12-day. I would definitely have missed some important opportunities without those additional days. Besides, you will not want to leave after 7 days. Trust me on that:) -Bonni"

"It is difficult to put in words how grateful I am for my experience at Gaia Segrada. My daughter and I had discussed how we were both interested in attending an Ayahuasca retreat last summer and, in the fall, she told me that she had researched options and planned on attending Gaia in December. After her retreat, she described her experience to me (in the most glowing terms imaginable) and I started booking my own retreat right away. She had told me how amazing the shamans and the staff were, but even with all her praises, I wasn't expecting to meet such an incredible group of people. I have never had the privilege of meeting so many wonderful souls--Christine, the staff (including, Carly, Ross, and Carole xoxo), the volunteers, the shamans (omg the shamans!!!), and even the dogs:) I would be remiss if I didn't also mention my fellow attendees--a group of amazing people from all over the world that I had the privilege of sharing this experience with and who have now become life-long friends. The environment at Gaia is one of total support. I was nervous about experiencing Ayahuasca and San Pedro for the first time and had a couple of experiences with the medicine that were very difficult, but I ALWAYS felt safe, I ALWAYS knew that I would be cared for, and I ALWAYS felt nothing but love from everybody there. Everybody's journey with the medicine is different, but almost everybody encounters challenges along the way. That is why I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Gaia. This is the place you want to be when you inevitably encounter your own challenges with the medicine. This is the place where everybody will help you to work through those challenges. This is the place where those challenges can turn into insights, lessons, tools, and victories going forward. If life is a journey, Gaia is a lighted path. PS. If you can, sign up for the 12-day retreat. I had originally signed up for the 7-day and am SOOOOO happy I switched to the 12-day. I would definitely have missed some important opportunities without those additional days. Besides, you will not want to leave after 7 days. Trust me on that:) -Bonni"

"I have just returned from a 12 day stay at the magical Gaia Sagrada Ayahuasca retreat center. The place is a paradise in the Andes far from the mechanical noises of the cities. the location is laid out in the forest while respecting the latter which allows us to connect this revitalizing nature. The warm welcome of the organizers and all the staff and volunteers puts you immediately comfortable and secure. I have made several or even multiple formations over the past ten years, thus raising my consciousness to recognize the high vibrations. My first experience was cleansing with Amalia, it was a fantastic moment that will remain etched in my memory, a cleansing of trauma layers crossing and penetrating to the soul. I highly recommend it, or even essential. Ayahuasca ceremonies are masterfully led by professional Shamans with respect for traditions and our consciences. I had the privilege of contacting Mother Ayahuasca as well as several dimensions of our environment, an extraordinary quest and awareness. It was magical to listen to the traditional songs of the Shamans. I even at some point more intense was accompanied by one of the female dogs which helped me connect to a higher level of consciousness. The family meetings were moments of pleasure even if sometimes they were loaded with great emotions. The San Pedro ceremonies were rich in intensity and introspection of the I am. Again I have cleaned up old roots and traumas from my childhood, a moment of pure joy. The sweat lodge, wow, of maximum intensity and physical and psychic level of consciousness. Mother Ayahuasca recomanded me to do an other cleansing. I did one whit Valeria was magical again. What about the Super San Pedro Christine, it was a memorable journey a major boost in consciousness at very high frequencies. It's been ten days now since I came back home and I know and feel that something has settled in me. I am more sensitive to the flow of energy during my meditations. I feel the connection with my heart during Reiki exchanges. Many thanks To Christine, Carly, Salvador, Amalia, Sophia, Valeria and all of you family volonteers, brothers and sisters...lots of love"

"The staff at Gaia Sagrada is amazing l, as is the property. The participants are just greeted with love and laughter and life and encouraged to face difficult journeys with the plant medicine only to emerge as a better human being. I’m so grateful for my experience and the insights I had at Gaia that I would never want to go anywhere else and can’t wait to go back again!"

"A truly magical and memorable experience. The feelings of love, gratitude and compassion from Grandmother Ayahuasca, and Grandfather Aguacoya were profound. In addition to the potent medicines, each person in the ceremony projected a healing energy that really helped to accelerate my own healing. Gaia Sagrada is a very special place (thank you Christine). The volunteers, the shamans (thank you Salvador and Namur), the location, the facilities .. everything, were amazing. I always felt safe, and comfortable (don’t forget to bring really warm clothes). Highly recommended!"

"I attended the 7 day retreat. I totally exceeded may expectations for both healing and understanding myself. The safety and love I felt was integral to my healing. It was truly transformative."

"It was clear from stepping onto the property that a lot of intention and attention goes into the development of Gaia Sagrada. The staff were without exception incredibly giving of themselves the entire time. The "family" of shamans also gave of themselves exceptionally and it is hard to find adequate words for my appreciation of what they shared. It was even more surprising to discover how supportive and tight the group with which I was experiencing would become. Everyone was there for everyone throughout, and that was beyond value. The Gaia Sagrada staff even followed up with those who needed it after the retreat was over. I was not expecting to so overwhelmed with care and attention, to have such a well-thought-out experience for twelve days, to feel so absolutely taken care of and protected. Exceptional facilities, exceptional people, exceptional value. I can't imagine how I could have made a better choice."

"Gaia Sagrada WOW..... This was my first psychedelic journey and I was a little nervous. I was there with my son who encouraged me to come with him and he with the staff helped me get past the initial apprehensions. My experience at Gaia went well beyond all my expectations I guess it all starts by being welcomed with a big warm hug and meeting with very open caring staff. You then look around and realize you’re in the Andes surrounded by great facilities. A Tipi, the sweat lodge, numerous malocas and fresh air!!!! The ceremonies and meetings were just amazing. The shaman and facilitators have tremendous insights to share and an ability to get everyone involved and help step out of their comfort zone to share and express their feelings and intents. The ceremonies were at times intense but the settings, the incaros, the rhythms, the prayers were always beautiful and meaningful helping you to go calmly deep within yourself. Gaia really does what it sets out to do, by giving birth to a place where amazing healing happens. I have truly turned the corner, and seen others transform. I have gained knowledge that will be with me forever. I don’t have any doubts that I made the right decision!!! And may everyone have a good day and a good life!! Ej"

"Volunteering at Gaia Sagrada has been an amazing and extremely transformative experience for me. I truly love the atmosphere, and the Shamans’ love and dedication to their work is truly admirable. I’m so grateful for my experience at Gaia Sagrada, and definitely recommend it for everyone."

"Gaia Sagrada truly has a special place in my heart. My personal healing and growth has never been so nourished and I completely trust the shamans ans staff as absolute professionals and life changers. The ayahuasca and San Pedro medicines offer immense healing and insight and I particularly gained a huge amount from the sweat lodge ceremony where the shamans combine the two medicines. Every ceremony taught me so much and the overall attention to detail and beauty of the place blew me away. Couldn’t recommend it more."

"Gaia Sagrada is quite possibly the best place in the world to do plant medicine. The location in the mountains is stunning, and the altitude means it is cooler and there are no mosquitos, unlike the heat and humidity of the jungle, no being eaten alive by bugs at Gaia! Which is not something you want to have to worry about in ceremony, believe me! The center itself is just too cute! It's not a 5 star hotel so don't expect luxury, but it's very cosy and comfortable. Especially the beds! You can tell that the mattresses are of very high quality. The hot showers are fabulous too! And the food! My god, I never expected food at an Ayahuasca retreat to be sooo good! Now for the ceremonies. WOW. I have participated in ceremonies at a few different centers in Peru and the ceremonies at Gaia Sagrada are by far the best. This is mainly due to the shamans. The fact that they speak English is a god send and allows you to really get to know them. And when you do, you understand that they are genuine loving people with such strong integrity. Their love for humanity is obvious and the work they do to help us heal is beyond words. And their singing! Just amazing. The sweat lodge ceremony was otherworldly. I just cannot use words to describe how transformational these ceremonies are. As well as the shamans the team of staff and volunteers that are on hand to help during ceremony, and throughout the retreat, made me feel so safe and taken care of. It really allowed me the space and trust to go deep with the medicines. Unlike in other places where I didn't feel as safe or looked after, my experience with the medicines wasn't as profound. You can tell that everyone at Gaia really cares. There are volunteers living there for months at a time because they believe in the power of plant medicines and want to help others have a meaningful and healing experience with them. Everyone really makes you feel part of the family from the moment you arrive. Honestly, don't bother with anywhere else for plant medicines. Gaia Sagrada is the best."

"We recently had a family reunion at TOSA Blue Mountain. Our family gathering was made so much more special for having spent time together in such a pristine environment. We highly recommend the Ganesha Community House for the perfect combination of an intimate yet private space to share with close family or friends. TOSA Blue Mountain (an easy and scenic 1-hour ride from the beautiful city of Cuenca in southern Ecuador), gave us a chance to connect to each other and to ourselves. The energy there is pure and powerful; the property is amazingly beautiful and comfortable; and the setting in the Ecuadorian Andes is simply magnificent. This retreat center is the perfect place to meditate in Nature, relax, and bask in the energy of the amazing mountains and inspiring southern sky. One can also request a ceremony in their Mayan sweat lodge (with or without the sacred cactus of the area known as Huachuma or San Pedro). This is, in fact, a perfectly sacred environment to have any kind of spiritual ceremony. If you have an opportunity to spend time at TOSA Blue Mountain, don’t miss it! You will be glad you visited this most beautiful and special place. Recharge the body and soul!"