Find Authentic Retreats in Colombia

"The five day retreat with Emma and Gloria is having a wonderful itinerary created with lots of experience and care. I really liked the beautiful location, the flow of events (which included time to rest), the program overall, the meditations, and the food. It was a good mix of reflection, experience with different plant medicines, conversation, yoga, free time, and more workshop style sessions. The retreat helped me to challenge certain beliefs I was holding but also strengthen my values and views in other areas. It was an emotionally tougher experience than I had anticipated (certainly not uncommon when looking for personal growth) so best not to expect that you will come back like after a normal vacation - post retreat work for integration is needed. I would generally not recommend this retreat for members of the LGBTQA+ community as rather heteronormative roles and beliefs might be discussed in the context of female and male energies, behaviors, and relationship modes (at least that was the case in our group - might be different from group to group) which can hurt even if not intended to. Please note that the currently used location is home to a very cute and fat cat - might be an additional argument to attend the retreat for some :-). --- REPLY FROM FEMTHEOGEN: Thank you very much for your comment. From Femtheogen team, we want to make sure that those who approach this path of healing do not leave with a mistaken message. This is to ensure that others have the opportunity to come and experience a genuine healing journey, as this is our mission and highest goal. When we speak of masculine and feminine energies, we are referring to a concept unrelated to gender. We exist within a dualistic nature—there is up and down, inside and outside, feminine and masculine. Therefore, there are feminine traits that a man can embody and masculine traits that can be present in a woman. This is not about human constructs such as creation or language; rather, these concepts pertain to the natural laws that govern us all. We hold no opposition to any choices made freely and consciously about personal orientation or preferences, as our mission is to help each individual find their inner peace—that state often referred to as happiness. It is important to understand that when we are certain of a truth that lives within us, we don’t feel attacked; instead, we open our awareness to embrace the lessons that are being shared. In the case of the retreat that you attended, you were very fortunate to be surrounded by incredible women with wonderful stories from which you yourself expressed a desire to learn from. From their feminine energy that is powerful and healing. Nothing happens by coincidence, and this group during this retreat was no exception. Perhaps you might want to reflect on why you’ve had such amazing companions, as this reflection could help you continue growing in your personal development. Thank you very much for your visit."

"Make sure that you drink plenty of water."

"The Ayahuasca retreat expanded my horizont drastically. Lots of insights, connections and a new angle to look at the world are some of the highlights that Ayahuasca provided me with. I can highly recommend this retreat."

"An amazing experience with lots of self-growth and inner work. "

"Gloria is knowledgeable and guides you safely through the journey of plant medicines and ceremonies. "

"Very warm and down to earth, makes you feel safe. "

"Gloria and Emma are serious, empathetic, and experienced guides who provide a safe and loving environment for a transformational psilocybin experience. I left the retreat feeling full of gratitude and love."

"I have been to LaWayra several times as a patient and can only describe it as a truly magical place. Set in Colombian countryside it is surrounded by beautiful nature and refreshing waterfalls. While everyone on the team goes beyond to make sure you are safe and well taken care of, you get to experience the indigenous medicine with its ancient traditions. With deepest respect to everyone‘s integrity Taita Fernando works very delicately with the medicine to ensure everyone’s safety to experience profound journeys into the subconscious. Taking part in ceremonies at LaWayra you are able to gain deep insights into yourself, heal traumatic events, depression and anxiety and get in touch with spirituality. Besides that LaWayra offers a safe container to find a wonderful community and heal through the group, shared experiences and learn and heal from each other. Every time coming back I am incredibly grateful for having this safe space to connect with myself, to others and to grow from this experience. "

"One of the most amazing experiences of my life. I can't express in words how wonderful it was. The staff was all amazing and helpful. I would recommend anyone to this retreat and will 100% be returning. The staff went above and beyond to make everyone feel comfortable and enjoy their retreat to the fullest. I can't wait to return in the spring."

"As this was my first experience with Ayahuasca, I was quite nervous of the experience using plant medicine. Because I felt a strong "calling", my husband and I did an extensive amount of research to find the right retreat. I was continuously drawn to LaWayra in our research...and must say that it was an incredible life changing experience. The amenities of the tambo having showers and the views of the mountains while laying in the hammock allowed me to truly relax and find inner peace when not in ceremony. The plant medicine prepared by the Taita with his long lineage of wisdom and care was exactly what I needed. It opened me up to dealing with some really deep rooted childhood trauma and finding forgiveness and self love. Additionally, the word circles allowed me to become vulnerable with other guests, sharing experiences without judgement, helping the strong walls I had built up to come down. The care of the team was incredible and I can say that I always felt truly safe and cared for. I have an enormous amount of gratitude for this life changing experience !"

"Before deciding on our Ayahuasca Retreat destination, we did a great deal of research on options in a variety of locations, including Peru, Costa Rica, and of course Colombia. We decided on LaWayra because of the affordability, the retreat options, and mostly because of the personal testimonials we reviewed from past guests that spoke to the care and attention to safety. We chose the private tambo (hut/cabin) option and an 11-day retreat with six medicine ceremonies. We thought about just doing the four-day retreat but are so glad we chose a longer stay. The transformative and healing experience during our stay, is nothing short of miraculous. Choosing such a powerful modality of self-care through plant medicine is a decision that will impact our lives moving forward in positive ways that have already begun to unfold. It literally feels like 10 years of therapy took place for both my husband and I over the past eleven days. We also created a bond with the entire staff and volunteers, and with the other guests that will last a lifetime. If you're considering a plant medicine retreat and you are feeling the call to Ayahuasca, I would highly recommend LaWayra. Don't let fear of vulnerability prevent you from stepping out on your personal path of trauma healing and living life victoriously. Do it for your loved ones; do it for your friends, but most importantly; do it for you! It's one of the best investments you'll make in yourself, and I know you won't regret it! Much love to you as you courageously journey on your life path. 💗💗💗"

"I love this place, absolutely stunning setting, great and attentive staff and the Shaman is just amazing! I felt so safe and cared for and had a life changing experience. Highly recommend it to everyone!!"

"I've attended multiple times, and my experience has been great. I've also attended other retreats and I've found that the shaman and medicine at this retreat has been the best, and the service is also excellent. Also, great value for the multiple day retreats. Highly recommended."

"Lawayra has struck such an amazing balance between the ceremony, medicine being served by an indigenous Taita, who has had this in his lineage for over 250 years, and the Word Circles, which serve as a type of integration woven throughout the retreat. If I was asked, I would not be able to assign more importance to one of these elements. Both of these together create such a complete and amazing retreat experience, a solid group container, and lasting relationships. Thank you Sam for what you have committed to and created!"

"well I don't even know where to start, but let's just say this experience has been so magical. I couldn't have picked a better place to live this beautiful moment. The energies in this land, the staff, and Sam have been nothing but amazing to me and everyone here. I'm so happy, and I'm glad I can be reunited to my land, my home, my roots here in colombia and feel the call to participate as a volunteer and help to contribute my love and light for any future patient interested in attending this wonderful medicine. I love this place and I'm very content with what I got out of it. thank you laWayra! ❤️🫂🙏🏼"

"My experience at LaWayra has been nothing short of revolutionary for my life. I am a very particular person, so I took a long time in coming to ayahuasca, largely because of the commercialization of plant medicine, with ancient traditions for individual and communal healing and spiritual exploration being used simply to capitalize on voyeurism, looking for a quick buck behind a facade of care. After extensive experience with LaWayra, I can personally attest to their integrity and authenticity in seeking to provide people with a container to safely take ayahuasca. I wouldn't hesitate in coming here."

"I have been a patient at LaWayra for 8 ceremonies. This place has a special place in my heart and soul. I felt so safe and cared for. I feel privileged to be able to take part of such a beautiful tradition and gift to humanity. I have learned to completely trust Taita Fernando and the whole team in their methods, professionalism and genuine support. The ceremonies held in the Maloka are beyond words. And the music!! Wow!! But LaWayra is so much more than Yage/Ayahuasca. The workshops, word circles, guidance and time spent together makes this experience unique. It is family run and you truly feel at home. The way I have connected to myself and others by sharing this experience has been incredibly healing. It has been a unforgettable experience I will carry with me through out my life. I feel like I've grown equally much from witnessing all my fellow beings in their journeys and stories. Thank you Sam and your family for providing this special place for all of us in need. Thank you everybody involved. The musicians, staff and volunteers. I would recommend this place to anybody willing to get more out of life. Much love and gratitude to all of you ❤️🙏🏽"

"I have been to LaWayra several times over the past 13 months and my experience has been incredible. I have had a lot of positive shifts in my ways of being which I am very grateful for. Thank you to Sam and the rest of the team! From the Taita (Shaman) to the beautiful views and everything in between at LaWayra, it really is an incredible place to come and heal, grow and learn From the time you step foot out of the bus that brings you to the retreat from Medellin you feel safe and secure which is super important for work involving Ayahuasca. The integration LaWayra provides really helps to take your experience and maximise the positive benefits from the ceremonies I recommend to LaWayra to anyone looking for an ayahuasca experience with an authentic shaman and a loving, caring team "

"My 7-day retreat has been a true paradigm shift as well as a challenging yet rewarding journey. I’m proud of the way that myself and other brave souls managed to challenge our minds and bodies in ways unimaginable.. Doing inner work is NEVER easy, but the only way is out is always through. I thank Oliver, Kevin, Jenna, Vanessa, and everyone else who contributed to my divine experience. Food is well-balanced and can accommodate your diet. I strongly recommend 4 ceremonies instead of 2, as you may not connect with the medicine right away. Namaste🙏🏼"

"Kevin is a incredible doctor, he is very knowledge and hi has the best singing skills you can ever imagine. He is very observant and really takes care of you in the right moments when you need it .He is just a wonderful doctor and a lovely guy. He had a tone of knowledge about the plants and medicines there, you can really get some priceless stories from him .Take care of yourself, can't wait to have a chat with you again. "

" The retreat was incredible, way better than I could even expect. The place was clean and the food lovely and the place there is very special, the view is just out of this world is like you go in Alice's wonderland. The staff there war kind and very helpful and they really know what they are doing. Wonderful human beings Oliver, Jana,Luna,Kevin and everyone else there . I only spent 3 days there but it feelt way longer, best 3 days of this year and irreplaceable memories. If you are searching for healing or just to disconnect from the rutin and stress of your day to day life Ayahuasca Retreat Guacamayo is the perfect place. No Amount of words can describe how peaceful and warm is that wonderland . Thank you everyone for the incredible experience. "

"We traveled from the US to Medellin to participate in this wonderful experience. I've have already recommended Amiel and Ivan to friends. The experience was powerful - yet I felt safe and secure. The music kept me grounded while experiencing the highs and lows of the process. They outlined what to expect up front and wrapped things up with a sumptuous meal. The space was perfect - serene yet not too isolated. "

"I have only positive things to say about this place!! The staff was wonderful with communication and booking and they went the extra mile to arrange airport transportation (even in the middle of the night). They took the time to answer all of our questions before the retreat including medical questions when it came to adjusting medications beforehand to be safe. They are warm kind people, and we could tell they truly have participants best interest at heart. The retreat was well organized and the experience was so healing. The location is beautiful! Honestly they went above and beyond! Thank you so much Oliver & everyone, for providing this much needed experience. I have no doubt it is life changing and exactly what we have been praying for! Thank you!!!! "

"What a beautiful and deep experience with like-minded people as well as being wonderfully held in a fantastic location! I am so glad that I traveled for this retreat. The integration with Jo offers so much at such a deep level. It was way beyond what I expected to gain. The observations are raw, provocative and always honest. I would recommend Ayayni , as they provide a safe and nurturing environment. "

"My first experience with Ayahuasca at this magical place in Medellin Colombia was truly life changing for me ,from the moment I arrived I felt so safe and embraced by the warmth energy of Oliver and the whole team made me feel quite at ease in this new aventure .I never knew how much weight I was carrying until it was gone this truly experience transformed my life i feel more joy and freedom than I ever thought possible .I never realized how much of my emotions I held hold me back and stuck I want to thank you all for this life changing experience . Roberto Henao "

"What a wonderful experience! Amiel and Ivancho were both so warm and welcoming to my friend Synthia and I. They opened their home and made us feel like family. Their amazing voices and musicianship brought so much raw emotion to the ceremony. The location is so beautiful and comfortable. It was transformative for me and I highly recommend to those seeking peace and inner strength. Rich"

"Amiel and Ivan were incredible hosts. We felt warmly welcomed into a very safe space. The experience lasted all day the hosts explained carefully what to expect and fully answered questions. Their approach including introduction and explanation. The spiritual component included focusing on our expectations and goals. I found the music instrumental in keeping me grounded and connected. Amiel and Ivan were incredibly talented musicians. As we wrapped up our lovely hosts provided an amazing spread of delicacies for us to enjoy. We then relaxed and prepared for our journey home. The closing ceremony included each of us sharing highlights of our experience. Each of us summed it up in one word “gratitude”. I’ve already recommended the experience to many friends. Simply transformational. "

"We came from Chicago for this experience and frankly it was worth the trip. We felt immensely grateful that Amiel and Ivan shared their home and amazing talents with us. They were kind, knowledgeable, informative - simply amazing individuals to guide us on this trip. The music was essential to the experience and amazing. Their voices and instruments help ground us to their safe place. Their process was well organized and we felt safe and loved. I've already recommended this experience to many friends The price was very reasonable. "

"My husband and I recently spent an unforgettable week at Guacamayo! From the moment we arrived, Oliver and Gentleman made us feel welcome and cared for. The staff is genuinely authentic and diverse, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere that enhanced our experience. Their attentiveness extended to our dietary needs, as they accommodated my vegetarian diet with delicious, wholesome meals throughout our stay. And kept us hydrated with delicious fresh juices. The retreat is set in a stunning location, offering spectacular views of the valley that took our breath away. Each morning, we woke up to the sight of lush landscapes and the sounds of nature, which truly set the stage for our journey. One of the highlights of my stay was the playful pets that roamed the grounds, (Gentleman and Zorro) added a touch of joy and warmth to our days, making the environment feel even more inviting. Despite being in a serene setting, we were only 20 minutes away from shopping and local attractions, which was a perfect balance. We could explore when we wanted but also retreat back to the tranquility of the retreat. The beautiful music and good vibes throughout the week were simply magical. It created a calming backdrop that enhanced our meditation and ceremony experiences. Overall, our week at this Guacamayo was transformative and deeply enriching. We left feeling rejuvenated and connected, both to ourselves and each other. We can hardly wait to return. "

"I’m still floating from the experience of this incredible retreat. Words can barely do justice to how grateful I am for the kindness and warmth of the people I met—it felt like we’d all known each other for years. Each interaction was genuine and full of heart, leaving me deeply moved by the connections we built together. The property itself was simply breathtaking. Nestled in nature, every corner seemed to hum with peace and serenity. Surrounded by trees, the sound of birds, and the feeling of being held by the natural world was so wonderful. It felt like a perfect balance between comfort and immersion in the beauty of the outdoors. The organisation of the retreat was flawless—everything flowed seamlessly. It was evident that every detail had been thought through with so much care, and the facilitators went above and beyond to make sure we felt welcomed, supported, and seen. They created an atmosphere of trust that made it easy to let go, dive deep, and fully experience each moment. But what truly stood out—what felt absolutely out of this world—was the music. I can only describe it as transcendent. It was as though the sounds carried us somewhere beyond time, weaving together all the emotions of the journey. Each note felt perfectly attuned to the moment, and the music seemed to breathe life into every part of the experience. It wasn’t just beautiful—it was transformational. This retreat left me feeling deeply nourished, inspired, and connected in ways I didn’t think were possible. If you’re looking for a space to reflect, grow, and connect with wonderful souls, this experience is truly a gift."