"Experiencing Ayahuasca with Arturo, the healer, and his incredible team, especially Alicia, was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Though I am not a religious or particularly spiritual person, my curiosity led me to explore this journey — and it ended up changing my entire perspective on life. From the moment the ceremony began, I felt an unparalleled connection to the Earth and an overwhelming sense of love that is difficult to describe in words. It was a profound awakening, one that opened my heart and mind in ways I never thought possible. Mama Ayahuasca guided me with wisdom and compassion, helping me realize that this experience is just the beginning of a lifelong journey of self-discovery and deeper understanding.
I am incredibly grateful to Arturo, Alicia, and the entire team for creating such a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment throughout this powerful experience. Their guidance, warmth, and authenticity made all the difference. I definitely recommend this experience with Mamay Ayahuasca to anyone seeking growth, healing, or a deeper connection to life!"
Highly Rated Retreats in Mexico
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Types of Retreat in Mexico
Short Retreats in Mexico
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Upcoming Retreats in Mexico
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Experiences on Retreat
"The level of Love & Support at Mexisoul Retreats is beautiful.
Finca El Pendulo. This land is special.
Thank you Marina.
The medicine has opened a way for me to heal one of the biggest physical, emotional & spiritual trauma’s in my life.
So grateful to Ruger,
Humberto Alcala (for your guidance)
Liberty, Krista, Gaby, the musicians & all of the medicine support assistants.
To the participants who’ve become soul family. Thank you for walking alongside me.
It’s a brave & courageous act to step into medicine.
Here, you are guided with love & support.
I will be back.
Aroha Mai (love received)
Aroha Atū (love given)
💚"
"As much as I loved the staff and volunteers at the retreat, I can’t recommend it. The shaman started a very inappropriate relationship with me while I was under the influence of medicine and after voicing my complaints, the organizers of the retreat continued to support the shaman. It is highly unethical and women should be very careful to attend these ceremonies. "
"I needed true soul healing, and as I scrolled through all the offerings, I felt drawn to Ascension Journeyz. I believe it was Divine guidance that led me to this beautiful piece of heaven in the mountains of Mexico, because what has been created there is a place filled with a gentle love and devotion for all who come seeking a deeper connection with Source and higher understanding of Self.
Topovan is a strong, beautiful soul who lives every word he speaks; and the truth of his words strike a chord that awakens the part of you that sometimes gets lost along the way. He connects with each person there and works tirelessly to take care of everyone’s needs. His yoga, meditation, and breathwork sessions reminded me how to breathe and how to connect with my higher power again-something I couldn’t do on my own after losing my son.
Le’ Jai’ La is simply magical in every way—a sweet little Sprite sent to spread love, joy, understanding and wisdom from another realm-yet fierce in her determination to right the wrongs and heal the pain of Pachamama and many of her children.
And, Mano is a gentle, old soul, whose strong, peaceful presence and beautiful music guided and grounded the ceremonies. His quietness spoke louder than the words of anyone I’ve ever met.
If you are looking for a life-changing experience, this is it. I can’t say it was easy- we don’t learn the most valuable lessons during the easy times-but you will leave with a new soul family and with a new awareness that will change you forever. I am so grateful for my experience at Ascension Journeyz-So very thankful for Topovan, Jai’La, and Mano for all the love. "
"I enjoyed each integration circle with Liberty. Her warm energy and welcoming smile throughout the retreat made me feel good. She provided easy and applicable ways to integrate.
Her guidance felt both grounded and intuitive, creating a safe space for reflection and sharing. Liberty’s ability to listen deeply and respond with clarity and compassion made every session feel personalized and impactful.
Her presence throughout the retreat was a constant source of comfort and encouragement. "
"My experience has been nothing short of profound - magically profound. Sometimes all we need is a little reframing to reorient our perspective and minds in order to perceive the novelty that is ever brewing within us, but most often dormant due to lack of focus. This is exactly what I got being at El Finca, Mexisoul. The light to rekindle the fire of life and to illumine my path and to provide the warmth needed during the cold days or nights. Furthermore, It is very apt that the name Mexisoul involves the word soul. The whole experience have been soulful in every aspect of the idea or thought which the word soul signifies, from the people, the environment, the food, the accommodation, the planning involved down to the tiny details added in each ceremony or activities. The love that permeates this space is other worldly and each connection that I made with each person have felt familiar. I feel like I have always known everyone. Each eye contact, each ceremony pulled me deeper into a depth which gave me the feeling that we were family in some sense. My experience has enabled me to imagine again. This is the gift that was given to me when I came into creation: my imagination and speech, which I had inadvertently lost and forgotten how to use. How wonderful is it to be alive. I am just gratefully excited that I have found it in a place which feels like it has always been my home and knowing that I would one day return like the prodigal son to reclaim my rightful place in the cosmos. Thanks Ruger, Humberto, Krista, Gaby, Liberty, Pedro, Rosalba, Hector, Cuate, Martha and to everyone who I have communicated with. Thank you for being love."
"The seven-day MexiSoul Retreat in Tepatitlán, Mexico, was an unforgettable experience—one that deepened my connection to myself, others, and the world around me. This being my third visit to MexiSoul Retreats, I can confidently say it was the most profound of them all. Every time I return, I’m struck by the magic of this place and the incredible transformation it inspires.
The love and support I received from the entire MexiSoul team (Umberto, Ruger, Krista, Liberty, and many others) were truly heartwarming. From the moment I arrived, they created an atmosphere of safety and care that allowed me to open up fully to the experience. Their genuine kindness and dedication to each participant’s journey were evident in everything they did.
I’m especially grateful for the food—wow! Each meal was a vibrant, flavorful celebration of Mexican culture, prepared with such care and creativity. It wasn’t just nourishment for the body but also for the soul. Every dish felt like an extension of the love that MexiSoul embodies.
One of the most moving aspects of this retreat was the connection I felt with the other participants. It’s rare to experience such an instant bond with a group of people, but shortly after we arrived, we became a unit—a family of sorts. The shared vulnerability, laughter, and mutual encouragement created a unique and powerful dynamic that enriched the entire retreat.
This MexiSoul Retreat was more than just a getaway—it was a healing journey and a profound reminder of the beauty of human connection. I left feeling deeply inspired, recharged, and grounded, and I am already looking forward to the next opportunity to return to this incredible sanctuary.
My fourth visit will be soon. "
"I am so glad I found this retreat! Powerful, transformative, and incredibly supportive, I will definitely be back!"
"Words feel inadequate to capture the profound gratitude I hold for everyone at Mamay and Xochipilli. From the moment I arrived, I was embraced by an environment of love and empathy that made this retreat truly transformative.
The team here is extraordinary. Arturo is a remarkable guide that made every moment feel safe and meaningful. He gently yet powerfully pushes you towards the edge of your comfort zone, opening doors to profound personal transformation. Alicia is truly the glue that binds the experience together, ensuring every detail flows seamlessly so you can focus entirely on your journey. Together with Esther, Lorena, David, Luis, and Marek, they've created something that feels both sacred and special - their dedication to service is evident in every interaction. They are all generous souls who have chosen to serve with their whole hearts.
The ceremonies speak a language beyond words. The teachings and integration work are deeply moving, guiding you to face your shadows with courage and rediscover the brilliance you have within. Here, you are seen, heard, and held in a way that reconnects you with your truest self.
I will carry this experience always, and I look forward to when our paths cross again. Until then, with boundless gratitude—thank you for being the light that you are. "
"I came to Eleusinia looking for a transformational experience. The question was what did I expect to change from or into? as I reflect I liked who I was, but I wanted to be more. More what? I didn’t know. This experience has opened my mind to the path, the destination and the tools to facilitate my journey.
The path - letting go for me is the path. To surrender or accept, for me as critical. The world naturally provides the guidance and direction. It’s incumbent upon us to listen, feel, trust, believe, and just be, avoiding the societal pressures to control everything we can.
My Destination – I desire a life built around five key principles I value most, that happen to support and enhance one another.
Gratitude – without it, there is no true joy. With it, there is always comfort.
Curiosity – in its most pure form it dissolves judgment. It fuels growth. And it inspires others.
Growth – it’s the richness of life. It provides endless satisfaction and rewards and keeps us inspired.
Passion – it’s the spark that ignites and amplifies all other characteristics.
Sexuality – an amazing gift of the human experience, that should not be wasted, but nourished and developed.
The tools: to provide the brain, nervous system and soul with the necessary hygiene, Eleusinia has introduced me to:
Enhanced meditation – both in terms of practice methods and preparation. Through periodic psychedelic use my meditation practice will reach new levels and continue to grow. Thru additional meditation approaches, like incorporating breath work, walking, and other techniques I will be able to reach new heights.
Breath work - I will incorporate a Breathwork practice into my daily/weekly routines to enhance the state of mind and support growth in my meditation practice.
Periodic psychedelics – DMT – will keep my mind clear, calm and better prepared to maintain a healthy approach to life and its challenges and opportunities.
Psilocybin – I’m not sure what the appropriate frequency or dose will be. However, maintaining the awareness brought forth by psilocybin will be a valuable element in continuing to set my course or direction in life.
With the clarity of purpose that I leave Eleusinia with, the destination in mind, and the many tools this experience provided, Life takes on a new and richer reality! This experience has given me more than I could have ever ask for !
But wait, there’s more! Forget about the tools for a minute! The people, from the amazing Eleusinia team to my fellow guests, they have left an indelible impression on me and my life. They all have provided a big reminder of the high quality souls that inhabit the earth and our cosmos. This will cause me to be more mindful of who I choose to spend time with which will be another enhancement to life here on earth and beyond.
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"If you’re reading this review, you’re likely in the same place my partner and I were a few months ago. We were searching for a psilocybin retreat to improve the quality of our daily lives. Look no further, you have found the ultimate retreat with the most kind and loving staff you could hope to find.
We had a conference call with Jessica before booking our stay since we had a few questions. One of my main concerns was that the experiences would be outside, versus the clinical setting utilized in many of the documentaries we had watched. Being outside, in the magical setting at Eleusinia, is beyond words. The grounds are stunning. To experience such oneness with the universe was life-changing and I’m certain an inside experience would not have been nearly as impactful.
Each of the 9 guests had plenty of space and privacy to enjoy the experience. Privacy does not come at the expense of support and care. The Eleusinia team is present should you need or want them at any time. Josefina, the Curandera, has a gift that is powerful beyond words. I still feel her love and compassion wrapped around me. Emilio, the meditation coach, guided me to places I never imagined possible. Thanks to Emilio I’m now doing breath work and meditating at home, a complete and pleasant surprise! Jessica and Jay, the owners, were always present, ready to listen, offer guidance, or hold your hand. Frank, the Physician’s Assistant, was there for medical care and integration work. It was very reassuring to have all of these professionals supporting us.
The accommodations and food are another amazing part of the experience. Meals were served together at a large table, with a roaring fire, always with a few team members. It was wonderful to share conversation with them and our fellow guests, and then return to our room after dinner each evening. The fire was always lit and the bed was turned down. It was so warm, indulgent, and romantic.
Speaking of romance, my partner and I were fortunate to share a DMT experience during our stay. It was magical to enjoy this together. We didn’t book the couples package that is now available, but if you want additional privacy and time together to bond like you never imagined possible, I highly recommend you consider this.
We left Eleusinia with all of the tools necessary to continue the healing journey that we embarked on. (This is another thing that differentiates Eleusinia from other psilocybin retreats.) That being said, we are already talking about our next visit because the magic and love of Eleusinia are held so closely in our hearts. We are grateful to have found Eleusinia and recommend it without reservation.
"
"My partner and I recently participated in a 5-day, 4-night retreat at Eleusinia. We had researched other psilo retreats and had landed on Eleusinia mainly due to the science, staff, accommodations, grounds, agenda, etc. We preferred a smaller group size experience so Eleusinia provided that setting also. We were draw to a psilo experience after researching the potential health benefits that have been reported by many people worl-wide. Eleusinia completely exceeded my expectations in all aspects. I found the experience to be an unforgettable and life changing experience. The DMT sessions that I participated in were simply amazing. I am unable to express my appreciation for the care, compassion, and kindness of the staff during the retreat. Beyond the Macro, Mini and DMT sessions the Somatic exercises and breath work sessions lead by Emilio provided similar pineal (third eye) stimulation and were amazing. The Josefina the Curandera conducted ceremonies and provided a connection that was again life changing. If you are considering a psilo retreat, my advice is look no further. Eleusinia will help you on your healing journey and also provide the tools to continue healing after your time there. The cost of the retreat is dwarfed by the health benefits I gained for my short time there. I look forward to seeing Jess and Jay (the owners) and staff at a future retreat."
"From the moment I arrived, I felt a wonderful sense of peace and trust in the staff of Eleusinia. I had never experienced any of elements of the retreat. From the breathwork, ice bath, meditation, medicines, food, staff attentiveness and the sheer beauty of the resort I found a level of happiness I had not experienced in a very long time. Since coming home, my family has noticed the positive impact the resort had upon me. I would love to go back with my husband as I know he will truly enjoy the experience for himself. "
"Agustina is a consumate shaman - a mistress of sound, fragance, song and plants. She guided me with great skill and dedicated care, introducing me to her home, the jungle and the plants. When I was not with Agustina, Marco at Kuha Wellness Community, where I stayed for four nights, provided excellent food and very friendly and cordial support. "
"MexiSoul Retreats are held at the Finca. The Finca is absolutely beautiful. They say experience the magic of the Finca on MexiSoul's website, and magic is exactly how I would describe this place.
The Osho is probably the most beautiful building I have ever seen, and I loved to meditate in there when it was not occupied. The Oracle was a very special place on the property as well- be sure to ask a question once inside to get an answer to your question. I found myself meditating in the Oracle or just sitting within it frequently. The nature and wildlife on the property definitely enhances the experience, as well as the pool, eating areas, hammocks, pond and so much more. The Finca will not disappoint and nor will the food. The food is absolutely delicious, and you can tell so much care and love went into crafting these rich authentic Mexican dishes.
The staff and volunteers at the Finca and MexiSoul are the most amazing people. They pour love into everything they do from how they care for you (and they do take exceptional care of you) to the very fine details, including presentation of the rooms and spaces to the food. It feels like a warm wrap of love. I honestly have not met a more loving group of people upon arrival to a new place. I am beyond grateful for these beautiful humans.
As for the medicine, I had listened to my friends talk to me about the experience, and I had watched some videos and listened to some podcasts. I knew theoretically what I was going to experience over the course of the week. I was curious, but slightly hesitant and nervous.
I was very frightened by Kambo because I was told they burn little dots into you to facilitate the medicine entering into your body. Umm, I hate being burned, but I am so glad I decided to face my fears. I asked them to place medicine on my hip and near my foot. I have had hip pain for years, have been in and out of physical therapy, and even had to have one hip replaced. I also had experienced plantar fasciitis. After the medicine I had two red streaks and some splotches that ran from my hip to my groin. These lines and splotches were where I always felt/feel pain. It has been over a week, and I am back to running, spinning and lifting and I still have no pain in my hip, or as a result of my plantar fasciitis. When it came time to do Kambo again I was ready and waiting to have my other hip done too. I am so grateful.
During the second Kambo they had some other medicines we could try if we wanted. One was eye drops to clear up your eyes, nose drops for your immune system, and a spray for your mouth to heal your gut. I did them all and I am happy to say I don't have the few floaters in my eye that I use to have.
As for Ayahuasca, Satori, and Buffo, after the first night of Ayahuasca I told my friend I was done. I was not going to do anything else and never again. She and Rugar told me that everyone says that after the first night. I asked my friend what she did, and she told me she showed up to take Satori. So, I did too. During that second ceremony, the Shaman, Humberto, said something that resonated with me, and I am so glad it did. He said the medicine builds upon itself over the course of the week to heal. So, I was all in. The last big medicine ceremony, besides Cacao, was Buffo. This is where I released what felt like 100s of years' worth of baggage and pain that I had been carrying. I went there with a question in my soul, and it was answered and released. I am lighter, so much more peaceful, show up unapologetically, and am forever grateful.
What I learned is that each person's journey is different, and each journey is different, but if you are looking for a safe place to speed up your healing, I would highly recommend MexiSoul retreats. They even have a fabulous and highly trained integration coach to support you as you integrate your learnings and healing into your everyday life. They have thought of every detail, and in my experience, are open to learning and growing as well.
I will definitely return. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers, as well as the courageous humans that traveled their own journeys alongside me. "
"My experiences at MexiSoul have been truly transformative, and it's challenging to fully express the benefits I've gained from my numerous visits. Each journey has been unique, contributing significantly to my well-being and personal growth.
The staff and volunteers are incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, creating a safe space that allows you to fully embrace the powerful experiences that plant medicine offers. I always felt cared for and guided throughout the process.
Humberto Alcala, the shaman, is a remarkable presence. His insights and wisdom are profound, yet he remains surprisingly humble. He emphasizes that he doesn’t solve our problems; instead, he empowers us to discover our own solutions. He provides the tools necessary for self-discovery and healing, which has been invaluable for my journey.
I've learned countless lessons not only from Humberto but also from the other participants, volunteers, and staff. The sense of community and shared experience adds an enriching layer to the process.
Overall, MexiSoul has been the most beneficial tool in my mental health journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking growth and healing."
"Liberty is not only a spectacular smart professional, but above all she is a human that provides you with the love and support needed to go through the week feeling you are not alone. And not only that, by being a psychiatrist she knows how to deal with one’s internal mental struggles with ease, she doesn’t solve life for you, she listens and helps you clarify and clear thoughts that allows one to fully understand and integrate what you just learnt. All this effortlessly and graciously. Liberty your expertise makes an already amazing magical and loving experience into something that positively changes one’s daily life. "
"Mexisoul has definitely changed my life. It’s a place where the love you receive allows you to use the tools you’re provided with, to see things different. The safest most loving place I’ve ever been to where people that you had never met before love you already just for being there.
Thank you Ruger, Humberto, Krista, Liberty, Marina and the list just goes… forever grateful for this experience and looking forward to seeing you next time. "
"I hardly know where to begin to describe my experience at Eleusinia. If you are serious about finding a solution to whatever ails you, this is the place! The term “facility” doesn’t do it justice; it's truly a home—a big, beautiful, cozy, and healing home where you feel safe and secure. The environment is designed to foster tranquility, with numerous private spots where you can be alone, surrounded by the healing embrace of nature.
Every aspect of your stay is taken care of here. The bedrooms are incredibly comfortable, and the meals are delicious. But what truly sets Eleusinia apart are the owners, Jessica and Jay, and their exceptionally well-curated staff. Each member of the team is grounded, caring, and genuine, dedicated to helping you find what you need.
This place offers something for everyone. They walk alongside you on your journey, providing assistance when needed and giving space when it's essential. Healing is a gradual process, and knowing you are safe and cared for as you move forward is priceless. Jessica, Jay, and their team have created something special at Eleusinia—a sanctuary born from their big, beautiful hearts, and I am deeply thankful that it exists.
I’m a second-time guest at Eleusinia, and I know I’ll be back."
"My wife and I just finished our third retreat at Eleusinia. As the clinical research proves what indigenous healers have known for eons, there are an ever increasing number of options for working with these amazing mushrooms, but they are not all created equal. The team at Eleusinia is extremely professional. The attention to detail is impeccable. The accommodations are luxurious and the food wonderful.
Most importantly, the intentionally diverse team is caring and compassionate in a way the restores your faith in humanity. Whether your thoughts on psilocybin are purely scientific or spiritual, you will feel completely at home. Though I have access to psilocybin at home and work with it regularly, I will keep coming back "home" to my Eleusinia family because the safe space they create and support they offer has allowed me to go deeper and make life-changing self discoveries. I am forever grateful. It can be scary to embark on this journey. The work is incredibly rewarding but equally difficult! If you are ready to heal, you will find no better or safer place."
"This was one of the best and most interesting retreats I have been to and I've visiting many. Sara and her husband are so kind and they really have a nice diverse flexible schedule of events every day. The food is home cooking, healthy, and tasty. We did Kambo, yoga. sound therapy, a cacao ceremony, Rape', Ayahuasca, Temazcal (sweat lodge) experience, and Bufo. I requested to extend my visit after my scheduled activities concluded and Sara was more than accommodating. The wildlife was fascinating. I loved watching the monkeys climbing around the property. The retreat is close to the airport, so very convenient. It's secluded but also accessible by Uber when and if you want to visit the beach. Rene was an excellent Shaman for Aya and Kambo. Sofia was very helpful with the Temazcal, yoga, and sound therapy. "
"I am so blessed and grateful I was given the opportunity to experience Mexisoul. The place is absolutely beautiful with so much Love. The people here are Amazing!!! I strongly recommended this place for anyone needing a reset in their lives!!! The Love and Spiritual connection here is so hard to put into words, beyond anything g I have ever experienced before. I am so Grateful to God for allowing me to experience this place!! Thank you to everyone involved❤️"
"All the staff is very respectful. I have never been around people that carry such peace it spreads to the surrounding community. Thank you to all of them I love them all. A piece of me will forever be there. I’m healed and now I know my life purpose. Ayahuasca is the truth grandmother give you what you truly need. Even if you not sure she knows. if you are lost depressed broken hurt in need of something and not sure this is the place for you. Worth every penny don’t think twice. Everyone need plant medicine it’s the truth.. see you soon xoxox Zulee "
"I’m48 yeas young from The Bronx. I have been smoking weed for over 28 years. I was depressed overwhelmed with the chatter in my head.my brain was on overload. This place is exactly what I am looking for in my life. I wasn’t expecting the amount of love care gratitude and peace I receive from this tribe. They are all magical Lorena and David they sing they play live instruments. Her voice gives me chills and open my heart. Closest I have been to heaven hearing her sing. The yoga they did was just amazing. They took us to the cenote which is so beautiful refreshing. They are super friendly and do things with love 💕.Ester also sings beautifully.Gave us some delicious cacao. We shared dancing 💃🏻 and hope love and laughter. Marek a wonderful musician you can feel his music in your core such a wonderful gentleman. Luis reads the tarot card totally on point even read the card for my mother who was not able to attend m. Totally made my mom feel blessed and best advice she needed to hear from him. My favorite was his Singing 🎵 class he makes it so fun singing and dancing and laughing and moving around and not to mention he rocks the heck out of his guitar 🎸. He trained us well and brings the child out in me and the group.. Alicia we just love her she sings and dances the love and care that she gives us makes us feel special like family we cried we laughed we sang we dance we ate we shared stories. My sister for life. The best for last Arturo the spiritual doctor also known as the medicine man. He open my heart throat third eye and crown chakra . When he sings it’s so meaningful. I felt everything in my soul not to mention his voice I couldn’t believe how beautiful he sounds. And plays that drum I have one now lol.He took his time to care for this circle gave us the best advice guidance the love that he has for his staff his people and us made us feel the love and gratitude peace he has inside shines just like the sun ☀️. When the heart breaks the heart shines when the heart shines the heart sings. Everything he told me is true he prepared me well to come back home. Even tho I now want to live with them and be with them every day. I have never in my life felt such peace such love such care. I will return this is my life now. Also the food is so pure and delicious the cook has magical hands 🙌🏻 and dinner was delicious and made with love. Even shasa is the protector dog makes you feel safe and guided.
Zulee "
" Thank you for fostering this radical movement in humanity. Your team has created the perfect pathway to mindfulness. I feel part of your community for I embraced the mission of spreading love and peace with my words and art which is a universal expression. May this review encourage those seeking the truth about life come to your retreat with an open mind and an open heart. 💚"
"For some context, I have been on multiple retreats around the globe, and have been to Mexisoul twice now. With a 3rd trip being planned for next year. I currently live in Denver, Colorado, US. This place and experience is hard to put words to, but I’ll try. It’s sort of a “when you know…you just know” type of place.
The setting is absolutely gorgeous. It’s on multiple acres, surrounded by rolling hills of Agave farms. The Ranch itself has so much to explore and appreciate, both in terms of people and things to do. There is a swimming pool, gardens, horse and donkey stables, game room, pottery studio, massage, lake, yoga, hiking, and tons more. There are things you do with the retreat group, but then you have lots of down time to explore and do things at your leisure.
In terms of ayahuasca and other plant medicine ceremonies, I 100% Felt safe, secure, cared for, and always a priority. There is a Shaman, ceremony attendants (think of them like “mothers” who go around making sure everyone has what they need and are cared for throughout the ceremonies), and the Integration therapist in attendance. The ceremonies are a special time and everyone’s experience is very unique and internal. That is the point. The people on staff and the absolutely gorgeous live traditional music are what elevates the experience in my opinion.
What originally drew me to Mexisoul in the first place was a few things:
1. The affordable cost. Please don’t think you will take a hit on services, or experience, or staff or anything like that because the cost is more affordable than other places. I was worried about that at first. I think the location in a non-touristy place helps keep the cost low. Also, the owner and those who operate are not driven primarily by profit from what I can tell. They genuinely want to spread healing and provide a safe and loving Experience to those that come, and that seems to be their primary motivator. The second thing that drew me to Mexisoul Is the wide variety of offerings. It checked a lot of boxes for me. They offered two ayahuasca ceremonies, a DMT ceremony, a Bufo ceremony, a cacao ceremony, and Temescal ceremony, which is a traditional sweat lodge type of thing. All are optional but but there for you if you choose. Lastly, the small group size was an important factor. The healing and ceremonies are deeply personal and, for me, the smaller a group size, the more open and free I can feel. The first retreat absent to had 15, and the second had 12 I think. If you choose, You can make deep friendships in a short amount of time.
Please keep in mind, Mexisoul is not a large, resort-style place. If those places are cities, Mexisoul is a village. For example, if you need something, say an extra towel, or some fruit to snack on, you don’t call them up and have them bring it to you (although I guess you could), instead you go to the kitchen area and just grab it yourself. And while you’re there you’ll say hi to the chef and thank her for a great meal the night before. It’s casual, it’s home-like, and the vibe is more like a big family than a big hotel.
Mexisoul has my absolute highest recommendation."
"As a physician specializing in psychedelic medicines, I was curious to try the medicines in the DMT category for myself and gain an understanding of the plants, the culture and the use of shamanism to aid in healing. Mexisoul was absolutely perfect for this. I felt very safe at this retreat center which is just an hour ride from Guadalajara (they provide private transport), felt supported by the knowledgeable staff and Shaman, loved the intimacy of the small group, and loved the land and retreat center itself. I liked that multiple medicines were offered, at doses tailored to my comfort level, with opportunities to work with each medicine more than once. The maloca is BEYOND BEAUTIFUL which makes for a lovely ayahuasca experience mixed with live music and ample support throughout the entire journey. The rooms are very nice, the food is farm-to-table fresh and delicious, and there are included opportunities to ride horses, swim in the lake or pool, hike, do yoga, and get massages. I have returned to Mexisoul twice since my first visit, have taken friends and family, and plan to return again at some point. For me, it is less about the medicine and more about the whole healing experience including land, food, culture, and ceremony. It’s a beautiful place to be!! "
"Simply life changing. I can’t put into words how this experience and how mexisoul changed my life and changed the trajectory of my life. There is simply too much to text here. Life changing. Transformative. I felt safe and care for and the staff was amazing. Integration coach was amazing. Shaman was amazing. Other staff and volunteers were amazing. Dont miss out on this opportunity.
Chris"
"It is a spiritual violation when an authority figure persistently behaves unethically, pushing someone away from their spiritual path into darkness. This is exactly what happened to me.
Before I begin, consider that Mexisoul will ask you to leave a review or even record a testimony while you are still in a significantly altered state of mind. It might sound extreme, but they also tell you not to make any major decisions for at least two months—so leaving a biased review that might persuade a stranger to make a life-changing, potentially dangerous decision seems contradictory. People rely on reviews all the time. Wouldn't you want those reviews to come from sober individuals?
I have attended three retreats, and this is the first time I feel compelled to leave a review—solely to keep you safe and to deter seekers like you from choosing Mexisoul. Note: it is NOT a compliment to Mexisoul that I have returned more than once. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Something isn’t working, and it’s not due to a lack of integration on my part.
I implore you to do your research thoroughly. And I mean *thoroughly.* Please educate yourself on what it truly means for someone to call themselves a shaman versus a curandero, and then compare their credentials. Secondly, research what qualifications or specialized training a psychedelic integration coach should have to safely assist in a ceremony. Are they trained in trauma-informed care, for example? Should the general manager of the Finca be assisting in the ceremony? More importantly, should any of the staff members (excluding the "shaman") be under the influence during the ceremony when their role is to be of service? I actually had to tell the integration coach to please *not* take the medicine after she blurted out that she hadn’t made her decision yet. That is insane!
Also, what would you like to imagine the resume of a Plant Medicine Retreat Director would look like?
If you take anything from this review, I sincerely hope it’s this: specifically ask if there have been any accusations of unethical behavior involving the staff, including the "shaman." Ask when these incidents occurred and how they were handled. Request to see the written response. The last incident happened this summer, by the way, to my retreat sister, who has shared her experience publicly on this site. You deserve full disclosure.
My experience was more subtle, as all of my ayahuasca journeys were grossly sexual in nature until I retreated to my room, where miraculously, they would entirely change into useful lessons. On a deeper level, what I experienced was spiritual incest due to the manipulation of the sacred relationship between the “shaman” (the patriarchal archetype) and myself, the vulnerable female participant. It is extremely personal subject to me, hence the depth of this violation. This is the most damaging and dangerous offense—the ultimate betrayal of the spiritual family dynamic, where there should be obvious, common-sense boundaries.
I have been psychologically, emotionally, and spiritually damaged. I am currently in therapy with two therapists, one of whom is specifically trained in these matters. I have also started on an antidepressant. These experiences have caused endless rumination. I now feel anger (which is not a normal emotion for me) after spending so much time, money, and enduring unnecessary suffering. I'm worse off than I was before my first retreat.
When I think about plant medicine now, I feel disgusted. I don't know if I will ever trust another shaman or retreat center again. I truly believed these people were my spiritual family, and it is heartbreaking. Our "sagrada familia" has been severed in two, with denial and leniency favored over evidence.
Be very careful. When you hear them say, "trust the medicine," take pause and never give up your sovereignty. If you need help, demand it. I can attest to several times when I asked for help and was denied. I witnessed this happening to others as well. Do not trust the "shaman" to know which medications are safe to take alongside these substances. We sent photos of our medications (including all ingredients) to the "shaman" for review. He gave us the green light. However, after doing my own research later, I found that some were contraindicated. On that note, is it even safe to do DMT four days in a row? Experts say no. I was never comfortable with that, so I always sat out for one of the four days.
Furthermore, the "shaman" will tell you that he takes on this role only for the ayahuasca ceremonies, not for the samadhi or bufo ceremonies. So, who is sanctifying, holding space, and protecting you? You might as well conduct your own ceremonies at home, minus the "shaman" acting as a DJ. The entire experience feels like a performance to me now.
There is a serious lack of integrity and authenticity, starting at the top and trickling down to the volunteers. I can provide many examples that reveal this.
A powerful psychedelic experience will be nothing but static unless it is grounded in firm, clear, pure, and unwavering ethical foundations that everyone believes in and practices. Sadly, this does not exist at Mexisoul.
Do not drink their well water. Be alert to the farm animals as they let them roam freely sometimes. I was tackled and thrown down to the ground by one of the horses."
"Very beautiful inside and out, great translator, very accommodating and helpful for organizing the retreat and answering questions, super friendly and supportive "