"This was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. I don’t want to taint anyone’s experience with mine. Just know that you will be taken care of, and the return on the investment is more then any I have ever made elsewhere.
Blessings 🤍"
Highly Rated Retreats in Peru
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Types of Retreat in Peru
Short Retreats in Peru
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Upcoming Retreats in Peru
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Experiences on Retreat
"For me Arkana was exactly what I needed. The whole week and each day’s itinerary was completely planned and thought-out so that I could have the best time, not have to stress about anything, and focus all my time and energy on my healing and manifesting. The staff at the Sacred Valley retreat is wonderful and they really care. Highly recommend for first time Ayahuasca, or those that want fully planned-out experience in Peru. Thank you!"
"Absolutely amazing - super safe space, brilliant, caring & dedicated faciltiators, amazing maestros. Cannot recommend this highly enough if you are looking for an authentic and deep healing experience. We have done more than 30 ceremonies in different locations across Peru and Costa Rica and keep coming back to Soltara as our best experience. "
" attended Arkana by myself for a week long retreat. I had heard about Arkana over the years, but decided to attend after I had heard some fantastic personal recommendations (and I finally felt ready for this sort of experience). My expectations were far exceeded. First, there is such a feeling of professionalism, respect, and organization. I sensed how thoughtful and well run this retreat center was, which matters a lot to me. They do an incredible job making you feel safe and creating a genuinely very safe and supportive environment. The food was exceptional. The retreat space I beautiful! Much more beautiful than the photos do justice. I participated in four ceremonies and witnessed a level of healing I had never seen before. This is truly a world class healing hospital. There is so much integrity and heart poured into this place. I watched true service at work. That was transformative on my own. The ceremony experience is intense, as to be expected with any retreat of this kind, but the impact it has had on my life (which was already incredibly beautiful and aligned) is profound. I look forward to my return, and have recommended it widely to anyone who feels called to experience this medicine. You will be glad you came and very glad you chose Arkana. You are in excellent hands.
- Sam Pfotenhauer
P.S. I recommend you bring anti-itch cream, as there are mosquitoes in the amazon and you will get bites. I also recommend bringing a few light items of clothing that cover your body, like a light linen shirt and a light long skirt or pants. I also highly encourage that you closely follow the recommended diet before and really lean into the experience."
"Life changing the people staff community inside this small retreat center is a ture spiritual experience one full of love understanding and teamwork can’t wait to going to the one in the Amazon let go have faith and Arkana can help you heal❤️"
"I attended 4 ceremonys in this place that will change my life forever. Arkana is a paradise deep rooted in the amazon jungle. The facility itself is so beautiful, surrounded by a symphony of jungle sounds that are so peaceful. When the heat of day peaks you can cool off in the swimming pool. The set up of this place is a perfect mix of luxury and nature. The food is of ultimate standard and the facilitator's are there to make sure you are comfortable at all stages of your journey and make you feel safe and loved they are beautiful beings . The people who work here also teach you yoga and breathwork they are true healers along with the majestic shamans. The shamans are so humble and powerful , I had doubts going into this experience if what I read and heard were true, I never believed in magic but what I saw and felt has made me a believer, the icaros performed from these true healers were taking negative energy I had trapped inside of me for 30 years out of my body with their icaros , I can't explain this but it happened and I am forever grateful to jose the creater and to everyone involved in this project that could heal the world one heart at a time . The medicine itself has called you this far and the medicine itself is healing and magical but only in the right hands .If like me, you have doubts picking an ayahuasca retreat then please trust yourself and your intuition, something has led you to read this review and I hope my experience can give you the confidence to pick arkana. Be brave, trust yourself, trust the medicine and remember you are loved 🩵"
"I recently attended an Ayahuasca Retreat at Arkana Spiritual Centre in the Amazon and it was an absolutely transformative experience. The feeling of safety and support provided by the Shamans and facilitators was unparalleled. Their energy and compassion created a nurturing environment for inner exploration. The food was not only delicious but also nourishing, adding to the overall healing journey. The facilities were stunning, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the retreat. I highly recommend Arkana for anyone seeking profound personal growth and spiritual awakening. Five stars all the way!"
"Arkana is truly a magnificent home for one to heal. I received more than I could ever have the words for there, and I’m eternally grateful for everyone at Arkana for supporting this journey into my own self. Everything from the center itself, the facilitators, the staff, and especially the Shamans were just amazing. They are incredibly meticulous on their schedule and it truly does help the process of working with the medicine throughout the week. I felt so safe here, and very supported. I will hold the Shipibo shamans very dear to my heart for as long as I live. My week with Arkana brought so much more to me than I could have ever expected. I know I will return one day to the jungle. For it feels like home to me. Thank you Jose and everyone at Arkana, the Maestros; thank you for being the light that helped guide me home."
"THIS PLACE COULD NOT BE BETTER IN ALMOST ALL WAYS! Instead of leaving a review I'll just post my group message to my new lifelong friends that I posted on our WhatsApp group chat......
As I bid farewell to Costa Rica, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for the extraordinary journey we've shared. Looking back on our time at Soltara, I'm deeply moved by the truly transformative impact it's had on me. As I sit here on this plane, I can't help but feel a profound shift in my mindset and energy—a clear indication of the deep connections we've formed with both the plant medicine and each other.
Our diverse backgrounds melted away, revealing a genuine human family bound by our shared experiences and the incredible power of human connection. The memories we've etched into our collective experience will forever be etched in my heart, serving as a beautiful reminder of humanity's beauty and the strength found in coming together while experiencing the sacred medicine.
The Ayahuasca experience was truly profound, offering insights and revelations that touched the very core of my being. The melodies of the Icaros sung by our Maestros were incredibly moving, like whispers from another realm that resonated deep within us, unlocking hidden chambers of our consciousness. And the medicine itself, with its cosmic wisdom and healing properties, gently guided us on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening that I will always treasure
I want to express my deepest appreciation to each and every one of you for your kindness, support, and companionship on this cosmic journey we've embarked upon together. Through this experience, I've delved into the depths of my soul and its connection to the mysteries I may not fully comprehend, yet wholeheartedly believe in. The lessons learned and the love shared among us will always be woven into the fabric of my being.
As we part ways, please know that each of you holds a special place in my heart, and I am forever grateful for the precious gift of our time together. May our paths cross again, and may we continue to cherish and apply the wisdom bestowed upon us by Mother Ayahuasca, uplifting and inspiring ourselves and those around us on our unique journeys through life. With love and heartfelt gratitude, Stephen. 🌟🌿🙏"
"Cannot say enough, and of course words fall short. Everything about this retreat exceeded expectations - superb facilitation team (thank you Nick, Viviana and Stephania!), wonderful medicine team/Maestras, gorgeous setting, healthy and delicious food, lots of info on preparation and integration, ample opportunity for 1 on 1 guidance with staff (and ample time sharing with other attendees), and a very safe, secure environment in general, which is so essential to this kind of work.
The experience (the journeys themselves) were exquisite, tho sometimes hard, and I can't begin to capture the detail here. But I will say that every fellow attendee at our retreat had a profound, moving and highly impactful experience. "
"The entire experience at Soltara exceeded my expectations.
The resort itself and rooms were beautiful, with an exceptional view & plenty of quiet, private spaces.
The food was outstanding, with a wide variety of fresh options. I felt over fed most of the days, and well hydrated with a variety of fresh juices daily.
The facilitators made you feel safe, and were knowledgeable in all aspects of the ceremony, and maintained a trusting environment where you felt comfortable talking to them about anything and everything. They were so supportive, both during ceremonies & during down time.
Tati, the yoga instructor, was magical, and had a special gift of bringing us into a calm relaxed state before each ceremony.
This was my first retreat, and nothing could have fully prepared me for the actual ceremonies. There are not words to describe the depth of emotion that surfaced. The entire experience was life changing. The Maestro/Maestra had such a strong, and balanced presence.
And the Ayahuasca, the medicine, completely shifted the lens through which I see the world.
I am forever grateful, and look forward to next time!"
"Thank you for the positivity, for always being cheerful and always being there when someone needs. "
"Will always remember his singing during ceremonies.
Thank you again so much for that warmth and calmness. "
"I started looking for a retreat a week before start of my travel. Contacted a few people, had calls with them, but the call with Peter kind of made my decision fast and unchangeable. It was really simple, warm and informative what will/might/could happen.
Until the day of arrival Peter was always communicating, letting me know how everything will go. That made me feel welcomed and I was looking forward to it more and more.
After meeting him at the airport I knew that a great adventure is about to happen. And it did. When I met Anna and I saw how interested she was in each of our stories, how easy is to communicate with both of them - I knew that I chose the most dedicated people I could’ve.
And now, after spending 8 days of dieting, after all the conversations, happy and supportive words from them, after that much care I can assure each and every one of you, who wants to go on diet - go to Mahāvana Foundation. No matter where in the world you are. Go to Peter, Anna, Momo, Bully and Pushkin. You will find another place in this big world where you will feel like home, where there will be people who want to help and support you, where positivity, light and one of the best energies will surround you. Where you will see friendly faces and you will want to smile, because it’s impossible not to smile. Where every corner of each lodge, shower, plant and even toilet is made with love for you and to nature.
And it’s not only support during the diet. After closing the diet, the last day, I didn’t feel how hours and hours went by, because we were sitting and chatting about everything. Starting from Anna drawing a map of Iquitos, where should I go to eat, grocery store, bank, beautiful places to visit to arranging me a tour, so I wouldn’t need to look for it myself. The time just melted, like a cone of ice cream on a very hot day.
I was happy that the diet ended, I felt, and still feel amazing after it. But I wasn’t too happy about the fact that I had to leave them.
Already miss the amazing five of Mahāvana Foundation. 🍀🤍"
"I researched ayahuasca retreats to death before selecting Soltara. Naturally, as this was my first time, I was fairly nervous and cautious.
All my fears were laid to rest. Everything about Soltara, and I mean everything, was on point. The location was stunning, the rooms immaculate, clean and comfortable, the food was outstanding. The staff were knowledgeable, approachable and genuinely interested in making sure you had the best experience you possibly could.
The ceremonies were out of this world. They made sure we started with a small dose so we could get comfortable, and then we could increase it as we felt we needed. The Shipibo guides were unbelievable.
My experience here changed my life. And I know it was like this for everyone else as well. I can’t speak highly enough of Soltara."
"I had gone three years ago and had an enlightening experience but this past March 2024 was transcendent. The facilitators Cassandra, Brian, Mariela, Poncho and Miguel all helped to make this experience extremely comfortable and guided us every step of the way. Dona/Curandera Angela was incredibly powerful but so gentle. Her motherly, gentle but strong energy made this by far the most transcendent experience I've ever had in my life! Anyone looking to explore the unseen world should definitely experience this retreat! All of our group left changed in the most profound ways!
"
"To everyone who is reading this, if there is a point in life, and even if there is not, and you seem everything is OK, Retreat with Soltara in Peru is something everyone wants to discover his or her real self should experience. But also, if you’re facing therapist struggles like addictions anxieties or physical neuroplastic, pain, problems, chronicle, pain, or psychological issues. This is the answer. You need to bring a portion of strength and you need to be brave because this journey is not a comfortable holiday. This journey is to yourself and the deeply healing and cleansing one. And everything cleans out on that journey will not bite you later in your life with health issues you don’t even think of at the moment.
I’ve been through very hard times there, but the team accommodated that and by the team, I specifically want to name Nick , Vivian, Stefania, you will be safe you will be in best hands with warm hearted, loving, caring, humble, and diligent highly educated people who have designated themselves to holistic health, and the power of this ancient knowledge and medicine.
Of course, mistress are incredible, powerful and traveling all the way from the jungle to The Retreat to help us and to share this knowledge.
It’s hard to describe, or it’s impossible to describe what we all in this lovely group have learned have been through and were able to strengthen ourselves for the time after.
If there will be a six star, I would give it, so please be assured that you are in the best hands with the most amazing medicine and the most wonderful environment with fantastic food if you would decide to challenge and at the same time, heal yourself with Ayahuaska. "
"Such a wonder filled experience. Many profound insights into health, spirituality, friendship, love, forgiveness, empowerment. Mentally, emotional, and spiritually rewarding! I really can’t speak highly enough. You really can’t put words to this. Of course your hearts true intent will play a part. I truly believe you will find everything you are looking for and more. We’re all connected. So obvious during ceremony! Good Job everyone! You know who you are! 1 hundred stars!!!!"
"I can’t describe the journey in words! But here is a short summary:
Amazing destination ( Sacred Valley)
Amazing Team with professional knowledge Organisation, experiences and warm hearted care 24/7
Overwhelming and healing ceremonies with loving Maestras
Special thanks to Vivian, Stefania and. Nik and the two wonderful, caring and warmhearted Maestras!
Also thx to the lovely Owner and team of Raices Inkas
It felt like a loving family!!
"
"I have been on the Spiritual journey for over 10 years. Throughout these years I have used Ayahuasca twice. Both times it’s been at kawsay. The amount of support and effort that is given by all the staff at Kawsay is absolutely incredible.
I am grateful and appreciative of the respect and dedication that is given to each individual person ,tailoring specific work that meets their needs.
There are no gimmicks here, only the best interests for each and every soul that seeks healing and connection to the Great Devine.
For a true, trustworthy, safe and authentic ayahuasca experience look no further then Kawsay. The shamans are experts in the medicine, the facility is amazing, the food is absolutely delicious and the location is magical.
I experienced true healing for my body, mind and spirit.
I will be back🙏💛💛💛
"
"There are lots of retreat centers that one can attend for personal growth and healing. Ayahuasca Foundation offers the only opportunity for one to learn Shipibo traditions and practices from maestro Don Enrique. If you are interested in expanding your practice so that you can create space for others, this is the learning experience for you. During the 2 months you will have the opportunity to participate in two dietas from master plants, fasting, learn Shipibo icaros, participate in healing vapor baths, learn about the healing properties of numerous plants, receive personal healing from these plants, learn how to hold and navigate ceremony space, hold space during a student lead ceremony for all other participants, and more! Maestro Don Enrique opens up his community and shares his knowledge to be spread all over the world for all humanity to benefit. This is a tough course that will test your comfort level on a spiritual and physical level. If you are lookin for grow on this path, I highly recommend Ayahuasca Foundation. "
"My journey with Kawsay Retreat has been nothing short of miraculous. Writing this review, my heart is full of love and appreciation for the incredible work done at Kawsay. Having visited thrice since my first encounter in January 2022, I’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation in myself, thanks to the compassionate care of William, Viviane, and the shamans (father and son).
My first visit was a desperate search for direction, at a time when life seemed bleak and hopeless. It felt like fate led me to Kawsay, a place centered around unconditional love. There, I found trustworthy people who guided me towards healing. In just one week, I experienced profound healing, akin to years of therapy. Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, along with dependencies on substances and unhealthy behaviors, began to fade away.
Months later, facing challenges with depression and romantic relationships, I was suggested a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The prospect of lifelong medication was daunting. Reaching out to Kawsay again, I spoke with William, whose insights prompted an invitation back, at no extra cost. This gesture of generosity and care affirmed my trust in Kawsay’s healing process.
The retreat’s philosophy is not about profit, but genuine healing and love. Each visit reaffirmed this belief. When I faced difficulties in accepting love in a healthy relationship, I knew Kawsay was the place to find answers. The healing and insights during my third visit came more naturally, solidifying my belief in this process.
To anyone seeking a genuine, authentic ayahuasca experience, Kawsay Retreat is the place to be. This retreat has become a second home to me, filled with love and healing. My gratitude towards Kawsay and everyone involved is immense. Kawsay isn’t just a retreat; it’s a life-changing experience where one can find hope, direction, and a deep sense of belonging "
"When we arrived in Iquitos (from London) 4 days before start of retreat we were told that there is “no retreat for the week we had booked” (19/1/24) because lack of clients and they didn’t have our booking in their system due to internal error. To save holiday we booked other open retreat fairly quickly. Unbelievable but true, Kawsay refuse refund, instead offering us credits to be used over 2 years ! … after we have already travelled to Peru! Human errors can happen, but the handling of it tells a lot about William Menech and Kawsay and their priorities. Despite the inconvenience we actually believe it happened for a reason and we are glad we didn’t end up doing ayahuasca at Kawsay. We spent a day in Iquitos with lawyers and notary to start legal proceedings against Kawsay, which are ongoing. Avoid!
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Response from Retreat Center:
Dear Jurgen,
We would like to address all of your concerns on the events leading up to your scheduled retreat with Kawsay Ayahuasca Retreat. Our recognition of your individual struggles, especially in light of the Covid travel situations of your initial scheduled booking, and your repeated requests for rescheduling demonstrate our dedication to supporting you in the face of these extraordinary circumstances.
Notably, from the beginning of our interactions, we have kindly granted your requests for many reschedulings. After your last cancellation, there was a crucial period during which you were unsure of the retreat's new date. In December 2023, when you chose to reschedule, communication was unfortunately directed to an ex-employee rather than Kawsay directly. This misdirection resulted in your not being scheduled for the retreat date you preferred.
Upon your unexpected arrival in Iquitos, almost a week before the retreat, we were made aware through a message forwarded by our ex-employee from you to her at that time. We contacted you right away, and you were scheduled for your desired retreat immediately. We truly regret the current legal situation, especially in light of our ethical principles of spiritual growth and healing, but despite our best efforts, your unhappiness resulted in legal proceedings.
In our more than 11 years of conducting business with the utmost integrity and providing excellent service and healing, this is the first time we have encountered this type of scenario. We've learned so much from it, and it has inspired us to improve our procedural and communication standards. We are still working toward a solution that serves the interests of both yourself and Kawsay, moving empathetically and rationally in the direction of a correct resolution.
We deeply apologize for the confusion and inconvenience caused by the miscommunication and oversight. We are committed to maintaining our internal procedures and learning from this experience, therefore, your opinion has been very important to us. Ensuring that our decisions and actions completely reflect the principles we uphold.
We are willing to continue the conversation as this issue develops in order to find a solution that benefits all sides in terms of mutual understanding and resolution. We appreciate your choices and the path you have chosen, and we offer our best wishes for your journey forward and well-being.
This message also serves as a commitment to our community and prospective guests, reaffirming our commitment to openness, growth, and the utmost regard for every person's experience working with us. Our mission is to keep Kawsay Ayahuasca Retreat a center for learning and healing, and we remain steadfast in our dedication.
Jurgen, we apologize for not living up to your expectations, but we are thankful for the chance to have had this experience with you. We wish you contentment and peace of mind going forward.
Warmly,
William Menech,
Director Kawsay Ayahuasca Retreat"
"Wow! This place is amazing. The staff are extremely professional and provide us with a beautiful experience. It was truly special. I felt at home and like part of a family. I had the opportunity to connect with my heart and deepen my self-awareness. I have no words to describe it. I just want to express my gratitude Arkana Team for their professionalism and dedication! I strongly recommend it. Love you all 💙 "
"I booked a 15 days experience at the Mahavana Foundation and it was a unique experience for me. Thank you Peter for the stay and the wisdom, I really enjoyed staying and discussing with you. I appreciated how the retreat went, Peter made sure I was fine through the overall process. It was indeed a challenge for me to be secluded in the forest and eating a special diet, it made me rethink my life, what I wish for and what is important, I think this kind of experience is priceless and a worthy investment for our health and mind.
I thank ayahuasca for making me listen to my body more and my needs, how I feel matters the most even with social pressure, I will definitely continue to pursue my spiritual journey.
Don't hesitate to book your retreat with Peter, you will be in good hands =)
Thanks to Momo and pushkin <3
"
"I don't know where to begin. First I want to thank the Medicine for calling me to this place. It did for me what I could not do for myself. Everyone from the folks in the kitchen to the house keeping staff and the facilitators are all wonderful people that made me feel so welcome and appreciated. The area is absolutely beautiful and peaceful, the food is healing in itself and the facilitators are completely off the chart with their knowledge and compassion for each of us that where there. I can't put into words what happened to me other than it was a miracle. "
"When considering plant medicine and going on an ayahuasca journey you should really take into account the environment and having a safe place for your journey. Soltara will provide just that. A warm and friendly staff to help guide you every step of the way. The place is well organized and runs smoothly. The food is delicious and the accommodations are spot on. I stayed in the Eco Tamboo and I loved the rustic feel in the jungle. It cooled down at night and I was so comfortable. I highly recommend Soltara to anyone. "
"My first experience with ayahuasca was everything I anticipated to be and more thanks to the professional individual approach at Soltara Healing Centre in Sacred Valley Peru.
I have first heard of ayahuasca around 10 years ago and been fortunate enough to be called at the end of last year.
Soltara retreat was recommended to me by a previous customer for its excellent and efficient approach to the ayahuasca facilitation as well as an exceptional retreat vetting and organisation procedures.
I would certainly recommend Soltara for those looking to try ayahuasca for the first time as well as those who have experienced ayahuasca previously.
The facilitators Bonnie, Frida, Robert and a dedicated and talented Yoga instructor Claire. as well as Maestros Noe and Marin provided me and the group with an exceptional experience with their immaculate attention to each group member’s needs, wishes and healing requirements.
I would like to especially thank Bonnie who made me feel at ease and comforted and guided me in times of vulnerability as if she was a close member of my family.
I am eternally grateful for a life changing experience that Soltara has provided me with and will be returning in the future should the need for ayahuasca healing arise.
Thank you. 🙏🏻✨❤️"
"My first experience with ayahuasca was everything I anticipated and more thanks to the professional individual approach at Soltara Healing Centre in Scared Valley Peru.
I have first heard of ayahuasca around 10 years ago and been fortunate enough to be called at the end of last year.
Soltara retreat was recommended to me by a previous customer for its excellent and efficient approach to the ayahuasca facilitation as well as an exceptional retreat vetting and organisation procedures.
I would certainly recommend Soltara for those looking to try ayahuasca for the first time as well as those who have experienced ayahuasca previously.
The facilitators Bonnie, Frida, Robert and a dedicated and talented Yoga instructor Claire. as well as Maestros Noe and Marin provided me and the group with an exceptional experience with their immaculate attention to each group member’s needs, wishes and healing requirements.
I would like to especially thank Bonnie who made me feel at ease and comforted and guided me in times of vulnerability as if she was a close member of my family.
I am eternally grateful for a life changing experience that Soltara has provided me with and will be returning in the future should the need for ayahuasca healing arise.
Thank you. 🙏🏻✨❤️
"
"My first experience with ayahuasca was everything I anticipated and more thanks to the professional individual approach at Soltara Healing Centre in Scared Valley Peru.
I have first heard of ayahuasca around 10 years ago and been fortunate enough to be called at the end of last year.
Soltara retreat was recommended to me by a previous customer for its excellent and efficient approach to the ayahuasca facilitation as well as an exceptional retreat vetting and organisation procedures.
I would certainly recommend Soltara for those looking to try ayahuasca for the first time as well as those who have experienced ayahuasca previously.
The facilitators Bonnie, Frida and Robert as well as Maestros Noe and Marin provided me and the group with an exceptional experience with their immaculate attention to each group member’s needs, wishes and healing requirements.
I would like to especially thank Bonnie who made me feel at ease and comforted and guided me in times of vulnerability as if she was a close member of my family.
I am eternally grateful for a life changing experience that Soltara has provided me with and will be returning in the future should the need for ayahuasca healing arise.
Thank you. 🙏🏻✨❤️
"