Find Authentic Retreats in Portugal

"My time at The Lighthouse was nothing short of life-changing. From the moment I arrived, Isher and Mareike created a warm, safe space where I felt supported and understood. Being surrounded by others on similar journeys made the experience even more powerful—there was a deep sense of connection and shared purpose. I will forever feel connected to the other participants of this journey. Through the huachuma experience, I finally let go of personal struggles I’d been carrying for years. Isher and Mareike guided me with such care and wisdom, giving me the space to face what I needed to and release it on my own terms. By the end of the retreat, I felt lighter and more hopeful, with a clear vision for my future that I hadn’t been able to imagine before. If you’re looking for healing, clarity, and a sense of belonging, The Lighthouse is the place to find it. I’m so deeply grateful for this experience."

"I recently attended a retreat at The Lighthouse with Isher and Mareike, and it was truly one of the most grounding and transformative experiences I’ve had. As someone who tends to approach things pretty analytically, I was curious (and a bit cautious) going in, but they really exceeded all my expectations. Before the Experience Right from the start, Isher and Mareike created a sense of trust and clarity. They took the time to explain everything about the huachuma experience—what to expect, how it might feel, and what could come up during the journey. It really helped me feel prepared and at ease, which made it easier to fully lean into the process. During the Experience Throughout the trip, their guidance was amazing. They have this incredible ability to hold space while letting you navigate the experience at your own pace. Whether it was through thoughtful conversations, moments of empathy, or just being quietly present, they struck the perfect balance. Anytime I had questions or needed support, they were right there with wisdom and care. It felt like talking to people who genuinely understood and wanted to help. After the Experience What really impressed me was how much they emphasized integration afterward. They gave me practical advice on what to expect in the days and weeks following the retreat and how to work with everything I had learned. It didn’t feel like the experience ended when the ceremony did—they made sure I had tools and insights to take back into my everyday life. Why It Stood Out: Well-Organized: The whole retreat felt really thoughtfully planned. Everything was structured enough to feel safe but not so rigid that it felt overwhelming. Holistic Support: They addressed every aspect—mental, emotional, and spiritual—which made the whole experience feel very complete. Genuine Wisdom: Isher and Mareike are incredibly knowledgeable, but they explain things in such a down-to-earth way. It’s clear they really know what they’re doing. Final Thoughts If you’re looking for a meaningful and grounding retreat, I can’t recommend The Lighthouse enough. Isher and Mareike are compassionate, wise, and genuinely amazing at what they do. I left feeling more connected, clear, and inspired than I’ve felt in a long time. I’m so grateful for their guidance and would absolutely go back or recommend it to anyone."

"This is the second time I've held a retreat at Quinta Carvalhas. I felt the same magic as I did last year, which allowed me to relax into confidence that retreat participants would feel it too. They did. Such high demand to host a retreat again next year. My sense is that this comes in part from the location (Ribatejo), in part the nurturing touches abundant everywhere at the Quinta, in part because of the aura projected by Michelle, and in part by the genuinely loving staff (particularly Gerhard, Rafaela, Fred and Margarida). Every time I made a request it was met by "Yes, and ... we'll figure it out!" And they did. :-)"

"Dear Gerard, I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks for the wonderful hospitality I experienced during my stay. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by your friendly and attentive staff, which made me feel right at home. One of the highlights of my visit was the mosaic workshop – I thoroughly enjoyed it and appreciated the creativity and guidance that went into making it such a memorable experience. The beautiful location added even more charm, providing a perfect setting to relax and unwind. The meals were absolutely delicious and exceeded all expectations; every dish was a delight. It’s clear that a lot of thought and care goes into everything you do. I can genuinely say that staying here is a true pleasure, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable getaway. Thank you again for everything! Warm regards, Carla"

"Top rated experience overall !"

"I’ve been to Shangriballa for a 7 day Bufo retreat and it was fantastic. It’s hard to put into words what I experienced at the retreat or what a profound impact it has had on my life so I will not go there, however I’ll say that the impact was huge and very positive. Lisa and Miguel were great hosts and I immediately felt at ease in their presence, which is important when undergoing such a personal journey. They were excellent at preparing us for the experience, and the care and love I felt before and after was out of this world. True genuine humans. I look forward to eventually coming back again! One more note about the experience - if you feel called to it - definitely don’t hesitate and do it, though keep in mind that this is not the case for everyone. Bufo gives what you need, not what you want, so keep an open mind and be prepared to let go. Much love!"

"A fantastic experience. Yuri leads you lovingly through the ceremonies and combined with his calm and fine singing voice and musicality"

"One of the most amazing experiences and retreats i have been on. From the staff, the property, the food and Michele's yoga and meditation classes, everything is amazing. The most calm, at peace, relaxed and connected with myself i have ever felt. Couldn't recommend this place enough. "

"Two years ago I did my first dieta (with Ajo Sacha) and in May of last year I joined the Vedic immersion retreat at Sinchi Runa, dieting with Bobinsana. For the Vedic retreat Daru Krishna was also present to give information about each person's astrological chart and he gave great insights about Ayurveda. I am deeply grateful for Sanango's wisdom, sometimes harsh when needed :), and the rest of the team for always being there if any doubts or questions arise or if you just need a hug or a cry. The food has always been great! Nourishing and you can feel the care that has been put in to make it. The location in Lepe is away from any busy areas and is perfect for a silent retreat communicating with nature. Grateful for the insights gained and all the teachings learned! With love, Sheela"

"I loved the retreat and its concept. The importance given to preparation, the way of eating, silence and introspection set the Sinchi Runa retreat apart from all the others I've been to. I recommend this unique experience to everyone."

"Sinchi Runa is a tranquil, safe, loving environment. A space that just allowed me to just be during my retreats. Greeted with warmest, welcoming smiles from the team, which instantly helped me feel cared for. We were all introduced and given an overview of how everything runs, along with the importance of silence, and what silence actually is. We were assured that the silence doesn't extend to the team if and when needed; I (the group) could talk to Maestro Sanango, Ananda, Madhava or Arjuna. I found that questions were not only welcomed but encouraged, Maestro Sanango wanted everyone to have as much information as possible on the plants, the process, philosophies, how we're cared for, why the guidelines are there. Everything seems to have a place and a purpose. All this just added to my feeling of safety and care. The meditations were really very helpful, learning to focus on the breath, everything just seems to be in order to help the participants truly get the most out of their experience and journey. The ceremonies guided expertly and beautifully by Maestro Sanango, he sings and chants as well as playing solely instrumental music through a speaker, which was all beautiful and purposeful. The team are professional, experienced, caring, loving and so welcoming. The site is clean, hygienic and well looked after. The food is season appropriate and so full of love (i've had retreats both in colder snd warmer months), and as I saw it happily caters to all. I can't recommend Sinchi Runa more highly from my experience. So much gratitude and love to all. Thank you so much 🤍"

"'Do something today that your future self will thank you for', sums up this life-affirming experience. This is the something. Intense, profound, transformational. If you are reading this, your soul has already chosen, and you must listen. You will be changed in ways you cannot forsee or describe but your spirit will be eternally joyful for. Thank you Sinchi Runa x "

"I couldn’t have picked a better retreat to attend. The country, venue, weather, food, format, facilitators and all the other attendees were amazing. It was very clear that Kasham, the lead facilitator, is extremely knowledgeable and experienced and she’s certainly intuitive being very aware of peoples states and needs throughout the process. This was also true of Hanna, the other facilitator, who was really caring and full of smiles. This was particularly apparent during ceremony where they were always by my side when in need. The duration of the retreat was perfect as 7 days allowed for it to be structured effectively with plenty of meaningful activities, integration and bonding with others. In addition, the small group size made it a much more personal experience. I definitely recommend this retreat for anyone who wishes to embark on such a transformational journey."

"I stayed at Sinchi Runa a year ago for a 10 day retreat, and more recently left after a 3 month deep immersion stay. I don’t know how to sum up all that was learned, understood, let go of, and more, in writing, for fear it being too long and putting you all to sleep! I would say that since I grew out of being a baby, and could eat and drink by my self, my time at Sinchi Runa was the most vulnerable I’ve been. I’m very thankful to them that it was their care I was vulnerable. I could give so many examples of where I’m thankful that Sanango was ‘taking’ or ‘leading’ (I’m not exactly sure the word for it) the ceremony, but one that springs to mind was in an Ayahuasca ceremony, I was panicking! I asked for help, and Ananda and Sanango came to my aid and helped me process what I was going through. I recall many challenging Kambo ceremonies (In fact I think they all were) but two in particular, in hindsight, I feel blessed that it was Arjuna by my side. Arjuna was a great teacher to me, being in his presence, watching how he interacts with others, and hearing him speak in group sharing taught me a lot, in particular about my pride. Initially, in my consultations with Sanango and Ananda, I was apprehensive to be open because I was cautious around Ananda, and this is nothing against Ananda, it was a reaction I am learning to step out of. I started to trust Ananda, I tried to leave no stone unturned in these consultations, because it became apparent that it was a privilege to have these two know me, all of me. That they were offering help if I was reaching out for it. I don’t want to portray Sanango as a mythical figure, a guru, or something along those lines, partly because I know he doesn’t want that, but it also doesn’t feel right to me. He is the wisest person I’ve come across. Every time I had the chance to speak to him I felt excited. Through my eyes He is brilliant. It seems to me He knows a lot about Love. I can’t fully express what it meant for me to have Sanango as my teacher, or ‘curandaro’. He is upholding or maintaining great teachings, or spirits, forces, at Sinchi Runa. Ananda (tough act to follow) was a great teacher to me and I think he had a great understanding of my ‘process’ and what I was going through. I felt loved by Ananda and he too took great care in protecting my process. We also had a few good laughs. I would say the moments of social interaction with everyone at SinchiRuna were lovely. The food was top notch, Fiona was cooking most of the time whilst I was there, and she is an amazing cook. I noticed how much care was taken in the cooking of the food, and the prep. My portion sizes were always to my desire, and I think I overate most of the time. Fiona was also significant in my journey, she’s great, and so comforting and caring, she made so much effort to protect and care for my ‘Process’. I’m not sure if this is her intention but she really made me feel at home. I felt the crux of my work was in my ‘Diets’ or ‘Dietas’. Up to now these Dietas have been the most challenging chapters of my life, and without a doubt the most rewarding, if the reward is ‘spiritual growth’ or knowledge of the unconscious, in my case. In the Dietas I developed an understanding around deep questions such as: what is pride, what is humility, what is compassion, what is gratitude, in what conditions do these arise. An understanding of who I am, and why I behave the way I behave. What am I doing in the human experience, and so on, and I really could go on. The diets were the most significant periods of learning in my life, and it was hard earned, it was also a learning of how to come out of suffering, my understanding arose from my coming out of my suffering. And so these diets were a rollercoaster of suffering, enlightenment, more boredom than I knew I could handle. It was very draining, very emotional and very rewarding. I do not know of any other facility with the depth of wisdom, knowledge, and care as Sinchi Runa, I don’t think places such as Sinchi Runa are easy to come by, and for me it feels it’s a privilege and a great stroke of luck to have come by Sinchi Runa. "

"What I initially believed to be the most profound experience of my life turned into a nightmare. During my ayahuasca ceremony, I felt an entity enter my body, guiding me through the journey, speaking to me, and revealing things about other dimensions and people—things I could never have known on my own. It even moved my body, a presence so real and insistent that I was certain it was here to help me. After the ceremony, I told what happened to Sanango and asked him what it was, but he gave no concrete response. The entity returned during the second ceremony, and again, I received no answer when I questioned what it was. Fast forward a week, and I began to realize that the entity had attached itself to me—and it was anything but benevolent. What followed were months of torment. It wasn’t a guide; it was an evil entity that refused to leave. In desperation, I had to involve priests and underwent multiple exorcisms. It was, without a doubt, the most terrifying experience of my life. Through this ordeal, I learned that astral entities can attach themselves to people during ceremonies if the space is not properly protected or if the practitioner is not clean. This is common knowledge and many people speak about it. I feel compelled to warn others considering Sinchi Runa: On top of this entity attachment, I had no real debriefing after the ceremonies, no proper guidance, and my concerns about an entity entering my body were completely dismissed. I am still baffled by how such a serious issue could be ignored. --------- Center Response --------- We appreciate that you have shared your experience, and deeply regret this has been so challenging for you. It saddens us to see there has been such a radical change of perspective about your experience, considering you seemed to leave the retreat in a very good state, and the glowing praises shared with us here on the platform that the retreat was “the best gift you could have given yourself”. You unfortunately turned down the continued assistance and online support we offered you when you later contacted us, saying you felt working with exorcisms was more efficient. In our view, as we also suggested to you, solutions such as these that do not depart from a place of understanding related to Master Plants, may reinforce sensations or conclusions that make the experience difficult. Our offer of support is still available to you, and we hope you’ll reach out to us for assistance. Working with Mikaela (Madhava Priya), with 12 years of experience at Sinchi Runa and specialising in post-ayahuasca and integration, is meant to help participants to observe and better understand the phenomena of the mind in front of the so-called subtle world, and to be able understand how these relate to the underlying causes of our suffering, so that we can make the changes necessary to free ourselves. During the retreat, you participated in the integration circles after each session and had personal consultations with Master Sanango, who did offer guidance on your situation. At Sinchi Runa, the importance of self-reflection and humility is highly valued, and we invite participants to be measured and discerning of messages or contacts that may arise in the ceremonies, taking with humility and discernment what resonates in your heart, as well as calm in the face of “messages” and the possibility of seeing or feeling “entities”. The work with Ayahuasca and Master Plants opens our inner world, personality, emotional burdens and the suffering of each individual. Our inner world determines the decoding of the experience. This opening, which is the root of this medicine, is also the opportunity to understand our personal reality, how we are responsible for it and what we need to let go of to change it. That is why we put so much emphasis on silence, humility, observation and equanimity in all our processes with the plants. This was Sanango's suggestion in your process, and it is also what the offer to continue working with Mikaela is all about. We apologise if you felt unheard, what we seek is moderation, groundedness and introspection, and personal reflection and understanding in order to heal and release. After each ceremony, we have an integration circle to share our individual experiences, where each experience is valued and listened to. Sanango is a Peruvian Maestro with 30 years of experience in the world of healing with Master Plants, and hundreds of healing testimonies that attest to a long and serious work as a true healer, which emphasises humility, silence and purging. Sinchi Runa is an established center, with much emphasis on energetic cleansing and respect for Amazonian and other traditions as Vedic contributions, which allow us to live in purity of heart and energetic security. We hope you will contact us - we tried to contact you but did not receive a response - and we will be happy to continue working with you to help you unravel and release what is unfolding for you with understanding."

"It’s been a few months since my retreat at Sinchi Runa, and I can confidently say it remains one of the most significant and transformative experiences of my life. 

 I had been struggling with some deeply rooted emotional challenges for years, and despite various efforts, nothing has come close to the healing I found there. The retreat opened up pathways within myself that I didn’t even know existed, allowing me to finally confront and release traumas that had been holding me back for so long. One of the key reasons I felt so safe and supported throughout this journey was Maestro Sanango. 

 His presence is unlike anything I’ve experienced - there’s an innate compassion and depth to him that words can’t really capture. He brings a calm wisdom that makes you feel seen, understood, and held from the start. Whether during ceremonies, integration circles, or personal consultations, his guidance was priceless. My ceremonies were very challenging, and the integration circles were absolutely essential for me - they gave me the space to process, reflect, and ultimately make sense of the intense experiences I had gone through. After the retreat, I have continued online integration with Madhava Priya, which has been essential in grounding the lessons from the retreat, and ensuring the changes manifested. The retreat center is beautiful, set in a serene nature environment that feels like a perfect escape from daily chaos. The accommodations are comfortable, and the natural beauty of the place instantly puts you at ease. The team creates a warm and supportive space, making you feel safe to go deep into the work, knowing you're fully cared for at every step.
 Overall, I can’t recommend this experience highly enough. It’s not easy work, but if you’re looking for real, lasting transformation, this retreat can truly change your life. It did mine."

"How to put this into words…from the moment I arrived, I couldn’t have asked for a more welcoming and caring environment. (Alphabetically!) Axis, Bianca, Chiara, Kristina and Riccardo are some of the most genuinely amazing people you will ever meet, and also extremely knowledgeable about plant medicine. The setting is beautiful as well. You are truly in good hands and the initial integration call, 121 meeting prior to the first ceremony and “sharing circle” the day after are brilliant to put you at ease. Met some amazing people on similar journeys and feel extremely grateful for the experience. Not sure if the retreat has or will change me going forward, but I am already noticing a few changes in perception. A connection to my personal path was a big motivation for me coming in, and I think the amazing space holders and medicine have given me a platform. If you are in any doubts, I would take a leap…you won’t regret it. 100/10, would recommend :) R"

"Expert guides and guidance in a beautiful,natural environment create the ideal situation to support the healing process Throughout my experience here I was well informed and any concerns were listened to with compassion and wisdom.A wonderful,life-enhancing experience thanks to the medicine and our wonderful hosts Isher and Marijke."

"I’m at a loss for words to express my gratitude to Lisa & Miguel for these 7 days. It was pure magic. ✨ The opportunity to touch the "infinite" with something as finite as the mind is an experience that will always remain beyond words (you simply can't grasp it). The event’s organization, the safe space created by the entire team of organizers (including contributions from Cathrine and Julia), was at the highest possible level. And Lisa’s experience, her knowledge, insights, and the way she individually guided each participant smoothly throughout the entire workshop – this is something that cannot be priced in money – absolutely priceless! Everything I’ve mentioned above is incredibly helpful for integrating everything we can experience with them afterward! And finally, I cannot forget the entire group of participants (of which I had the honor to be a part)... wow, without a doubt, there wasn’t even a hint of coincidence here, as each of us was a key to unlocking something grand in the next person – I bow to you all, it was truly wonderful to be a part of this amazing spectacle called Life! 🫂💙 What a show... What a cosmic joke... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Definitely 6 stars out of 5 possible :)"

"I’m at a loss for words to express my gratitude to Lisa & Miguel for these 7 days. It was pure magic. ✨ The opportunity to touch the "infinite" with something as finite as the mind is an experience that will always remain beyond words (you simply can't grasp it). The event’s organization, the safe space created by the entire team of organizers (including contributions from Cathrine and Julia), was at the highest possible level. And Lisa’s experience, her knowledge, insights, and the way she individually guided each participant smoothly throughout the entire workshop – this is something that cannot be priced in money – absolutely priceless! Everything I’ve mentioned above is incredibly helpful for integrating everything we can experience with them afterward! And finally, I cannot forget the entire group of participants (of which I had the honor to be a part)... wow, without a doubt, there wasn’t even a hint of coincidence here, as each of us was a key to unlocking something grand in the next person – I bow to you all, it was truly wonderful to be a part of this amazing spectacle called Life! 🫂💙 What a show... What a cosmic joke... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Definitely 6 stars out of 5 possible :)"

"I’m at a loss for words to express my gratitude to Lisa & Miguel for these 7 days. It was pure magic ✨ The opportunity to touch the "infinite" with something as finite as the mind is an experience that will always remain beyond words (you simply can't grasp it). The event’s organization, the safe space created by the entire team of organizers (including contributions from Cathrine and Julia), was at the highest possible level. And Lisa’s experience, her knowledge, insights, and the way she individually guided each participant smoothly throughout the entire workshop – this is something that cannot be priced in money – absolutely priceless! Everything I’ve mentioned above is incredibly helpful for integrating everything we can experience with them afterward! And finally, I cannot forget the entire group of participants (of which I had the honor to be a part)... wow, without a doubt, there wasn’t even a hint of coincidence here, as each of us was a key to unlocking something grand in the next person – I bow to you all, it was truly wonderful to be a part of this amazing spectacle called Life! 🫂💙 What a show... What a cosmic joke... Definitely 6 stars out of 5 possible :) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"

"Lovely team, a beautiful place to be where you can rest your mind and soul 🙏🏼"

"The experience was unique and every aspect of it was helpful. Thanks you brothers and sisters, it was an honor to heal together. Thank you Lisa, Thank you Miguel. Much Love"

"As retreat hosts we could not have found a more magical venue than Quinta Carvalhas. It’s a true sanctuary for the soul, created with love and care by its founders. It’s so easy to immerse yourself in the beauty of this idyllic organic farm, where you’re surrounded by lush greenery, tranquil meditation gardens, and a deeply felt sense of peace. Quality is in abundance and it's evident that this is an important ethos of Quinta Carvalhas. The retreat centre genuinely provides a full wholesome Yoga Retreat experience. This includes top notch accommodation and exceptional yoga facilities. They also have a fabulous team working behind the scenes to ensure that your retreat runs smoothly. We will definitely be returning. ~ Lisa Berry and Fiona Brown of Embody Yoga Retreats, Ireland "

"I didn’t quite know what to expect at the retreat but the entire experience has truly been life affirming. Fatima and Stefan took such good care of us, nourishing mind, body and soul. I’m still trying to digest everything but I would truly recommend going here to everyone. This truly was a magical experience that has taught me so much. "

"Although I had done some research, I really had no idea what to expect. Fátima & Stefan were the perfect guides. Their unique personalities balanced each other very well. Fátima picked us up from the airport and we arrived at a very simple and beautiful home somewhere in the hills. The place was very clean and cozy! It felt like “home” almost instantly. I would recommend FOTV to anyone who is looking to find more meaning and truth about themselves, in a calm and peaceful environment."

"Michelle and her team offer warm, inviting and attuned attention to their guests needs. The property resonates with an authentic commitment to wellness of body, mind and spirit. As a retreat leader I felt fully supported in makng sure all my workshop needs were met so I could focus my attention on my clients. This is an ideal location to host a wellness retreat in Portugal."

"I visited Shrangriballa in July 2024 for a 5-day Kambo and Bufo retreat. Firstly, and most importantly, Lisa and Miguel are amazing people who serve medicines with great respect and knowledge. My experiences with Bufo were incredibly profound and Lisa's staged approach meant that I always felt in control of dosage and able to have beautiful and intense experiences. I always felt loved, supported and guided to be able to integrate my journeys. Secondly, the venue is beautiful - a tiny village in a hidden valley miles from other habitations or roads. It is full of nature and provides a perfect setting for integration. My accommodation was very comfortable and excellent vegetarian food was provided at mealtimes. Finally, outside of ceremonies, in the sharing circles, Lisa and Miguel facilitated the discussions with great skill providing gentle guidance and holding space without promoting any dogma. I thoroughly recommend this retreat centre whether you are experiencing these medicines for the first time or, like me, are coming to go deeper and re-connect with the beauty of connection to consciousness. "

"Where to begin?... Bufo was for me an experience of fundamental significance. I felt it to be very vibrational in all possible sense of the term. I was very and happily surprised by the experience. I felt that Lisa and Miguel have the sensitivity to feel nature of these kind of experiences. And as such, they bring a good energy and positive vibrations to these experiences. Lisa and Miguel have had personal experiences themselves which greatly helped creating a safe and secure environment for this experience. I was honestly amazed with the rigour and thoroughness with which Lisa conducted this retreat. I am thankful to both of you dear Friends :)"

"Hanna is a very creative and artistic individual who has the ability to be free flowing. During my time at the 7 day transformational retreat in Thailand it was a pleasure to witness her sensitivity and wisdom. She is very spiritual and caring and acts as a wonderful creative journeying partner for Kasham. Her voice is breathtaking and the lyrics to her songs will help guide you to your heartfelt intentions."