Ayahuasca Retreats: Colombia vs Peru vs Costa Rica
Ayahuasca retreats are everywhere now. Colombia, Peru, Costa Rica… each one promising transformation. But the truth is that not all retreats carry the same roots, safety, or intention. A real ayahuasca retreat Colombia—one rooted in lineage, elders, and a living tradition—feels very different from a luxury detox center or a wellness resort with a spiritual menu.
Let’s break it down with honesty, clarity, and respect for the cultures that have carried this medicine long before it became global.
Colombia: The Cradle of the Yagé Tradition
In Colombia, especially in Putumayo, Caquetá, and the Andean foothills, yagé is not a product. It’s a relationship. Elders pass it down through years of apprenticeship. The songs, the fire, the way the night unfolds—it all comes from a living cultural lineage.
What makes Colombia unique
- Lineage matters. Most taitas trained for decades under elders, not weekend workshops.
- Yagé has its own cosmology, music, and ceremonial structure—different from Peruvian ayahuasca.
- Ceremonies are traditional: all-night, music-guided, rooted in prayer.
- Community over commercialization. Many retreats are small, intimate, and locally held.
- Focus on integration extends beyond the weekend.
If you want to explore the deepest roots of the medicine, Colombia often feels like a homecoming. Vistit Authentic Ayahuasca Retreat in Colombia to learn more.
Peru: The Global Epicenter of Ayahuasca Tourism
Peru is the most famous destination for ayahuasca. Iquitos, Pucallpa, the Sacred Valley—these places shaped the global boom in plant medicine. There are incredible centers, and there are also highly commercial ones. The spectrum is wide.
Strengths of Peru
- Large, structured retreat centers with therapy, yoga, and support staff.
- Shipibo tradition—renowned for icaros and deep healing practices.
- Tourist-friendly infrastructure and clear travel paths.
What you should consider
- The industry is highly commercialized—quality varies dramatically.
- Not all shamans are trained properly; some entered the scene for demand.
- Large groups can mean less personal attention.
- Many retreats are designed for foreigners, not rooted communities.
Costa Rica: Comfortable, Regulated, and Wellness-Oriented
Costa Rica isn’t a traditional ayahuasca homeland, but it has become a hotspot for safe, comfortable retreats. Think spa energy mixed with plant medicine. Beautiful lodges, professional staff, Western-style therapy.
Strengths of Costa Rica
- High safety standards and structured medical screening.
- Luxury retreat settings, often all-inclusive.
- Therapeutic support woven into the program.
Limitations to keep in mind
- It is not part of the cultural lineage of ayahuasca.
- Centers can feel more like wellness businesses than traditional retreats.
- Prices are often the highest in the world.
So… Which Country Is Best for You?
It depends on what you’re truly seeking. Here’s the honest breakdown.
Choose Colombia if you want:
- Deep cultural authenticity
- Tradition-guided ceremonies led by taitas
- Community rather than tourism
- The chance to learn about yagé beyond the cup
Choose Peru if you want:
- Structured programs with multiple therapies
- Shipibo tradition and ceremonial icaros
- A retreat designed for international visitors
Choose Costa Rica if you want:
- High comfort and resort-style experience
- Western-style integration support
- Strong safety and medical screening
The Most Important Question
Ask yourself: Do I want healing, or do I want comfort? Because the medicine works through honesty, presence, and tradition—not luxury. And the place you choose shapes the kind of work that will happen.
If your heart feels pulled toward Colombia, explore more about our space here: Authentic Ayahuasca Retreat in Colombia
And if you feel called, you can also learn how we keep our space safe: Ayahuasca Safety Guide
Or explore the best places to drink in Medellín: Best Place to Drink Ayahuasca in Medellín
And if you want to go deeper into the journey itself: A Healing Journey Is Not a Straight Line
Final Reflection
Wherever you choose, walk with respect. Walk with intention. Walk with truth. Because the real ceremony is not in the maloca or the jungle. It’s in how you live after you return home.
If you feel called to join us in the mountains of Medellín, you’re welcome to explore our upcoming dates.
If it feels right, reach out.

