What is Ayahuasca or Yagé ?

Ayahuasca, also known as Yagé, is a powerful traditional medicine that has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples of the Amazon Basin for spiritual and healing purposes.
The name «Ayahuasca» comes from the Quechua language, where aya means «soul» or «spirit,» and huasca means «vine» or «rope,» often translated as «vine of the soul» or «spirit vine.»

The brew is made from two main ingredients: the Banisteriopsis caapi vine (Ayahuasca roots) and the leaves of the Psychotria viridis plant or other DMT-containing plants (chacruna leaves).
This powerful brew creates a deep spiritual and healing experience often described as a journey of self-discovery, deep introspection, and spiritual awakening. Participants commonly experience visual fractals, emotional revelations, and a heightened sense of connection to nature, the universe, and their own consciousness.

It is important to understand that Ayahuasca works on three levels: the physical body, the mind, and the spirit. Each participant’s experience varies, as the medicine acts differently depending on the internal needs of each individual.

Additionally, it is essential that Ayahuasca ceremonies are guided by experienced shamans or traditional healers (Taitas), who supervise the entire experience and use rituals, chants, and protective measures to ensure a safe and meaningful journey.
These ceremonies are not only spiritual but are also used to treat mental, emotional, and even physical ailments, with the ultimate goal of cleansing and healing the body, mind and the spirit.

• Healing

• Spirituality

• Consciousness

• Happiness

• Peace of Mind 

• Awareness of your unconscious mind

• New Ways of Thinking

• Connecting with yourself

• Healing of physical illnesses

•  Releasing your body from accumulated negative energies

• Enhance Family Relationships

• Experience Spiritual Fulfillment

• Embrace a Passion for Life

• Heal from Grief

• Discover Your Life’s Purpose

• Connect Deeply with Nature and the Environment

• Find Answers to Your Life’s Most Profound Questions

Others Who Benefit from Ayahuasca

• Patients with Depression
• Patients with Anxiety Disorders
• Patients Experiencing Suicidal Ideation
• Individuals with Unresolved Emotional or Psychological Conflicts
• Individuals Struggling with Addictions (e.g., heroin, opioids, cocaine, tobacco, alcohol, gambling, cannabis, etc.)
• Individuals in Post-Traumatic States
• Patients Dealing with Unresolved Grief

 Ayahuasca Retreat in Medellin Colombia

What Makes Our Ayahuasca Retreat Unique?

• At our Safe Ayahuasca Retreat, your journey is guided and protected by an authorized native shaman from the Amazon (Los Pastos community). Our shaman is officially recognized by the indigenous community and the Colombian government — an essential detail you should always verify before choosing a retreat. Unlike many centers in Medellín that work with ayahuasqueros (non-traditional healers), we offer a true, traditional Ayahuasca ceremony rooted in ancient Amazonian wisdom.

• Today, we see many retreats offering 5, 7, 10, or even 18-day programs, where participants drink diluted medicine up to three times a day. However, with genuine Yagé, it is almost impossible to endure more than three powerful ceremonies. Real Ayahuasca requires time for deep healing, not quantity. Unfortunately, many of these retreats prioritize profit over authenticity, offering what we call the «Gringo experience.»

• A true Ayahuasca Healing Retreat requires real medicine, time, and respect. Our ceremonies are simple yet profound, set in a sacred maloca where you are surrounded by fire, nature, and healing energy. We intentionally avoid luxury distractions like pools, buffets, and tourist amenities — because real healing happens when you return to the essence of life.

• Your safety and well-being are our top priority. Throughout the ceremony, our experienced staff carefully supervises you to ensure your journey is not only transformative but also fully supported at every step.

• For over 25 years, we have been rooted in this same sacred location in Guarne, just outside Medellín, Colombia. While most retreats were only recently established, our deep commitment to authenticity and respect for the indigenous traditions of Putumayo and the Amazon make us one of the best Ayahuasca retreats in Colombia today.

What Makes Our Ayahuasca Retreat Unique?

• At our retreat, your safety is our highest priority. Every participant is supervised by a Western doctor, who carefully reviews any pre-existing medical conditions, possible medication interactions, and overall health status before and during the ceremonies. This ensures that your healing journey is safe, supported, and fully personalized.

• Unlike many other retreats that purchase pre-made Ayahuasca of unclear origin, we take pride in preparing our own sacred medicine right here at the retreat. Using leaves (Chacruna) and trunks (Ayahuasca) brought directly from the Amazon rainforest in Putumayo, Colombia, our genuine shaman follows an ancestral indigenous recipe passed down through generations. The preparation is a sacred process that takes 8 full days — ensuring the purity, potency, and authenticity of the Yagé you receive.

• We believe that the quality of the medicine is as important as the ceremony itself. At our Ayahuasca Healing Retreat, you can trust that every step honors the traditions and wisdom of the Amazon.

• To make your experience even smoother, we offer private pick-up and drop-off services directly from your accommodation in Medellín. Our private shuttle ensures your journey to the retreat is safe, comfortable, and stress-free — allowing you to arrive fully relaxed and ready for your transformation.

 Authentic Ayahuasca Retreat Colombia

What Can You Expect from Our Ayahuasca Experience?

• We are a professional and experienced group with over 25 years of expertise in the healing art of Ayahuasca. Our Ayahuasca Healing Retreat stands out as one of the Best Ayahuasca Retreat in Colombia, offering a safe and transformative journey for those seeking personal growth and spiritual connection. Our primary goal is for participants to reach higher levels of consciousness, self-awareness, wisdom, and spirituality. We view Ayahuasca as a sacred medicine that serves as a mirror to your consciousness, guiding you toward deeper healing. We are proud to offer a Safe Ayahuasca experience where our core values of humility, compassion, and love are at the heart of every Ayahuasca retreat experience.

Days Before the Ceremony

• From the moment you contact us via WhatsApp or email, we provide full support, including guidance on diet and potential interactions with any existing medical conditions or medications. Our participants have direct access to our Western doctor through WhatsApp, ensuring a Safe Ayahuasca Retreat at all times. Typically these instructions are given the days before the Ayahuasca Ceremony.

First day of ceremony

• The Ayahuasca Ceremony  takes place in Guarne, a forested area just 38 kilometers (45 minutes) from Medellín, making it a convenient option for those who prefer not to travel to the jungle. On the day of the experience, our shuttle service can pick you up at your home at 7:30 am (for an extra $10). You’ll arrive at our Ayahuasca retreat around 8:15 am, where our shaman will welcome you and provide an Introduction to Ayahuasca and its spiritual and consciousness-enhancing effects. Participants will have the chance to ask questions and clarify any doubts about the experience. Alternatively, we can arrange pickup from a specific location in Medellín if preferred ( no extra cost )

First and Second dose of Medicine

• We then, prepare the space (bunkbed), where you will experience the genuine Ayahuasca Healing Experience. The first cup of Ayahuasca is served at 9:15 am, with a second optional cup at 11:30 am for those who haven’t fully connected or feel the experience no deep enough. Our support staff and shaman will supervise participants throughout the entire Ayahuasca Ceremony. The effects of the medicine last between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the participant’s sensitivity, and how many shots did you take.

Integration

• Afterward, we facilitate an integration session, allowing participants to reflect and ask questions. You will be offered a broth (optional) to replenish fluids and electrolytes. Once you feel ready, a spiritual closure will take place with a plant called Guaira, used to cleanse energy and close spiritual channels, enhancing the safety and spiritual depth of our Safe Ayahuasca Retreat.

Bonfire Interation

• If you stay at night to held a second day ceremony, at the evening, we gather around a bonfire for further integration. A light meal is served at 7:00 pm, after which you are free to rest at your own pace, completing the holistic experience offered by our Ayahuasca retreat..

What Can You Expect from Our Experience?

( Second Day )

• On the second day of our Ayahuasca Healing Retreat, the Ceremony begins around 8:00 am with the first cup of Ayahuasca, following a similar process to the first day. This Ayahuasca retreat is recommended for those who desire to deepen their spiritual journey and have a deeper experience. By participating in this experience, you are choosing one of the best Ayahuasca lifechanging experience for your self, with a focus on safety, healing, and authentic guidance.

• After the experience, we return to Medellín around 5 or 6 pm. Please note that our Yagé is stronger than that used in many other retreats, and usually, two days of ceremony are enough for a transformative experience in our Retreat.

• Additionally, if you wish, you’ll have the option to experience rape or curanga, sacred seed plants from the Amazon known for your spiritual and consciousness-enhancing effects. This is an optional addition that complements our Healing center for a deeper connection to Amazonian wisdom.

...Learn More About How We Conduct the Ayahuasca Experience:

 How Can I Best Prepare for an Ayahuasca Ceremony ?

• Both men and women should not take antibiotics at least 2 days before consuming Ayahuasca. It is also recommended to avoid alcohol, cannabis, recreational drugs, red meat, dairy products, processed foods, fatty or greasy meals, and fast food during the 3 days prior to the ceremony. In these days leading up to the experience, you can consume vegetables, fruits, nuts, white meats such as chicken or fish, rice, and salad.

• If you have any illness or are taking regular medication, you must inform the Psychotravels medical staff to assess potential interactions with Ayahuasca. Avoid cannabis (marihuana) for at least a week, or at least 2 days before the ceremony in cases of heavy use, to ensure no disruptions with the sacred plant experience (Marijuana reduces the effect of the plant.)

• On the day of the ceremony, it’s best to wear comfortable clothes, preferably in light colors instead of dark.

• For your comfort, it’s suggested to wear shoes like Crocs or slippers.

• You may bring your own drink if you have preferences, but Psychotravels provides meals, water, and toilet paper during the journey.

• After the ceremony, we will return to the same departure point in Medellín (either the starting point or your home).

Continue Reading About How to Best Prepare for an Ayahuasca Ceremony,,

• Bring an extra set of clothes, as you may need to change after the ceremony (this happens in about 3% of cases).

• On the day of the ceremony, avoid eating solid foods at breakfast; only take liquids like water or tea.

• In the days leading up to the ceremony, it’s recommended to eat healthy meals with fruits and vegetables, avoiding large amounts of meat, fast food, sausages, and sauces.

• 3 days before, avoid red meats and dairy products. You may consume white meats like chicken or fish, or eggs if you prefer a source of protein.

• We suggest men abstain from sexual intercourse for at least 2 days before the Ayahuasca ceremony.

• It’s recommended that women avoid attending the ceremony during their menstrual period (Moon dates), as the experience may be stronger, and shamans generally do not recommend it.

Frequently Asked Questions from Our Participants :

Should I do a 1 or 2-day ceremony?

• We advise our participants that a 1-day experience at our Ayahuasca Healing Retreat serves as an introduction to our sacred medicine, while a 2-day experience is recommended for those who wish to deepen their journey of consciousness, mind, and spirit, and universe as it offers a more profound experience, as well as for those searching for a connection with their higher self and the divinity that resides within.

How many participants are there in our groups?

• Our groups typically consist of 6 to 8 people, ensuring a personalized and Safe Ayahuasca Retreat experience.

How long does the effect of Ayahuasca last?

• The effects of this medicine during the Ayahuasca Ceremony can last from 1 to 8 hours, and if you take a second cup, the effects will be longer and deeper, allowing for a more intense Ayahuasca experience.

In what cases is Ayahuasca contraindicated?

• Women on their menstrual period, patients with psychosis or schizophrenia, epilepsy, heart disease, recent postoperative conditions, or critical health issues should avoid participation in the Ayahuasca Retreat. Safety is our top priority, making ours a Safe Ayahuasca experience for all participants.

What is the diet I should follow before the ceremony?

• In the days leading up to the Ayahuasca Ceremony you should avoid junk food, sauces, heavy dressings, meats, sausages, and fats. It is highly recommended to follow a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, cannabis, and any other drugs to ensure a positive and effective Ayahuasca Healing Retreat. Limit large portions of meat, especially red meat, and focus more on eating fruits and vegetables. If you choose to eat meat, chicken and fish are preferred. By following this dietary preparation, you can maximize the benefits of our Ayahuasca experience.