Should You Take Ayahuasca When Traveling to South America?
Ayahuasca, also known as yagé, is a traditional spiritual medicine used by many indigenous peoples of the Amazonian regions in South America. It is a powerful entheogenic brew that has gained popularity among travelers in recent years due to its reputation for providing profound personal insights and offering life-changing experiences.
Ayahuasca tourism has become a somewhat controversial addition to South America’s tourism portfolio. So, should you take Ayahuasca while traveling to South America?
The simple answer to that question is: it’s entirely up to you. Ayahuasca is not illegal in South America, and the decision ultimately depends on the individual and their comfort level with taking the substance. While some people mistakenly refer to Ayahuasca as a drug, it is not classified as such. Its effects are generally considered more spiritual than recreational.
That being said, if you are planning to take Ayahuasca on a trip to South America, there are many important factors to consider. Whether you choose to participate in an Ayahuasca retreat or an Ayahuasca ceremony in Colombia, it’s crucial to approach the experience with respect and adequate preparation to ensure a safe and transformative journey.
It is essential to remember that Ayahuasca is not a recreational drug and, therefore, should not be taken recreationally. It must only be administered under the guidance of someone knowledgeable about the substance, ideally a shaman or an experienced practitioner. Ayahuasca contains a powerful combination of chemicals, including DMT, and is not something to be taken lightly.
In 2014, a young British traveler tragically died in the South American jungle of Putumayo after taking Ayahuasca for the second time. While the exact cause of his death remains unclear, this incident underscores the importance of experiencing Ayahuasca in a controlled, responsible, and safe environment.
Ayahuasca is an extraordinary medicine with immense potential for healing and transformation. However, it should only be experienced with skilled shamans, experts, and preferably with medical supervision. Opting for a safe Ayahuasca retreat in Colombia, a trusted Ayahuasca healing center, or a professional shamanic center in Colombia ensures both safety and the best possible outcomes for this profound spiritual journey.
As with many forms of tourism, Ayahuasca tourism carries specific risks, particularly the possibility of being exploited by opportunistic vendors eager to profit from the trend and undercut their competition. These individuals may lack true knowledge of Ayahuasca, and taking the substance with them could expose you to unnecessary risks.
It is always advisable to research thoroughly the person or group offering the experience and to follow trusted local recommendations. Additionally, there are reputable Ayahuasca retreats where participants engage in spiritual exercises and follow specific diets, ensuring a safer and more authentic journey.
Diet is another crucial factor to consider if you are planning to take Ayahuasca during a visit to South America. Certain foods and drinks are not recommended in the days leading up to an Ayahuasca retreat in Colombia or an Ayahuasca ceremony in Colombia. These include red meat, dairy, fatty foods, and alcohol. Additionally, abstaining from sex for at least a week beforehand is advised.
While retreats often emphasize the importance of following this diet, many people approach an Ayahuasca experience too casually and may have a negative experience as a result of failing to adhere to the proper dietary guidelines.
One final element to consider in an Ayahuasca experience in Colombia is expectation management. Many people, after reading about the life-changing and transcendent impact Ayahuasca has had on others, end up feeling disappointed when their own experience is relatively ordinary or even slightly unpleasant (vomiting and diarrhea are common aspects of an Ayahuasca “trip”).
It is important to understand that the first time you take Ayahuasca is unlikely to transform your life completely. Keep this in mind before entering what is ultimately a unique and deeply personal experience.
The ultimate answer to the question, “Should I take Ayahuasca when traveling in South America?” is entirely personal. However, it is advisable to do so only if you are properly prepared, working with a reputable and well-known professional, fully aware of the implications of taking it, and have followed the correct diet.
If these conditions are not met, it may be best to avoid Ayahuasca and consider spending your money on something else.
If you want to have a safe Ayahuasca experience in South America, visit us at www.psychotravels.co or contact us via WhatsApp at +57 300 787 5253.
