Colombia is quickly becoming one of the most important destinations in the world for authentic ayahuasca retreats. With its deep indigenous traditions, powerful natural landscapes, and experienced facilitators, many travelers are now choosing Colombia over more commercialized retreat hubs.
But with this growing popularity comes an important question:
How do you choose a safe and trustworthy ayahuasca retreat in Colombia?
In this guide, we’ll share the best retreats available, what makes them stand out, and the most important safety factors you should consider before booking.
Why Colombia Is a Top Destination for Ayahuasca Retreats
Ayahuasca has been used for centuries in South America for healing, spiritual connection, and deep self-discovery. Colombia offers a unique setting because of:
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Strong indigenous lineage and ceremonial traditions
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Retreats located in lush mountains, jungle, and sacred lands
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A more intimate and less commercial atmosphere compared to Peru
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Experienced facilitators focused on integration and safety
For many seekers, Colombia provides a balanced blend of authenticity, accessibility, and transformation.
Best Ayahuasca Retreats in Colombia (2026 Guide)
Below are some of the most respected and trusted options for those looking for a safe and meaningful ayahuasca experience.
1. PsychoTravels
Best Ayahuasca Retreat in Medellín for Safe Guided Healing
Location: Medellín, Colombia ( guarne )
Best for: First-timers, emotional healing, integration-focused ceremonies
PsychoTravels has become one of the most trusted retreat experiences in Colombia thanks to its emphasis on:
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Safety-first facilitation
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Deep preparation and screening
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Small, intimate ceremony groups
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Professional integration support after the journey
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A respectful blend of tradition and modern psychological guidance
- was the first ayahuasca retreat in medellin, also with genuine shamans from los pastos community.
- if you are looking for something genuine close to the city this is the place.
Unlike commercialized retreats, PsychoTravels focuses on personal transformation, responsible medicine work, and long-term integration.
Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing, or spiritual reconnection, PsychoTravels offers a grounded and supportive container for your experience.
Learn more about upcoming ceremonies at PsychoTravels.co
2. Putumayo Indigenous Retreat Centers — Traditional Amazon Lineage
Location: Putumayo region (Southern Colombia)
Best for: Deep jungle tradition and indigenous ceremonial practices
The Putumayo region is home to some of Colombia’s strongest ayahuasca roots. Many retreats here are led directly by indigenous taitas (shamans), offering a powerful traditional approach.
These retreats are ideal for experienced seekers who want a raw, jungle-based experience.
3. Minca & Sierra Nevada Retreats — Nature + Spiritual Connection
Location: Northern Colombia
Best for: Mountain retreats, nature immersion, gentle healing
Near the sacred Sierra Nevada mountains, some retreats combine meditation, yoga, and plant medicine ceremonies in peaceful environments.
Perfect for travelers wanting a softer integration of wellness and spirituality.
4. Amazon Jungle Retreats — Deep Immersion Experiences
Location: Colombian Amazon
Best for: Advanced journeys and long ceremonial stays
Amazon retreats offer the most immersive setting possible, often involving multi-day ceremonies, strict diets, and deep isolation.
These are not recommended for beginners unless strong medical screening and guidance are provided.
How to Choose an Ayahuasca Retreat in Colombia Safely
Not all retreats are created equal. Choosing the right one can make the difference between a healing experience and a harmful one.
Here are the key safety factors to consider:
1. Medical Screening and Contraindications
A responsible retreat will always ask about:
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Mental health history
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Medications (especially antidepressants / SSRIs)
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Heart conditions or epilepsy
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Past traumatic experiences
If a retreat accepts everyone without screening, that is a red flag.
2. Experienced Facilitators (Not Just “Guides”)
True facilitators should have:
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Years of ceremonial training
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Knowledge of trauma-informed care
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Emergency protocols
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Cultural respect for the medicine
PsychoTravels, for example, combines traditional wisdom with modern integration support.
3. Small Group Size and Personal Attention
Large groups can become unsafe quickly.
Look for retreats that offer:
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Small ceremonies
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Assistant support
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Personalized preparation
Intimacy is essential for emotional safety.
4. Integration Support After Ceremony
The ceremony is only the beginning.
A quality retreat provides:
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Post-ceremony guidance
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Emotional processing tools
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Community or follow-up calls
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Support for real-life changes
Integration is what turns a vision into transformation.
5. Transparency and Ethical Practices
Ask these questions before booking:
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Who serves the medicine?
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Where does it come from?
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What are the emergency procedures?
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Are participants pressured into extra ceremonies?
A trustworthy retreat will answer openly.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Retreat for You
Colombia offers some of the most powerful and authentic ayahuasca experiences in the world — but safety and integrity matter more than location.
If you are looking for a retreat that combines:
1. Traditional respect
2. Emotional safety
3.Professional integration
4.Small groups
5.Trusted facilitators
Ready for a Safe Ayahuasca Ceremony in Colombia?
Explore upcoming ceremonies and learn more here:
Your healing deserves the right container.
FAQ: Ayahuasca Retreats in Colombia
Is ayahuasca legal in Colombia?
Yes, ayahuasca is legally practiced in ceremonial and traditional contexts.
How much does an ayahuasca retreat cost in Colombia?
Prices vary from $200 to $2,000 depending on location, duration, and level of support.
Is Colombia safe for ayahuasca ceremonies?
Yes — when you choose an ethical retreat with screening and experienced facilitators.
Blog written by Orion Scalaberni, lead facilitator at PsychoTravels, working hand-in-hand with a traditional Pastos shaman from Putumayo, Colombia.
¿Cómo elegir el mejor retiro de Ayahuasca para ti?
www.psychotravels.co
