The leading Ayahuasca Retreats in the USA

We've ranked the top 10 Ayahuasca Retreats in the USA.

VIEW RANKINGS

SCROLL

research icon

UNBIASED RESEARCH RANKINGS

Learn more about our research arrow
check icon

HIGHEST STANDARDS REQUIRED

Learn more about our standards arrow
list icon

PROPRIETARY CRITERIA SYSTEM

Learn more about our criteria arrow
INDEPENDENT RANKING OF BEST AYAHUASCA RETREATS
2024

What people are saying: #Transformative #HolisticHealing #Empowering

Soul Quest Ayahuasca Church of Mother Earth, situated just 20 minutes from the Orlando International Airport, provides a unique spiritual retreat experience centered on ayahuasca ceremonies. This institution stands out for its commitment to community service, education, healing practices, and spiritual growth, and uniquely intertwines indigenous South Native American spiritual traditions with modern therapeutic approaches. The center's multi-professional team, which includes psychologists, shamans, and yoga teachers, underscores its comprehensive approach to healing and personal evolution. Soul Quest also offers integration groups, a platform for seekers to deepen their connection with themselves and the teachings of Mother Aya. Their holistic method of treatment, which respects and harnesses the power of Mother Earth, has gained international recognition, even being featured in Netflix's [UN]WELL.

What people are saying: #SpiritualJourney #SafeHealing #AccessibleRetreat

SacredTherapy, a US-based retreat, offers a unique spiritual journey through Ayahuasca ceremonies. The company, led by shamanically trained guides and medicine providers, offers these ceremonies in a new and improved cabin resort location in Yakima, Washington. Priced at $699, the three-day event promises a deep exploration of the heart and soul, using medicinal herbs and plants from around the globe. In addition to their retreats, they operate a well-stocked online herbal shop featuring products like Yagé, Sananga eye drops, and Rapé. The company, which also offers a virtual tour of their Washington and California locations, maintains a commitment to accessibility and safety. To stay updated on future events, SacredTherapy provides an option to subscribe and join their Meetup groups across Washington, Oregon, and California.

What people are saying: #Transformative #Ethical #Empowering

Medicine Wheel, based in Austin, Texas, positions itself as a unique facilitator of spiritual journeys, offering a range of sacred plant medicine circles. The organization stands out for its mission to not only provide a safe environment for self-discovery but also to empower individuals to become their own healers. Their offerings include Ayahuasca, Kambo, and Cacao retreats, guided by strong ethical principles like empathy, respect, and creativity. The company strives to cultivate a harmonious, respectful, and understanding environment, underlining its high sense of responsibility and self-awareness. Furthermore, the value they place on reciprocity showcases their commitment to maintaining a balance with the Earth and all forms of life. The company's dedication to fostering individual growth and integrity through ancient wisdom sets it apart in the field of spiritual retreats in the USA.

What people are saying: #Transformative #SpiritualAwakening #PersonalizedHealing

Earth Spirit Wisdom, helmed by the enigmatic Amalia, offers an array of holistic healing services that are deeply rooted in Shamanic practices. This company differentiates itself by providing personalized healing sessions that focus on bodywork, emotional healing, and shamanic healing, aiming to bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual realms. Amalia's three-decade experience in healing and consciousness is evident in the positive testimonials from her clients who found comfort, insight, and transformative power in her sessions. The company also offers a unique opportunity to connect with Mother Earth through its transformational healing retreats, a testament to its commitment to use natural elements for spiritual awakening. Finally, Amalia's book and blog serve as additional resources, reinforcing the company's dedication to promoting holistic healing and spiritual growth.

What people are saying: #SpiritualEnlightenment #DedicatedFacilitators #ModernComforts

Tucked away in the hushed serenity of Massachusetts, Pachamama Sanctuary emerges as a beacon for those seeking a profound spiritual awakening. This enclave of enlightenment is a hidden gem among the best ayahuasca retreats has to offer, providing an unparalleled journey into the depths of the self. Pachamama Sanctuary offers a unique blend of traditional healing practices and modern comforts, an uncommon combination that serves to enhance the overall experience. The retreat's team of skilled facilitators, with their unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of the participants, is one of its many highlights. At Pachamama Sanctuary, the focus is not just on the journey, but also on the path that leads you there.

What people are saying: #SpirituallyEnriching #Authentic #Holistic

Kamentsa Inga Church emerges as a unique entity in the world of Ayahuasca retreats in the USA, focusing on the spiritual expansion and inner transformation of its members. Distinguished by its emphasis on the awakening of Christ consciousness, the church organizes retreats that leverage the sacramental consumption of plant medicine, including Ayahuasca and Rapé. They also integrate the use of music, incenses, and tobacco into their ceremonies, creating a holistic and immersive experience. Their ceremonies follow a structured pattern, beginning with an opening prayer, proceeding with the sharing of sacraments, the main ceremony, and finally, the closing ceremony. While being deeply rooted in tradition, Kamentsa Inga Church effectively utilizes modern digital platforms, offering media content for purchase, and an easy-to-navigate website for newcomers. Their commitment to fostering spiritual growth and enlightenment sets them apart in the realm of Ayahuasca retreats in the USA.

What people are saying: #Transformative #Empowering #Holistic

Shamanic Spirit Medicine, a Hawaii-based institution, offers a unique blend of shamanic teachings and healing artistry. This school offers a comprehensive training program in Applied Shamanism both online and in-person, providing learners the opportunity to master the fundamentals of shamanism, and even establish their own healing practices. What sets this school apart is its focus on self-mastery and erasing self-limiting patterns. The school also offers a creative outlet with its wearable art merchandise, reflecting its holistic approach to the practice. Testimonials from past students indicate a transformative and empowering experience. However, those seeking psychedelic experiences should note that this school explicitly uses the drum, not substances, for its practices.

What people are saying: #Transformative #Authentic #SpirituallyInclusive

Temple of Umi offers transformative Ayahuasca retreats in the USA. The meticulous organization of the retreats, from the strict pre-retreat requirements to the detailed itinerary, demonstrates their commitment to providing a safe and meaningful experience. The retreats, led by professional healers from the Inca and Amazonian cultures, offer a blend of traditional ceremonies and modern medical supervision, ensuring both authenticity and safety. They encourage participants to connect with not just themselves but also the wider universe, fostering an ethos of personal growth and spiritual interconnectedness. The positive testimonials reflect the deep impact of these retreats on the participants' lives.

What people are saying: #Enlightening #Authentic #Revitalizing

Nestled in the heart of the USA, Aya Quest Native Americas Church offers itself as a beacon of light to those seeking spiritual awakening. Boldly positioning itself in the top tier of the best ayahuasca retreats in the USA, this establishment offers an intriguing blend of ancient wisdom and modern comfort. Their aim is not solely to provide an immersive ayahuasca experience, but also to cultivate a profound understanding of Native American spirituality. The Aya Quest Native Americas Church brings to the table a genuine authenticity that sets it apart in a crowded field. It's a place where one not only embarks on a spiritual journey, but also connects with the roots of a millennium-old tradition.

What people are saying: #Multicultural #Credible #Holistic

Centro Espírita Beneficente União do Vegetal (UDV) in the United States proves to be a unique entity in the realm of Ayahuasca Retreats. With Brazilian roots, this Christian Spiritist organization brings a refreshing multicultural perspective to the spiritual space, serving over 21,000 individuals across 11 countries. The company's commitment to community and environmental service is commendable, having received numerous civic awards. Moreover, its recognition as a church under U.S. law adds an extra layer of credibility. The sacred tea, Hoasca®, used in their religious services, is a distinguishing feature, believed to enhance spiritual understanding. This organization provides a fascinating amalgamation of religious practice and natural plant-based sacraments, potentially offering a profound spiritual journey for its members.

Ayahuasca Retreats: What should you be looking for?


At Best Ayahuasca Retreats, our mission is to provide a comprehensive, unbiased ranking of Ayahuasca retreats across the United States. We are committed to ensuring that our audience gets access to accurate and reliable information, assisting them in making an informed decision on their spiritual journey. We believe in the transformative power of Ayahuasca and aim to connect individuals with the right retreats that align with their needs and aspirations. Our focus remains on maintaining integrity and professionalism in our reviews, while fostering a community of informed, intentional explorers.

Are Ayahuasca Retreats worth it?

While the decision of hiring ayahuasca retreats in the USA ultimately depends on personal preferences and goals, it may offer a transformative and enlightening experience. These retreats provide a structured environment under the guidance of experienced facilitators, allowing participants to explore their consciousness and gain deep insights into themselves and the world around them.

What to look for when searching for Ayahuasca Retreats?

At Best Ayahuasca Retreats, we understand that the journey towards the spiritual awakening that ayahuasca offers can be both exhilarating and fraught with questions. We have crafted a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section to provide you with insightful and relevant answers to your queries. We believe that knowledge is power, and being well-informed can make your decision-making process smoother. These FAQs cover a wide array of topics, from the basics of ayahuasca, the retreat experiences, to the legalities and safety measures involved. Providing this resource is our way of ensuring you feel supported and confident as you embark on this transformative path.

Am I mentally and physically prepared for the intense experience of an Ayahuasca retreat?

Preparing mentally and physically for an Ayahuasca retreat involves thorough research and self-reflection. It's essential to understand that Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogenic plant medicine used in traditional Amazonian ceremonies, may trigger intense emotional and physical reactions. Therefore, it's crucial to assess your current mental health status, especially if you have a history of psychiatric disorders or trauma, as these experiences can potentially be exacerbated during a retreat. Physically, it's advisable to follow a clean, healthy diet in the weeks leading up to the retreat, as Ayahuasca ceremonies often include dietary restrictions. Lastly, it's beneficial to compare different retreats in the USA, considering factors such as the retreat's philosophy, the background of the facilitators, and reviews from previous participants. This comprehensive preparation can help ensure a safe and transformative Ayahuasca journey.

Does the retreat center have professional, experienced guides to ensure safety and proper guidance during the ceremony?

Indeed, the presence of professional and experienced guides is a critical factor to consider when evaluating Ayahuasca Retreats in the USA. These guides, often referred to as shamans, play a significant role in ensuring the safety and well-being of participants throughout the ceremony. A high-quality retreat center will typically employ guides who have undergone extensive training and have a deep understanding of the Ayahuasca plant and its effects. When comparing different retreats, it's important to inquire about the qualifications of their guides, as their expertise can significantly impact your overall experience. Therefore, the professionalism and experience of the guides should be a top consideration when choosing an Ayahuasca retreat in the USA.

Have I thoroughly researched and validated the retreat center's reputation, reviews, and credentials?

When researching Ayahuasca Retreats in the USA, it's vital to undertake a thorough investigation of the center's reputation, reviews, and credentials. Begin by exploring online resources for unbiased reviews and ratings of the retreat center. Trusted platforms can provide genuine customer feedback and insights about the retreat experience. A retreat center's reputation is often reflected in these reviews, giving you an understanding of the quality of their services, the professionalism of their staff, and the overall satisfaction of past participants. Next, examine the credentials of the retreat center. This could include any permits, certifications, or affiliations they hold. Certifications can signify the center's commitment to safety and ethical practices, and they can often be found on the center's website or by direct inquiry. Lastly, don't overlook the importance of personal interaction. Reach out to the retreat center directly with any questions or concerns. Their response can provide valuable insight into their customer service and their level of transparency, which are both important factors in your decision-making process. In conclusion, researching Ayahuasca Retreats in the USA requires a comprehensive approach, considering online reviews, professional credentials, and direct communication with the retreat center to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience.

Key Takeaways about Ayahuasca Retreats

When it comes to selecting an ayahuasca retreat in the United States, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, the reputation of the retreat center should be thoroughly researched. Reading reviews and testimonials from previous participants can provide valuable insights into the quality of the experience offered. Additionally, it is crucial to assess the qualifications and experience of the facilitators and staff. Their expertise and dedication to safety and ethical practices are paramount. The location and setting of the retreat should also be taken into account, as a serene and peaceful environment can greatly enhance the transformative potential of the ayahuasca journey. Finally, understanding the retreat's approach to integration is essential, as the integration process is crucial for processing and making meaning of the ayahuasca experience. By carefully considering these factors, one can make an informed decision and choose an ayahuasca retreat that best aligns with their intentions and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions


What can I expect during an ayahuasca retreat in the USA?

During an ayahuasca retreat in the USA, you can expect a multi-day immersive experience often set in natural surroundings, where trained facilitators guide you through ceremonial consumption of the ayahuasca plant brew.

These retreats typically include group sharing, integration workshops, and other holistic practices to aid the healing journey.

However, the legality of ayahuasca varies across states, so it's important to research thoroughly before choosing a retreat.

Are ayahuasca retreats legal in the USA?

Ayahuasca retreats in the USA operate within a gray area of the law. While the active ingredient in Ayahuasca, DMT, is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, certain religious groups have won legal battles allowing them to use Ayahuasca as a sacrament in their ceremonies.

Despite this, it's crucial to research thoroughly and consult with legal experts before participating in or organizing an Ayahuasca retreat to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

How long does an ayahuasca retreat typically last?

An ayahuasca retreat in the USA typically lasts between three to seven days, though this can vary depending on the specific program.

These retreats often include multiple ceremonies, time for reflection, integration activities, and rest.

It's crucial to research different retreats to find one that aligns with your personal needs and schedule.

What are the potential benefits of attending an ayahuasca retreat?

Attending an ayahuasca retreat in the USA could provide profound personal and spiritual insights. These retreats often involve guided sessions where participants consume a plant-based brew, leading to potential therapeutic effects such as emotional healing and self-discovery.

However, it's crucial to research thoroughly to find a reputable retreat, as experiences can considerably vary. Always consider your mental and physical health when deciding to partake in such an intense experience.

What are possible risks or side-effects of attending an ayahuasca retreat?

Attending an ayahuasca retreat in the USA could potentially come with a few risks or side-effects.

Some participants experience physical discomfort or psychological distress during or after the ceremony, including nausea, vomiting, or unsettling hallucinations.

Additionally, ayahuasca can interact negatively with certain medications, particularly antidepressants, leading to harmful health effects.

It's crucial to fully research a retreat's safety protocols and consult with a healthcare professional before attending.

How can I prepare for an ayahuasca retreat?

To prepare for an ayahuasca retreat in the USA, it's crucial to follow a clean diet, typically void of processed foods, certain meats, and caffeine for a few weeks prior to the ceremony.

It's also recommended to abstain from alcohol, drugs, and sexual activities.

Engaging in mindfulness practices like yoga or meditation can also be beneficial.

Lastly, don't forget to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure you're physically and mentally fit for the intense spiritual journey ayahuasca retreats offer.

What should I look for when choosing an ayahuasca retreat in the USA?

When selecting an ayahuasca retreat in the USA, consider the retreat's safety measures, including the presence of trained facilitators and medical support.

Look into the experience and credentials of the guides, as they can significantly influence your journey.

Check the retreat's philosophy and approach to ensure it aligns with your personal values.

Lastly, read reviews and testimonials from past participants for insight into the retreat's reputation and quality of service.

Are there any medical or psychological conditions that might make an ayahuasca retreat unsafe for me?

Yes, certain medical and psychological conditions can potentially make an ayahuasca retreat unsafe.

Individuals with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or a history of psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia or psychosis are generally advised against participating in an ayahuasca ceremony.

It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on such a spiritual journey.

Always ensure the retreat center you choose prioritizes participant safety and provides a thorough health assessment.

Are there specific dietary or lifestyle guidelines to follow before and after an ayahuasca retreat?

Yes, there are specific dietary and lifestyle guidelines to follow before and after an ayahuasca retreat.

Prior to attending a retreat, it's recommended to abstain from certain foods, substances, and activities that may interfere with the ayahuasca, including:

  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Red meat
  • Certain medications

Post-retreat, it's often suggested to gradually reintegrate into daily life, maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise. This allows time to process the experience and maximize the benefits.

Can anyone participate in an ayahuasca retreat, or are there certain criteria participants need to meet?

Participation in ayahuasca retreats in the USA generally requires individuals to meet certain criteria.

Most retreats mandate a minimum age, often 18 or 21, and many also require a health screening due to the physical and psychological intensity of the experience.

It's also common for retreats to ask participants to follow specific dietary and lifestyle guidelines prior to attendance.

Always research and communicate with your chosen retreat to understand their specific requirements.

What kind of supervision or support is typically provided during an ayahuasca retreat?

During an ayahuasca retreat in the USA, professional supervision and support are typically provided throughout the experience. This often includes trained facilitators or shamans who guide the ceremonies, as well as medical personnel on standby for emergencies.

Additionally, many retreats offer therapeutic support such as integration coaching or counseling to help process the often intense emotional and psychological experiences that can arise.

Can I participate in an ayahuasca retreat if I am on medication?

Participation in an ayahuasca retreat while on medication largely depends on the specific medication and the guidance of the retreat leaders.

Certain medications may interact negatively with ayahuasca, making it crucial to disclose your medical history and current prescriptions.

Always consult with your healthcare provider and the retreat facilitators to ensure your safety during the experience.

Morgan Williams | Casey Johnson | Taylor Wilson