Wachuma (San Pedro) and Ayahuasca Retreats, 7D -Intermediate
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8
Price: $1,417 per person
Supplier: Inspires Viagens
A Unique Mix of Sacred Plant Ceremonies and Personal Reflection
If you’re drawn to the idea of deep inner work and cultural authenticity, this 7-day retreat offers a profound journey through ancient healing practices, led by experienced shamans in the Cusco region. For around $1,417, you’ll spend a week immersed in ceremonies featuring Ayahuasca and Wachuma (San Pedro), combined with guided reflection, meditation, and a special offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth). The retreat is designed for those with some prior experience or a strong interest in spiritual development—not complete beginners, but not advanced explorers either.
What we love most about this experience is the careful balance of structured ceremonies and personal time. The shamans’ skill in guiding both group and individual sessions shines through, and the setting—an outdoor retreat temple a little outside Cusco—adds a layer of tranquility you just can’t replicate in a city hotel. Another highlight is the inclusion of a traditional Inca-style offering ceremony, which deepens the connection to local customs and the environment.
A potential consideration is the fasting schedule during ceremonies—it’s intense, with days of water-only fasting, which might be challenging for some. But if you’re prepared for this physical challenge, you’ll find it enhances the spiritual effects quite significantly. This retreat is best suited for travelers interested in authentic indigenous ceremonies, serious about personal growth, and comfortable with a structured schedule of fasting, reflection, and ceremony.
Key Points
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- Authentic ceremonies led by indigenous shamans ensure a genuine experience.
- Variety of ceremonies including Ayahuasca, Wachuma, and offerings deepen your spiritual journey.
- Personal reflection time and meditation foster introspection amid beautiful natural surroundings.
- Fasting during ceremonies heightens the experience but requires physical and mental preparation.
- Small group size (maximum 6 participants) allows for personalized guidance.
- Option for private retreats gives flexibility if you wish for a more secluded experience.
A Closer Look at the 7-Day Sacred Plant Retreat
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This retreat is designed to weave together traditional indigenous ceremonies with modern spiritual practices, set in a peaceful retreat center about an hour from Cusco. The location itself contributes to the sense of retreat—away from the hustle of city life, surrounded by nature and mountain views. It’s ideal for those who seek personal healing, spiritual clarity, and cultural authenticity.
Planning more time in Cusco? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Day 1: Initiation and Detoxification
The journey begins with a Coca Leaf Reading, an ancient method used by Andean shamans to evaluate your physical and spiritual health before embarking on the deeper ceremonies. This diagnostic technique helps the shamans tailor their work to your needs. We liked how this initial step felt personalized and respectful of local traditions.
Next, a Negative Energy Cleansing Ceremony sets the tone, purging any residual blockages. The first Ayahuasca session in the afternoon is a powerful start—participants report a mix of physical detox and emotional insights. It’s important to note that fasting begins here, as you will be on a water diet prior to the ceremony. Dinner afterward is light, and rest follows, preparing you for deeper work ahead.
Day 2: Inner and Outer Cleansing
The morning fruit breakfast kicks off the day, giving you gentle nourishment. The day includes a vision interpretation session with the shamans, a favorite among previous travelers, as it helps translate the often cryptic visions into meaningful messages.
The highlight is the Wachuma ceremony at noon, which is considered an internal and external cleanser, connecting you with your spiritual self. The ceremony’s spiritual connection tends to be gentle but profound. The day winds down with dinner and rest, as fasting continues for those opting for further ceremonies.
Day 3: Reflection and Personal Reconnection
This day is lighter—after breakfast, there’s a shared session on Wachuma experiences. The day is dedicated to reflection, meditation, and walking along riverbanks and mountain trails. Many find this day crucial for digesting the earlier ceremonies, gaining clarity and calm. Lunch and dinner are under the dietary restrictions, fostering a focus on internal work.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 4: Deep Healing and Transformation
Fasting intensifies here—participants drink only water and have plenty of free time to relax or journal. Around 6 p.m., the second Ayahuasca ceremony takes place, guided by the shamans’ healing energy. This is often the most emotionally charged part of the retreat, as many confront personal challenges. The supportive environment helps prevent feeling overwhelmed.
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Day 5: Mastery and Acceptance
Sharing experiences from the previous night is a core part of this day. The shamans guide reflection and understanding, helping you process the visions and insights. The afternoon brings a second Wachuma ceremony, allowing further internal exploration. Evening is for rest, digestion, and integration.
Day 6: Self-Healing and Reflection
This day focuses on consolidating your healing. After breakfast, you can choose whether to continue with Ayahuasca or Wachuma, based on your reflection. You’ll share your experiences with the shamans, who offer guidance and interpretation. Meditation and quiet time are encouraged for those wishing to deepen their inner work.
Day 7: Spiritual Resurrection and Closing Ceremony
The last day is both a culmination and a farewell. Early morning, you’ll interpret your experiences before participating in a final Wachuma ceremony. The Offering to Pachamama ceremony signifies gratitude and renewal, while the Flowering Bath symbolizes cleansing and rebirth. The retreat ends with a group sharing circle, then dinner, and the return journey to Cusco.
What Makes This Retreat Valuable?
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The authenticity of the ceremonies is a major selling point. With 4 to 6 shamans conducting the rituals, you’ll experience genuine indigenous practices, not just tourist shows. The small group setting ensures personalized attention—many reviews mention that the shamans adapt their guidance to individual needs, which can be rare in larger, commercialized retreats.
The location adds to the appeal—set in a natural environment that encourages reflection and connection with Pachamama. The inclusion of massage and despacho offerings further enriches the experience, blending physical relaxation with spiritual ritual.
The retreat’s structured schedule of ceremonies, combined with free time for walks or rest, gives you room to process what you experience. Many travelers find that the combination of fasting, meditation, and multiple plant ceremonies creates a transformative effect that lasts well beyond the retreat.
What Could Be a Drawback?
The fasting requirements—days of water-only fasting—can be physically demanding. Travelers unprepared for this level of detox might find it uncomfortable or stressful, especially if they have health concerns. It’s crucial to be in good health and mentally ready to commit to this aspect of the retreat.
Who Is This Retreat Best For?
This experience is perfect for those genuinely interested in indigenous South American traditions and personal spiritual growth. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with fasting and seeking a small, guided group setting. If you’re looking for a deeply authentic, culturally respectful retreat with experienced shamans, this could be a meaningful choice.
Practical Details and Value

At $1,417, the cost includes seven days of accommodation, three meals per day with special diets, transportation, and all ceremonies performed by expert shamans. The small group size (up to 6 participants) enhances intimacy, while the option for private retreats offers additional flexibility.
The inclusion of an Inca relaxation massage and interpretation of visions adds value, providing both physical and spiritual care. The fact that all ceremonies are performed by indigenous shamans ensures authenticity, which is often a concern in plant medicine retreats.
The location outside Cusco means you’ll enjoy a peaceful environment removed from urban distractions, ideal for deep work. The retreat’s capacity to accommodate up to 30+ participants upon request means that larger groups can be arranged, though most will be smaller.
Booking flexibility is a plus, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and pay later, making it easier to plan without immediate financial commitment.
Final Thoughts
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This 7-day Wachuma and Ayahuasca retreat offers a rare chance to connect with Peruvian indigenous traditions in a nurturing, small-group setting. The combination of guided ceremonies, reflection time, and cultural authenticity makes it a compelling choice for those ready to explore their inner world deeply.
While the fasting component requires preparation, many find that it amplifies the spiritual effects and personal insights gained. If you’re seeking an authentic, respectful introduction or continuation of plant medicine work in a serene natural setting, this retreat will likely meet your hopes.
For anyone wanting a balanced experience of ceremony, culture, and personal growth — especially those comfortable with some physical challenge — this retreat offers a meaningful, well-rounded path to self-discovery.
FAQ
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Is this retreat suitable for complete beginners?
This retreat is generally aimed at those with some interest or experience in plant medicine ceremonies. Complete beginners might find the fasting and intensity challenging, so it’s best suited for those with some prior understanding or a strong desire for serious personal exploration.
What languages are available during the retreat?
Guidance and ceremonies are conducted by shamans and guides fluent in Spanish, English, and Quechua. The inclusion of translation ensures clear communication throughout.
Can I choose which ceremonies to participate in?
Yes, the package allows you the option to select one, some, or all of the ceremonies. This flexibility helps tailor the experience to your comfort level and interests.
How important is fasting during the retreat?
Fasting—particularly days of water only—is a core part of the process, aimed at heightening the ceremonial effects. However, it can be physically demanding, so you should be prepared and healthy enough for fasting.
What group size can I expect?
The maximum group size is 6 participants, which promotes intimacy and personalized guidance. Larger groups (up to 30+) are possible upon request, but the typical experience is small and personal.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers seven days of accommodation, all ceremonies, transportation, meals with special diets, massage, and guidance. Optional private retreats are also available for more secluded experiences.
In summary, this retreat offers a well-crafted blend of authenticity, personal attention, and cultural depth. It’s ideal for those serious about exploring plant medicine within a supportive, respectful environment in the beautiful Cusco region.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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