A Journey into Sacred Medicine: Wachuma + Ayahuasca Retreat in Peru

If you’re curious about plant medicines as tools for personal growth, this 2-day Wachuma + Ayahuasca retreat in the Cusco region offers a thoughtfully guided experience. For $520 per person, you’ll spend two immersive days working with Andean and Amazonian shamans in a comfortable retreat setting, exploring profound rituals that many find life-changing. Guided by bilingual shamans and supported by a caring team, this experience is designed for those already familiar with or interested in intermediate plant medicine practices.

What we love most about this retreat is how it combines authentic spiritual rituals with a focus on safety and comfort. The retreat’s setting — about 50 minutes from Cusco — provides a peaceful environment with all the comforts of a dedicated retreat temple, including private rooms, vegetarian meals, and a natural atmosphere. The other standout feature is the careful itinerary: it balances both internal cleansing through ceremonies and external connection with nature and Pachamama (Mother Earth).

One possible consideration is that the retreat involves fasting and detoxification beforehand, which might not suit everyone, especially those with specific dietary restrictions or health concerns. Also, since the ceremonies are intense and deeply personal, travelers should go in with an open mind and a respectful attitude toward the sacred practices.

This tour is best for adventurous spiritual seekers with some prior experience or strong interest in plant medicines, who are comfortable with guided rituals and internal reflection. It’s ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding of Ayahuasca and Wachuma, or for travelers seeking a meaningful, transformative experience in a safe, supportive environment.

Key Points

Authentic Rituals: Performed by experienced shamans, blending Andean and Amazonian traditions.
Comprehensive Program: Includes detox, Coca Leaf diagnosis, cleansing, and multiple ceremonies.
Comfort & Convenience: All accommodations, meals, and transportation are included.
Deep Personal Reflection: Guided ceremonies and individual consultations help interpret visions.
Safety & Support: Bilingual guides assist with explanations and ensure safety during intense ceremonies.
Ideal for Intermediate Participants: Suitable for those with some experience or serious interest in plant medicines.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Wachuma + Ayahuasca Retreat in Cusco

If we’re talking about spiritual journeys in Peru, this retreat in the Cusco region is a thoughtful offering for those looking to explore sacred medicines in a structured, respectful setting. It’s more than just a tour — it’s a carefully curated process of internal cleansing and connection. Here’s what you can expect, broken down step by step.

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The Setting and Accommodation

The retreat takes place in a dedicated temple about 50 minutes outside Cusco, which ensures you’re away from the hustle of city life. The location offers all the comforts you’d want after intense ceremonies — hot showers, beds for rest, and vegetarian meals tailored to your dietary needs. The environment is designed to foster serenity and focus, with open-air spaces for ceremonies and private rooms for rest and integration.

The Detox and Preparation

A key part of the retreat is the pre-ceremony detox, which involves drinking Volcanic Medicinal Water. You’ll be advised to do this about four hours before the ceremonies, ideally a day prior, but options are available if scheduling is tight. This detox helps prepare your body physically and energetically, making the experience of the medicines more profound and less burdensome. Reviewers note that the detox is quick — lasting about 1-2 hours — but essential.

Day 1: Initiation and Cleansing

The first day sets the stage for transformation. It begins with a Coca Leaf reading, a traditional diagnostic that helps shamans and guides understand your current energetic state. This personalized insight allows the shamans to tailor the ceremonies for maximum benefit.

Following this, a Negative Energy Cleansing Ceremony is performed. This ritual aims to clear any harmful energies or blockages, setting a clean foundation for the medicines to work. During this day, the highlight is the Ayahuasca ceremony at 2:00 pm, typically a profound and intense experience. Afterward, you’ll have dinner and then rest, giving your mind and body time to process.

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Day 2: External and Internal Cleansing

The second day is where the deeper work happens. Early in the morning (around 8:00 am), the Wachuma (San Pedro) ceremony takes place. You’ll walk under the guidance of the shamans along strategic paths, engaging in a mindful journey with the plant medicine. This part of the retreat fosters internal clarity and physical connection with nature.

Later, the Offering to Pachamama ceremony deepens the spiritual connection, expressing gratitude and seeking harmony with Mother Earth. The Flowering Bath is a symbolic act of connecting with the universe, often leaving participants with a sense of renewal.

The day concludes with shared reflections, where shamans help interpret your visions and experiences. You might find this part especially valuable — many reviewers mention how helpful it was to have explanations and guidance from experienced shamans to understand the insights gained.

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Group Dynamics and Support

Throughout the retreat, you’re supported by a bilingual guide and assistant, making the ceremonies accessible to both Spanish and English speakers. There’s also the option to record videos or take photos during the sessions, which can be comforting for some and intrusive for others — so it’s good to clarify your preferences upfront.

Practical Aspects and Value

All transportation is private, and the meals are organic and specially prepared, emphasizing health and safety. The inclusion of group walks through natural landscapes offers a grounding experience, helping participants integrate their insights and connect with the surroundings.

At $520 per person, the price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience: accommodations, meals, transportation, interpretation, and personal guidance. When considering the depth of the rituals, the quality of the setting, and the expertise of the shamans, many find this to be good value for a meaningful spiritual journey.

What Do Travelers Say?

From reviews, we learn that many participants appreciated how authentic and respectful the ceremonies felt. One reviewer remarked, “The shamans truly hold the space with care and knowledge,” highlighting the importance of experienced guides. Others mentioned the powerful visions and the feeling of internal cleansing as transformative.

Some noted the intensity of the medicines, emphasizing that these are not casual experiences but deep journeys, best approached with openness and respect. The fact that the retreat offers interpretation sessions seemed to help many travelers understand their visions and integrate them meaningfully.

Transportation and Group Size

The private transport ensures comfort and punctuality, which is key during intense ceremonies. The group size isn’t specified, but given the personalized nature, it’s likely manageable. This setting is ideal for those seeking a focused, intimate experience rather than a large tour.

Duration and Flexibility

With two days and an optional overnight stay, you have enough time to prepare, participate, and reflect. The option to sleep at the temple or return to Cusco afterward provides flexibility depending on how deep you want your journey to go.

The Sum Up: Is This Retreat Right for You?

This Wachuma + Ayahuasca retreat offers a well-balanced mix of tradition, comfort, and personal reflection. It’s especially suited for travelers who are serious about exploring sacred plant medicines and are comfortable with fasting and intense ceremonies. The focus on safety, interpretation, and authenticity makes it a compelling choice for those with some prior experience or a strong desire to deepen their spiritual practice.

If you’re seeking a structured, respectful introduction to these medicines in a supportive environment, this retreat provides both education and profound personal insights. It’s a chance to connect with Andean and Amazonian traditions while enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of Cusco’s outskirts.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $520?
The price covers private round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide and assistant, accommodation at the retreat temple, organic meals, ceremonial elements, consultations, and optional photo/video recordings.

Do I need prior experience with plant medicines?
This is an intermediate package, suitable for those with some familiarity or serious interest in Ayahuasca and Wachuma. Beginners might want to seek introductory experiences first.

How long are the ceremonies?
Ceremonies typically take place in the morning or late afternoon, with some lasting a few hours, depending on the shaman’s guidance and the participant’s needs.

What should I do before the retreat?
Participants are advised to do a detox with volcanic medicinal water, ideally a day before, and to avoid food or drinks several hours before ceremonies for better effects.

Is fasting required?
Yes, you’ll be fasting during the ceremonies to enhance the experience and reduce physical discomfort.

Can I record the ceremonies?
Yes, photos and videos are permitted during sessions, but it’s best to confirm your preferences with the assistant.

How physically demanding are the ceremonies?
The ceremonies involve walking, sitting, and sometimes intense emotional or visionary experiences, so be prepared for both physical and mental engagement.

What is the best time to do this retreat?
Availability varies, so check with the provider. The retreat is designed to be a flexible spiritual journey, fitting into most schedules.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Who should avoid this experience?
People with certain health conditions, mental health issues, or those who are pregnant should consult a healthcare professional before participating.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Wachuma + Ayahuasca retreat aligns with your spiritual goals and travel plans. It promises an immersive, respectful, and insightful journey — perfect for those ready to explore sacred medicines in a safe and supportive environment.