"Oliver and the staff at the retreat center are known for their kind and caring energy, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all participants. They are attentive and responsive, ensuring that each visitor feels heard and cared for throughout their stay. This nurturing atmosphere is crucial, especially given the intense nature of the ayahuasca experience. Oliver, in particular, is praised for his empathetic approach and deep understanding of both the spiritual and practical needs of the guests. The team's dedication to providing a safe and respectful setting is a cornerstone of the retreat, making it a trusted place for those seeking profound personal transformation.
The retreat center is conveniently located close to Medellín, allowing for easy access while still being nestled in the tranquility of the Colombian mountains. Guests are treated to breathtaking sunrises, which paint the sky in vibrant hues as a backdrop to the rugged landscape—an inspiring start to each day, especially after the profound journeys of the night before.
The surrounding flora and the natural beauty of the area contribute significantly to the peaceful atmosphere, helping participants to ground themselves amidst the intensity of their experiences. Additionally, the retreat offers unique wellness practices such as breathwork and ice baths. These practices not only complement the ayahuasca ceremonies but also introduce a level of physical and mental growth that distinguishes this retreat from others. The combination of these elements creates a holistic experience that is both nurturing and transformative.
I don’t hesitate to recommend this experience to those who seek it. Thanks Oliver and Guacamayo community <3"
Highly Rated Retreats in Colombia
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Types of Retreat in Colombia
Short Retreats in Colombia
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Experiences on Retreat
"There are truly no words for how amazing this retreat truly is. The location is perfect. I stayed in one of the private rooms; it was beautiful and peaceful, and the bed was super comfortable. The food was to die for! YUMMY! The facilities are relaxing and nestled in nature. I was surrounded by beautiful foliage and amazing views—so many stars in the sky at night out here. Oliver is so personable and easy to talk to. The Shaman Sergio and his assistants and musicians were amazing. The ceremonies were in a beautiful space with comfortable seating. I cannot say enough about the Ayahuasca Retreat Guacamayo! I will be coming back over and over again. Don't hesitate to book your life-changing experience now, you will not regret it."
"This weekend spent with Oliver and his team far surpassed any expectations I had. From the clear communication leading up to the event to the promotion of a safe and nurturing environment throughout, every detail was meticulously attended to. The retreat location itself was stunning, offering both a serene backdrop for reflection and ideal space for the ceremonies.
I appreciate so much the care and attention provided by the team throughout the entire weekend, fostering genuine connections with each participant. Despite initial nerves about embarking on such a retreat for the first time, I found myself immersed in an experience that exceeded even my loftiest hopes.
The ceremonies themselves were profoundly individualized, for me evoking a range of emotions—from difficulty to power and profound meaning—over the course of both nights. Overall, this experience was transformative, unlocking layers of love and emotion within me that I hadn't previously realized existed. The music was also a key part of the experience for me, which was shared after the retreat and I am still listening to now.
Though I choose to remain anonymous due to employment considerations, I enthusiastically recommend the Ayahuasca and Guacamayo retreat with Oliver to anyone. I fully intend to return when the call of Ayahuasca beckons once more!"
"I recently had the privilege of attending this Ayahuasca retreat, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warmth and compassion by Oliver, who made me feel welcome and supported throughout my journey.
The setting of the retreat was serene and beautiful, surrounded by nature, which added to the overall peaceful ambiance. The ceremonies themselves were conducted with utmost respect and care, with experienced shamans guiding us through the process.
The integration sessions provided after the ceremony was incredibly helpful in processing the experience and integrating the lessons learned.
Thank you to the entire team for this incredible journey; the food was incredible. I am forever grateful "
"I spent about 7 days at the Ayahuasca Camp in November 2023. It was my first experience. Even before I confirmed, the organizer took his time to clarify all my questions in a video call. In my case, I had high blood pressure and had to take medication. he double checked it with a doctor, to make sure everything is alright. I already contacted another retreat before, but here I felt they really made sure everything is okay. From the beginning to the end i found it was not only well structured but also organized. this was very good to know, because the ayahuasca ceremonies can be very intense. to know yourself at a safe place, was very good. All in all, I have very good memory of the experience and can recommend it."
"Where do I even start. I had a truly life altering experience here. I am so incredibly blown away by everything.
For me, psychological/emotional (& physical) safety were top priority (as I have anxiety and also this was my first time with the plant medicine) and I felt extremely safe with Oliver, the Shaman, and the entire team. The ceremonies were truly authentic, the energy was powerful (unlike anything I’ve felt before), the musicians (playing guitar, flute, drums, instruments I’ve never seen before, at one point there was even a proper soundbath in the middle of the night/ceremony(!)) were extraordinarily talented and went on ALL night throughout the ceremony. The music is a BIG part of the experience as the lyrics and the otherworldly sound hold you with unconditional love throughout the ceremony.
The food was great and always ready on time, and the house, wow the house was beautiful on top of a breathtaking mountain outside of Medellin in Colombia. It was perfect for this, from the interior art and setting to the beautiful views and nature outside. It was also very clean and was thoroughly cleaned every morning before everyone woke up (so you woke up to a brand new house every day!).
Not to mention, I did connect very powerfully with Mama Aya each night and I think it’s thanks to the shaman’s work and power, ingredient/plant quality, team’s guidance & prep.. And I did get the answers I needed from Mama Aya (and every person in my group did too).
If you are being called by Ayahausca (and you are if you’re here), this is the place to do it.
Thank you Oliver, Kevin, Daniel, Sergio, Julian, Richard and so many more. And thank you to the amazing new life long friends I’ve made.
With so, so much love.
"
"When it comes to find the right setting and shaman for something as personal and vulnerable as an ayahuasca journey it is a blessing to find a good shaman who has the best intentions for you.
It was not my first aya retreat but the one I resonated the most with. Oliver, the faciliator and Sergio, the Shaman, Kevin as doctor for medical questions, who also plays and sings lovely as well as Maria who's also a gifted singer and musician during the ceremonies and all the rest of the team, clearly are whole-heartedly into what they are doing, to me this was felt and brought my experience to a whole other level.
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"Sergio te debo mil gracias por mi experiencia en enero. La verdad que no sabía nada de como iba a ser o pasar. Y ustedes me dieron la bienvenida como familia y eso fue muy agradable para mí. Gracias por los consejos y la experiencia que ofrecieron. La vida es más alegre ahora.
Sergio I owe you a thousand thanks for my experience in January. The truth is that I didn't know anything about how it was going to be or happen. And you welcomed me as family and that was very nice for me. Thank you for the advice and experience you offered. Life is more joyful now.
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"Thank you so much for being who you are. You truly have restored my faith in humanity. You're a great man, friend and person and you will continue to guide others on their paths for many years. It was an honor staying at your retreat and I can't wait to book another. In the meantime I've sent a few people your way. Mil gracias."
"I came across this website while looking for things to do in Medellin and this retreat came up. Now i had never heard of Ayahuasca, but my spirit had been needing something new, something different. I did my research and thought it seemed like a sign. I must have read the reviews a million times before I booked it. One review mentioned it being a sign that this was the place for me. This was the first thing I've done for myself in a long time, so I had lots of emotions going in. Once I arrived and met Oliver and his team, plus my family (other participants) I knew this would be life-changing. From the location, to the ceremonies and everything in between, this was the best experience I've had in my life. I felt heard, seen, safe , loved and cared for the entire time. My soul is happy. I've made lifetime friends and most of all I met my inner child and have healed myself like never before. If you're looking for a sign to book this place, this is it. Thank you Oliver. "
"You are on this website for a reason. You will get what you are looking for here. The ceremony itself will exceed your expectations. The food/accommodations are great as well.
Enjoy!"
"Somehow the retreat exceeded my expectations. Oliver is an amazing host, filled with kindness and a lot of patience. He helped guide all of us through the experience with calm and assured demeanor resulting in life changing lessons. Sergio's presence alone is enough to assure and calm your soul and every other person involved in the process is there to help and contributes wonderfully to the event. If you are looking for a change in your life, look no further (and being nervous about it is a natural part of the experience, don't worry :) )"
"I had an amazing life changing experience thanks to everyone working with Ancestral Retreats.
They have all showed nothing but kindness and compassion , while guiding us through our own personal journeys.
Being a solo traveler , in a foreign Country , it took a lot of courage to be able to do this kind of spiritual experience on my own , and they have made it easy for me.
It’s been over 3 weeks since the retreat now , and I sleep naturally every single night (after being dependent on THC or pharmaceuticals for 10+years ) thanks to finding peace within as a result of this retreat.
Palomino was absolutely beautiful, so serene and we were lucky to have the BEST cooking team .. I’m still daydreaming about the experience !!! 😍"
"I went there hoping to grow, to learn, and find peace. It ended up being so much more. The retreat leaders were all really cool. They complemented each other quite well. I left there with new spiritually, self awareness, happiness and a bond with the leaders + other participants.
I can’t recommend them enough. "
"Oliver is a very wise man and has big heart. The way the retreat is set up works out great. The music is the most beautiful thing to your ears and your soul. Sergio can play like 14 different instruments, and sing at the same time. Julian has such an amazing voice. I literally got my blanket n sat next to Jaime while he was playing his guitar and singing. Oliver has such great energy and has so much wisdom to share. Defensively a life changing experience.
Blessings to all of the Guacamayo Fam.
I will be back soon brother "
"This was my first time encountering Ayahuasca, and I couldn't have felt in better hands, starting with the generous, sweet soul of our host Oliver, the loving, nurturing spirit of Clara, who fed us every meal, and the rest of the crew that came in and out, led by the shamans who, at the start of the ceremony, make you feel comforted and safe. They carry the ancient knowledge by an ancestral mamita from the Amazon region. The ceremonies felt very sacred. You'll know you're in a safe space. The journey is yours, but you will be supported and cared for. If you've been wondering about experiencing this mother plant for a while, and you feel you're ready, I wholeheartedly recommend this loving place as a first experience. I'm eternally grateful that this is where I met this sacred, ancestral medicine. GRACIAS MADRE."
"The experience at this retreat was fantastic, with ice bath and breathing exercises on top of 2 amazing ayuhasca ceremonies.
The teachers were very supportive and approachable and guided everyone through the retreat. Everyone on the retreat was from a wide range of ages and backgrounds successfully, but all managed to have a very positive experience after the two ceremonies with the guidance from staff.
Also in a beautiful location on a hillside 1 hour outside of Medellin with transport included from the city."
"Oliver & team are experienced and will guide you through your personal journey. I felt comfortable and safe from the moment I got to the retreat and every part of the experience was fantastic from the ceremonies to the heathy delicious meals. Highly recommend. Thanks Oliver!"
"Oliver and Eric where truly amazing facilitators for the ceremonies. We did a cold plunge, breathwork and sharing circles before the ceremonies. The food was amazing, but nothing beats the view on Oliver’s property. I truly recommend this to anyone who’s looking for a safe and affordable way to explore their minds through medecine. "
"I’ve been curious for a few years about doing such a retreat and when the opportunity arose while I was traveling thru Europe, I felt it was the right time for me.
My initial communication with Elena reinforced that feeling as she was responsive, accommodating, and compassionate; and even more so in-person.
The guidance, insight, and of course the musical expression of the wonderful guides/facilitators allowed me transcend to a higher level of consciousness.
I’m thankful I was able to trust my instincts for once and will continue to do so with the support provided by the retreat and all its participants. "
"I totally enjoyed the Ayahusca retreat. I even can not express, what I am feeling. I am so calm. I have the feeling, there is no need to fight for love. Yesterday, I did a training at work for 10 people (public speaking!). Unbelievable, how easily I have managed and got positive feedbacks.
I fell my strong female power. I cooked and backed after a loooong time!
Thank you so much for everything.
Thank you for your kind support. I look forward for the next session, that I will participate in!"
"Sergio was our shaman for our retreat and from the moment he stepped inside we knew we were in good hands. His confidence, smile and knowledge allowed us to relax and concentrate on our experiences as he guided us through one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Cannot rate him higher!"
"Oliver from the moment we met has been nothing but a smiling, laughing, attentive gentleman. Humble yet knowledgeable he quickly made all of us feel at home, seen and listened to and cared for throughout giving everyone a chance to be heard and grow. Muchas gracias mi hermano"
"I had searched for a while to find somewhere I would be comfortable doing a ceremony and after speaking with Oliver for 5 minutes I was certain this was the place.
From the moment we arrived it felt like home and I felt relaxed and safe.
At all times I felt my concerns and questions were addressed with compassion and thought and I knew I was in safe understanding hands at all times.
The food aswell was incredible and without a doubt some of the best I've had in Colombia after 3 months of travelling there. The house was spotless from top to bottom.
The views are honestly worth it even if you don't partake in the rest of the retreat.
I cannot rate Ayahuasca Retreat Guacamayo higher and the guys have done an amazing job creating something truly special, fair play to yous!"
"I recently had the privilege of attending the Ayahuasca Retreat Guacamayo, and I can’t express enough how transformative and incredible this journey was. From start to finish, every aspect of the retreat exceeded my expectations.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The retreat provided a safe and inviting space that instantly put me at ease. The atmosphere was filled with positivity, warmth, and acceptance, making it the perfect environment for deep self-exploration and growth.
The breathwork exercises were nothing short of powerful. They allowed me to connect with my inner self on a profound level. It was a cathartic experience that left me feeling lighter and more in touch with my true self.
The ice bath was an unexpected but incredibly invigorating experience. It helped me ground myself and brought a unique dimension to the retreat.
The meals provided were not just nourishing but absolutely delicious! Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were culinary delights and the chef was the most endearing lovely woman who’s love was felt in her cooking.
The insightful, diverse, and sharing circles after ceremonies were a highlight of the retreat. It was inspiring to connect with people from all walks of life and share our experiences. These circles fostered a sense of community and unity that added immense value to the overall experience.
The knowledge and experience of the shamans were evident throughout the retreat. Their guidance and wisdom were invaluable in helping me navigate my journey with Ayahuasca safely and effectively.
Lastly, the musicians were incredibly talented. The live music during the ceremonies elevated the entire experience, taking us on a profound and spiritual journey through sound and vibration.
In summary, the is a place of profound healing and self-discovery. If you’re looking for a life-changing experience, I wholeheartedly recommend it. The retreat’s holistic approach, knowledgeable staff, and the incredible sense of community make it a five-star destination for anyone seeking personal growth and spiritual awakening.
Lastly Oliver is an incredible host that cares deeply about his retreat attendees experience, if you have any reservations about attending an ayahuasca retreat, im sure a conversation with him before hand I’m sure will provide you with the information you’re looking for. I hope I’m able to attend another one of his retreats again in the future."
"As someone with an indigenous background, my "expectations" for the 5 day retreat in Portugal earlier this month were high and Carolina, Stefanie, and Marco uber-delivered. Their real, authentic intention to facilitate each and everyone's healing process transpired in every interaction. Amongst charlatans and wannabes, they stood out like diamonds amonst rocks.
The experience was seamless from start to finish, from micro to macro; special and the same energy and love was put into each detail of accomodation, food, logistics as was put into being fully there mentally, physically, energetically, and spiritually during each of our developmental breakthroughs.
If you are looking for a safe space, I recommend them without reservation.
A note specifically on Stefanie: she's the calmest, most sweetest presence you will ever encounter. When I first met her, I thought she's floating, not walking, that's how light her presence was. And it stayed the same throughout the whole retreat. Beautiful. "
"Marco, Carolina and Steffi sure know how to bring people together. Their authenticity and support will make you feel right at home. An experience I highly reccomemd"
"The retreat was a life-changing event for me. Carolina, Marco, and Jorge had a positive energy to share with the group and me. They are very caring and loving people. They listen to everything you say and guide you. They prepare you and get you into the mindset you should be in for ayahuasca (Plant Medicine). They are always watching over you for your safety and others. They accomplish this by keeping the size of the group small. You can tell and feel how much they love what they do. Also, keeping the group small allows everyone in the group to connect. They provided excellent hospitality and activities during my stay. I cannot thank them enough for everything they have done. I arrived angry and grumpy and left with joy and happiness. They will be lifelong friends to me and everyone I meet in the group. "
"This experience was life changing to say the least. I came to the Ancestral retreat to open my heart and heal past wounds, but I experienced a totally rebirth. With the help of Carolina, Jorge, Marco, Ana, and Taita I found bliss, peace and love; not only for myself but for every living being in our planet. I am leaving this retreat with a new found zest for life, and a new outlook and appreciation for the trials and tribulations I have experienced in life. If you are looking for a sign to change your life, this is it. Book the retreat when if you are ready to finally live the life you have always dreamed of."
"From the moment we booked with Ancestral Retreats, I knew we were in good hands. Carolina, Jorge, and Marco took such care before, during, and after the retreat in guiding our group of twelve lovely people through each and every step of our incredible journey together, with great love, patience, and kindness. For eight days, our guides lead us through many beautiful and powerful ceremonies, shared their wealth of spiritual knowledge and experience, and provided our group with a safe, comfortable, fun, and caring container to learn about ourselves and realize the power of our connection with each other in this wild and vast life we all share. This entire experience was beyond mere words and rates as one of the most healing and transformative trips of my life. I have never felt more intense love and connection with myself, the Earth, and all other beings and our guides at Ancestral Retreats made that possible. Take the leap! It’s amazing!—Dylan Kinsey—2023
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