APL Shamanic Journeys
Traditional practice, carefully held
Amazonian Shipibo practice is approached here with an unusual emphasis on preparation and ongoing personal support. APL Shamanic Journeys has organized programs in Peru and Spain since 2017, working with experienced Shipibo practitioners and their families. Retreats combine pre-arrival screening, guided preparation, lineage-based ceremonies and integration support, with options ranging from group programs to more focused traditional dietas, or sama. The structure is carefully held: trauma-informed facilitators and a licensed psychotherapist are present, and participants have daily one-to-one sessions during the retreat. Meals follow a traditional dietary protocol intended to support the ceremonial process. This is a place for visitors who want a clearly guided format rather than an unstructured stay, and who value attentive psychological support alongside traditional practice. Ask APL about the particular program, length and practical arrangements before making travel plans.
Highlights
- Programs shaped in collaboration with experienced Shipibo practitioners and their families
- Traditional dietas (sama) alongside structured group retreats
- A licensed psychotherapist and trauma-informed facilitators present throughout each retreat
- Daily one-to-one participant sessions, plus preparation and integration support
Good for
Setting
The retreat is based in Málaga, in Andalusia’s sunny coastal region. The emphasis is on a professionally held, private environment where participants can step back from everyday demands and focus on the program, with psychological support woven into the experience.
The practice
Shipibo practice is an Amazonian tradition in which ceremonial work and, in some programs, a dieta (sama) form part of a focused retreat. At APL, participants move through screening and guided preparation before lineage-based ceremonies, with daily individual check-ins and integration support. If you are new to this work, ask the center which format and preparation steps fit your experience.
A typical day
The exact daily timetable varies by retreat. Ceremonies are part of the program, and each participant also has a daily one-to-one session with support staff; meals follow a traditional dietary protocol. Confirm ceremony timing, rest periods and the day’s schedule with APL before arrival.
Accommodation
The retreat setup includes air-conditioned rooms and towels, along with amenities such as Wi-Fi, a pool and a yoga studio. Ask APL about room types, occupancy and what is included for your chosen program.
What to bring
Follow APL’s guidance for the traditional dietary protocol and any preparation instructions before packing food or supplements. Málaga averages 18.8°C annually, with warmer, drier summers and cooler, wetter winter months, so bring adaptable layers and rain protection if travelling in winter.
How to get there
The listed address is in Málaga, Spain. Ask APL for the exact arrival directions and the correct retreat meeting point before booking travel, as program logistics may vary.
Nearest airport: Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) (11 km)
Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is approximately 11 km from the center. APL coordinates shared van transfers for retreat participants through a Telegram group created about two weeks before each program; confirm the route and pickup details with the center.
Nearest city: Málaga
Contact APL directly to ask about dates, program format and the reservation process.
The center runs by donation. Confirm the suggested contribution and what it covers with APL before reserving.
Climate
Climate Zone: Subtropical
Best Months: Jun, Aug, Jul
Avoid: Mar, Dec, Apr
Málaga has a mild annual average temperature of 18.8°C. July and August are among the warmest, driest months, while December through February are coolest; March, April and December tend to be wetter.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What does a typical day at APL Shamanic Journeys look like?
The rhythm varies by program, but daily one-to-one sessions and ceremonial work are part of the retreat structure. Ask APL for the timetable for your dates.
Can I attend if I am new to Shipibo practice?
The program includes guided preparation and pre-arrival screening. Contact APL to discuss your experience and which retreat format may be suitable.
What food is served during a retreat?
Meals follow a traditional Ayahuasca dietary protocol. Ask APL about specific menus and how dietary requirements can be accommodated.
How are airport transfers arranged?
APL creates a Telegram group about two weeks before each retreat so participants can coordinate flights and shared van transfers. The van cost is shared among those who join.
How do I book, and how long are the programs?
Program lengths and reservation steps depend on the retreat. Contact APL directly to confirm dates, duration and how to reserve.
Reviews
No reviews yet — be the first to share your experience!