Ayahuasca Foundation

Amazonian plant medicine for healing and wisdom.

Peru Iquitos paid

Deep in the Peruvian Amazon, the Ayahuasca Foundation offers unique healing and initiation retreats focused on plant spirit medicine. Founded in 2008 by Carlos Tanner, a long-time student of curanderismo, this non-profit is dedicated to preserving and sharing ancient wisdom. They operate two distinct facilities: the modern Riosbo Ayahuasca Research and Education Center with private rooms and en suite amenities, and the more rustic Inkan Kena Plant Medicine School, designed to resemble a Shipibo community. Programs range from two-week healing retreats to eight-week curandero initiation courses, all emphasizing a connection to the Amazon's spiritual knowledge. The Foundation's mission is to replant the seeds of spiritual awareness globally, fostering compassion and respect through the profound insights offered by plant medicine.

Highlights

Two distinct retreat facilities: modern Riosbo and rustic Inkan Kena
Curandero initiation courses in a remote jungle school
Dedicated to preserving ancient plant spirit medicine
Ayurvedic-based diet and medical facility at Riosbo
Proximity to sacred Noya Rao trees at Inkan Kena

Good for

plant medicine explorationspiritual seekersAmazonian cultural immersionhealing retreatstraditional medicine students

Setting

The Ayahuasca Foundation operates deep within the Amazon Rainforest near Iquitos, Peru. One center, Riosbo, offers a modern setting overlooking a river, while Inkan Kena provides a rustic, authentic experience modeled after a Shipibo community, set close to sacred Noya Rao trees. The atmosphere is one of profound connection to nature and ancient healing traditions.

The practice

The Ayahuasca Foundation focuses on plant spirit medicine, particularly the ancient science of Ayahuasca. Participants engage in healing retreats and initiation courses, guided by experienced curanderos. The practice involves ceremonial use of plant medicines, aiming to foster spiritual awareness and personal transformation. Beginners can expect a supportive environment for deep introspection and connection with Amazonian traditions.

A typical day

Daily schedules vary significantly depending on the specific retreat or course. Participants can expect a rhythm that integrates ceremonial plant medicine sessions with periods for reflection and rest. At Riosbo, there may be yoga and meditation, while Inkan Kena offers a more immersive, traditional jungle experience. Meals consist of natural, whole foods tailored to the retreat's dietary guidelines.

Accommodation

Accommodation varies significantly between the two facilities. The Riosbo Ayahuasca Research and Education Center features eight private rooms, each with a shared balcony overlooking the river, en suite bathrooms, full electricity, and hot and cold water. In contrast, the Inkan Kena Plant Medicine School is more rustic, accommodating up to 14 students in a setting designed like a traditional Shipibo village, with running water and minimal electricity.

What to bring

Given the Amazonian climate, pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid conditions. Include rain gear for wet seasons and insect repellent. Comfortable shoes for jungle walks are also recommended.

Address Iquitos, Peru

How to get there

Your final destination by air or boat is Iquitos, Peru. Once you arrive, participants will be picked up at the airport by the Ayahuasca Foundation staff.

Nearest airport: Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT) (8 km)

Participants are picked up at Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT), which is approximately 8 km from the center, upon arrival in Iquitos.

Nearest city: Iquitos

Languages

English

Pricing

The Ayahuasca Foundation operates on a paid cost model, with specific pricing details for their various retreats and courses available upon inquiry.

Climate

Climate Zone: Tropical

Best Months: Sep, Jul, Aug

Avoid: Feb, May, Mar

Iquitos experiences a tropical rainforest climate, with an annual average temperature of 25.9°C. The warmest months are typically December, January, and November, while May, June, and July are slightly cooler. The wettest months occur between February and May, with drier periods from July to September.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food is served during retreats?

The Ayahuasca Foundation provides an all-natural, whole-food diet. Meals typically include rice, quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, various vegetables and fruits, fresh fish, and eggs. They also offer cold-pressed juices and superfoods, with options for vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, Ayurvedic, organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free diets.

Are there different types of retreats available?

Yes, the Ayahuasca Foundation offers a variety of programs. These include two and three-week healing retreats, eight-week curandero initiation courses, eight-day retreats, and four-week empowerment courses. The specific focus and duration depend on the program you choose.

What are the accommodation options like?

The Foundation has two distinct venues. The Riosbo Ayahuasca Research and Education Center offers private rooms with en suite bathrooms, electricity, and hot water. The Inkan Kena Plant Medicine School is more rustic, designed like a traditional Shipibo community, with running water and minimal electricity, accommodating up to 14 students.

Who are the teachers or guides at the center?

The retreats and courses are led by experienced teachers and guides, including Doña and Don. Carlos Tanner, the founder, has also been leading healing retreats since 2004 and assisting with initiation courses.

What amenities are available at the centers?

Amenities vary by location. Riosbo offers en suite bathrooms, full electricity, hot and cold water, a yoga/meditation room, massage room, consultation room, and a lab/medical facility. Both centers provide towels, kitchen access, and housekeeping. Tour assistance is also available.