Epicenter Ayahuasca

Ancient Amazonian healing, family-run tradition.

Peru Pahoyan paid

Epicenter Ayahuasca, founded in 2022 by Mama Olinda, Padre Esteban, and Urban, offers a profound journey into the ancient healing practices of Ayahuasca and master plant dietas. Located just outside Pahoyan, a Shipibo village along the Amazonian river from Pucallpa, Peru, this family-run center carries centuries of ancestral wisdom. They invite visitors to immerse themselves in traditional Shipibo ways, rather than adapting the practices to Western norms. It's a small, intimate setting designed for authentic engagement with plant medicine, emphasizing safety and deep connection to the Amazonian environment and its spiritual heritage. The focus here is on genuine cultural exchange and healing through time-honored methods.

Highlights

Run by a Shipibo family with centuries of ancestral healing knowledge
Focus on authentic, unadapted master plant dietas and Ayahuasca ceremonies
Intimate setting with only 5 tambos for a personalized experience
Meals follow the traditional shamanic diet: vegetarian, salt-free, sugar-free, spice-free
Located in a private Amazonian setting near a Shipibo village

Good for

experienced meditatorsplant medicine practitionersnature loverscultural immersionspiritual seekersthose seeking authentic indigenous practices

Setting

The center is set in a private, lush Amazonian environment, a short walk or boat ride from the Shipibo village of Pahoyan. It's designed for intimacy, with a large ceremony building and common areas, all surrounded by the vibrant sounds and sights of the rainforest.

The practice

Epicenter Ayahuasca focuses on the traditional Shipibo use of Ayahuasca and master plant dietas. These practices involve consuming sacred plant medicines under the guidance of experienced shamans to facilitate deep healing, self-discovery, and spiritual insight. Participants engage in ceremonies and follow specific dietary guidelines to enhance the plant's effects and promote profound inner work.

A typical day

While specific schedules vary by retreat, days at Epicenter Ayahuasca typically involve morning practices, communal meals adhering to the traditional shamanic diet, and periods for reflection or integration. Evening ceremonies with Ayahuasca are central to the experience, guided by the resident shamans. The family's presence ensures continuous support.

Accommodation

Epicenter Ayahuasca provides a small, intimate setting with 5 tambos, two of which are shared. The family lives on-site, ensuring close proximity and support throughout your stay.

What to bring

Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate, as the average temperature is 25.5°C. Include rain gear for wetter months and insect repellent. Sturdy, comfortable footwear for walking in the Amazon is also recommended.

Website epicenterayahuasca.com

Address Pahoyan, Peru

How to get there

The journey begins with an international flight to Lima, Peru, followed by a domestic flight to Pucallpa. From Pucallpa, the center provides pickup from your hotel, transporting you to the harbor for a 3-4 hour speedboat ride up the Amazon River to the Shipibo village of Pahoyan.

Nearest airport: Cap FAP David Abenzur Rengifo International Airport (PCL) (77 km)

The center provides pickup from your hotel in Pucallpa, which is near Cap FAP David Abenzur Rengifo International Airport (PCL), approximately 77 km away. This includes transport to the harbor for the river journey.

Nearest city: Pucallpa

Pricing

Pricing starts from USD 150. Specific retreat costs will vary based on duration and inclusions.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Epicenter Ayahuasca website

Climate

Climate Zone: Tropical

Best Months: Jul, Sep, Aug

Avoid: Mar, Feb, Oct

Pahoyan experiences a tropical Amazonian climate with an average annual temperature of 25.5°C. The warmest months are September, December, and January, while July, June, and May are slightly cooler. The driest periods are typically July, September, and August, with the wettest months being March, February, and October.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food is served at Epicenter Ayahuasca?

Meals are prepared according to the traditional shamanic diet, which is primarily vegetarian, without salt, sugar, or spices. Occasionally, fish and chicken may be served. The center can also accommodate full vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs.

How do I get to Epicenter Ayahuasca?

You'll fly to Lima, Peru, then take a domestic flight to Pucallpa. From Pucallpa, the center will arrange pickup from your hotel, followed by a 3-4 hour speedboat ride on the Amazon River to the Shipibo village of Pahoyan.

Is Epicenter Ayahuasca suitable for beginners to plant medicine?

The center emphasizes a safe and authentic approach to Ayahuasca and master plant dietas. While they invite Westerners to explore these traditions, it's recommended to communicate any prior experience or concerns directly with the center to ensure suitability.

What should I bring for my stay in the Amazon?

Given the tropical Amazonian climate with an average annual temperature of 25.5°C, light, breathable clothing is essential. Pack for both warm, wet periods (March, February, October) and drier, slightly cooler times (July, June, May). Insect repellent, a hat, and sturdy walking shoes are also advisable.