Mahavana Foundation

Amazonian plant medicine, safety, and tradition.

Peru Iquitos paid

Deep in the Peruvian Amazon, near Iquitos, the Mahavana Foundation offers a unique and intimate plant medicine experience. This ecological and land preservation project focuses on traditional plant medicine, providing a safe and personalized retreat for a maximum of four participants at a time. Guests consistently report feeling secure during ceremonies and Dietas, a testament to the center's supportive environment. Pran, who guides the retreats, brings a rich background of over a decade in plant medicine combined with fifteen years as a Hindu monk, offering a truly distinctive approach. The center emphasizes connection with nature, with accommodations built using traditional, eco-friendly techniques that blend seamlessly with the lush rainforest surroundings. Meals are thoughtfully prepared with locally sourced ingredients, designed to nourish and support participants on their spiritual journey.

Highlights

Limited to only 4 participants for a highly personalized experience
Guided by Pran, a former Hindu monk with 15 years of experience
Guests report feeling "incredibly safe" during ceremonies
Traditional Kambo and Ayahuasca ceremonies, plus Master Plant Dieta
Eco-friendly accommodations built with natural, traditional materials

Good for

experienced meditatorsplant medicine practitionersnature loversthose seeking personalized retreatsspiritual seekers

Setting

set in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, the center is surrounded by lush rainforest, offering a deeply immersive natural environment. The atmosphere is rustic and eco-friendly, with accommodations designed to harmonize with the vibrant jungle landscape.

The practice

The Mahavana Foundation integrates traditional plant medicine practices, including Ayahuasca and Kambo ceremonies, with Master Plant Dietas. Guided by a former Hindu monk, the approach emphasizes safety and individual support, allowing participants to explore deeper states of consciousness and healing within a structured and intimate setting.

A typical day

While the specific daily schedule varies by retreat, participants can expect a rhythm that balances plant medicine ceremonies with periods of rest, reflection, and connection with nature. Meals prepared with local ingredients are provided, supporting the physical and spiritual journey throughout the day.

Accommodation

Accommodations are built using traditional construction techniques and natural materials, providing a rustic and eco-friendly atmosphere. These comfortable spaces are designed to offer a safe and supportive environment, complementing the surrounding rainforest.

What to bring

Given the Amazonian climate with an average temperature of 25.9°C, pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid conditions. Include rain gear, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for walking in the rainforest. The wettest months are February, May, and March, so be prepared for rain during those times.

Website mahavana.com

Address San Pedro, Río Nanay

How to get there

To reach the Mahavana Foundation, you first need to fly to Lima, Peru. From Lima, take a domestic flight to the city of Iquitos. Upon arrival in Iquitos, the center will arrange for your pick-up.

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

The center provides pick-up from Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT), which is approximately 8 km from the center.

Nearest city: Iquitos

Languages

English

How to book

Please visit the Mahavana Foundation website at mahavana.com to inquire about booking a retreat.

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

Visit Mahavana Foundation website

Climate

Climate Zone: Tropical

Best Months: Sep, Jul, Aug

Avoid: Feb, May, Mar

The Iquitos region experiences a tropical climate with an annual average temperature of 25.9°C. The warmest months are December, January, and November, while May, June, and July are slightly cooler. The driest period is from July to September, with the wettest months being February, March, and May, so expect humidity and potential rainfall regardless of the season.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum number of participants at one time?

The Mahavana Foundation limits retreats to a maximum of four participants at a time, ensuring a unique, individual, and personalized experience.

What kind of plant medicine ceremonies are offered?

The center offers Kambo and Ayahuasca ceremonies, along with the opportunity to participate in a Master Plant Dieta.

What dietary options are available during the retreat?

The center provides a variety of dietary options, including Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescetarian, and meals that include meat. They can also accommodate Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, and Nut-Free diets.

Who are the teachers and guides at Mahavana Foundation?

The retreats are guided by Pran and Anna. Pran uniquely combines over 10 years of experience with Plant Medicines with 15 years of experience as a Hindu monk.

How are the accommodations designed?

The accommodations are built using traditional construction techniques with natural materials, providing a rustic and eco-friendly atmosphere that complements the lush rainforest surroundings.