Nicola Schaefer

Come back to yourself, gently

Ecuador Vilcabamba paid

Vilcabamba’s quiet valley setting is part of the work at Nicola Schaefer’s Inti Soul Retreat, where the emphasis is on embodied healing, respectfully held plant-medicine experiences and integration beyond the retreat itself. Guests stay at Izhcayluma Ecolodge, with Andean panoramas, lush gardens, a natural pool, sauna, spa and dedicated yoga studios. Days include fresh regional cooking, with vegetarian and vegan meals, organic ingredients and other dietary needs arranged on request. The tone is personal rather than performative: Nicola describes her role as walking alongside participants, informed by her own experience of finding support in the valley. This is a paid retreat, with prices starting at EUR 2,444; ask about specific dates, inclusions and the daily structure before booking. Travel planning is supported by Nicola, and the usual approach is to connect through Loja or arrange the Cuenca shuttle to the lodge.

Highlights

Plant-medicine work paired with an emphasis on lasting integration
Personal guidance from Nicola Schaefer
A natural pool, sauna, spa and dedicated yoga studios at the ecolodge
Organic regional meals with vegetarian and vegan choices daily

Good for

plant-medicine retreat participantspeople seeking personal reflectionyoga practitionersnature loversguests who value guided integration

Setting

Izhcayluma Ecolodge sits among the Andean hills above Vilcabamba, with broad valley views and gardens that make the grounds feel peaceful and open. A natural pool, sauna, spa and yoga studios give guests places to rest or move between retreat activities.

The practice

The retreat focuses on plant medicine, approached with respect and paired with embodied work and integration. Rather than assuming visitors know a particular spiritual tradition, expect guidance from Nicola and space to make sense of your experience. Ask her directly about the specific practices planned for your dates and what preparation they involve.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm it with Nicola before booking. The ecolodge has yoga studios and outdoor spaces for practice, while meals feature fresh regional ingredients. The retreat’s focus includes plant medicine and integration, but exact session times and the balance of guided activities and free time depend on the particular program.

Accommodation

Guests stay at Izhcayluma Ecolodge, which also has a restaurant and cafe. Ask Nicola about room options and what is included with your retreat booking.

What to bring

Vilcabamba averages about 19.6°C, so pack light layers and comfortable clothing for movement and outdoor time. Rain is more common in February, April and November, while July through September are drier; bring a light rain layer if travelling in wetter months.

Address PQQF+3R9, Vilcabamba, Ecuador

How to get there

A recommended route is to fly to Loja, then take a taxi to Izhcayluma Ecolodge, about 45 minutes away. A direct shuttle from Cuenca is also listed; Nicola assists participants with travel planning.

Nearest airport: Santa Rosa - Artillery Colonel Victor Larrea International Airport (ETR) (125 km)

Santa Rosa - Artillery Colonel Victor Larrea International Airport (ETR) is approximately 125 km from the retreat. Arrange onward transport with Nicola; the described route via Loja uses a taxi from the city to the lodge.

Nearest city: Santa Rosa

Languages

English

How to book

Contact Nicola Schaefer directly to ask about dates and reserve a place.

Pricing

Retreat prices start at EUR 2,444. Confirm the dates, inclusions and payment terms with Nicola.

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Jul, Aug, Sep

Avoid: Feb, Nov, Apr

Vilcabamba has a mild average annual temperature of about 19.6°C. January through March are among the coolest months, while September is warm and dry; February, April and November tend to be wetter.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Izhcayluma Ecolodge?

A connecting flight to Loja is recommended, followed by a taxi to the lodge, about 45 minutes and around USD 45. A direct shuttle from Cuenca is also listed at around USD 45 per person.

Can I join if I am new to plant-medicine retreats?

Nicola’s approach is described as personal and supportive. Ask her about preparation, suitability and what to expect during the retreat you are considering.

What food is served, and can dietary needs be accommodated?

Daily meals use fresh regional ingredients, including organic produce, with vegetarian and vegan options. Other dietary needs can be arranged on request.

How do I reserve a place and what does the price include?

Prices start at EUR 2,444. Contact Nicola to ask about dates, booking, inclusions and payment details.

What should I pack for the retreat?

Bring comfortable clothes for movement and time outdoors, plus layers and a light rain jacket. Ask Nicola whether your program has any specific preparation guidance.