Secret Garden
Forest cabins, ceremony, and considered meals
Private cabins set among the trees give Secret Garden a distinctly close-to-nature feel, while its main draw is traditional Shipibo ayahuasca ceremony guided by a maestra. The small retreat describes its approach as noncommercial and aims to keep the experience accessible, with stays starting at USD 550. Between ceremonies, guests have a pool, café and restaurant, Wi-Fi, and the quiet of a forest setting rather than a resort-style program. Meals are planned with the ayahuasca diet in mind and may include local fruits and vegetables, river fish, lentil soup, homemade bread, and kombucha. Vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other dietary options are listed. The center is a fit for travelers drawn to plant medicine and private cabin lodging, but practical details such as ceremony preparation, retreat length, and daily rhythm are best confirmed with the host before booking.
Highlights
- Private cabins set within the forest
- Ceremonies guided by a maestra
- Meals shaped around the ayahuasca diet, including homemade bread and kombucha
- Pool, café, and restaurant on site
Good for
Setting
The retreat’s forest setting puts trees and nature at the heart of the stay. Facilities include a pool, café and restaurant, with a practical, intimate feel rather than a large resort atmosphere.
The practice
The retreat centers on ayahuasca ceremonies described as traditional Shipibo practice, guided by a maestra. For newcomers, this is a plant-medicine setting rather than a general meditation course. The center also serves meals compatible with the ayahuasca diet. Ask the host what preparation, guidance, and support are included before deciding whether the practice is right for you.
A typical day
Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm it with the center. Ceremony timing, preparation, meals, and time between sessions are useful details to ask about before booking.
Accommodation
Guests stay in private cabins set among the forest. The cabins are described as premium, though details such as accessibility and in-room facilities are best confirmed with the center.
What to bring
Nauta averages about 25.4°C, so pack light, breathable clothing, plus a rain layer and insect protection. Ask the center about ceremony preparation and any clothing or personal items it recommends bringing.
How to get there
The listed address is 16 de enero, Nauta, Loreto, Peru. For the route from Iquitos, contact the center before travel to confirm onward transport and arrival arrangements.
Nearest airport: Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT) (112 km)
Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT), near Iquitos, is approximately 112 km from the center. Confirm transfer options with Secret Garden before booking your arrival.
Nearest city: Iquitos
Stays start at USD 550. Confirm the price for your dates and what is included directly with the center.
Climate
Climate Zone: Tropical
Best Months: Jul, Sep, Jun
Avoid: Feb, Mar, May
The annual average is about 25.4°C, with the warmest months in November through January and cooler conditions from May through July. February, March, and May are among the wettest months, while June, July, and September are among the driest.
Location
Frequently asked questions
What does a typical day at Secret Garden include?
Daily rhythms can vary by retreat. Ask the center about ceremony times, meals, and time for rest before you reserve.
Can someone new to ayahuasca attend?
The center offers ayahuasca ceremonies guided by a maestra. Ask directly about its requirements and the guidance available to first-time guests.
What food is served, and can dietary needs be accommodated?
Meals are planned with the ayahuasca diet in mind and may include local produce, river fish, lentil soup, homemade bread, and kombucha. Vegan, vegetarian, and several other dietary options are listed; confirm your needs with the center.
How do I get to the retreat from Iquitos airport?
Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport (IQT), near Iquitos, is approximately 112 km from the center. Contact Secret Garden to arrange or confirm onward transport to Nauta.
How much does a stay cost, and what is included?
Prices start at USD 550. Ask the center to confirm what your chosen stay includes and which dates are available.
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