Best Ayahuasca Retreats in USA:
Where to Find Ayahuasca in United States

APL Shamanic Journeys retreats blog
Interesting fact - the majority of online searches related to ayahuasca retreats are made in the United States. Whether this is due to the influence of trends originating in America or the presence of many researchers in the country, Americans frequently search for where to get ayahuasca psychedelic retreat in the USA. In this article, we will provide a brief overview of the status of ayahuasca in the United States and highlight the most solid Ayahuasca ceremony providers in America.

Where to Find Ayahuasca in the United States

Considering participating in an Ayahuasca ceremony in America, you need to bear in mind that Ayahuasca (also known as iowaska or ayawaska) is a potent plant-based medicine. Though it is offered frequently, it is a serious undertaking and can have a significant impact on the psychological state of a person using it. That is why you need to be very clear about the professionalism and legality of the team serving Ayahuasca. There are many retreat centers and clinics, but in choosing one, you must understand all the legal and medical frameworks behind it.

Can You Do Ayahuasca in the U. S.?

The legal status of ayahuasca varies across US states due to its containing DMT, a Schedule I controlled substance federally. Interestingly, while the plant used to make ayahuasca is allowed for ornamental purposes, its use in religious ceremonies is protected under the First Amendment. Some religious groups have specific permissions under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. State laws also play a role, underscoring the importance of understanding local regulations. Further details can be found in our article on the legality of Ayahuasca.

Ayahuasca Churches, Centers, and Retreats in the United States

Numerous affordable options for ayahuasca ceremonies are available, but it's crucial to exercise caution when considering them—whether it is presented as a psychedelic retreat, authentic rehab, traditional church, or ceremonial resort. Some ceremonies may be hosted in private homes or led by individuals claiming to be shamans or self-proclaimed gurus who come to your location. However, it's essential to remember that, as previously mentioned, the legal use of ayahuasca is limited to certain religious groups granted this privilege under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. These groups are the only organizations legally authorized to conduct ayahuasca ceremonies in the United States.

States that Legalize Ayahuasca

It is a controversial matter whether it is possible to fully legalize Ayahuasca. However, some states have more or less progressive views on the topic.
  • In Arizona, for example, the legal status of ayahuasca is complex and evolving, with recent court cases turning it into a legal battleground. Organizations like the Vine of Light Church and the Arizona Yage Assembly have filed lawsuits challenging the DEA's stance on ayahuasca's legality in religious practice.
  • In contrast, Massachusetts and Oklahoma lack specific legal frameworks for ayahuasca use by religious groups, relying primarily on federal law like the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA).
  • Colorado became the first state to decriminalize ayahuasca, DMT, and iboga for adult use in November 2022.
  • Washington State has seen reclassifications of psychedelic plant medicines in certain cities.

For more information about the legality of Ayahuasca and ayahuasca retreats in the USA, please, check our article on this matter.

10 Best Ayahuasca Retreats in or Near the USA

APL Shamanic Journeys

APL Shamanic Journeys, a retreat center originating from Europe, consistently adheres to the authentic Amazonian approach. Renowned as one of Europe's top-rated centers, their primary location is in Spain. Several times a year, they organize retreats closer to the United States, typically in Ecuador, Mexico, or Peru, providing an opportunity for their American clients to participate. What makes APL truly distinctive is its dedication to authenticity and cultural integrity, ensuring that its practices not only respect but also actively support the Shipibo communities, thereby preserving the lineage and authenticity of the shamanic practices they offer.
APL Shamanic Journeys
APL Shamanic Journeys

SPAIN

This 7-day Ayahuasca retreat in Spain offers traditional ceremonies with Peruvian Shamans and support from trauma-informed facilitators and a therapist, focusing on personal growth in a safe and supportive environment.
ECUADOR
This 10-day Ayahuasca retreat in Ecuador is a transformative journey across the country. Participants travel through diverse regions, staying in various locations, including thermal spa in mountains and the Amazon jungle with the Achuar tribes.
PERU
This 8-day Ayahuasca retreat or Dieta with Teacher Plants in Peru is led by Maestro Pepe from the Netflix documentary "The Last Shaman." Set in the Amazon rainforest, it includes four Ayahuasca ceremonies, integration circles, personal consultations, and excursions.
Ocean Front Retreat
Journey to Tribes
With “The Last Shaman”

Santo Daime Church

Santo Daime Church Originating in Brazil in the 1930s, the Santo Daime Church combines elements of Christianity with South American shamanistic rituals. The use of Ayahuasca, known as 'Daime' within this tradition, is a central sacrament in their ceremonies. The church's rituals often involve hymn singing, dancing, and prayer, and the use of Ayahuasca is intended to bring about spiritual revelation and healing. The Santo Daime Church has branches in various states and has been involved in legal cases to protect its use of Ayahuasca under religious freedom laws.
Santo Daime Church
Santo Daime Church

Ayahuasca Retreat New Mexico

Ayahuasca retreat New Mexico is a retreat center, functioning by the authorization of «The União do Vegetal (UDV)» (a religious organization originally from Brazil, known for its use of Ayahuasca in spiritual ceremonies). In the United States, the UDV gained prominence following a landmark Supreme Court case in 2006 (Gonzales v. UDV), which allowed them to legally use Ayahuasca under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). The UDV combines Christian teachings with spiritual rituals involving Ayahuasca, focusing on spiritual enlightenment and personal growth, and has established branches in the U.S. adhering to these practices within legal and safety guidelines.
UDV Church
UDV Church

The Sanctuary Shamanic Healing Center in New York

The Sanctuary Shamanic Healing Center in New York is a retreat resort offering Ayahuasca sessions and other shamanic practices for spiritual growth and healing. Led by experienced practitioners, including weekend retreats, it provides a safe environment for deep exploration of psychological and spiritual experiences. The Sanctuary integrates Ayahuasca with other healing modalities to support attendees' holistic well-being.
The Sanctuary Shamanic Healing Center in New York
The Sanctuary Shamanic Healing Center in New York

Soul Quest Ayahuasca Church of Mother Earth in Florida

Soul Quest Ayahuasca Church of Mother Earth in Florida operates uniquely as a church, distinct from traditional shamanic centers and therapy-focused retreats like The Sanctuary Shamanic Healing Center and Sacred Therapy. It blends indigenous Amazonian shamanic practices with a structured, church-oriented approach, incorporating spiritual and religious elements into its Ayahuasca ceremonies, including Christian theology. This integration fosters a spiritually diverse environment, emphasizing community and shared spiritual journeys.
Soul Quest Ayahuasca Church of Mother Earth
Soul Quest Ayahuasca Church of Mother Earth

Aya Quest Kentucky

Aya Quest Kentucky is a center led by the charismatic self-proclaimed shaman or guru Teve Hupp, who gained recognition also through a VICE show. Following the passing of its charismatic leader, Steve Hupp, Aya Quest Kentucky may have undergone schedule changes. The center offered Ayahuasca sessions to individuals and small groups, requiring attendees to become members of the Church beforehand. Notably budget-friendly, the center does not offer meals, therapy, airport pick-up services, or other treatments.
Aya Quest Kentucky
Aya Quest Kentucky

Two Birds Church

Two Birds Church is a non-profit organization, that conducts Ayahuasca ceremonies in Texas. Their approach emphasizes a deep respect for individuals and the sacred rituals they facilitate. Participants are encouraged to make voluntary donations, although a weekend retreat has a fixed price (even with some treatments included).
Two Birds Church
Two Birds Church

Origen Sagrada

Origen Sagrada is a well-established center located in Warner Springs, California, is renowned for its five-day retreat experience. What sets this retreat apart is its alignment with Brazilian traditions, incorporating ceremonial songs and vibrant shamanic attire during Ayahuasca ceremonies.
Origen Sagrada
Origen Sagrada

Soltara Healing Center

Soltara Healing Center is located in Costa Rica and Peru, combines traditional Shipibo shamanic practices with accessibility to a global audience. Costa Rica offers additional shamanic treatments in a serene natural resort setting. In Peru, it provides an authentic Amazonian experience led by experienced Shipibo healers. Both locations emphasize traditional Ayahuasca ceremonies with sacred songs, or "icaros".
Soltara Healing Center
Soltara Healing Center

Behold Retreats

Behold can be a great option for a private retreat. Whether alone or with friends, this all- inclusive option guarantees an intimate and life-changing journey with your closest companions. Ayahuasca, known as the "mother of all Amazonian plants", can be even more transformative when shared with loved ones, provided you have the resources for such a luxury treatment.
Behold Retreats
Behold Retreats

Where You Can Take Ayahuasca Outside the U.S.

If you have a flexible budget and the desire to immerse yourself in the original tropical climate, you may consider exploring taking a trip outside of the United States. The closest and highly recommended destinations are found in Central and South America, especially the Amazon, which is the birthplace of the Ayahuasca plant and all the spiritual practices and rituals connected with it.

Retreats Not Far From America in Ecuador

APL SHAMANIC JOURNEYS
APL Shamanic Journeys, a leading European retreat center, embraces authentic Amazonian tradition. Based in Spain, they occasionally host retreats closer to the United States. Their Ecuador tour offers a transformative journey into the heart of the Amazon, immersing participants in Achuar tribal culture. With modern amenities and profound ceremonies, it's an unparalleled experience.
APL Shamanic Journeys Ecuador
One in a lifetime adventure with APL Shamanic Journeys

Ayahuasca Ceremonies in Peru

APL SHAMANIC JOURNEYS
Peru stands as a natural sanctuary for ayahuasca, with its legal approval for the indigenous "ayahuasca tea." For those exploring South America, it's a must-visit destination. The APL Center in Peru offers a unique retreat, tailored for experienced ayahuasca participants seeking deeper connections. This program includes "dietas" with authentic Amazonian plants, immersing participants in the jungle. While there are still three ayahuasca ceremonies, the highlight is the "Master-Plant Dieta" between them. This involves a special diet and plant infusions for 7-10 days, providing profound insights. Despite requiring more commitment, it offers a budget-friendly option for a transformative experience.

APL Shamanic Journeys Peru
Teacher-Plant Dietas with APL Shamanic Journeys

FAQ

What is Ayahuasca?

Ayahuasca (also known as iowaska or ayawaska) is a potent plant-based medicine. Traditionally, it is served in the form of a tea, consisting of two plants: Ayahuasca itself, or Banisteriopsis caapi, a vine native to the Amazon rainforest, revered as the "Mother of all Amazonian Medicines and Plants" by indigenous communities, and another plant called Chacruna.

Chacruna, or Psychotria viridis, is the component that contains DMT (Dimethyltryptamine), a powerful psychedelic molecule. The combination of Chacruna and Ayahuasca creates a brew known for its visual and spiritual effects.

Is Ayahuasca FDA Approved?

As stated below, Ayahuasca contains DMT, a Schedule I controlled substance in the US. Schedule I substances are deemed to have high abuse potential, no accepted medical use, and safety concerns. Despite growing interest in psychedelic therapy, classic Ayahuasca brew and similar substances lack FDA approval for medical use.

Where Can You Do Ayahuasca Legally in the USA?

The legal status of ayahuasca in the United States varies by state, posing regulatory challenges. State laws play a role, highlighting the need for understanding and compliance. See our article on this topic for more details.

How Much Does an Ayahuasca Retreat Cost in the USA?

The USA is home to a significant number of ayahuasca retreat centers, featuring a wide price range from as low as $250 per ceremony to several thousand dollars.
When you're in the process of choosing a retreat, it's crucial to prioritize those led by genuine shamans and staffed with a professional team. Longer retreat durations (not a weekend or 2-day ceremony!) often provide a greater opportunity for a profound spiritual experience.

How Safe Are Retreats in the US?

Ayahuasca offers profound experiences when approached responsibly. Choosing a trustworthy environment is crucial for safety and transformation. For a safe retreat, consider the following:
  • Legal Status: Verify the organization's compliance with local laws.
  • Authenticity: Seek organizations committed to traditional ayahuasca use with experienced
  • shamans.
  • Integration Support: Look for programs offering support post-ceremony for processing
  • insights.
  • Professional Facilitators: Ensure experienced facilitators guide your journey.

What Are the Reviews of Retreats in the USA?

While there are numerous retreat centers and clinics in the United States, some are renowned for their exceptional ratings. However, for a truly authentic and profound experience, venturing to the birthplace of Ayahuasca, the Amazon, is often deemed worthwhile. While the retreat centers in America listed below receive high praise, those seeking an extraordinary journey may find flying to Peru a compelling option.
UPCOMING
Ayahuasca Retreats

SPAIN

This 7-day Ayahuasca retreat in Spain offers traditional ceremonies with Peruvian Shamans and support from trauma-informed facilitators and a therapist, focusing on personal growth in a safe and supportive environment.
ECUADOR
This 10-day Ayahuasca retreat in Ecuador is a transformative journey across the country. Participants travel through diverse regions, staying in various locations, including thermal spa in mountains and the Amazon jungle with the Achuar tribes.
PERU
This 8-day Ayahuasca retreat or Dieta with Teacher Plants in Peru is led by Maestro Pepe from the Netflix documentary "The Last Shaman." Set in the Amazon rainforest, it includes four Ayahuasca ceremonies, integration circles, personal consultations, and excursions.
Ocean Front Retreat
Journey to Tribes
With “The Last Shaman”
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