Preparing for an ayahuasca retreat is more than getting ready for a trip — it’s an act of intention.
Before arriving in the Peruvian Amazon, it’s essential to align your body, mind, and spirit so the medicine can work in harmony with you.
At Awkipuma, we honor this preparation as part of the healing process itself.
1. Why Preparation Matters
Ayahuasca is a sacred plant medicine that opens deep layers of consciousness.
Proper preparation creates the right internal environment for healing and reduces physical or emotional discomfort during ceremony.
When you prepare consciously, you invite clarity, safety, and a deeper connection with the spirit of the jungle.
2. Physical Preparation
Follow the Ayahuasca Diet (La Dieta)
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Avoid red meat, pork, processed food, salt, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol at least 10–14 days before your retreat.
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Eat light, natural foods — fruits, vegetables, rice, and fish.
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Stay hydrated with pure water and herbal teas.
Avoid Certain Substances
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Do not combine ayahuasca with antidepressants, SSRIs, MAO inhibitors, or recreational drugs.
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If you’re on medication, consult both your doctor and the Awkipuma facilitators before traveling.
Move Your Body Gently
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Practice yoga, walking, or stretching daily.
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Avoid exhausting workouts. The goal is vitality, not fatigue.
3. Mental and Emotional Preparation
Ayahuasca magnifies what lives within you.
Before coming, take time to observe your inner world:
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Meditate daily to calm your mind.
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Journal about your emotions, fears, and intentions.
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Disconnect from social media, violent news, or stressful environments.
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Set your intention clearly — not what you want to see, but what you’re ready to understand.
“The clearer your heart, the deeper the guidance you will receive.”
4. Spiritual Preparation
The days before ceremony are sacred.
You don’t need to follow any specific religion — simply open yourself with respect and humility.
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Spend time in silence or nature.
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Offer gratitude for the opportunity to heal.
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Pray or meditate on what you wish to release and learn.
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Carry a sense of surrender — the medicine works best when you trust it.
5. Travel Preparation for Americans
Coming from the United States to Iquitos, Peru, is straightforward:
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Flights: connect through Lima to Iquitos (IQT). Major U.S. airports include Miami, Dallas, and Los Angeles.
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Visa: not required for tourist stays under 90 days.
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Health: yellow fever vaccine recommended; bring natural mosquito repellent.
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Money: bring some cash in USD; ATMs in Iquitos may charge high fees.
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Electricity: Peru uses 220V with Type A/B outlets (compatible with most U.S. chargers).
6. What to Pack
Bring light and simple essentials:
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Comfortable cotton clothes for humidity.
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Long sleeves and pants for insects.
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Flashlight or headlamp.
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Refillable water bottle.
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Sandals and light shoes.
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Notebook and pen for reflections.
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Natural toiletries.
Less is more — your presence is what truly matters.
7. Final Thoughts
Preparing for ayahuasca begins the moment you say “yes” to healing.
Each choice you make — what you eat, what you think, how you breathe — is part of the ceremony.
At Awkipuma, our family of facilitators and healers welcomes you to the heart of the Amazon, where the forest, the medicine, and your own spirit become one.
“The jungle doesn’t ask you to believe. It asks you to listen.”
Ready to begin your journey?
Explore our authentic retreats in the Peruvian Amazon and prepare for a life-changing experience with the Awkipuma family.
