Frequently Asked Questions
Retreat Questions
How do I know if Ayahuasca is calling me?
For many people the call toward ayahuasca is gradual rather than sudden. It may show up as a curiosity that keeps returning, a sense that something in your life is ready to shift, or a deeper desire to understand yourself more fully.
Some people feel an inner pull toward the experience even if they are not completely sure why. Others simply feel that the timing in their life feels right.
If you are unsure, that is completely normal. Often the best next step is simply to have a conversation and ask questions before deciding.
Why is Kaya Rao Healing and Retreats different from other retreats?
Kaya Rao is a small family project led by a Peruvian medicine woman together with experienced Shipibo maestros and a small facilitation team.
Our retreats are intentionally intimate, usually between five and ten participants. This allows us to offer more personal attention and create an environment where guests feel safe, supported and seen.
We also combine Shipibo ayahuasca ceremonies with Andean traditions such as despacho offerings to Pachamama and temazcal sweat lodge ceremonies. Our intention is to offer a holistic experience that connects people not only with the medicine but also with the culture and land of Peru.
Who guides the ceremonies?
Ceremonies are guided by experienced Shipibo healers who carry deep ancestral knowledge and many years of ceremonial experience.
They guide the ceremony through traditional healing songs known as icaros. The ceremonies are also supported by facilitators who help maintain a grounded and safe environment for participants.
How many ayahuasca ceremonies are there?
The retreat includes three ayahuasca ceremonies during the week. This structure allows time between ceremonies for rest, reflection and integration.
Are there other ceremonies offered?
Yes. Alongside the ayahuasca ceremonies we also include additional practices such as temazcal sweat lodge, despacho ceremony, yoga, meditation, sound healing, plant walks and visits to sacred sites in the Sacred Valley.
These practices help support the overall process and offer different ways of connecting with the land and traditions of Peru.
Do I need previous experience with plant medicine?
No previous experience is required.
Many people attend their first ayahuasca retreat with us. What matters most is that participants arrive with sincerity, openness and a willingness to prepare for the experience.
We provide guidance before the retreat to help you prepare.
Is Ayahuasca safe?
When served by experienced practitioners in a respectful setting, ayahuasca can be a powerful and responsible healing practice. However it is not suitable for everyone. Certain medications and health conditions are not compatible with ayahuasca. For this reason we require a health screening and personal conversation before confirming participation.
Where are the retreats held?
Our retreats take place in the Sacred Valley of Peru, a region surrounded by mountains, rivers and ancient Incan sites. Many people find the natural environment of the valley grounding and supportive for inner work.
What is the main language in which the retreat will be facilitated?
The retreat is primarily held in English. Ceremonies themselves are sung in the traditional Shipibo language through sacred icaros. Translation and explanation are provided when needed so that participants feel supported throughout the process.
What type of accommodation is offered?
We offer both private and shared rooms depending on availability and personal preference. The retreat space is comfortable and immersed in nature, designed to support rest, reflection and integration during the week.
What type of food is served and what should I bring?
Meals are prepared with fresh local ingredients and are designed to support the retreat process.
On ceremony days we usually serve lighter vegetarian meals. On non ceremony days meals may include fish or chicken to help maintain strength and energy throughout the week.
After registration we send a full preparation guide and packing list. In general we recommend bringing
Comfortable clothing
Layers for cooler mornings and evenings in the Sacred Valley
A warm jacket
Walking or trekking shoes
Flashlight or headlamp
Journal
Water bottle
Personal toiletries
Swimsuit and sarong
Is it allowed to attend with friends, as a couple or in a group?
Yes. Many people attend individually while others come with friends or partners.
Even when arriving together, each person usually goes through their own personal process. We encourage openness and clear communication when attending with others.
Are sacred or archaeological sites visited during the retreat?
Yes. During the retreat we include a visit to a local sacred or archaeological site as part of the mountain walk. For those who wish to extend their journey, a visit to Machu Picchu can also be arranged as an additional experience.
What is the cancellation or refund policy?
Deposits are non refundable due to the preparation involved and the commitments made with the venue and retreat team. Full terms and conditions are shared during the registration process so everything is clear before confirming your place.
What are the next steps if I am interested?
The next step is to contact us and arrange a short screening call. This allows us to get to know you, answer your questions and understand whether the retreat feels like the right fit for you.
We also ask participants to complete a short health questionnaire before confirming their place.
Safety and Medical Preparation
How can I prepare?
Before the retreat we provide a preparation guide that includes dietary guidance, emotional preparation, intention setting and practical recommendations to help you arrive in a grounded and receptive state.
What is the dieta before the retreat and why is it important?
The dieta is a period of preparation where certain foods, substances and activities are reduced or avoided. This helps prepare the body and mind for the ceremonial process and supports a deeper connection with the medicine.
Is it safe to drink ayahuasca with antidepressants or medications?
Some medications, particularly certain antidepressants such as SSRIs, are not compatible with ayahuasca. For this reason we carefully review medications during the screening process and discuss each situation individually.
How long should I stop taking substances before the retreat?
We generally recommend stopping alcohol, cannabis and other recreational substances several weeks before the retreat. Specific guidance depends on the substance and personal history and will be discussed during the preparation process.
Spiritual and Emotional Preparation
What kind of intentions should I bring?
It can be helpful to arrive with a sincere intention, but it does not need to be complicated. A simple and honest intention is enough. Often the medicine guides the process in ways we do not fully expect.
What if I feel afraid or anxious before the retreat?
Feeling nervous before working with ayahuasca is very common, especially if it is your first time. We try to support guests by providing preparation, open communication and a calm environment where people can arrive gradually and feel safe.
Location and Logistics
Where is the retreat located?
The retreat takes place in the Sacred Valley of Peru, about one hour from Cusco.
What is included in the retreat?
The retreat includes ceremonies, workshops, accommodation, meals, transportation from Cusco, preparation support and integration support after the retreat.
How many people are in each group?
Our groups usually include between five and ten participants.
Keeping the group small allows us to offer more personal support.
Integration and Aftercare
What happens after the retreat?
Integration begins once you return home.
We provide integration calls and ongoing guidance to help participants process their experience and begin applying what they learned in daily life.
How can I keep the medicine alive after I leave?
Many people continue the process through journaling, therapy, meditation, time in nature and conscious lifestyle changes. Integration is an important part of making the experience meaningful in everyday life.
Is it okay to return for another ayahuasca retreat?
Yes. Some people return to this work more than once.
We generally recommend allowing enough time between retreats to fully integrate the experience before returning again.
Still have questions?
