Is Ayahuasca safe in Medellín?

Ayahuasca can be safe when conducted in the right environment. Safety depends entirely on the retreat center’s protocols. A safe center will conduct a thorough medical and psychological screening, be led by an experienced Taita with a verifiable lineage, and maintain a small group size for individualized attention. Always be transparent about your health history. For more details, read about [Ayahuasca safety](/ayahuasca-safety).

Is it dangerous to drink Ayahuasca on my period?

It can be. Physically, the vasodilation can increase blood flow. Energetically, it can create conflict between the medicine’s upward-opening energy and the body’s natural downward flow.

What is the ayahuasca diet and why is it important?

Before ceremony, participants follow a [dieta-a period of preparation](/blog/ayahuasca-diet-preparation-ceremony-guide) that includes clean eating, avoiding alcohol, stimulants, processed foods, pork, and fermented products. This is not about restriction for its own sake, but about clarity: preparing body, mind, and spirit to meet the medicine. The dieta also emphasizes rest, reflection, and intention-setting, which are just as important as food choices. 👉 For details, see our [Ayahuasca Diet Preparation Guide](/blog/ayahuasca-diet-preparation-ceremony-guide).

Do I need prior experience?

No. First‑time participants are welcome, provided health screening confirms the retreat is appropriate for you.

Is ayahuasca legal in Medellín / Colombia?

Yes. In Colombia, yagé (ayahuasca) is legally recognized as part of Indigenous cultural heritage. Ceremonies led by qualified facilitators are widely practiced near Medellín. Always verify safety practices, lineage, and transparency. See our [Safe Retreat Guide](/blog/safe-ayahuasca-medellin-guide).

How do I prepare for an ayahuasca retreat in Medellín?

Preparation includes following a [clean diet](/blog?category=preparation) (avoid alcohol, aged cheeses, processed foods), hydrating well, and arriving rested. Many guests begin 1–2 weeks in advance. First-timers benefit from the longer preparation window. See our full [Ayahuasca Safety Guide](/ayahuasca-safety).

How much does a retreat cost?

Upcoming retreats start from 750 USD. The standard retreat includes accommodation, meals, round-trip transport from Medellín or the airport, preparation, ceremonies, and integration support. See current dates: [Camino al Sol Retreats](/ayahuasca-retreat-medellin#dates).

What should I bring with me?

Comfortable clothes and layers (nights are cool in the mountains) Sandals, flashlight, water bottle Notebook/pen for integration Unscented toiletries Any personal medications (disclosed in advance) We provide detailed packing instructions after booking. For more, see our [Safety Guide](/ayahuasca-safety).

What is the best time of year for ayahuasca retreats in Medellín?

Medellín has a year-round “eternal spring” climate, making retreats possible in any month. Shoulder seasons (February–May, September–November) may offer smaller groups and quieter venues.

What is the difference between ayahuasca and yagé?

They are the same sacred brew, but with different cultural names. In Colombia and Ecuador, people say yagé (yah-HEY), while in Peru the word ayahuasca is more common. Online, many seekers spell it as iowaska-all referring to the same medicine. The names highlight regional traditions, but the essence remains: a plant teacher used for healing and spiritual guidance.

What happens during an ayahuasca ceremony?

A ceremony is usually held at night, guided by an experienced healer. Participants drink the brew in one or more servings, then sit or lie quietly as the effects unfold over 4–6 hours. Common experiences include purging (vomiting, sweating, tears), vivid visions, deep emotional release, and a strong sense of connection. Throughout, the healer sings ícaros to guide and protect the circle. The shared space, music, and guidance are as important as the brew itself.

Why choose Camino al Sol for a yagé retreat?

With more than 15 years of experience, Camino al Sol honors Colombian indigenous traditions with integrity, music, safety, and guidance. Our retreats are rooted in respect for the elders and the medicine, offering an authentic path of transformation.

What makes a retreat "holistic"?

A holistic ayahuasca retreat views the ceremony as one part of a larger healing journey. It goes beyond the experience itself to support the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. This approach typically includes thorough preparation guidance before you arrive and, most importantly, structured integration support after you leave to help you apply insights to your daily life. Holistic retreats often incorporate complementary practices like yoga, meditation, nature immersion, and a clean, nourishing diet to create a comprehensive container for lasting well-being.

Does Camino al Sol offer integration support after the retreat?

Yes. Participants can reach out for personal guidance or schedule an integration session with facilitator Samuel Vélez after their retreat.

Taita Diego Marmolejo praying by the sacred fire at Camino al Sol

86 reviews

Small-group Ayahuasca retreat 45 minutes from Medellín

Medical screening before acceptance, transport from Medellín or the airport, and experienced taitas holding the process in the mountains of Antioquia

“The preparation and integration support made all the difference.” — Josh B.

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View Retreat Dates

Medical screening happens before confirmation.

Medical screening before acceptance

Small groups

Colombian-owned and operated

15+ years experience

Location

45 min from Medellín

Duration

5 nights

Group Size

Max 12 people

Languages

Spanish & English

Ayahuasca in Medellín - Quick Answer

Looking for ayahuasca in Medellín? If your search started with ayahuasca retreats in Colombia, this is the practical Medellín page for dates, logistics, screening, and booking details. Safe, authentic retreats are located 45–90 minutes outside the city in the mountains of Antioquia. Camino al Sol offers three traditional Ayahuasca ceremonies with experienced taitas, medical screening, integration support, and transportation from Medellín or the airport.

Three traditional ceremonies led by experienced taitas

Transportation from airport or Medellín

Medical screening, meals, and integration support

Why Camino al Sol

For visitors coming from Medellín, the 45-minute journey into the Antioquia mountains is part of the transition - from city noise to the silence the work requires. There are other retreats near Medellín. Here's what makes this one different.

Taitas with a living lineage

Your guides aren't facilitators trained in a recent certification program. They are Colombian taitas who have worked with Ayahuasca for decades within a living indigenous tradition.

Small by Design

Ceremonies are kept intentionally small. You won't be one of thirty people in a tent. The support before, during, and after is real.

Music as medicine

Traditional ancestral music guides every ceremony - live, not a playlist. It's one of the most distinct elements of the Colombian Ayahuasca tradition.

15+ years welcoming international guests

The longest-running center in Antioquia for foreign visitors. That continuity means refined process, not experimentation.

Real Stories of Transformation

“Everything is done with love. The families who live on the territory are very welcoming and do an amazing job creating a safe environment.”

“The entire staff worked in concert ensuring a safe, positive, and enriching experience. The preparation and integration support made all the difference.”

“My life will never be the same. I'd been carrying the heaviest boulders before this trip and I didn't realize how much energy it was taking to barely tread water.”

BEFORE THE RETREAT

How the Process Works

Most participants are confirmed within 3 days. Here is what happens after you apply.

Apply

Fill out a short application with your background and availability. Takes 5–10 minutes.

5–10 min

Screening

Our team reviews your application. A medical and safety assessment is completed before any confirmation.

1–3 days

Confirmation

If accepted, you receive your retreat dates, preparation guide, and all logistical details.

Upon acceptance

Apply

Fill out a short application with your background and availability. Takes 5–10 minutes.

5–10 min

Screening

Our team reviews your application. A medical and safety assessment is completed before any confirmation.

1–3 days

Confirmation

If accepted, you receive your retreat dates, preparation guide, and all logistical details.

Upon acceptance

You're supported at every step

All logistics are handled before you arrive so you can focus entirely on the experience

The Retreat Journey

An immersive, guided experience - from arrival to closing ceremony

DURING THE RETREAT

Arrival

01 / 06

Arrive at the space and begin your journey. You will be welcomed with compassion and warmth.

Grounding into the environment
Unpacking and settling in comfortably
Opening circle to connect and set intentions

This is the time to transition slowly, unwind, and prepare for the journey ahead.

Arrive at the space and begin your journey. You will be welcomed with compassion and warmth.

Grounding into the environment
Unpacking and settling in comfortably
Opening circle to connect and set intentions

This is the time to transition slowly, unwind, and prepare for the journey ahead.

RETREAT DETAILS

The Retreat Structure

A complete, guided experience from arrival to integration

5-night immersive retreat ¹
Small group setting
Three guided Ayahuasca ceremonies
Transportation from Medellín or the airport
Preparation and integration support
Meals and accommodation included ²
Massage therapy
Preparatory plants
Medicine music
Circles of Word

¹ Weekend participation may be available in specific cases upon request.

² Private accommodation is available on request.

Start My Application

Lush mountain landscape surrounding the Camino al Sol retreat center

45 minutes from Medellín - Antioquia mountains

THE TEAM

Who you'll work with

Taita Diego

Ceremony Guide

Samuel Vélez

Lead Facilitator

Andrea Díaz

Ancestral Therapist

Meet the full team→

Safety & Medical Oversight

Medically Guided & Carefully Screened

Every application is reviewed by our medical team, including a dedicated medical doctor, to ensure safety and suitability.

Medical screening before acceptance
Review of medications and contraindications
Experienced facilitators present throughout
Integration support after the retreat

Participation is based on screening, not automatic booking.

Detailed Safety Protocol

Medical Advisor

Medical Oversight

Dr. Marta Turpin

Medical Advisor & Screening Lead

Medically Screened

Every guest's medical history and medications are reviewed for safety before confirmation.

Small groups • Limited availability

Upcoming Retreat Dates

2 spots left

JUL

8–13

2026

July Retreat

Next Available

5 NightsSMALL GROUP

from 750 USD

2 spots left

Apply

Includes:

3 ceremonies
2 preparation days
Integration support
All meals
Transportation from airport or Medellín
Massage therapy
Preparatory plants
Medicine music
Circles of Word

Location & Logistics

El Retiro, Antioquia, Colombia
45 minutes from Medellín (MDE Airport)
Arrival: July 8, 2026
Departure: July 13, 2026
Peaceful private setting surrounded by nature

Who It's For

Seeking deep healing & clarity
Small group experience (max. 12 participants)
Medical screening required

Investment

from750 USD50 USD deposit

Secure your spot with a deposit

View full retreat details Ask a question on WhatsApp

Available

AUG

12–17

2026

August Retreat

5 NightsSMALL GROUP

from 750 USD

Available

Apply

Includes:

3 ceremonies
2 preparation days
Integration support
All meals
Transportation from airport or Medellín
Massage therapy
Preparatory plants
Medicine music
Circles of Word

Location & Logistics

El Retiro, Antioquia, Colombia
45 minutes from Medellín (MDE Airport)
Arrival: August 12, 2026
Departure: August 17, 2026
Peaceful private setting surrounded by nature

Who It's For

Seeking deep healing & clarity
Small group experience (max. 12 participants)
Medical screening required

Investment

from750 USD50 USD deposit

Secure your spot with a deposit

View full retreat details Ask a question on WhatsApp

Available

SEP

9–14

2026

September Retreat

5 NightsSMALL GROUP

from 750 USD

Available

Apply

Includes:

3 ceremonies
2 preparation days
Integration support
All meals
Transportation from airport or Medellín
Massage therapy
Preparatory plants
Medicine music
Circles of Word

Location & Logistics

El Retiro, Antioquia, Colombia
45 minutes from Medellín (MDE Airport)
Arrival: September 9, 2026
Departure: September 14, 2026
Peaceful private setting surrounded by nature

Who It's For

Seeking deep healing & clarity
Small group experience (max. 12 participants)
Medical screening required

Investment

from750 USD50 USD deposit

Secure your spot with a deposit

View full retreat details Ask a question on WhatsApp

Available

OCT

21–26

2026

October Retreat

5 NightsSMALL GROUP

from 750 USD

Available

Apply

Includes:

3 ceremonies
2 preparation days
Integration support
All meals
Transportation from airport or Medellín
Massage therapy
Preparatory plants
Medicine music
Circles of Word

Location & Logistics

El Retiro, Antioquia, Colombia
45 minutes from Medellín (MDE Airport)
Arrival: October 21, 2026
Departure: October 26, 2026
Peaceful private setting surrounded by nature

Who It's For

Seeking deep healing & clarity
Small group experience (max. 12 participants)
Medical screening required

Investment

from750 USD50 USD deposit

Secure your spot with a deposit

View full retreat details Ask a question on WhatsApp

Available

NOV

11–16

2026

Women's Retreat

5 NightsSMALL GROUP

from 750 USD

Available

Apply

Includes:

3 ceremonies
2 preparation days
Integration support
All meals
Transportation from airport or Medellín
Massage therapy
Preparatory plants
Medicine music
Circles of Word

Location & Logistics

El Retiro, Antioquia, Colombia
45 minutes from Medellín (MDE Airport)
Arrival: November 11, 2026
Departure: November 16, 2026
Peaceful private setting surrounded by nature

Who It's For

Seeking deep healing & clarity
Small group experience (max. 12 participants)
Medical screening required

Investment

from750 USD50 USD deposit

Secure your spot with a deposit

View full retreat details Ask a question on WhatsApp

Available

DEC

9–14

2026

December Retreat

5 NightsSMALL GROUP

from 750 USD

Available

Apply

Includes:

3 ceremonies
2 preparation days
Integration support
All meals
Transportation from airport or Medellín
Massage therapy
Preparatory plants
Medicine music
Circles of Word

Location & Logistics

El Retiro, Antioquia, Colombia
45 minutes from Medellín (MDE Airport)
Arrival: December 9, 2026
Departure: December 14, 2026
Peaceful private setting surrounded by nature

Who It's For

Seeking deep healing & clarity
Small group experience (max. 12 participants)
Medical screening required

Investment

from750 USD50 USD deposit

Secure your spot with a deposit

View full retreat details Ask a question on WhatsApp

Small Groups

Meaningful connections in an intimate setting of max. 12 participants.

Transformative Experience

Step away, reconnect, and grow with personalized care and support.

Safe & Supported

Rigorous medical screening and integration support included.

Don’t see a suitable date?

We keep groups small so every participant receives close support before, during, and after ceremony.

Retreats fill quickly. We recommend applying early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Safety & Well-being

Logistics & Planning

The Experience

Mountain view across the Yaogará reserve in Antioquia

“I have never learned more about myself than over these ceremonies. Life changing doesn't even fully articulate the experience.”

— Anthony J., Retreat Participant, 2024

Start My Application

Share your background and availability, and our team will review safety and fit before any confirmation.

Start My Application Message Us on WhatsApp

View Retreat Dates