Booking an ayahuasca retreat is just the beginning. For many people, the real journey starts after the final ceremony—when the work of integration begins. But how much does post-retreat support cost? What other expenses should you expect before and after your trip?
This 2025 guide reveals the true total cost of attending an ayahuasca retreat—including all the hidden and long-tail expenses that most directories and retreat websites leave out. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning seeker, use this to budget realistically and prepare wisely.
💰 Total Cost Snapshot: Ceremony vs. Full Journey
Here’s what most retreat-goers don’t realize: the ceremony fee is often only half the cost of the full experience. A retreat listed at $2,500 may end up costing you $4,000–$6,000 once you factor in travel, prep, and integration.
Estimated Total Costs (in USD):
| Retreat Tier | Listed Price | Full Journey Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Retreat | $1,200 | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Mid-Range Retreat | $2,500 | $4,000–$5,500 |
| Luxury Retreat | $5,000 | $7,000–$10,000+ |
🧠 What Is Integration—and Why Does It Cost Money?
Integration is the process of making sense of your ayahuasca experience and applying it to your life. It can take weeks, months, or even years.
Common Paid Integration Supports:
- 1-on-1 Therapy or Coaching: $80–$250/session
- Online Integration Groups: $25–$100/month
- Psychedelic-Specific Coaches: $150–$400/session
- Somatic Work / Breathwork / Trauma Support: $100–$300/session
- Community Circles / Support Networks: Often free, but vary
Tip: Some retreat centers include 1–2 post-retreat integration calls, but most don’t offer long-term support.
✈️ Pre- and Post-Trip Travel Expenses
Beyond the retreat price, your journey often requires multiple travel-related expenses that add up fast.
Typical Additional Costs:
- International Flights: $400–$1,500 (round trip)
- Domestic Transfers: $50–$300 (flights, boats, buses)
- Airport Taxis & Shuttles: $30–$150
- Hotel Nights Before/After Retreat: $50–$200/night
- Meals While Traveling: $20–$50/day
- Travel Insurance: $50–$200 (strongly recommended)
Example: A retreat in Iquitos, Peru may require flights to Lima + a regional flight + taxi + boat. Budget at least $300 in transit costs alone.
🩺 Medical Screening and Prep Costs
Many retreat centers now ask for medical screening to ensure safety, especially with prescription medications or mental health conditions.
Medical Costs to Consider:
- General Practitioner Visit: $50–$200
- Psychological Assessment: $150–$300
- Lab Tests (if required): $100–$250
- Medication Tapering Consultations: $100–$300
Note: These aren’t required at every center, but skipping medical prep can be dangerous—and some centers will reject applicants without clearance.
🧳 Gear, Prep, and Unexpected Extras
Small purchases can stack up. Be sure to budget for:
- Ayahuasca-Friendly Clothing (loose, breathable, respectful)
- Bug Spray, Flashlights, Travel Gear
- Visa or Entry Fees (depending on your passport and destination)
- Tips for Retreat Staff/Shamans/Drivers: $50–$150
- Spiritual or Dietary Prep Courses (if chosen): $50–$300
🔄 First-Timer vs. Returning Guest Cost Comparison
| Expense Category | First-Timer | Returning Guest |
|---|---|---|
| Flights & Travel | $800–$1,500 | $500–$1,200 |
| Medical Prep | $150–$500 | $0–$200 |
| Integration Coaching | $300–$1,000+ | $200–$500 |
| Gear & Logistics | $200–$400 | $50–$150 |
| Total Est. Add-Ons | $1,500–$3,500 | $800–$2,000 |
Returning guests often spend less because they’ve already built support systems, understand what gear they need, and are more selective with extras.
📌 Final Takeaway: Integration Is Part of the Investment
If you’re only budgeting for the retreat sticker price, you’re missing the full picture. Ayahuasca is powerful—and integration is where the real healing happens. Plan ahead, save accordingly, and treat integration support as non-negotiable self-care, not a bonus.
Use our directory to compare retreats not just by price, but by what they offer post-retreat: verified integration options, guest snippets, safety scores, and critical notes.
Related Guides:
- How Much Does an Ayahuasca Retreat Cost Globally?
- Budget-Friendly Retreats That Don’t Cut Corners
- Integration Coaching: What to Expect & How to Choose
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