Caya Shobo Ayahuasca Healing Center

I was left feeling somewhat isolated, unsure how to process the revelations on my own. Additionally, the minimalist accommodations, although in line with the retreat’s ethos, sometimes felt too austere after a long day of emotional work.

The facilitators, while clearly knowledgeable, occasionally seemed stretched thin, which made it hard to get the one-on-one support I needed during those vulnerable moments. I walked away with valuable insights, but also with a sense that the overall execution could be more consistent. If you’re adventurous and can handle some unevenness in the process, you might still find it worthwhile—but for me, it was a mixed experience.

The entire setup, from the serene jungle-infused surroundings to the unpretentious, honest vibe of the facilitators, immediately told me this wasn’t your typical retreat.

The ceremonies were raw and powerful. I experienced an intense mix of laughter and tears—moments when I felt my entire life’s burdens crumbling away. I vividly remember one session under a cloudless sky when the medicine hit me hard, and I finally understood parts of my soul I’d been too scared to face. The way the team supported me throughout, letting me ride the wave of intense emotions while offering just the right amount of guidance, was nothing short of miraculous.

The ceremonies were raw and powerful. I experienced an intense mix of laughter and tears—moments when I felt my entire life’s burdens crumbling away. I vividly remember one session under a cloudless sky when the medicine hit me hard, and I finally understood parts of my soul I’d been too scared to face. The way the team supported me throughout, letting me ride the wave of intense emotions while offering just the right amount of guidance, was nothing short of miraculous.

I headed to Caya Shobo looking for a serious reset, and I got plenty of it. The retreat’s vibe is unapologetically raw—no frills, just a focus on deep emotional work in the heart of nature. The ceremonies were powerful; I had moments when I felt as if I was disassembling old parts of my identity, only to rebuild something stronger and more authentic.

What I loved most was the honest approach of the facilitators. They were direct, sometimes brutally so, but that honesty helped me face truths I’d been avoiding for too long. However, there were moments when the intensity almost felt overwhelming, and I wished for a bit more gentle guidance during the peak of the ceremonies. Also, while the shared meals were healthy, they sometimes lacked variety, which made the long days feel a bit monotonous.

Overall, though, the experience was deeply transformative. I left Caya Shobo with a clear vision for my future and a sense of inner peace that I hadn’t known in years. It’s a raw, unfiltered journey that isn’t for everyone, but if you’re ready for real healing, it’ll push you to evolve.

My time at Caya Shobo Ayahuasca Healing Center was definitely a turning point. The retreat offers an environment that is as raw as it is healing—an unadorned setting that strips away modern distractions and forces you to confront your inner truth. I experienced powerful emotional releases that helped me untangle years of pent-up anxiety and self-doubt.

That said, while the ceremonies were deeply transformative, I did find a few things that could be improved. For example, I felt that sometimes the integration support was a bit too generic; I craved more individualized guidance during those critical moments of vulnerability. Also, while the natural setting is a major draw, the rustic accommodations left me wishing for a little extra comfort after a long, intense day.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall experience was life-changing. The genuine care of the facilitators and the raw power of the medicine set the stage for healing in a way that no therapy session ever could. I’d recommend this retreat to anyone willing to embrace the intensity of true inner work—even if it comes with a few rough edges.