FAQs
Is it best to bring a backpack or a suitcase?
It’s up to you. The items you might need are listed in our Joining Instructions. Since most things are taken care of for you at our Centre this mainly amounts to appropriate clothing and normal holiday items.
Where do we meet?
In most cases, we will meet you at Iquitos airport at 11 am on the first day of your programme. Let us know in advance if you have any problems making this time and place and we’ll try to accommodate them but please don’t be late!
Is there electricity at the Centre?
In general, no. A generator is available for the purpose of lights on the nights' ceremony is not performed. This policy ensures the Centre retains a traditional ambiance and remains close to nature, as native people and shamans have done for thousands of years and as the ayahuasca diet requires.
Is there a phone at the Centre?
No, and again this is a policy so you can concentrate on your journey without the lure of the outside world. Use of mobile phones is not prohibited but not especially encouraged. If you choose to make calls please do so well away from other participants.
What about mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are not a problem at our Centre but as we are in the jungle they cannot be ruled out and a mosquito net is provided over your bed just in case. The best natural defense is to take lots of Vitamin B12 beginning a few weeks before you travel. The richest natural source is goji berries. And, of course, consult your health advisor about precautions before you travel.
Should I vaccinate?
This is a matter of personal choice. Some people prefer homeopathy and go for a consultation before they travel and bring a homeopathic travel kit with them. If you choose to vaccinate do so in good time and as far in advance of ayahuasca ceremonies as possible as some shamans do not like to give Ayahuasca to people in combination with chemical medicines. Some countries (such as Australia) may require you to vaccinate and to be able to prove your vaccination as a condition of re-entry. In cases like these ask your physician for a vaccination certificate and bring it with you just in case.
What do I do about the medication I’m taking?
If you are taking medications you are advised to see your GP, physician or health advisor and explain the nature of this trip to him or her then listen to their recommendations.
Can I take Ayahuasca if I am menstruating?
Yes. We do not see this as an issue; however, please let us know if you are menstruating as it may have an effect on your energy. Whether your period is due or not, however, it is advisable to bring sanitary wear with you.
Can you suggest a hotel in Lima or Iquitos?
There is a selection of hotels here which you may find helpful: http://www.peru-hotels.com/cities.htm with details of prices and online reservations. Lonely Planet and The Rough Guide to Peru also have information on hotels in both locations.
Is the water safe to drink?
Purified and bottled water is used at our Centre so the water provided for drinking can be safely consumed.
What if I have special needs?
Let us know before you book and we’ll tell you if we can accommodate them. The jungle presents special challenges of course (for example, for wheelchair users) but the intention of our Centre is to facilitate healing so we will do all that we can to assist if you have special needs.