An increasing number of people come to Peru for a spiritual or mystical experience. Many of these experiences involve the psychoactive concoctions of ayahuasca or wachuma. Wachuma is also called San Pedro because it’s made with the San Pedro cactus. Both are plant-based “medicines” which involve drinking the concoction under the supervision of a shaman. Ayahuasca retreats can last up to two weeks.

Spiritual practices in Peru don’t always involve psychedelics. Many ceremonies use other plant medicine, including cacao. While everybody is familiar with chocolate, few have experienced a cacao ceremony. (Author’s note: I love cacao ceremonies and have not tried ayahuasca).

Destinations

The traditions of ayahuasca come from jungle areas, so Iquitos and Tarapoto have more opportunities. If you are interested in trying ayahuasca in Tarapoto, check out the small town of Lamas about half an hour from Tarapoto.