Guests and facilitators gathered during retreat in Colombia

Ayahuasca Retreats in Brazil

Brazil is one of the original homes of ayahuasca — but is it the right setting for your journey?

Brazil has a long-standing relationship with ayahuasca, both in indigenous traditions and organized religious contexts. Many are drawn by its authenticity and historical depth. However, differences in structure, environment, and accessibility can significantly shape the experience.

Brazil vs Colombia

Accessibility
Brazil

International travel required, often with additional domestic journeys

Colombia

Direct flights to Medellín with short transfer to retreat

Environment
Brazil

Amazon and tropical regions with heat, humidity, and remote settings

Colombia

Mountain climate with more balanced and comfortable conditions

Comfort
Brazil

Ranges from basic jungle lodges to simple retreat centers

Colombia

Comfortable retreats designed for immersive but supported experience

Safety & Support
Brazil

Varies widely between churches, groups, and independent retreats

Colombia

Structured screening and consistent facilitator oversight

Integration
Brazil

Often limited or informal depending on context

Colombia

Preparation and integration support built into the retreat

A more accessible alternative

For many travelers, Colombia offers a more structured and accessible way to experience yagé. It maintains cultural continuity while providing clearer guidance, consistent support, and a more manageable environment for most participants.

When Brazil may be a good fit

  • You are seeking a deeply traditional or religious context
  • You are comfortable with remote or jungle environments
  • You value historical lineage over structured retreat format

When Colombia is the better choice

  • You want a more accessible and comfortable environment
  • You value structured screening and guidance
  • You prefer a balanced setting over extreme conditions
  • You are looking for consistent integration support

Why Medellín stands out

Reason 1

Direct international access with minimal travel complexity

Reason 2

Comfortable mountain climate suited for deep inner work

Reason 3

Small group retreats allowing personalized attention

Reason 4

Structured preparation and integration process

Medically Guided & Carefully Screened

Every participant is reviewed before acceptance, with medical oversight as part of the process. This ensures each guest can safely participate and feel supported throughout their experience.

  • Medical supervision
  • Review of medications and contraindications
  • Experienced facilitators present throughout
  • Integration support after the retreat
Dr. Marta Turpin, Camino al Sol medical advisor

Director

Medical Oversight

Final recommendation

Brazil offers a deeply rooted and traditional context for ayahuasca, especially for those drawn to its cultural and religious history. However, for most travelers seeking a more structured, accessible, and supported experience, Colombia provides a clearer and more balanced path.

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About the author

Camino al Sol Team

The Camino al Sol Team is a collective of facilitators, guides, and long-time practitioners of traditional Colombian Yagé (ayahuasca) ceremonies. Our content is created and reviewed by experienced ceremony leaders, integration guides, and members of the Camino al Sol community, drawing from decades of direct experience with plant medicine, ancestral traditions, and trauma-informed support. We write to provide clear, honest, and grounded information for those considering this path — with a focus on safety, authenticity, and real-world preparation.

Written with the same editorial care we bring to our retreats, teachings, and lineage work.
Valley landscape in the Antioquia mountains near Camino al Sol

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

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