Guests and facilitators gathered during retreat in Colombia

Ayahuasca Retreats in Spain

Spain is becoming a growing destination for ayahuasca ceremonies — but is it the right setting for your journey?

Spain has seen a rise in ayahuasca ceremonies, attracting participants from across Europe. Many are drawn by accessibility and the ability to stay within the region. However, differences in environment, structure, and facilitation can significantly shape the experience.

Spain vs Colombia

Accessibility
Spain

Easy access within Europe, with retreats in various regions

Colombia

Direct flights to Medellín with short transfer to retreat

Environment
Spain

Often rural or retreat-center settings, limited immersion in nature

Colombia

Natural mountain environment supporting immersive experience

Comfort
Spain

Modern retreat settings, usually focused on shorter stays

Colombia

Comfortable retreats designed for full immersive process

Safety & Support
Spain

Legal status unclear, with variation between facilitators

Colombia

Structured screening and consistent facilitator oversight

Integration
Spain

Integration support varies depending on provider

Colombia

Preparation and integration support included in retreat

A more accessible alternative

For those seeking a more structured and grounded experience, Colombia offers a clearer context for working with yagé. It combines accessibility with cultural continuity, while maintaining consistent guidance and support throughout the process.

When Spain may be a good fit

  • You prefer to stay within Europe
  • You are looking for shorter retreat formats
  • Convenience and accessibility are your priorities

When Colombia is the better choice

  • You want an authentic cultural context
  • You value structured screening and guidance
  • You prefer a more immersive environment
  • You are seeking deeper 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

Spain offers accessibility and a growing European scene for ayahuasca ceremonies. However, for most people seeking a more structured, immersive, and tradition-rooted experience, Colombia provides a clearer and more supportive 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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