5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Colombia as Your Destination for Ayahuasca

When you hear the word Ayahuasca, your mind might immediately wander to Peru, possibly Costa Rica. However, Colombia, often overlooked, could be the hidden gem you’ve been searching for your spiritual journey. We talked with Oliver Glozik, the founder of one of the top Ayahuasca Retreats in Colombia on why you should consider Colombia as your destination for Ayahuasca. 

1. Very Potent Ayahuasca Known as Yagé
In Colombia, Ayahuasca goes by the name Yagé, and it’s renowned for its potency. Frequent Ayahuasca users from Peru and other countries often remark that Yagé feels considerably stronger. This might be attributed to the over-harvesting of Ayahuasca plants in other areas, among other factors. While this isn’t about competing for who has the most potent brew, it’s a noteworthy consideration when choosing your destination for Ayahuasca.

2. Not Touristically Exploited

Colombia’s Ayahuasca scene remains relatively untouched by the commercialization that has swept through places like Peru, where Ayahuasca is even being sold from street vendors. The global growth in Ayahuasca has inevitably attracted those looking to capitalize on the interest in it. While no country is entirely free from “black sheeps”, Colombia has managed to maintain a more authentic and less commercial approach to Ayahuasca practices. This less exploited setting allows for a more authentic spiritual experience, focused more on the sacredness of the ritual than on profit. It’s important to note that although Colombia isn’t perfect, its Ayahuasca community is generally more insulated from the commercial pressures seen in more popular destinations like Peru. It’s crucial to choose a reputable place for such a profound experience, and although there are outliers everywhere, Colombia offers a setting that’s less about commerce and more about the authentic experience.

3. Purgatives as Part of the Tradition
Every culture and lineage has its unique Ayahuasca traditions. In Peru, “Plant Dietas” are commonly associated with the Ayahuasca journey—a process lasting weeks or even months that involves connecting with the spirit of a plant. In contrast, Colombian traditions focus significantly on purgatives, aimed at cleansing the body to enhance the connection with Ayahuasca. Considering the imbalance between the toxins we consume and how often we cleanse, this aspect of Colombian Ayahuasca practices is compelling. In the lineage and tradition of the family of Mama Concha there are more than 200 different purgatives to help clean your body. It’s a unique tradition and something to explore when you are considering drinking Ayahuasca in Colombia.

4. Affordable Prices
Colombia provides numerous options for engaging in Ayahuasca ceremonies with varying price points, ensuring that this transformative experience is accessible to a broader audience. It’s important to realise that in Colombia there is a market for everybody, there is something available for people who want to have this type of experience in a 5 star environment, and there are retreats available that are suited for those who prefer a simpler approach. I would also like to add Ayahuasca is viewed as a medicine for all, not a luxury reserved for the wealthy and happy to report Colombia offers many affordable options ensuring that this transformative experience is accessible to a broader audience. Pricing will vary based on several factors, including the size of the group, the quality of accommodations, the duration of the stay, the number of ceremonies conducted, the retreat’s experience level, and the comprehensiveness of support provided before and after the retreat, as well as additional activities that are part of the Ayahuasca retreat.

5. Proximity to the US
For many, attending an Ayahuasca retreat means traveling out of their country, which can be a journey in itself. While traveling to Peru might be a longer haul, Colombia is much closer for North Americans. For example, direct flights from Miami to Medellin can cost less than $300 and only take about 3.5 hours. This closer proximity makes it easier for those seeking to connect with Ayahuasca in its native environment without the extensive travel.

Conclusion:
Ayahuasca is as indigenous to Colombia as it is to Peru. Although Peru is often seen as the go-to for Ayahuasca retreats, Colombia offers compelling reasons that make it an appealing and growing destination for those seeking healing and spiritual growth. Perhaps this beautiful country is the setting for the profound journey you’ve been looking for.