Yes, there are certain health conditions and medications that can make it unsafe to consume Ayahuasca or Huachuma (San Pedro), and it’s very important to be transparent about your health history during the intake process.

For Ayahuasca, people with the following should not participate:

• Heart conditions or very high blood pressure

• Severe mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis

• Epilepsy or seizure disorders

• Recent surgeries or major health events

• Use of antidepressants, especially SSRIs, MAOIs, or other medications that affect serotonin levels (due to risk of serotonin syndrome)

For Huachuma (San Pedro), caution is advised if you have:

• Heart conditions or hypertension

• Mental health disorders, particularly if you are prone to mania, paranoia, or dissociation

• Diabetes or blood sugar regulation issues

• Certain medications, including psychiatric medications or blood pressure meds

Altitude sickness is something to be aware of when traveling to the Sacred Valley. The region sits at a high elevation, with Cusco around 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) and the Sacred Valley itself ranging from about 2,700 to 2,900 meters (8,800 to 9,500 feet). While many people adjust just fine, some may experience symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, or shortness of breath during the first day or two.

We recommend arriving a day or two early to allow your body time to acclimate, staying well hydrated, avoiding alcohol upon arrival, and resting as needed. Coca tea and certain natural remedies are also commonly used locally to ease symptoms. If you have any medical conditions or concerns, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before the trip.

We’ll be taking things gently at the beginning of the retreat to support a smooth transition and give your body time to adjust to the altitude.

You are more than welcome to join the retreat even if you choose not to partake in plant medicine. Participation is always optional, and we deeply honor each person’s path, pace, and intuition.

The retreat is designed to be a rich, nourishing experience on many levels — with or without medicine. The ceremonies take place in sacred natural settings and offer a deeply healing container through music, meditation, breathwork, prayer, and connection to the Earth. Simply being present in these ceremonies can bring profound insight, emotional release, and spiritual connection.

You’ll also receive so much through the other offerings — from yoga and astrology to energy healing, nature immersion, and heart-centered community. Every part of the retreat is curated to support your growth, healing, and inner alignment.

Trust that however you choose to engage, you'll be held with love and care.

Yes - please get in touch with Lauren to let her know so she can prepare the chefs in advance!

Yes - get in touch with Lauren and we can set up a brief call to discuss your fears, more about the medicine, and she will also share her experiences from her 5 weeks at Ayamadre and other Ceremonies in the past.