This retreat invites you to a deepening of your relationship with plantmedicine, the jungle and your higher self. During the program there will be 2 Shuar rituals, 3 night medicine ceremonies, 2 sweatlodges, a jungle hike, a shuar cultural event, and harvesting, planting and cooking medicine for the ritual.

Tunakarmati, an ancestral rite of the Shuar people, seeks way to the waterfall, fasting; receiving a powerful purification of the waterfal, before the four day quest: the Natemamu. It is a cleansing ritual, for drinking and purging large amounts of tea of the natem (B. Caapi) vine. A journey also, that is often long-lasting and full of insight, while also physical discomfort, temporary weakness and a quest for perseverance.

You can choose to participate in two days of the natemamu, or you can participate in 4 days of natemamu, and be initiated in the Shuar medicine path, committing to Natemamu for 4 times.

Where? Centro Holístico Yankuam, welcomes you close to Macas, in the province of Morona de Santiago. It is about 8hrs by bus from Quito or Guayaquil airport. There are limited beds in a shared cabin, a private rooms at a near hostel, warm water shower. Camping with your own tent is also possible. Food is mostly vegetarian, but may include chicken or fish, depending on the program and related medicine work. Do let us know if you have any specific dietary requirements. The weather is usually warm, humid and rainy, and commonly chilly at night. Parts of the program take place at locations within the jungle and communities where we’ll be hiking and camping in any weather conditions, so be prepared! First stop is buying rubber boots / wellies in Macas! We will guide you in what to bring and how to prepare. 

You must be in reasonable physical condition and fit enough for the hiking. This journey and plant medicine is not suitable for those who are on some (psychiatric) medication, have psychological disorders or serious health issues. These can be treated in a personalized retreat and diet. Participation may be confirmed after a personal (health-) assessment, a signed form and payment. Please contact us if you have doubts about this retreat or your condition. Because of the expenses preparing the event, there's a cancelation agreement, read it here.

You can register pay fully before December 25 (EarlyBird), or a 50% advancement. A staying a few days after the retreat is recommended to ground the experience before going back into flights, cities and jobs. At Yankuam you share $35 per day for lodging and all meals. Individual ceremonies, healings and treatments can also be planned.