Is anyone certified to distribute ceremonial medicine?

Santiago and Ximena are both certified as shamans by the Ecuadorian government, following the legal requirements and ethical guidelines for organizing medicinal ceremonies.

What are the different types of ceremony and why do you offer different medicines?

Our retreats offer various ceremonies (daytime, nighttime, hikes, offerings, sweat lodge, traditional ceremony) and plant medicines (Ayahuasca, San Pedro, Rapé, Kambo, Tobacco, Coca Leaves) to provide a holistic healing experience and deepen self-awareness.

Isn't it dangerous to combine different plant medicines?

No, we focus on one type of plant medicine per ceremony, with at least two days in between different types, ensuring proper integration. Each plant medicine complements the others in promoting healing and enlightenment.

How many people join for retreats?

Our retreats are limited to 13 participants to ensure personal attention and effective integration of the healing experience.

What is provided during the ceremony?

We provide mattresses, blankets, pillows, and a sacred fire maintained by our Keeper of Fire during all ceremonies.

Where do the ceremonies take place?

Ceremonies are held in 'Malokas', sacred spaces in our center. The San Pedro Maloka offers mountain views, while the Ayahuasca Maloka is near the river.

How long do ceremonies last?

Ceremonies typically last between 7 to 10 hours, depending on the circumstances, participants, and medicine used.

What time do ceremonies start?

Nighttime ceremonies start between 9 PM and midnight, ending at sunrise. Daytime ceremonies start at 9 AM and end around 6 PM.

What is the ritual for the ceremonies?

We begin with group intentions, followed by singing to invoke the medicine spirits. Grandmother Ayahuasca ceremonies include prayers and music, while Grandfather San Pedro ceremonies end with an offering to Pachamama.

Is there a possibility of having a bad experience?

Each experience depends on one's openness and intention. Difficult experiences may arise to facilitate healing, supported by the structure and purpose of the ceremonies.

Do participants have to talk in front of others?

Speaking is encouraged but not mandatory. Participants may choose silence as part of their process.

What does the shaman talk about? Does he teach?

Shamans guide the ceremony, offering teachings from the plant medicine, but much of the learning is personal and inward.

Is everything translated or spoken in English?

Ceremonies are conducted mostly in English, with translations provided. Many songs are in Spanish or Native languages.

How much medicine is offered? Can people ask for more?

Participants start with a single dose and can request more, as long as respect for the medicine and ceremony is maintained.

How is the medicine nurtured and processed?

Our medicine is prepared with prayer and intention. Each type is sourced responsibly and prepared by our certified facilitators.

How is the medicine administered?

Medicine is administered orally, nasally, or through the skin, depending on the type. Santiago oversees all administration.

Vilcabamba offers mild weather, known as the Valley of Longevity. Rainy season is from November to April, and summer from May to October.

A detailed packing list is available on our Preparation page to help you prepare for your retreat.

Connect With Your True Essence Through the Sacred Wisdom of Nature

We combine the healing power of plant medicine with guidance and practical tools to integrate your insights and embody the transformation you seek.

Like water that flows freely, your potential thrives when guided by confidence and clarity of purpose.

At Casa del Sol we offer carefully designed retreats with a holistic approach that combines ancestral practices, plant medicine ceremonies and integration tools. Our retreats take place in our family sanctuary located in a pristine natural environment.

Let your potential blossom, walk a life rooted in purpose, and align with your heart’s guidance.

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Our Medicines

Discover Why We're a 5-Star Retreat Center

Experience the heartfelt stories and beautiful words from those who have transformed with us.

"I cannot be grateful enough for this 11-day retreat. It opened my heart, and I discovered so many new things about myself. Surrounded by beautiful nature and nurtured with amazing food and unconditional love, this place is very healing. Thank you, Ximena, Santiago, Mateo, Lalitā, and the rest of the family. You will be in my heart forever!"

"This was my second time at Casa del Sol—the perfect place for plant medicine participants, new or experienced. Small groups let you truly get to know your fellow members; it became a family. I felt completely safe and supported. Santiago and Ximena are one-of-a-kind healers. I have had deep healing and gained insight into myself. Casa del Sol is magical, surrounded by San Pedro cactuses and a river. 10/10, I strongly recommend it."

"Just finished an incredible retreat at Casa del Sol. Ximena and Santiago's love and care permeate everything; their skill and training are top tier. They made us feel like family immediately. Their energy is warm, authentic, and humorous. They taught me new ways to love and be grateful. Food and accommodations are great; sometimes you're eating bananas from the garden. There's a river to bathe in after hiking. I recommend Casa del Sol to anyone, new or experienced. Can't wait to come back."

"I've never rated anything online but feel obliged to for Casa del Sol. If you're thinking about plant medicines, you're in the best hands here. Ximena and Santiago make you feel like family. I wasn't spiritual beforehand but left rejuvenated—mind, body, and soul. One of the best decisions I've made."

"We were completely blown away by what we experienced. These people are beyond special. Shaman Santiago gave off wonderful energy. Ximena's nurturing spirit was unforgettable; she smiles with her eyes. Their son Mateo is an old soul with a great voice. The kitchen staff were the most helpful, efficient, friendly people we've ever met. The food was wonderful and exactly what you need. The Ayahuasca ceremonies with Yana and Mira were angelic experiences. The experiences with San Pedro, the hikes, the views—the entire energy—were beyond our expectations. The memories will stay with us forever. We hope to go back someday."

Connect With Your True Essence Through the Sacred Wisdom of Nature

Like water that flows freely, your potential thrives when guided by confidence and clarity of purpose.

Our Medicines

AYAHUASCA

SAN PEDRO

TEMAZCAL

KAMBO

MOUNTAIN HIKE

ANDEAN OFFERINGS

Discover Why We're a 5-Star Retreat Center