PDX 2 Perú
Experience healing with medicinal plants in the Peruvian Amazon.
PDX 2 Peru Included Destinations Additional Destinations
Who am I? And why am I doing this?
Hi! I'm Lucas. I lived in Portland until the end of 2021, when I knew that I needed a change. The pandemic upended my life in so many ways, as it did to so many of us, and I was left feeling a shell of myself. I had visited Peru previously in 2018 where I came to know some wonderful people, and fell in love with the Peruvian Amazon, so without much thought I decided to get a flight out to Peru and see what happened. In the years since, I've been able to get to know so many more wonderful people and places, and experience life in ways that have given me new perspectives and a renewed energy for living. Now, I just really want to share this with others, and thought it would be amazing to start at home in Portland, where I know that the pandemic, politics, and so much more, have affected so many of us so deeply.
One of the most liberating and suffering-shedding experiences I have had is attending Ayahuasca sessions with a shaman (or curandero) in Lamas, Peru, on the Western edge of the Amazon rainforest, where the Andes meet the jungle. As we know, Western medicine is meant to treat the symptoms of illness, physical or emotional, but rarely does it address the cause. Ayahuasca helped me see deep inside myself and understand the root of my sadness, my depression, my suffering. It took me by its many hands and made me feel, for the first time I can remember in a very long time, that I am okay. That I don't have to suffer. That I can let go. It freed me from what felt like many lifetimes of burdens and sadness, and made me want to get out of bed again in the morning. A procession of entities passed by me and stood over me, each whispering beautiful words, and each one taking a piece of my suffering. This is at least the best way that I can describe it. Of course, each person's journey is different, depending on what you ask for. I encourage you to read and listen to others' stories as well, to understand both the power and the sanctity of the plant, and how it's powers have transformed others' lives, cured addictions, healed grief, and so much more. Below are various links to learn more about the healing powers of Ayahuasca. But please do your own research as well!
Ayahuasca - Ancient Medicine
Ayahuasca is a South American psychoactive beverage, traditionally used by Indigenous cultures and folk healers in the Amazon and Orinoco basins for spiritual ceremonies, divination, and healing a variety of psychosomatic complaints. But it is so much more than that. It's been referred to as 10 years of psychotherapy in one session. I've compiled a list of some documentaries, scientific papers, and testimonials below to learn more about Ayahuasca and it's medicinal benefits.
The Nature of Ayahuasca Documentary
Ayahuasca Testimonial
Vox Article
Ayahuasca Podcast
Nature Peer-Reviewed Article
NCBI Peer-Reviewed Article
Customizable Experiences
My goal is to help people, starting with my fellow Portlanders, plan their trip to the Peruvian Amazon to experience the healing powers of Ayahuasca. Also, to ensure that your money is going to locals who need it. I've compiled a list of frequently asked questions below that can help you get a sense of what the journey will entail, what you need to bring, etc. At the end of the page is a link to schedule a virtual meeting with me so we can chat more in detail about what you're looking for, where you want to go, and what you want to do. On this page is a list of possible destinations, all of which are included in the price of the package, so you can make your trip what you want it to be. Each destination is a one-day tour, and you can include as many as days/tours as you'd like, depending on how long you'd like your trip to be. Here you will find additional destinations that are available at an additional cost. Let's start planning so you can experience the wonders of Peru and the miraculous healing power of Ayahuasca!
Frequently asked questions:
Who will my curandero (healer) be?
Adler Vargas Reategui is native to Lamas, Peru who has been working with Ayahuasca for 20 years after years of apprenticeship with other curanderos. Check out his video below. He is amazing.
Why Lamas?
So many wonderful reasons:
- It's in the Amazon, at the heart of the zone where the Ayahuasca plant thrives.
-It was recently given the designation of Best Tourism Villages by the world tourism association
-That being said, this was a recent designation and Lamas is still quite unknown to foreign tourists, so you'll get to experience authentic Peruvian pueblo life.
- It's nestled in between the Andes and the Amazon, so it's a bit higher up in the mountains, meaning the heat and the humidity are much more tolerable than in the deeper/flatter parts of the Amazon
- It has AMAZING views (see photos)
- It's home to an indigenous community called Wayku, where people live according to traditional customs and make artisanal products (ceramics, weaves, etc)
- The unexpected Castle of Lamas is just what it sounds...a random, European-style castle in the heart of the city of Lamas. No one lives there, but it's open for tours and events, and has an amazing pool.
Check out the official Bienvenido a Lamas Facebook page
Check out Castillo de Lamas
Read more about the indigenous community
What is the purge?
Days before the Ayahuasca ceremony, you'll undergo what's called "the purge." This involves drinking the extract of one of more plants that are meant to purge the stomach, intestines and body of toxins, heavy metals and negative energy. This just about always includes a fair amount vomiting, and may also include defecating as well. Some people also have visions during the purge, but it's not entirely common. Purging allows the Ayahuasca to be better absorbed by the body and have a more complete effect, and will reduce the chance of vomiting (too much) during the Ayahuasca ceremony itself, so you can focus on it's effect and not the way it makes you feel.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Nope! Of course, speaking a bit of Spanish will always help (I'd recommend learning at least some basics as a show of respect), but we'll help you get around and communicate as needed.
Where will I stay?
In Lamas, you'll stay at Ecolodge Casa Marina, which is a lodge owned and run by my good friend Doris, who is a native of Lamas herself and is very involved with the local community. Doris is a wonderful source of knowledge about the area, and is one of those people that you meet and feel like you've known your entire life.
Ecolodge Casa Marina
If you're more adventerous, we can also offer a camping option! I have access to a piece of land that is full of fruit trees, and is on the outskirts of Lamas. We can provide tents, sleeping bags, lights, cooking supplies, bur repellant, etc.
How do I get around?
Within Lamas, there are mototaxis (motorcycle with cabs attached) constantly zooming around the city that you can flag down quickly and will take you anywhere for a low price. If you want to do your own day trips, there are cars that take you to various destinations near the city, including waterfalls, rivers, and ruins.
Where is my money going?
To LOCALS. The whole intention behind your trip is to bring money to communities in need. In the jungle, there are not many opportunities for work, and people often live without basic needs. We work specifically with native and indigenous members of the community to bring money to those who need it most. We also work an ONG called "Uniendo Corazones por ti," a foundation that helps people in the area who are living in extreme poverty. As I recently heard it put, the curanderos of the Amazon "Use your affluence to cure the diseases and unhappiness caused by your affluence."
What is Uniendo Corazones Por ti?
This is an NGO that was started by Doris Tuesta, the owner of Ecolodge Casa Marina, where you will stay during your trip. Doris is native to Lamas, and has a passion for helping people. Some of her endeavors include: bringing mobility devices to the elderly who cannot get around on their own and do not have family to help them. Providing healthy and fresh food to families who cannot afford it. Hosting an annual Christmas party for children in need to receive gifts. Among so many other things.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes! We can accommodate both vegetarian and vegan diets. However, Peru is definitely a country of meat, and just about all of the restaurants and street food will be or include some form of meat. We will help direct you to locations that have vegetarian/vegan options, and can help with cooking you meals if you don't find something that satisfies you. There is also a kitchen available for you to use to cook your own meals, and we can bring you shopping in the locals mercados!
What's the temperature? What clothing should I bring?
In my opinion, the temperature in Lamas is just about perfect. It is around 65-85 degrees year round, so light clothing (t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sandals) is mostly what you'll be wearing. I'd bring at least one set of warmer clothes in case there's a chilly evening. And of course, a rain jacket, as you'll be in the RAINforest!
What else should I bring?
Any medications that you may need. Emergency contacts.
Do I need a SIM card?
It depends. Most carriers now work abroad, and you won't need a local SIM card. There is cell service and internet in Lamas. We can help you with a cheap eSIM, however, if that's preferred/you don't have global roaming.
Is it safe?
Yes, very. Lamas being a smaller pueblo, most everyone knows each other and looks out for each other. You can walk the streets at any time, day or night, without any worries whatsoever. You'll most likely get a lot of waves and "holas," maybe stares, as tourism from other countries isn't huge here (yet). But in the best of way. I have made many friendsips all over the city just by walking around and people asking me where I'm from and what brings me to Lamas. People here are genuinely proud of their pueblo, and are happy to share it with others and to know that someone from a far-off country would take an interest in their little slice of heaven.
Can you help me with plans for other destinations/experiences?
Yes, of course! While in Peru and if you have the time, there are soooo many other amazing destinations to check out. Check out this page to see a list of other amazing destinations. We can help you plan your trip, book flights, make reservations, give recommendations, etc, just let us know what you're looking for and we'll help you find it.
Where's the best place to book my flight?
I swear by Skiplagged, but it has it's caveats. Check out this NPR article.
Skiplagged Website
Skyscanner is good as well.
Will you pick me up from the airport?
Yup! We will be at the airport in Tarapoto waiting for you, with a sign that has your name written on it to help identify your driver. The driver will then either take you directly to Lamas, or you will make a short stop to transfer to a larger car which will then take you to Lamas. Either way, we'll help coordinate it all. Time from the airport to Lamas is about 40 minutes, during which you'll climb the mountains full of lush green plants and views of the surrounding countryside.
What's the best time of year to go?
Really, anytime. February through April are the rainiest months. Here's a graph of monthly average temperatures and average number of days of rainfall each month.
Month High / Low(°F) Days of Rain
January 87° / 67° 6 days
February 86° / 67° 9 days
March 86° / 67° 12 days
April 86° / 66° 10 days
May 86° / 66° 8 days
June 85° / 64° 6 days
July 85° / 63° 4 days
August 87° / 63° 4 days
September 88° / 65° 6 days
October 88° / 66° 10 days
November 88° / 67° 9 days
December 87° / 67° 8 days
What else is there to do in the area?
There a many beautiful waterfalls nearby that make easy day trips. Cars are often waiting around the center of town/the castle to take you to various destinations. If you want to continue on exploring Peru nearby after your experience in Lamas, there are some world-renowned places you can check out like: - Gocta falls: One of the highest waterfalls in the world. It was unknown to the outside world until this century, because the local people believed that, if they revealed the location of the waterfall, they would be cursed by the beautiful, blonde mermaid who lives in its waters
Are there any accommodations if I am mobility impaired?
Yes! Please let us know how we can help.
Can you host large groups?
We sure can! Currently, we have capacity for up to 12 people at a time.
What's the bug/mosquito situation?
One of the great things about Lamas is that it's a bit higher up in the mountains, which means there is more airflow and fewer mosquitoes! They exist, of course, but they won't eat you alive like they might in other lower-lying regions. Repellant is a good idea, but I rarely use it, only if I'm trekking into the deep jungle and am near water sources, and I rarely have a bite.
Do I need vaccinations?
Typhoid and Yellow Fever vaccinations are recommended, but not required. Along with your general vaccinations: influenza, Hepatitis A, tetanus.
What is the Wayku indigenous community?
Check out the links below. You'll need to translate from Spanish.
Barrio Wayku
Comunidad Nativa Quechua Wayku
How will I feel afterward/the next day?
Generally, great. It's recommended to take some time to process what you experienced afterward, as the effects linger (in the best of ways) as you begin to understand how to incorporate the experience into your day-to-day life. Check out the various documentaries and articles that exist all around the internet if you want to hear individual stories.
How long does the session last?
The entire ceremony will last around 6 hours
Is this only for Portlanders?
No! But, it's where I want to start! People from anywhere in the world are more than welcome to come participate.
Are there emergency services in case anything goes wrong?
Definitely. We have contacts with local doctors should any accidents or emergencies occur. You may also want to check out traveler's insurance, but it is not a requirement and you will not be putting yourself in any dangerous situations.
What's a sample itinerary?
Day 1: Arrive in Tarapoto, transported to Lamas
Day 2: Explore Lamas and it's mercados, plaza, indigenous community
Day 3: Visit Adler's home. Learn about medicinal plants, cacao, cafe. See Ayahuasca plant. The purge.
Day 4: Trip to local waterfalls
Day 5: Nature Reserve: Sloths, parrots, and more.
Day 6: The ceremony
Day 7: Sharing
Photos
