Yosi Ocha - Ayahuasca Retreat (2024)

Yosi Ocha is such a beautiful place for deep healing. I feel blessed to have had my experience at this place. Yosi Ocha felt like magic, overflowing with love and care.

My stay was very profound and meaningful. So much magical things unfolded, both intense and loving.
The ceremonies felt safe and the Maestros and the facilitators were outstanding and let the medicine do it’s work.
The bungalows are basic but very comfortable, surrounded by the majestic nature. The meals were delicious and diverse and as snacks plenty of teas and fruits.

It’s hard to put in words the experience at Yosi Ocha. It deeply resonated with me and I will definitely choose this place again.
Highly recommened Yosi Ocha.

Words will never fully describe my experience at Yosi Ocha over many weeks, but I will try.

Yosi Ocha is first and foremost a place of deep healing. The intentions are always Love, Protection, and Medicine. To this point, while incredible and even supernatural experiences can occur (and have), it is not the primary focus… the focus is healing… healing your heart… quieting your mind… ego… so you can heal your body and soul.

If you trust in the process, the healing will occur. The goal of Maestro Heberto and Eonice is not for you to simply have visions or see aliens… their goal, working deeply in connection with master plants and animals of nature, is for you to look past the illusion of your ego in the spirit of Love so you can heal yourself mentally and physically. The work goes far deeper than just Ayahuasca and can include any number of important plant teachers: Ayahuasca, San Pedro, Chacruna, Ayahuma, Aciote, Bobinsana, and more. If you work deeply with these medicines, magic will happen.

For those traveling alone, you are in good hands. I’ve always felt safe at their center, and the integrators, including Inez, Tulia, and Andrea are very experienced and excellent. English and Spanish translations are always available. I met many women traveling alone who felt comfortable in the environment.

Maestro Heberto is the real deal, and this is coming from someone who was initially very skeptical of any ‘spiritual leader’. Most importantly, his intentions are pure and mission-focused. His grandfather was one of the original Merayas of Shipibo lore, and his shamanic training and isolation in the jungle began at a very young age. His sister, Eonice, carries this lineage and training, as well as the most beautiful singing voice. Both make themselves available if you have emergency questions, although the process is meant to be experienced and not talked over like therapy.

The role of the Curandero is to serve as a bridge to the spirit realm facilitating healing while providing the recipient the power to then integrate those lessons and become better human. A good spiritual leader doesn’t lecture you, write books, or go on podcasts out of ego, but rather gives you the tools to walk your path while providing protection (or training wheels) while you do. This is exactly how Heberto and Eonice operate, providing you the Love and Protection to walk the path yourself.

Heberto and Eonice are humble people, and in turn, they teach us to be humble, with each other, and most importantly, with the power of the natural world around us.

After many weeks at Yosi Ocha, I can confidently say that the vast majority of people left glowing and beaming with love. I’ve met many lifelong friends from all over the world. While far in the minority, the one or two who struggled had noticeably huge egos, expectations, or ideas that their spirituality was ‘superior’. The plants themselves have a way of humbling these types. It is possible one day one of these people will write a negative review on Yosi Ocha, if that happens, do yourself a big favor and ignore it.

Make no qualms about it, Yosi Ocha is basic on accommodations, but that is part of the process of healing and communing with nature. The food, despite being part of a restricted aya dieta, is delicious and yummy. The private bungalows are comfortable yet primitive, and situated in the jungle. You feel protected in the mosquito net at night, and there is running water, toilets, and drinking water. You need a flashlight at night. Yes, there is a Starlink wifi connection at central Malacca and basic electricity to charge phones and lights, but if you spend most of your time there you are cheating yourself. The lake is beautiful for swimming and stargazing. A very important part of the experience is connecting with the jungle, and that is what makes this center so special.

The magic and true masters of Yosi Ocha are the Master Trees accessible on a well-maintained Amazon trail: Remo Caspi, Wimba, Chullachaki, Lagarto, Sirena, Pashaka… each of these is a powerful spiritual teacher in their own right and will support you if you take the time to reach out to them. Their lessons are worth more than the temporal discomfort and mosquito bites required to gain comfort in their domain.

If you are serious about healing, Yosi Ocha is the right choice. During my extended stay, I saw many people start with just a week, and extend for two or three more as they saw themselves change for the better. This was not uncommon. I would recommend a minimum of two weeks to go deep. I started with two, and came back for another nine weeks. During that time I saw anxiety, depression, ptsd, sleep problems, and even physical pain overcome by pasajeros. The experience will challenge you, but in the best possible ways, and you will be a better person for it. It is hard, but try not to come in with any expectations, other than Love, Healing, and Protection… and just being a better human.

Yosi Ocha taught me that magic is real if you are brave enough to find it in yourself.

Note: This review was edited for over capitalization, but has otherwise has been left in its original form.

Hello Friends,

Yosi Ocha is truly a place of magic and the experiences that take place here are impossible to quantify in simple words. I was honestly a little concerned by the fact that I only saw 5 star reviews for Yosi Ocha … I suppose it seemed too good to be true and that could not have been farther from the truth. Every little thing from our pickup at the airport, to our simple housing accommodations, the food, the facilitators, the ceremonies were expectational. At no point did I feel uncomfortable, scared, worried or confused about what I should be doing next or where I should be going. Every minute of every day and night was filled with love and a sense of protection. I felt comfortable taking long deep walks into the jungle … its hard to explain but I just felt safe. As long as you are mindful of every step you take and respectful of the jungle around you then nothing will hurt, harm or frighten you under the protection of Maestro Humberto and his expert team of friends and family at Yosi Ocha.

I’d like to take a moment to talk about the food … WOW … weeks before my trip I was preparing for the experience with an extremely bland and boring diet. I’d recommend you do the same as it is a great test of will power and a showing of commitment, determination and strength to the Master Plants. That being said I was absolutely blown away by the quality, variety and exceptional tastiness of the food provided by the kitchen staff. Fish, chicken, soups, eggs, amazing vegetables and fruits in great abundance were shared with us. They even served us pancakes one morning for breakfast! Every day plates of fresh apples, oranges and many other healthy snacks were placed out for us to enjoy so we could sustain ourselves during our stay. Folks with special food restrictions were taken VERY seriously and every need was met with passion, care and enthusiasm.

The bungalow housing was incredible. Each visitor gets their own little house with a comfortable shower and toilet along with everything you need to keep your belongings safe from bugs and water damage. I felt safe from the jungle critters and insects inside of my high quality mosquito netting that encased my bed. The pillows, bed and blankets were very comfortable. One of my favorite parts of my days was lighting my provided candle and either swinging in my hammock on the front porch or sitting at my table inside writing in my journal. Each room is also provided with a large container of purified water so you can stay hydrated while enduring your time in the Amazon Jungle.

Next I’ll say a little about the ceremonies themselves without going into too much detail. This was my first time working with The Medicine and I had watched many YouTube videos and read many scary stories about “out of control” ceremonies with people screaming, crying out or running around like mad. The space held by Maestro Humberto is 100% peaceful, under control and felt extremely safe and totally contrary to the scary stuff I had previously read online. There are sober facilitators on hand the entire time to assist you if needed. What a wonderful experience … pure magic.

I’ll close my review by saying that the staff and facilitators on hand at Yosi were friendly, knowledgeable and overall great people. Everyone had a huge smile on their faces and were happy to take time for a quick hello any time they passed by. No worries if you don’t speak Spanish … I only know a few words and phrases but it did not obstruct my experience in any way. Any time that Maestro Humberto is speaking every word is translated for you so that none of his teachings and wisdom is lost in translation.

I could go on and on here and continue to pour praise and gratitude … there just aren’t enough words to describe the experience. 5 stars isn’t enough …. infinity stars MIGHT do the trick but I still wouldn’t feel like it was enough. I highly recommend Yosi Ocha as a safe place to experience the healing and teachings of the Master Plants and I hope you make the choice to select Yosi Ocha as your retreat. I know 100% that I’ll be returning here for years to come.

Light and many blessings from me to you!

Eric

I just returned from a 7 week stay at Yosi Ocha. It was a life changing experience and I want to share it with others. Maestro Herberto is a true Shaman and healer. He has dedicated his life to helping others. The ceremonies were conducted with the utmost respect and in true Shipibo style. It is a family run center owned and operated by the Shipibo people. This is a rarity these days.
If you do not speak Spanish do not worry. There are translators to help you every step of the way.
The food is delicious and varied so that you never get bored with the same flavors.
Maestro Herberto places many layers of protection around the center and its guests allowing for a safe environment to heal and rejuvenate.
I highly recommend!

How lucky am I that I found this place. Even just finding my way to this particular retreat has given me so much perspective and trust in the universe and my path.
It is difficult to put the actual experience to words, but what I think would be most helpful for people deciding *which* retreat to choose would be to know some basics about me:
-30-year old woman living in NYC
– Speak English and Spanish
– Traveling alone and had never done ayahuasca before

I felt very safe during my entire experience at Yosi Ocha. I am not used to traveling alone but I felt called to come to this experience on my own and I truly never felt uncomfortable or unsafe due to this. I was able to really focus on myself and my spiritual journey and I felt taken care of by the staff. I felt very seen and understood by Maestro Heberto and the wonderful serenity and peace at Yosi Ocha really helped me open my heart because I didn’t need to worry about safety or being out of control.
As others have said, this is a healing center, not necessarily a place to go to get as high as possible. I highly recommend this center to anyone who is looking to learn more about themself, or who wants to experience something different, or especially those who feel emotionally stuck or burnt out or alone. Everyone’s spiritual experience is different, but I felt that at least for the week was there, Yosi Ocha helped me understand that I am exactly where I need to be.

A Transformative Journey: My Ayahuasca Retreat in Yosi Ocha.
I recently attended an Ayahuasca retreat in Yosi Ocha, and it was an extraordinary experience. Nestled in the Amazon rainforest, the retreat center perfectly blended rustic charm. I liked this authentic environment very much. The knowledgeable and compassionate staff created a safe and supportive environment for my journey, and I am very grateful to them for their professionally done work. I want to express my gratitude to Barbara, who helped me choose Yosi Ocha; she responded to my first inquiries quickly and professionally.
The Ayahuasca ceremonies, led by the wise Maestro Heberto, were profoundly spiritual and enlightening. Maestro Heberto Garcia is the real deal. His deep understanding of Ayahuasca and his gentle, guiding presence created a profoundly healing environment. Maestro Heberto’s icaros resonated with transformative power, and his dedication to the well-being of each individual is truly inspiring.
Integration activities like plant baths, plant diet, group talks about nature, and nature walks to Master Trees helped me process my experiences. The Peruvian Amazon’s beauty enhanced our connection to nature.
This retreat and time here were unforgettable. It offered knowledge about plant medicine and a deep journey into oneself. I highly recommend the Yosi Ocha retreat if you seek a transformative journey. It was a gift to my spirit, and I am eternally grateful. I know my Shaman and Ayahuasca place for sure now. I look forward to seeing you next time at Yosi Ocha.

A wonderful place, full of powerful medicines, amazing Shaman and his family.
This was my second time returning to Yosi Ocha as a solo female traveler, and I could not recommend this place highly enough.
To immerse yourself in the medicine in its own land, guided by skillful Maestro Heberto and Maestra Eunice and Ercilia was nothing less than magical.
Retreat is organised and held by a family which creates a feeling of authenticity and adds to the experience. The food is very good and facilities are well adapted for jungle life with some western world comfort.
Barbara, the organizer was amazing before, during and after the retreat, and she makes sure that at all times everything runs smoothly, from booking, to pick ups, to anything that may arise while you’re at your retreat, and it was very nice to actualy meet her face to face. Translators/coordinators Tulia and Andrea were wonderful not only at what they do, but who they are. Everyone at the centre just feelt like a big family, and I’m sure I will be returning again next year.
Thank you Maestro Heberto, and everyone who made this stay very special!

The magic of this place is hard to put into words. I have drank & worked in aya ceremonies for 4 years in Europe & wanted to find an exceptional Shipibo teacher in Peru to deepen my training & connection to the plants.

I got so much more than that. I received an in depth diagnosis at the start & end of my stay (everyone gets this). Mine revealed some serious underlying health issues, which I wasn’t fully aware of. I now understand this one of the many ‘real’ reasons my heart guided me here. In truth this centre probably saved my life. I also witnessed people with broken bones healed, PTSD healed & deep childhood trauma resolved. I saw people arrive who could barely smile, who left floating out like hummingbirds.

This is not a party centre for people to get high. This is the deepest inner/shadow/healing work you will ever do. It will be confronting & uncomfortable at times but you’re held in such a loving protective space by Celia, Herberto & Eunice (& Tulia our beautiful translator/assistant) & you feel like you can conquer anything.

I’d never experienced San Pedro or dieted other plants & loved it.

The healing, protection, singing & food is of the highest standard. I never finished a meal because the portions were so big. Herberto, Celia & Eunice who hold the ceremonies are humble, powerful & beautiful authentic Shaman in every way.
This wasn’t my first rodeo with Aya, but nothing can prepare you for drinking in the jungle. Buckle up & enjoy the ride.

This is a fully indigenous run & owned centre, which adds to the magic, authenticity & integrity of the place. It feels like one giant family.
I made friends for life, found a second home & lineage that I will be connecting to for the rest of my life as I continue my training here. The impact Yosi Ocha has had in me is indescribable & I cannot wait to return.

Tips:
*ear plugs if you’re a light sleeper. The jungle is loud especially when the frogs get going.
*natural sunscreen & bug repellent by ‘Fierce Nature’ worked great.
*Bite Away pen on Amazon, natural way to relieve any itching.
*Take USD for massages & the Shipibo market at the centre
*Pack light & wear loose clothes. It’s easy to wash stuff in the washing area
*Forget everything you’ve heard about Aya & let the medicine work with you the way she wants to

I spent 2 weeks in Yosi Ocha with my daughter. My intention was to experience intense spiritual journeys, but it turned out completely differently. Ayahuasca had something else in mind. It was more of a journey to my dark shadows. They wanted to be looked at and then vomited out. On the other hand, it was a real joy and grace to be able to follow the development and growth of my 19-year-old daughter. We developed a deep connection on a soul basis. I am very grateful for that. We were picked up by Herberto’s son in Iquitos and the reception in Yosi Ocha was very warm. Each of us got a bungalow that was well protected against mosquitoes. The rituals had something magical about them, especially when Herberto or his aunt or sister sang Icarus in the maloca. It was also amazing how quickly you took the other participants to your heart. Although we were only there for 2 weeks, it felt more like 4 weeks. Sometimes it felt like I was in a parallel universe. My love and thanks go to Herberto and his family and everyone who supports him on his journey and makes this paradise possible.

Though I am finding it difficult to put into words, I want to extend heartfelt gratitude for the experience at Yosi Ocha. I have wanted to experience working with Ayahuasca for a long time now and I was completely blown away. The medicine, the location, Maestro Herberto, the translators/facilitators, the staff and cook, the other people there at the retreat, the art, the culture, traditions everything and everyone were/are so beautiful and helpful.

I came in to work with intention and questions. I was not only shown perspective and answers on these things but was also deeply healed in a way that I didn’t even know I needed which was/is incredible beyond belief.

One of the things that I worked on while there was connection to the heart and feelings. Even though one week felt like just scratching the surface of things, I feel so much more open and feel like a part of me is still at Yosi Ocha. I have dreamt about it every night since and I miss it already. I will return, just a matter of when. So again, want to offer my love and gratitude for the incredible experience and would absolutely give my recommendation to this location to sit with medicine in this incredibly genuine environment.

Truly magical.