Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Why choose Life’s Journey Tours?
Our mission is to maintain the sanctity and respect of the indigenous culture and ceremonies through small group experiences. We work with experienced and capable Curanderos, who guide you through the self-awareness, transformation, and healing gifts of plant medicines.
What is the location of the retreat?
Situated in the Ecuadorian Highlands, and San Pablo de Lago is nestled in the spine of the Andes Mountains. The village is located less than 90 minutes northwest of Quito. The Highlands are known for their distinct beauty. Jambina Huasi (“Healing House”), surrounded by four ancient volcanoes, is located near San Pablo de Lago, at the base of the Imbabura Volcano.
What if I don’t want to do some of the plant medicines?
Your decision to participate in any activity is up to you! We will delightfully accommodate your needs and choices.
Can you accommodate my dietary restrictions?
Yes! We have a professionally trained culinary staff that will be happy to meet individual dietary needs.
TRAVEL QUESTIONS
Do I need a passport or visa to travel to Ecuador?
Yes. A passport is needed for travel to Ecuador. Ecuadorian Immigration requires the expiration date on your passport must not be less than six months.
What are the vaccination requirements for travel?
Currently, there are no vaccination requirements.
Is it safe to travel to Ecuador?
Trave to Ecuador is safe. The State Department considers Ecuador a Level II safety risk: Exercise increased caution. This advisory is due to isolated trouble spots in coastal areas and border regions. The vast majority of Ecuador is safe and inviting. As with any travel, common sense precatuions are necessary for your safety.
What airport do I fly into?
Flights to Ecuador are to Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport (UIO). This is a lovely, clean, and modern facility that accommodates travelers from around the world.
What’s the weather like?
The Ecuadorian Highlands sits atop the equator, resulting in year-long stable high and low temperatures. You can expect daytime highs in the mid-70s and evenings in the low-50s. Expect rain at some point in the day during the rainy season. Because you are at the equator, sunscreen is always recommended.
What should I bring?
Fashion is always secondary to function. Wear COMFORTABLE layers of clothing (think sweatpants and sweatshirts). Packing rain gear and waterproof footwear is a must. Be aware that you may be at altitudes approaching 10,000 ft/asl on specific ceremonial walks. Temperatures could be in the high-30s at those heights. Wool socks, moisture-wicking base layers, wool sweaters, and rain jackets (waterproof poncho) are highly suggested. We can provide limited raingear. Because we offer daily laundry services, you can pack lighter.
What is the local currency?
All currency is denominated in US dollars. We recommend traveling with small bills, $5 or $10 notes ($20s are hard to change, and $50-$100 notes are nearly impossible to exchange, even at local banks).
Is the water safe to drink?
We recommend that you drink only bottled and filtered water. We provide filtered water in your rooms for your convienence.
PLANT MEDICINE QUESTIONS
Will there be a doctor available 24/7?
Yes, a medical doctor will be available 24/7. If there is a need for offsite medical services, the local medical care is quite professional. It is suggested to contact your health insurance provider for details of foreign travel coverage. We also suggest travel insurance to cover unexpected health needs that could arise overseas.
Are there any contraindications to Ayahuasca, Wachuma (San Pedro cactus) or Psilocybin?
Yes, the two most notable are a history of schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder.
A history of a previous reaction to plant medicines is much less likely, but knowing about complications is still essential.
Uncontrolled medical conditions that include, but are not limited to, uncontrolled heart disease (you will be at altitudes over 8000 ft ASL and hiking uneven terrain), brittle Type I DM, COPD or severe asthma (altitude), uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a condition that would require complex medical treatment.
Can I take Ayahuasca, Wachuma, or Psilocybin if I’m taking SSRIs/SNRIs/MAOIs anti-depressants?
Using SSRIs/SNRIs/NDRIs/TCAs antidepressants can be an issue if using Ayahuasca, wachuma, or psilocybin. A slow taper off the medications (stopping them a minimum of 2-4 weeks before the plant medicines) is essential before using Ayahuasca, wachuma, or psilocybin.
MAOI medications need to be stopped 4-6 weeks before.
Are there any other medications, OTC medications, or Supplements I shouldn't take before a plant medicine ceremony?
Numerous over-the-counter (OTC) prescription medications need to be stopped 48 hours prior to ceremonies:
Many supplements should also be halted 48 hours before ingesting ceremonial plant medicines.
Before submitting your payment, please disclose all medications and supplements to Life’s Journey Tours.
Do I need to do anything to prepare to work with these plant medicines?
We will help you prepare in the weeks leading up to your trip and journey by holding Zoom meetings and having group chats for those interested.
What should I expect after taking Ayahuasca? Wachuma? Psilocybin?
Because each of us is unique, how we respond to the plant medicine spirits will differ. You are contemplating this experience because you are curious about how these ceremonies, led by the gifted Curanderos, can help you achieve greater self-awareness, healing, and spiritual guidance. What can you expect? An opportunity to have a life-changing and transformational week.
What kind of support is available during and after the retreat?
Integration facilitators will be on site to guide you through your ceremony experience and support your understanding and integration of what the plants teach you.
Additionally, post retreat, we will be in contact with you to follow up on your progress and continue to support your integration process.
Are any of these plant medicines addictive?
No, thousands of years of experience with these ceremonial plant compounds have proven that these are not addictive. The three plant medicines do not trigger the receptors or neural pathways in a way characteristic of addictive substances.
Can I continue taking my supplements? CBD? Other plant tinctures?
We recommend, but do not require, stopping all supplements 48 hours before your plant medicine ceremonies.
LOGISTICS
What is the cost of the retreat?
Contact us for more information.
What is your refund/cancellation policy?
We will refund 50% of your Life’s Journey Tours Fee up to 30 calendar days prior to your trip. We do recommend purchasing an individual trip insurance policy.
Will meals be provided?
Yes, all meals are provided and professionally prepared for your specific dietary needs.
What is your maximum group size?
We limit groups to 10 clients to ensure that we provide an intimate experience. Our facilitator-to-client ratio is at most 3:1 (often 2:1). There is a minimum group size of 6 persons.
What is the age requirement?
Minimum age is 18.
Will I have hot water?
Yes, hot water is plentyful.