Ayahuasca | Integration $2,250 - $3,150

Spirit Vine Ayahuasca Retreat Center

Itacare, BA, Brazil

5.0 (315 reviews)

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We have been hosting ayahuasca retreats since 1996. Our center is based in the midst of the beautiful Atlantic Rainforest along the coast of Bahia in Brazil. We facilitate a safe and comfortable space for you to achieve harmony in your everyday life by aligning your mind, body, and heart with your true self.

Our 9 day and 11 day ayahuasca retreats are designed to give you a balanced experience. We have ayahuasca ceremonies every other night and in between there are activities to integrate your experiences and insights. There is also ample free time to reflect, to enjoy the beauty of the jungle, to visit the gorgeous beaches, and just to relax, let go, and enjoy the pure bliss of the moment.

Calendar and prices on our website

We have extensive experience integrating ayahuasca, psychology, shamanism, self development, modified states of consciousness, and various other modalities. We are present at all times and are dedicated in supporting you with loving care, attention, safety, and respect.The activities include workshops focused on spiritual development. The techniques covered in the workshops can be practiced even after the retreat to continue the journey of personal growth. Some of the topics include inner child integration, life progression, discovering the source of your blockages and the resources to overcome them. Another very important part of the retreat are the Yoga sessions in the morning which greatly enrich the ayahuasca experiences at night.

Spirit Vine & TheVine Center previously known as Ayahuasca-Healing have been created by Silvia Polivoy. She received her license in clinical psychology and had a private practice in Buenos Aires, Argentina for several years until she began to feel the need to make a transition from studying and healing the mind to exploring the worlds of Spirit. This took her away from the busy city streets to the more tranquil life in the jungle, moving to Brazil where in 2004 she co-founded the TheVine Center, a trans-denominational and inter-faith spiritual center located in the state of Bahia.

The nature of our nonprofit center is philosophical, religious, mystical, spiritual, educational, and cultural. All the retreats’ income’ serves to maintain the center grounds, create employment for the local community, and help preserve the jungle, having replanted thousands of native trees over the years to give but one example.

The retreats take place inside of 39 acres of lush preserved area. It is about 7 miles from Itacaré on the coast of Bahia. Our location is only minutes away from beautiful coastal beaches, which back onto the Mata Atlántica, the second largest rainforest in Brazil.

The experience of sacred tea ceremonies can be challenging for some, deeply religious for others, but profound all around. Please note that we have several programs to offer and the plant ceremonies are always optional and not required to partake in during any of our retreats. The plant ceremonies begin in the evening and go through the night. The group dynamic is very important and there will be facilitators to look after participants throughout. There will be plenty of time for group discussions and also time alone to reflect on the experiences elicited by the spirit vine tea for those that wish to partake in the plant ceremonies.

At the retreat center we grow our own ayahuasca vine and chacruna plants organically! We also have an organic garden to source vegetables for the food prepared during the retreat. We have pure spring water for drinking and also coconut water, juices, and a variety of teas.

During all our programs we follow a strict (though delicious) diet. The meals are completely vegan, gluten-free, and nutritionally balanced, prepared by our in-house chef who has specialized in vegan cuisine and has a post-graduation in functional nutrition. They include plenty of fresh vegetables cooked with delicious herbs and spices, luscious fresh tropical fruits, salads, and grains.

A note about sexual abstinence: this varies from culture to culture; some recommending as long as 30-40 days while others as little as one day or none at all like here in Brazil. For energetic purposes we recommend sexual abstinence during the retreat as well as 3 days before it begins and 3 days after the retreat concludes. As well, a drug free and no salt diet with no red meat, pork or heavy alcohol use for the same amount of time is optimal.

We fully expect you have questions about the retreats, programs and the facilities we offer. Please feel free to explore our website or watch our videos and write to us to come to one of our retreats.

Learn more about Spirit Vine Ayahuasca Retreats

Reviews (315)

5.0 out of 5

Overall 5.0

cintiadumiense
November 22, 2024 at 11:03 am

I attended the 9-day retreat in August 2024, and after 3 months, I can confidently say that this retreat changed my life.

I had wanted to experience ayahuasca for a long time. I researched retreats in the Amazon and Pará until I came across SpiritVine’s recommendation on a website that simply said: “If you want to try ayahuasca in a safe place, SpiritVine is the best.”

I looked into it and loved everything I found. Although I initially wanted the Amazon experience, I couldn’t be more grateful for the change in plans. I’m Brazilian and live in NY. My biggest fear was traveling alone to an unfamiliar place in my own country. When I saw Itacaré/Bahia as the location, I felt immense relief. I already knew and loved the town and felt excited by the opportunity to visit the beach and recharge after the chaos of city life. Additionally, I was thrilled to learn that our guide was a woman. Knowing I’d be supported by a woman in such a vulnerable and profound experience made me feel incredibly comfortable and confident.

I submitted my application on the website, answered all the questions, and Silvia was very clear in addressing my doubts and guiding me through every stage of the retreat’s preparation – including food and drink restrictions. I strongly recommend following her instructions to avoid withdrawal symptoms during the retreat, especially if you’re used to coffee or sugar. She also provided a list of recommended hotels, arranged transfers, and ensured every detail of the trip was as comfortable as possible.

Silvia suggested arriving two days before the retreat to avoid the stress of flight delays and to begin disconnecting. She also recommended staying two extra days after the retreat to enjoy the beaches, nature, and to continue sharing experiences with other participants. I followed her advice and found it wonderful.

The accommodations at SpiritVine are fantastic. There’s no discomfort or hassle. The spaces are clean, organized, beautiful, and peaceful, showcasing the richness and serenity of the Atlantic Forest. The bungalows are equipped with hammocks for relaxation, mosquito nets, and lovely views all around.

Throughout the retreat, a dedicated team provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are always herbal teas and infused waters available. The food is flavorful, well-seasoned, and free from added salt, sugar, gluten, dairy, or processed ingredients.

Silvia is incredibly experienced and passionate. It’s such a joy to sit with her and talk about life—there’s so much to learn from her.

On ceremony days, there are massages and yoga classes. Silvia also conducts workshops on themes designed to unlock memories and emotions, which can then be worked through and healed during the ceremonies. These workshops are fascinating and deeply beneficial. Since they’re done in a group setting, you often find yourself identifying with and learning from others’ experiences and stories. I realized that, even in a group with people from vastly different nationalities and backgrounds, our traumas often feel strikingly similar.

Silvia has built a true oasis for honoring ayahuasca. Listening to the silence and the sounds of nature, feeling the warmth, breathing clean air, soaking up the sun, and resting under the shade of the trees all help you disconnect and focus on what truly matters.

The ceremony room is immersed in nature, surrounded by mosquito nets to keep the bugs out. It’s amazing to feel the gentle breeze and hear the sounds of the forest during the ceremonies. It felt like being in Avatar—completely at peace.

Every journey is unique, but the certainty of being in a safe environment helps you relax and surrender. I’m deeply grateful for the lessons I’ve learned, the experiences I’ve had, and the opportunity to access so much within myself.

I returned from my retreat more aware, more grateful, and so much happier. I’ve started reading more about ayahuasca, and the signs of consciousness continue to touch my life every single day. I received so much love during my experience. It was one of the most profound and rewarding sensations of my life. I’ve always felt a strong connection to nature, but city life had distanced me from it. Now, I actively seek ways to reconnect more often—to recharge and strengthen my sense of responsibility toward it.

I recommended this retreat to my husband because I want him to experience this incredible transformation as well. It helped me become an infinitely better mother—more patient, present, and aware. I’ve grown so much emotionally, and this has positively impacted my relationships with my children and family.

I can’t wait to go back. There’s so much more to uncover and so many lessons still waiting for me.

If you’re considering it, do your research, read up, follow Silvia’s instructions, and surrender. Ayahuasca may feel intense for some, but by understanding the journey’s meaning, you’ll likely gain greater awareness of life and yourself. There’s so much to learn.

Thank you, Silvia, for creating such a safe and welcoming space for so many people to grow and access deeper levels of consciousness.

Thank you, Noor, for all your kindness and support in keeping the operations flowing smoothly.

My life is infinitely better because of this experience.
muuuuli
November 2, 2024 at 7:21 pm

It’s been over two months since my retreat at Spirit Vine, and I’ve had time to reflect on the profound experience. For years, I’d been living a muted existence, emotionally numb and disconnected from the richness of life. I was a mere observer, passively going through the motions.

The retreat was a catalyst for significant change. For the first time, I felt a full spectrum of emotions, from joy to sorrow, fear to love. Initially, this emotional intensity was daunting, but I soon realized it was a necessary step towards true authenticity.

Since the retreat, I’ve become more attuned to my body and emotions, although there are still moments of blockage. The difference now is that I know what it feels like to be fully present and connected. The pathways to deeper emotional experiences are open, and I’m committed to exploring them.

Silvia, the heart and soul of Spirit Vine, is a truly inspiring teacher. Her dedication and passion are evident in every interaction. She has a unique ability to challenge and support, creating a safe space for profound transformation.

While the journey is far from over, I’m incredibly grateful for this transformative experience. I’m excited to continue my personal growth and embrace the fullness of life.
irene_m
November 2, 2024 at 1:13 am

A month ago, I attended a nine-day retreat at Spirit Vine. It was one of the most valuable and healing therapeutic experiences I’ve ever had, and I plan to return next year. I’m incredibly grateful to Silvia, Noor, and the wonderful group of participants for creating such a safe, supportive, and healing space.

I’d been curious about ayahuasca for a long time but was unsure where to go. I was afraid of having a “bad trip,” as my partner had a traumatic experience in a traditional ceremony where he felt utterly alone and without support. A friend told me about Spirit Vine and shared his positive experience. After learning about Silvia’s background as a psychoanalyst with extensive experience in ayahuasca retreats, I felt more confident. It seemed like a perfect blend of ancestral wisdom and modern trauma therapy in a beautiful, comfortable, and safe environment. And so it was!

Every detail – before, during, and after the retreat – is intentional and carefully thought out. At first, I didn’t understand the reason behind some of the instructions that Silvia gave, but they became very clear during the ceremonies, as they helped me navigate challenging situations while in an altered state.

Silvia reminded us that ayahuasca is only an amplifier – it magnifies whatever is already in you. So if you’ve been avoiding something, you can bet it will come up. Some participants had wonderful, transcendental experiences. Mine were “challenging,” to put it mildly. In another setting, I would have called them “bad trips.” However, thanks to the tools Silvia teaches and the support from everyone – facilitators and participants alike – those “bad trips” allowed me to access memories and gain insights that had evaded me despite many years of therapy.

Regarding the facilitators, if you’re used to a neutral therapist who asks questions and takes things slowly, Silvia’s direct style might surprise you. She shares her opinions openly, which I appreciate, even when it stings. Noor’s calm energy is the perfect complement to Silvia’s therapeutic approach.

In summary, I highly recommend Spirit Vine to anyone considering this journey!
lavalatina
October 18, 2024 at 11:01 am

Review of my experience at Spirit Vine
By Eliana, retreat from September 17 to 25, 2024

My name is Eliana, and from September 17 to 25, 2024, I had the privilege of attending my first retreat at Spirit Vine. Honestly, words are not enough to describe how incredible the experience was. At first, I must admit I felt afraid, influenced by some reviews I had read. However, letting myself be guided by that fear was a mistake. Everything changed the moment I arrived.

Even though we were informed that the main language would be English, this was not an obstacle. My partner and I purchased a simultaneous translation package that greatly helped us during the workshops and talks. The warmth of Silvia and Noor was key to making me feel comfortable. Silvia is incredibly attentive and always willing to help, while Noor provided constant support throughout the retreat.

The ayahuasca ceremonies were perfect. There are 4 ceremonies that changed my life. I must emphasize the importance of strictly following the diet. No salt, no sugar, and no stimulants like coffee or mate (we’re Argentine, after all!). The preparation is crucial, and I can say it was completely worth it. In addition, the constant support from Silvia and Noor during the ceremonies made me feel protected at all times. Unlike other places, here you are with professionals in a paradise, not suffering in a jungle. They never leave you alone while the plant takes effect; they are always there, ensuring you go through your process in the best way possible. Silvia is there to comfort you, listen to you, and of course, guide you on this journey.

Something I want to highlight is the location. You won’t find another place where you feel so comfortable and where all your basic needs are met. When you embark on this kind of journey, it’s because you need it, and you shouldn’t have to suffer to heal. Unfortunately, there are false shamans who make you live through the worst experiences, but I assure you that with Silvia, everything is much better. The preparation before the ceremonies, the talks she gives to uncover all the repressed emotions—this makes all the difference.

Spirit Vine is not just a place for ceremonies; it is a refuge, a true paradise. Here, you are cared for and supported every step of the way, and the facilities are top-notch. It’s nothing like those videos where people are shown vomiting in fields. Spirit Vine is a place designed for your well-being, where you feel completely safe and at peace. Every penny spent is worth it, and you will realize that once you are there.

My experience was transformative. Now, two weeks after the retreat, I feel renewed: no more depression, no pain, and a creativity that I haven’t felt in years. They have helped me both emotionally and financially, pushing me to advance in many areas of my life. The diet, although demanding, taught me how to eat healthily, and I no longer feel the need to introduce chemicals into my body. And speaking of food, how I miss their meals! Everything was vegan, delicious, and prepared with so much love.

Would I recommend Spirit Vine? Absolutely. If you are looking for a safe, professional, and deeply healing place, this is it. Silvia is extremely careful with the ayahuasca doses, and before administering them, they conduct an exam to make sure everything is in order. I cannot thank Spirit Vine enough for giving me my life back, making me feel comfortable despite the language barrier, and helping me become a better version of myself.

Thank you, Spirit Vine, for giving my life meaning again.
LKilgrove
October 10, 2024 at 9:22 am

I flew to Brazil for the first time by myself as a solo traveling woman. Silvia helped arrange taxis and a hotel for me and made sure I was safe and comfortable the entire time. I heard about Spirit Vine through a friend and was grateful to their dedication before the Aya experience in helping us prepare with the dieta and by asking other questions to determine whether or not we would be a good match. It made me feel safer knowing the other guests would also be approved and cleared for arrival, ensuring safe journeys for us all.

The retreat center of Spirit Vine is absolutely gorgeous and well curated and manicured. It felt like a true paradise! Everything was clean and the staff was friendly, making sure to tidy up the rooms daily. The food was incredible and always prepared on-time with plenty for everyone, fresh and local foods and teas/juices. The workshops, massages, and yoga really helped prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for whatever we might encounter during our subconscious trip. They made sure to give us proper dosage and made us wait two hours before getting a booster, being sure we really needed one. I felt safe the entire time and had a life-transforming experience. The group sharing afterwards was really helpful, and I enjoyed my one-on-one conversations with the leaders to help me process and integrate. I made life-long friends, and really enjoyed the town of Itacare after the retreat, thanks to Silvia’s suggestion. I can’t recommend this place enough, as it combines western psychology with spiritual and indigenous medicines. The jungle is well cared for, and I look forward to going back.