A safe retreat screens you before it accepts you, prepares you before you travel, keeps groups small, and has trained responders on site. Ask every center for its screening process, its group size and its emergency plan before you pay. A center that will not answer all three is not ready for you.
How should a retreat handle medical screening?
It should happen before acceptance, in writing, and with a real chance of hearing no. At Ruhani, every guest completes 4 steps before sitting in ceremony: a clarity call to check you are fit in mind and body, a detailed 41-question medical intake, 2 video preparation calls on your history, and guidance on the dieta, the preparation diet. If a medication interacts with the plants, you are not ready yet. You talk with your physician and follow a protocol to come off it at least one month before you arrive. Never stop a medication without your physician. Ruhani has turned people away.
Who should not do ayahuasca?
Certain medications and conditions rule people out, and screening decides each case. The full list sits on Who should avoid ayahuasca, and the interactions sit on What not to mix with ayahuasca. Talk to your physician before you apply.
What safety should be on site?
At minimum: two staff with current First Aid, CPR and emergency response certification, an AED, a physician on call, and a plan for the nearest clinic. At Ruhani the nearest clinic is 30 minutes away, groups run at 8 people or fewer, and the guides have 15 or more years of direct practice.
What are the most reputable ayahuasca centers in Costa Rica?
No list certifies a center, including this one. Ask each center the questions above, read recent reviews on more than one platform, and speak to a past guest. Ruhani’s Google rating was 5.0 across 23 reviews on 2026-10-29.
What questions should you ask before you pay?
Who screens me, and can they say no? How many people are in each ceremony? Who is on site if someone needs medical care? What support do I get before I travel and after I leave? Vague answers tell you what you need to know.
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What we share reflects our personal journey and perspective. If something doesn't resonate with you, take what serves your heart and leave the rest with love. Our posts are intended for educational and inspirational purposes only. Sacred plant medicines are powerful tools that deserve deep respect and should only be used under the guidance of skilled, experienced practitioners in a safe, ceremonial setting. Always approach them with care, preparation, and proper support. Healing is a personal path. Walk it wisely.