and nature hikes.
But it also offers something more – the jungle medicine ‘ayahuasca’ (which translates to ‘Vine of the Souls’ in the native tongue) that draws hundreds of visitors each year in search of an indigenous spiritual experience.
When the motorboat pulls into the Refugio’s river wharf there’s the immediate impression of the lagoon in Gilligan’s Island – a cluster of jungle huts with conical roofs and long thatched walkways peering over the shoreline.
The helpful staff settles us into one of the dozens of spacious bungalows that are scattered through the sprawling 250 acre property. All the structures have been constructed with natural materials by local workers from the surrounding villages. They are equipped with their own mosquito-netted bedroom, living room, balconies overlooking the forest and a modern bathroom with toilets and showers – a luxury out here. And then it hits you.
You’ve arrived. The tranquil sounds of the jungle close in and envelop you: parrots, insects, monkeys – the warm noise of nature at it’s best, inviting you into its mystery. And you remember that you are a million miles from the city, deep in the heart of the Amazon jungle surrounded by virgin forest, and that the adventure is about to begin.
Along with an indigenous Shipibo shaman named ‘Walter’, Petersen conducts his shamanistic ceremonies from a giant, two story walled hut with a conical roof that seats up to thirty five people on the bench on the inside perimeter. By candlelight he doles out small cups of ayahuasca brew and guides seekers on a mystical journey of discovery. Many people report seeing visions of giant anacondas, jaguars and geometric patterns. Others feel a sense of wellbeing