Retreat Testimonials
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I’m deeply grateful I chose to attend this retreat. Like many people, I arrived with some apprehension; it’s always a vulnerable thing to step into a space of healing with new people, but that feeling melted away almost instantly.
From the moment I arrived, I felt held, safe, and at ease. There was something profoundly authentic about Austin and the team. You can feel that their intention is genuine—to serve, support, and witness others in their healing journeys. The depth of wisdom and care that each team member brought to the experience was beyond anything I could have expected.
The retreat helped me access and process deep emotions that had long been locked away—things I couldn’t have reached on my own. It offered not only a safe space to explore these feelings, but also tools and insights that I know will stay with me for life.
If you’re feeling the call to heal, to grow, or just to understand yourself on a deeper level, I cannot recommend this experience enough. I walk away with a fuller heart, a clearer mind, and immense gratitude for everyone involved.
Even if our paths never cross again in the physical, the memory of this retreat and the people I met will live on in my heart.
With thanks and respect,
Nigel

I chose to attend this retreat because I had already been to a previous one, and that experience opened a path for me. I felt called to continue exploring a deeper understanding of myself and the events that shaped me.
This retreat brought up emotions that had been locked away for years. These were feelings I had not been able to access on my own. The experience allowed me to finally meet them with clarity and compassion.
What stood out to me the most was the authentic love, care, and presence that Austin and his team bring into the space. Their wisdom runs deep, and their knowledge is evident in every part of the process. Each member of the team brings something unique that enriches the entire experience.
The facilitators went far beyond my expectations. I felt completely safe, understood, and supported. I know I can always reach out to Austin for guidance or counsel in the future, and that means a lot to me.
There is nothing I would suggest improving. The retreat felt whole and complete exactly as it was.
I would absolutely recommend The Huachuma Project to anyone seeking healing. If someone I know needs support on their journey, I would encourage them to come here. My only piece of advice is to have a one on one consultation with Austin beforehand. It helps create clarity and trust before stepping into the work.
I am so grateful that I attended. I am always a little nervous before going to a new retreat, yet the moment I walked in I felt calm and comfortable. I could feel the sincerity behind the intentions of Austin and his team, and it created an atmosphere where I could truly open up.
Every aspect of the retreat was meaningful. The depth of insight, the quality of the guidance, and the space that was held for each of us was far beyond what I expected. I am leaving with a deeper understanding of myself, my past traumas, and the behaviors shaped by them.
Even if I never meet these people again in the physical world, the experience and the individuals I shared it with will always live in my heart and memory. I cannot recommend this retreat enough to anyone who feels called to heal, to grow, and to learn. ❤️
Neil

I felt called to this retreat from a deep desire for personal healing and spiritual growth. I wanted to step into the New Year and into a new chapter of the twenty first century in community and in sacred space.
Emotionally I healed old wounds of grief and sadness that had already served their purpose. Mentally, I released a great deal of unnecessary baggage, including habits that had affected my well-being for a long time. I no longer drink alcohol, smoke, or use recreational substances.
Spiritually, I felt myself lifted into the Cosmic Heart of all being and touched by the Divine presence that lives within each of us.
What stood out to me most was the skill and dedication that Austin brings to his work as a shaman, medicine man, and ceremonial leader. His experience and his way of guiding people through their journeys of healing and revelation are truly remarkable.
The facilitators exceeded every expectation I had. Their kindness and attention to detail created a beautiful space of love, respect, presence, and practical support. I felt completely safe, completely held, and completely understood.
There is nothing I would change about the retreat. Everything felt perfect just as it was. The only small suggestion I could imagine is to bring earplugs for dormitory sharing, simply because snorers like me can cause some disturbance, although one of the team had already thought of that.
I would wholeheartedly recommend The Huachuma Project to anyone who feels called to explore their inner world and who has a basic understanding of English. There is no need for Europeans to travel to South America to find this kind of work. It is available right here in Portugal. Austin carries the ancient medicine traditions of Peru and expresses them in a way that is culturally accessible and deeply respectful.
For anyone considering attending, I encourage you to be very clear about why you want to do this work. It is not something to approach because it seems fashionable. It requires honesty, sincerity, and a willingness to meet visions or emotions that may not always be comfortable. Prepare yourself well with a clean diet, a substance-free period of at least a week, and some effort toward building stamina.
The journey is beautiful, transformative, and beyond words, but it does ask something of you. You will discover that you can endure more than you think, and the rewards are profound.
My experience on this retreat brought me into a place of deep self-love and appreciation, as well as a renewed respect and love for others. I have overcome doubt, negativity, addiction, and creative blockages that had lingered for years. I am approaching seventy-five years of age, and before the retreat, I often felt depressed and anxious about the final stretch of my life. I felt as if I was simply treading water, waiting to return to the divine source.
Now I feel connected to the sacred in my heart at all times. I feel more alive, loving, and compassionate than I did at fifty. I carry a gentle joy and a quiet sense of expansion that I know will stay with me.
It feels as if I have given birth to myself in a baptism of fire, and everything that no longer served me has simply fallen away. Of course, little ego patterns still appear, as they do for all of us, but in the vast space of my awakened heart, I acknowledge them gently and let them pass without feeding them.
All is well.
Jerry

I decided to attend a retreat with The Huachuma Project because I was seeking real change in my life. I felt a strong pull to step into something deeper, and that calling led me to San Pedro and to Austin.
The experience awakened me to a sense of spiritual family and filled me with an overwhelming gratitude to be alive. The land itself played a huge role in this. The moment you step onto Austin’s place, you can feel his devotion to San Pedro. It feels like stepping onto another planet, completely removed from the world we know. There is a sacredness to it that is impossible to ignore.
Emotionally and spiritually, the retreat touched me in ways that are difficult to describe. I felt supported during the ceremonies, especially during the moments when I struggled the most. Austin gave everything he had to the work, and I felt cared for and held when I needed it. At the same time, there were moments when I did not feel fully comfortable sharing what I was going through. It felt as if I was being pushed inward, and although I trust this was part of my personal process, I still feel it is worth mentioning.
On a practical level, I was supported throughout the retreat. This support was not only about food or water. It was the presence and help offered during the deeper moments of ceremony. Even when I found it difficult to open up, I knew that support was there.
I would absolutely recommend The Huachuma Project. I have already done so, even during the very weekend I was there. For anyone who feels the call to San Pedro, my advice is simple: hold no expectations and allow the experience to unfold naturally.
To anyone reading this, I am grateful to share a glimpse of my time with this community. My days in Portugal were magical, almost otherworldly. What stays with me is a deep sense of gratitude that cannot be explained with the mind but is felt within the spirit.
I feel I was meant to be there. I felt connected to San Pedro, to Austin, to the land, the animals, the elements, and to the group that became a tribe. If you are looking to meet San Pedro in a respectful and intimate way, Austin is the person to guide you. He creates a safe space for whatever needs to unfold and he honors each person’s individual journey. He also brings joy and humor into the process, which is a gift of its own.
With love and gratitude to San Pedro and to you, Austin.
God bless
Giovanni

I decided to attend a retreat with The Huachuma Project after living with Austin and witnessing a few of the retreats firsthand. Watching others move through their experiences made me curious and inspired me to take part myself.
The retreat had a deep emotional and spiritual impact on me. It made me aware of everything I was holding inside and taught me how to be more present and how to stay genuinely happy. One of the things that stood out most was the complete absence of judgment. Everyone is on their own journey, and that was honored in a way that felt truly respectful and safe.
The facilitators exceeded my expectations. They always took the time to answer questions and address any insecurities that came up. Every few hours they sat down with us for a check-in, offering guidance and support wherever it was needed. I felt supported the entire time, both during and after the retreat. Austin is fully there for everyone, all the time.
I would recommend The Huachuma Project to anyone dealing with trauma or anyone who simply wants to understand themselves more deeply. My advice to anyone considering joining a retreat is to trust the process, go in with an open mind, and allow the experience to unfold without trying to resist it.
Dino

I attended a retreat with The Huachuma Project after having already experienced a life-changing retreat with Austin. The beautiful surroundings of nature and the deep work I had done before drew me back to do more.
Spiritually, the retreat helped me connect with a deeper part of myself. I gained clarity on the power of letting go, realizing how attachments were weighing down my soul. This brought a sense of freedom and lightness I hadn’t felt before, allowing me to embrace life with more openness.
Emotionally, it was a journey of healing. I became aware of emotions I had been holding onto, understanding how they impacted not only me but my relationships. By releasing these attachments, I’ve learned to approach my emotions with more compassion, both for myself and others.
Mentally, the retreat shifted my perspective on life. I learned to see situations and relationships differently, with less need for control. This has given me peace of mind and mental clarity. The experience provided tools to live more freely, preparing me for an exciting new chapter in my life.
The connection with nature, meditation, and the wonderful music stood out most to me. It helped me connect with myself in ways I hadn't before, bringing peace and self-love to both my mind and soul.
The facilitators were exceptional—their depth of knowledge, compassion, and guidance made me feel safe and supported throughout the retreat. Each session helped me reach breakthroughs I hadn’t anticipated. The nourishing meals were incredible, prepared with care and love, complementing the healing process perfectly.
I felt very supported and loved during the retreat, and I absolutely recommend The Huachuma Project to anyone seeking deep personal growth. My advice for anyone considering a retreat is to come with an open heart and mind, ready to let go of expectations. Trust the journey, the facilitators, and embrace the connection with others and nature.
Bekki

My dad and I attended a retreat together and participated in three deeply impactful ceremonies with Austin. Both of us had profound, life-changing experiences, and we're already planning to return for more.
Austin is not only an exceptional host but a highly skilled shaman with a deep respect for the medicine. From preparing nourishing meals to guiding us through the ceremonies, his care and attention to detail were evident. The retreat space, surrounded by nature, was both serene and comfortable, perfect for the kind of deep work we were there to do.
What really stood out was Austin’s reverence for the medicine. His training in Peru shines through in the way he leads the rituals, every step was intentional, every moment meaningful. The ceremonies were transformative, and his thoughtful integration sessions helped us make sense of the insights we gained. His presence and energy created a safe space for us to truly connect with the medicine and ourselves.
10/10—would drink again.
Alexander

I had been living with Austin and witnessed a few retreats, which sparked my curiosity and led me to join one myself. The experience had a profound impact on me emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. It made me aware of everything happening inside and taught me how to be happy and stay happy.
What really stood out to me was the non-judgmental atmosphere. Everyone is on their own journey, and that is deeply respected throughout the process. The facilitators were fantastic—they took the time to answer all our questions and address any insecurities. Every few hours, they checked in with us, offering guidance and support when needed.
I felt truly supported during and after the retreat. Austin was there for everyone, all the time, making sure we were taken care of. Honestly, I wouldn't change a thing and would gladly attend another retreat in the same setting.
I highly recommend The Huachuma Project to anyone dealing with trauma or those who want to learn more about themselves. My advice? Trust the process, keep an open mind, and don't fight it. Just let it flow.
Jan

The retreat struck the perfect balance between introspective work and skilled guidance. I experienced a profound emotional, mental, and spiritual shift that I didn't anticipate. Austin’s approach created a space where I felt safe to explore deep areas within myself.
The one-on-one time with Austin was invaluable. His ability to integrate all his training, techniques, and wisdom helped me break through significant blockages. I felt truly seen and supported throughout the journey.
Austin and his team met my expectations and beyond. I even remember telling him that I don’t think he’s paid enough for the level of support and expertise he provides. The dedication and heart put into this work is evident.
The Huachuma Project is a place of genuine healing and transformation. I would recommend this experience to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves.
Take the leap of faith, your instinct has brought you this far for a reason.
Be brave, open, and know that you are in the safest of hands.
robbie

My experience at The Huachuma Project has been nothing short of transformative. Having heard glowing reviews from others who attended Austin’s retreats, I was inspired to take part myself—and I’m so grateful I did.
The impact of San Pedro on my healing journey has been profound, It’s been a true game changer, teaching me to approach relationships with men in a healthier way. The deep healing I experienced reached my heart and allowed me to release patterns that no longer serve me. Although moving forward sometimes brings sadness, I now do so with compassion and love, not anger.
What stood out to me most was the ceremony itself—from start to finish, I felt safe and supported. Austin is an extraordinary human being, wise and genuine. I loved that he is authentic and grounded, without any of the spiritual ego that I have encountered with others. Meeting him and his team was truly a gift.
The support from the entire team exceeded my expectations. Their presence, kindness, and wisdom were palpable, especially during one-on-one moments when I faced resistance. Their guidance was both powerful and gentle, and I felt cared for in every moment.
For anyone considering a retreat with The Huachuma Project, my advice is simple: drop your expectations, set your intentions, and allow yourself to surrender with an open heart. Trust Austin and the team fully, and stay with the discomfort if it arises—it will lead you to insights and self-awareness you’ve never experienced before.
This retreat was a life-changing experience, and I couldn’t recommend The Huachuma Project enough.
Thank you, Austin and team, for the safe, loving space you hold.
Lorena

After attending the 3-night San Pedro Retreat, my heart is full of gratitude to have chosen The Huachuma Project for this deep healing experience. Austin is creating such a safe, comfortable but also really effective space to dive deep into the inner work. From the first day, I felt at ease being there and was impressed by Austin’s profound knowledge, wide-ranging skillset as well as genuine and honest nature.
Feeling safe, supported, and having skilled guidance definitely helped me a lot in embracing the ceremonies – both Kambo and San Pedro – with openness to surrender to the teachings of the medicine and trusting what was about to unfold. Austin was there every time to coach and help me when I failed to connect to the process or was struggling.
Learning and receiving guidance from San Pedro was absolutely transformative. The Grandfather medicine brought me face-to-face with my father wound, bringing up buried memories, letting me grieve, and realizing its crushing impact on my whole life so far. But within the same journey, beautifully also let me release a lot of resentment as I was shown my father’s and grandfather’s trauma too. With that understanding, I could embrace my crying inner child and comfort her from the perspective of an adult today.
That was only one of many insights and breakthroughs of this magical weekend, which I’m wholeheartedly grateful for. I feel much calmer since then. Tensions in my neck and head have decreased immensely. Mentally, I’m much more positive and trustful. The cozy and clean accommodation, surrounded by beautiful hills in peaceful nature, also stood out to me. The meals are freshly cooked and really good. All of this comfort supports the healing journey.
For anyone considering attending a retreat at The Huachuma Project and being sincere about doing your part of the work, I highly and sincerely recommend it. You are going to be in safe and supportive hands, making sure you are well taken care of. Try to let go of expectations, trust the medicine and the facilitators, set your intention, surrender, and enter this life-changing experience with openness. If discomfort arises, embrace it. In case of fear or resistance, talk to Austin and let him guide you.
Thank you so much for your incredible work, Austin.