AYAHUASCA & PSILOCYBIN RETREATS

Costa Rica | Sowa Nete

Transformative | Healing | Life Changing

WELCOME TO SOWA NETE!

Our “Healing World” provides you the perfect set and setting for the next step in your life.

Find Harmony of Body, Mind and Spirit as you dive into Transformation with our Ayahuasca Retreats.

Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, our haven is more than a destination; it’s a sacred space crafted for you to embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and connection.

As you walk through our doors, you are welcomed not just as guests but as fellow travelers on the path of self-exploration. At Sowa Nete, we believe in creating an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary, inviting you to reconnect with the essence of who you truly are.

UPCOMING RETREATS

AYAHUASCA RETREAT
4 Days / 3 Nights

27 – 30 November

$2300 

PSILOCYBIN RETREAT
4 Days / 3 Nights

03 – 06 December

$2300

AYAHUASCA RETREAT
4 Days / 3 Nights

12 – 15 December

$2300 

AYAHUASCA RETREAT
4 Days / 3 Nights

27 – 30 December

$2300 

WHAT YOU WILL GAIN FROM OUR RETREATS

AYAHUASCA RETREATS

PSILOCYBIN RETREATS

PRIVATE RETREATS

WHO WE ARE

Mario 

Facilitator

Carolina 

Facilitator

Pedro 

Holistic Chef

Jeremias 

Massage Therapist

OUR MASTERS

At Sowa Nete, we walk in the footsteps of wisdom passed down through generations. Our foundation is rooted in the Shipibo tradition of the Peruvian Amazon—one of the most respected lineages of Ayahuasca medicine. Over the years, we have also been guided by masters and teachers from diverse traditions in India, Indonesia, Ecuador, Russia, Brazil, and Costa Rica, each bringing unique perspectives and blessings to our path.

ABOUT PLANT MEDICINE

ABOUT AYAHUASCA

Ayahuasca is an ancient Amazonian plant medicine used for healing, awakening, and deep inner transformation. At Sowa Nete, we honor this sacred tradition with respect, guidance, and safe practices. Learn how this medicine can help you reconnect with yourself, release what no longer serves you, and open your heart to new possibilities.

PREPARATION & INTEGRATION

Preparing for an Ayahuasca retreat is more than getting ready for the ceremony—it’s about opening to transformation. We guide you gently, helping you arrive grounded, aligned, and ready to set your intention.

The ceremony is just one part of the journey. True healing often continues afterward, which is why we place loving attention on integration—supporting you to weave insights and growth into your daily life. You won’t walk away alone; we’re here to help you carry the medicine forward, gently and sustainably.

ABOUT PSILOCYBIN

Psilocybin has been revered in ancestral traditions for its ability to open the mind and heart to deeper truths. Today, modern science is confirming these timeless insights. Clinical studies show psilocybin’s potential to reduce depression, ease anxiety, and foster lasting changes in well-being. At Sowa Nete, we combine this wisdom and research with safe, supportive settings—helping you access clarity, healing, and profound inner growth.

ABOUT HAPE

Hapé is a sacred Amazonian medicine prepared from finely ground plants and tobacco. We work with Hapé as a supportive ally—used for grounding, focus, and connecting more deeply with yourself and the spirit of the medicines.

WHY JOIN OUR RETREATS?

Authentic

Our facilitators live and breathe this path. We bring ancient traditions into the present moment with humility and integrity, creating spaces where you can truly connect—with the medicine, with yourself, and with the sacred.

Safe

Safety is the foundation of every journey we hold. We prepare and serve the medicine with deep respect and prayer, honoring each person’s unique path. In this sacred space, you can open, trust, and surrender — gently held in love and protection.

Transparent

We believe in honesty, clarity, and openness. From your first question to your integration process, we’re here to answer, explain, and walk beside you — so you always feel informed and held.

Supportive

We create a sacred container where you can feel, express, release, and heal—at your own pace, in your own way. Everything is rooted in love, professionalism, and deep care for your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.

COACHING

Our coaching program is designed to help you unlock your full potential. With Mario’s guidance, you’ll cultivate discipline, deepen meditation practices, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. This supportive program can be experienced before or after our retreats, or independently, offering a unique bridge between inner work and everyday life.

TESTIMONIALS

5.0
Based on 58 reviews
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Marina Diaz Ibarra
22:35 05 Sep 25
5/5 stars
I recently spent a few nights at this incredible retreat center, and it was truly life-changing. The setting was serene and stunning, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers...And the view! But what truly made this experience stand out was the love and care of Mario, our guide. His deep connection to nature and the plants was palpable, and his guidance and wisdom were invaluable. From the moment we arrived, Mario and Caro made us feel seen, heard, and supported. They both created a safe and nurturing environment that allowed us to tap into the healing power of mother nature. Mario even played live music for us with his incredible collection of musical instruments. I'm so grateful for this experience and would highly recommend this retreat center to anyone looking for a truly transformative journey. Thank you, Mario and Caro for sharing your gifts and your heart.
Atis
08:21 02 Sep 25
So much Gratitude and Love to you Mario and Carolina for the connecting and heart opening retreat. I was moved by your care, your teachings, your songs, wholesome food and powerful medicine. So much Gratitude to you for doing this Important work to Freedom and Love. Can't wait to sit in the ceremony with you again soon. So grateful we did this work with You both! Sending Love and Blessings
Elena Hanousková
11:14 01 Sep 25
Had a private family retreat, which was a trylly transformative experience. Mario and Carolina are amazing hosts and simply beautiful souls! Really enjoyed all the ceremonies with the heavenly music and angelic songs that really brought us into a different dimension. It was a great privilege to have done this with them!
Terry MacKinnon
01:42 12 Aug 25
Sowa Nete changed my life.

I went to my first ever retreat at Sowa Nete about a year ago. It was transformational. I was able to release so much negative and unneeded energy that I didn't even know I was holding on to. I left feeling lighter, more spiritual, more connected to myself, and seeing the world and my path in with more clarity.

It wasn't an easy few days. But with guidance from Mario and Carolina I learned how the medicine worked and how to work with it in a safe and responsible way. They were absolutely instrumental to the success I had at the retreat.

I've since been to other retreats and they do not compare to the program of personized attention and understanding I received from Mario and Carolina. They had a unique ability to understand the world I was coming from, and use that understanding to guide me toward where I needed to be.

The food and accommodations were spectacular too.

Their is a clear delineation in my life. Who I was before the retreat, and who I am now. I can't thank Sowa Nete enough for that.
Pablo Ceballos
09:46 03 Jul 25
This retreat has been the most profound, healing, revealing, loving and magical experience I have had since I have been alive.
I feel like I have been born again and I see life totally differently.
I feel connected to mother earth but most of all I feel connected to myself from my deepest essence.
Mario and Carolina are two incredible people, super attentive, kind, with a very beautiful and powerful energy.
I had the good fortune to wake up next to you and to be brought home again.

Thank you for giving me the possibility to feel the magical healing power of ayahuasca through your hands and souls.
I will never forget it, I wish it to all mankind.

PURA VIDA!
Maria Soto
16:09 20 May 25
I will forever cherish this profound experience❤️Mario and Carolina REALLY know what they are doing. I felt safe and at ease and their loving care for all of us was always tangible. I truly feel we can all benefit in so many ways from this amazing experience.😍I also love that they do not do big groups, this is key for anyone who wants to consider this. The food that our chef Ines made was delicious and the location was out of this world. They will always be in my heart♥️♥️
Dorothe Lenz
09:26 18 May 25
In December 2024 I particpated in the retreat with Caro and Mario. I highly recomend the retreat as it was definitely life changing for me. Everything, from the food and activities to the ceremonies was well organised and I felt well taken care of. For me, especially Caro played a big role in me feeling welcomed and safe which was the base to look into my wounds. After struggling during the second ceremony, they kindly offered to do a third, but private ceremony which was when I could finally let go fully and deeply learn why it was hard for me to let go and which role I play in it. I would definitely do a ceremony with them again. My only "problem" during the first 2 ceremonies, during the retreat, was the engery of the other participants which, of course, was nothing Caro and Mario were responsible for. Maybe I wished for a bit more sensitivity to the different people's energy and personalities, but I can also see that it is with me to communicate my needs and struggles in these moments. I am forever grateful for this experience and I am glad to have shared this time with Caro and Mario. Thank you both! I appreciate you and the work you do.
Andy Hotchkiss
15:40 17 May 25
If you're considering an Ayahuasca retreat, Sowa Nete is something truly special — but it's not something to take lightly. This experience is not for everyone. You must feel called to it. It demands your full respect, intention, and seriousness. Ayahuasca is not a vacation, and Sowa Nete is not a wellness retreat — it is a space for deep, transformative inner work, beautifully and powerfully held by Mario and Carolina.

From the beginning, I felt that this wasn’t just about signing up and paying a fee. After submitting my reservation request, Mario scheduled a Zoom call — not just to answer my questions, but to truly understand who I was, where I was in life, and whether this was the right time and space for me to do this work. They are not in this for business. They are in this for service. If I hadn’t been ready, I have no doubt they would have kindly turned me away. Their integrity was clear from the start, and they treat this work with deep reverence.

The Experience:

My retreat was three nights with two ceremonies. Nothing could have prepared me for the intensity of the first night. It was the most challenging, disorienting, and emotionally overwhelming experience of my life. The medicine held up a mirror and showed me parts of myself I wasn’t ready to see — my ego, my fears, my lack of self-love. It was terrifying, yes, but also deeply necessary.

After the first ceremony, I swore I would never go back into that space. But Mario, Carolina, and the other participants held space for me in such a loving, grounded, and non-judgmental way. They never pressured me but gently encouraged me to trust the process and consider continuing the journey.

The second ceremony changed everything. With a day of rest, reflection, and surrender, I walked into that night ready to trust. What unfolded was the most beautiful and healing experience of my life — the kind of healing that years of therapy couldn’t have touched. It was as though the difficulty of the first night cracked me open, and the second filled me with light, love, wisdom, and a deep sense of connection — to myself, to others, and to something greater.

Mario and Carolina:

Their presence is what made this retreat safe and sacred. They are not just facilitators — they are guardians of this ancient wisdom. With roots in the Peruvian Amazon, they carry the traditions with respect, humility, and grace. Their knowledge is real. Their hearts are open. They knew how to hold space in both the darkness and the light. I felt safe in their care, seen in my vulnerability, and supported in every step of the process.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re feeling called to Ayahuasca and are ready to face yourself with honesty and openness, Sowa Nete is a place you can trust. But please, don’t go into this lightly. This work is sacred. It will challenge you. It may unravel you. But with the right mindset and the right guides — and I truly believe Mario and Carolina are among the best — it can change your life.

I’m forever grateful for their guidance and the community they’ve created. We will be connected for life.
Nick Budnyak
20:30 18 Apr 25
Attending this psilocybin retreat was an incredibly special experience. From start to finish, Mario and Carolina created a space that felt safe, intentional, and full of heart. Their authenticity, kindness, and deep presence made a lasting impact on me, and I could feel how much care they poured into every aspect of the retreat.

The environment, the people, and the energy throughout the experience were all deeply nourishing. What stood out most was the way it all concluded, with beautiful, heartfelt conversations and a dinner that Mario and Carolina invited me to stay for that felt like pure magic. They welcomed me with open arms, cooked an incredible meal, and created the kind of connection that stays with you long after the retreat ends.

This wasn’t just a retreat, it was a reminder of what it feels like to be fully seen, supported, and surrounded by good-hearted people doing meaningful work. I left feeling grateful, aligned, and inspired.

I’m so grateful to have been part of this and can’t recommend it highly enough to anyone feeling called to this kind of work. Truly a transformative and soul-enriching experience.
Sebastian Evers
13:29 12 Apr 25
Life changing! No other words to describe this beautiful retreat. From Carolina’s guidance through questions and logistics, to Pedro’s delicious, healthy meals and breath-work, everything logistically was flawless. Then there is Mario. Mario has so many years of experience and aside from experience, he shows an abundance of love and true care for everyone. Not many shamans go through the whole retreat with you, they show up for ceremonies and that’s it. Mario was with us from the first second, to the last. Given that it was my first experience with psychedelics, I didn’t know what to expect. Mario gave me so much peace and made the environment so calm that not once did I feel nervous about anything. His respect for the medicine showed his true professionalism and he takes his role very seriously. On a more personal note, I had been dealing with a lot mentally and emotionally for a long time that I never allowed myself to process, everything got bottled up in my head. The medicine literally changed me in the most positive way. It has positively helped every relationship I have in my life. I am a calmer and happier person inside. I feel more gratitude for everything around me and I am living in the present more. Not only do I feel that way, but my colleagues and family members notice a positive aura. Something I didn’t expect: I used to drink alcohol casually while playing golf or at dinners/birthdays etc. it’s been about a month since I last drank and I have zero desire for it. Again, I personally am not against it and used to enjoy it but the actual desire for it is completely gone. Same goes with coffee, but coffee I couldn’t start my day without a proper cup and would drink 3-5 cups daily. Same thing, it’s been about a month and zero desire for it. I have more energy, mentally I feel so much better, my stomach feels so much better. I can honestly say this is one of the most amazing experiences of my life and I am so glad it was done here with such an intimate group. I recommend this to absolutely anyone reading, it has had such a positive impact on my life and allowed me to prioritize what truly matters in life. Thank you Sowa Nete. Pura vida ❤️
Robyn Hayley
04:34 28 Mar 25
From age 13 I was a child of the government and lived in and out of unsafe foster homes, group homes, and on the streets, during which time I suffered multiple episodes of several types of abuse. I’ve had 2 failed marriages, and am diagnosed with Complex PTSD, anxiety disorder and depression. I have been unable to use any western medication, as I have adverse reactions to the drugs. In the end, this has become a blessing.
I recently became curious about plant medicine, and how it may be of help to me. While doing research, I came across information about Ayahuasca. I have always been nervous of taking anything unknown since I have always been so sensitive to a lot of substances. (I am also allergic to marijuana). In my research I found countless websites with different retreat options around the world, but most didn’t resonate with me. Eventually I discovered Mario and Carolina at Sowa Nete in Costa Rica. After scheduling a video call with them there was zero doubt in my mind that this is where I was going to go, and with these people. The genuine love and passion for their service to people through their medicine retreats was glaringly clear, and I felt immediately connected and safe with them.
From the moment I arrived until the moment I left the retreat, I was in awe of the level of care and support. The food that we were given was clean, healthy and delicious, and was made with so much care. The activities surrounding the ceremonies were also full of love and support of the overall journey we were on, whether it was a bonfire, sunset, waterfall, breath work, mediation, or simply sitting connecting and sharing together. Being in a small group allowed for a very intimate connection with my fellow retreat folks and with Mario and his team. The ceremonies themselves were made to be very comfortable and the singing that Mario, Sofi and Pedro did was unforgettable…. I can still hear them in my mediations.
My experience with the medicine herself in the ceremony was powerful beyond the ability for words to explain. Put simply, it has changed my life. It has begun to, and will continue to heal me as the integration continues. I see through new eyes, and feel through a new heart.
I am forever grateful to Mario, Carlina and the Sowa Nete family for what they have created, and their hearts and passion for making this available in such an intimate way. I will be back to further the journey when it is time.
With so much Gratitude,

Robyn Hayley
Vancouver, BC
Jessie Rose
19:19 25 Mar 25
Mario and Carolina are absolutely wonderful people.
We went and stayed with them for a personal retreat at the end of last month, and it was life changing for us both. Their attention to making the retreat full of healing and rest and beauty, even in the two short days we had to spend, truly show how much they care about their mission to help people find healing.
The lodgings were beautiful and comfortable. Their attention views were amazing. The personal chef made wonderful meals, and the breath work and massages were exactly the thing we needed.
Our ceremonies were so wonderful as well- the setting could not have been more perfect, and their expertise and experience showed through the whole time- including the before and after prep and integration.
Mario and Carolina made us feel more than welcome- they made us feel like family, and we truly look forward to coming back again. Anyone who is trying to find a good spot for a retreat, this is it. We can’t wait to return!! ❤️
R. Huber
16:59 21 Mar 25
From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thanks to the safe space that Caro and Mario created I was able to experience one of the most profound moments of my life. And the ripple effects of it all is amazing - what a truly magical space that was. To everyone who is still indecisive: do it. Open up to life. Because it will catch you. Always. Pura vida ❤️
H
18:16 18 Mar 25
Our retreat was thoughtfully designed for us, with ongoing consultations that made it truly unique and personalised.

Collaborating with Mario and Carolina repeatedly has helped me develop a deep bond and a profound trust, empowering me to undertake the challenging yet essential work.

Mario and Carolina attentively and compassionately attend to your needs, offering the support each person individually requires.

Thank you for your love and support ✨🤗💛
Yasemin Kara
19:25 14 Mar 25
Highly recommended!
I have no words for this powerful experience. It was magical, so much healing, the ceremony was truly profound.
I know Caro and Marito for a while and was honestly very sceptial. But somehow I felt the call and was more than happy and grateful for this experience. I never expected such strong shamans in them. They were super professional, caring deeply, and genuinely connected to the spirit of the medicine. They held a powerful, safe space with open hearts and intention, guiding us through the journey with wisdom and love.
They really put all their love into this work, you feel just safe, fully cared and loved. Anything what you need - they will make happen for you. They are really the most loving and caring humans, shamans!

Their singing was like that of shamans and elders, carrying ancient energy that touched the soul. I was thinking before,I need to go to the Amazon, to hear and experience this.
But no! Caros chanting- wooww, you have to experience her!
The chanting, the music, the sounds was breathtaking, immersing us in waves of healing vibrations. It was clear how much dedication and care they put into every detail, making the experience truly transformative.

I am endlessly grateful and will definitely return for another ceremony. Highly recommended for anyone seeking deep healing and connection or just meet the most amazing people on earth and have a new experience in life.
Thank you so much for everything 🙏🏽
I will come back for a ceremony and see you soon ❤️
Franziska Lingel
17:41 14 Mar 25
The ceremony with Marito was one of the most profound experiences of my life. He guided us in such a gentle and uplifting way that words can hardly capture it. He has a unique ability to make you feel safe and supported, especially during difficult or emotional moments.

Initially, I was hesitant and even a bit scared about the Ayahuasca experience, but there was truly nothing to fear. The light and positive energy I felt throughout the ceremony were indescribable. Though I need some time to fully process it all, I can honestly say that I am incredibly happy and proud to have had this experience.
Thank you! 🙏 ♥️
Marito and Carolina were superb guides and companions throughout my journey— so thoughtful, kind, caring, and supportive of everything I needed. From the moment I reached out to them, and now several weeks after my retreat, they have always been so proactive about checking in on me, giving me new tips to bring healing into all aspects of my life, and building a wonderful relationship that I know will last a long time, far beyond this retreat. Would recommend them infinitely as leaders and as humans— I am so grateful to have met them.
Jessica Weise
13:24 16 Feb 25
MUST GO! Beyond expectations and much better than I could have ever dreamed of. Mario is the absolutely best in what he does. The whole retreat is MAGICAL. It seriously is catered to transform you from the inside out and you leave there feeling like a new person. Is amazing and well curated to an American person that likes nice things too, is a beautiful place in the heart of the jungle and I just couldn’t recommend it more and definitely look forward going back. Ayahuasca journey was life changing.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Our retreats are centered around healing, reconnection, and finding self-love, peace, and acceptance. They are designed to help you connect with nature and yourself, live to your true potential, discover your purpose, and develop the right tools to live in harmony.

Our primary location is near Santa Teresa Beach, Province of Puntarenas, in Costa Rica.

Plant medicine can help release negativity and blockages, and facilitate healing on mental, physical, and spiritual levels. It can help you regain confidence, acceptance, love, and happiness, as well as heal anxiety, depression, and relationships with family, friends, and yourself. This journey can also assist you in discovering and living your true purpose.

Our participants range from 18 to 65 years old. They come from various backgrounds, seeking healing, self-discovery, spiritual connection, and the realization of their potential.

If you are seeking deep healing, self-discovery, and personal transformation, this retreat is suitable for you. We welcome individuals who are open to exploring plant medicine and are committed to their personal growth.

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