One of the most beautiful days of my life. I wasn't expecting to feel so much love — for the mountains, for the people I was with, for myself. The medicine and the landscape worked together in a way I couldn't have designed.
Laura · San Pedro · PapallactaSan Pedro / Wachuma Ceremony with Andean Hike — Ecuador
Andean páramo · Papallacta · near Quito, Ecuador
San Pedro / Wachuma
Ceremony & Andean Hike
A full day with the sacred cactus — hiking the páramo, ceremony in movement, closing with a soak in Papallacta's thermal springs. One of the gentlest ways to meet plant medicine for the first time.
Duration
Full day
~9am–6pm from Tumbaco
Medicine
San Pedro
Wachuma · Huachuma · Aguacolla
Price
From $150
Solo $350 · Couple $250pp · Group $150pp
Group
1–15
Flexible dates — no set schedule
Location
Papallacta
Andean páramo · 3,300m · near Quito
Transport
Included
From/to Tumbaco area
What this experience is
A day in the Andes
with the sacred cactus
One of the best ways to experience San Pedro cactus — also known as wachuma, huachuma, or aguacolla — is in movement and in nature. San Pedro is a heart-opening, expansive medicine, and the Andean páramo is one of the most powerful landscapes on earth to receive it.
You'll spend the day in ceremony, hiking through the high-altitude grasslands near Papallacta, closing with a long soak in the thermal hot springs. This is not a strenuous hike — it's a walk in ceremony, with many stops to be still, observe nature, share songs, and receive the medicine.
We don't have fixed dates for this experience. Write to us with your preferred dates and we'll coordinate with the guides — for the most part they're available weekdays and weekends.
What's included
- Transport from Tumbaco to Papallacta and return
- San Pedro / Wachuma medicine — full day ceremonial dose
- Experienced guidance from Paulina & Sandra or Shiram Ucucuy— Spanish/English
- Healthy grounding lunch
- Entrance to Papallacta thermal springs
- Songs, drum, ceremonial opening & closing
Solo
$350
One person, private ceremony
Couple
$250 pp
Two people together
Group (3+)
$150 pp
Minimum 3 people
Not included
- Flights to Ecuador
- Accommodation (we can recommend nearby hostals)
- Transport to Tumbaco from Quito/airport (can be organized)
- Snacks — bring extras
- Additional therapeutic offerings (massage etc.)
See it
The hike and the medicine
The páramo at 3,300 meters, the sacred cactus, the thermal springs. A glimpse of what a full day with San Pedro looks and feels like near Quito, Ecuador.
San Pedro opens the heart rather than turning the mind inward. The landscape amplifies it. Most people describe the experience as one of the most beautiful days of their life.
What actually happens
Day schedule
Times are approximate. The páramo runs on its own schedule.
9–10am
Meet-up & Opening Ceremony
Meet in Tumbaco — about 30 minutes from Quito by Uber or taxi. After introductions we open the ceremony and share an initial dose of San Pedro. Please eat breakfast before arriving — breakfast is not included but eating before is important.
During the 45-minute drive to Papallacta, you'll have time to ask questions and settle into the medicine as it begins to open.
An additional dose or two will be shared once we're on the trail.
11am
Arrive Papallacta — Begin the Hike
Arrive at Papallacta (~3,300m / 10,800ft) and adjust to altitude. Begin the designated trail through the Andean páramo — observing plant and bird life, stopping to sing songs, connect with the drum, and share more medicine along the way.
This is not a strenuous hike. There are many stops to be still, observe nature, and share songs. We take our time and never rush.
1pm
Thermal Springs — Papallacta
Circle back and arrive at the Papallacta hot springs — one of the finest thermal bath complexes in South America. Soak in the geothermal pools, let the medicine continue to integrate through the warmth. Entrance is included.
The springs are at a slightly lower altitude and the warm water is deeply grounding.
3pm
Grounding Lunch
A healthy, grounding lunch (vegetarian options available) to help integrate the day's experience and restore energy. Time to share reflections and begin the gentle closing of ceremony.
5pm
Return & Closing
Head back to Tumbaco to close the ceremony together. Return to your hotel or accommodation (we recommend staying Tumbaco and provide suggestions). San Pedro's effects can extend into the evening — plan a quiet night and avoid stimulating environments.
The medicine typically lasts 8–12 hours from first dose. You'll feel warm, reflective, and clear — rarely disorienting.
About the medicine
San Pedro / Wachuma
San Pedro (Echinopsis pachanoi) is a tall columnar cactus native to the Andes of Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. It contains mescaline and other alkaloids and has been used in sacred ceremony for over 3,000 years — making it one of the oldest known ceremonial medicines in the Americas.
Unlike ayahuasca, which descends into depth, is generally more introspective and of the night, San Pedro opens the heart outward and activates during the day. Most people describe a heightened sense of beauty, expanded empathy, clarity of purpose, and deep connection to the natural world. Nausea is possible but far less common than with ayahuasca, and purging is rare.
San Pedro is particularly well-suited to ceremony in nature and in movement. The páramo at 3,300 meters is one of the most remarkable places on earth to receive it — the landscape becomes part of the medicine.
Read more: San Pedro on Wikipedia · San Pedro at Alma Healing Center
When you add the medicine to the mountain air and the páramo landscape, something opens. People often say it was the most beautiful day of their life — not in a dramatic way. Just quietly, clearly, true.
Important considerations
Who this experience is and isn't for
We share this honestly because we care more about your safety than filling a space.
Altitude
High altitude — 3,300m / 10,800ft
The hike begins at 3,300 meters above sea level. Do not come if you have cardiovascular or respiratory problems, or if you are prone to altitude sickness. Acclimatize for at least 1-2 days in Quito (2,850m) before this experience, if possible.
Physical fitness
A moderate walk, not a strenuous hike
The trail is not steep or technical. We walk slowly and stop often to observe nature, sing, share. You should be able to walk for 2–3 hours comfortably at low altitude before attempting this at 3,300m.
Medications
Declare all medications
San Pedro (mescaline) has interactions with certain medications, particularly SSRIs, MAOIs, and lithium. Declare everything honestly on your health form. We would rather decline your application than put you at risk. See our medication interactions guide.
Mental health
Active psychosis and severe anxiety
San Pedro is not recommended for people with active psychosis, schizophrenia, or very severe anxiety disorders. It is generally well-tolerated by people with depression, grief, and mild-to-moderate anxiety. If in doubt, write to us before applying.
First-timers
Suitable for beginners
San Pedro is often described as a gentler entry point to plant medicine than ayahuasca. Many of the people who come on this experience are first-timers. The outdoor setting, the movement, and the gradual onset make it a welcoming introduction.
Weather
Andean páramo — any weather is possible
The páramo can be brilliant and sunny, cold and rainy, or both in the same afternoon. Bring layers, waterproofs, and warm socks regardless of the forecast. See the full packing list below.
The place
Papallacta — the páramo & hot springs
Where the Andes meet the cloud. The páramo at 3,300 meters, the sacred cactus, and the thermal pools of Papallacta — one of the most beautiful places in Ecuador.
Prepare well
What to bring & how to prepare
Packing list
The páramo weather changes fast. Layers are essential.
- Warm waterproof jacket — essential, even on sunny days
- Warm base layer / thermal top
- Hiking pants or warm comfortable trousers
- Warm hat and gloves
- Waterproof hiking shoes or boots (the trail can be wet)
- Change of warm dry clothes for after the springs
- Swimwear for the thermal baths
- Towel
- Sunscreen (Andean UV is intense even when cold)
- Sunglasses
- Snacks (lunch included but bring extras for the trail)
- Water bottle — stay well hydrated
- Journal and pen
- All personal medications (declared on health form)
How to prepare
San Pedro doesn't require the strict dietary preparation of ayahuasca, but a few days of clean living makes a difference.
- Eat a normal breakfast the morning of — do not fast
- Avoid alcohol for 2–3 days before (ideally a week)
- Avoid cannabis for 2–3 days before
- Eat lightly and cleanly the day before
- Acclimatize to altitude — spend at least 2 days in Quito (2,850m) first
- Bring a positive intention — not a rigid expectation
- Declare all medications on your health form
- Rest well the night before
Location: We depart from Tumbaco, about 30 minutes from Quito by taxi or Uber. We can recommend accommodation nearby if needed. We do not drive into Quito city itself, but can help coordinate a taxi from your hotel.
From past participants
What people say about this experience
Perfect for a first experience with plant medicine. Not overwhelming — clarifying. I had insights during the hike that I've been thinking about for months. The hot springs at the end were exactly right.
James · San Pedro · PapallactaSandra and Paulina hold you with such care. The medicine, the altitude, the songs in the open air — it's hard to explain. You just have to do it. I came back a different person. Lighter somehow.
Marta · San Pedro · PapallactaExplore more retreats
Other experiences at Alma
San Pedro is one of several plant medicines we work with. If you're looking for a deeper immersion, longer container, or different medicine, these may call to you.
4 days · Mindo cloudforest
4-Day Ayahuasca
Retreat Two ceremonies — one daytime, one nighttime. Off-grid cloudforest wilderness. Our most attended retreat. 8 days · Women only Women's Healing
Retreat Two ayahuasca ceremonies, Water Dance vigil, temazcal, and sisterhood. Held once a year in September. Overnight · near Quito Overnight Ayahuasca
Ceremony One night ceremony near Quito in Tumbaco. For those with limited time or looking to return to the medicine.
Retreat Two ceremonies — one daytime, one nighttime. Off-grid cloudforest wilderness. Our most attended retreat. 8 days · Women only Women's Healing
Retreat Two ayahuasca ceremonies, Water Dance vigil, temazcal, and sisterhood. Held once a year in September. Overnight · near Quito Overnight Ayahuasca
Ceremony One night ceremony near Quito in Tumbaco. For those with limited time or looking to return to the medicine.
Questions
Before
you ask
More questions? Write to Sandra — she reads every message and responds personally.
Full FAQ →Is San Pedro suitable for first-timers?
Yes — it's one of the most accessible plant medicine experiences we offer. The gradual onset, the outdoor setting, the movement, and the warm social atmosphere make it welcoming for beginners. That said, a health screening is still required.
How does San Pedro compare to ayahuasca?
San Pedro is generally lighter, more expansive, and more sensory. Where ayahuasca takes you inward, San Pedro opens the heart outward — toward beauty, empathy, and connection. It's psychedelic but rarely disorienting. Read more on our San Pedro page →
Do you have set dates?
No — this experience runs on your schedule, not ours. Let us know your desired dates and we'll coordinate with the guides. They're available most weekdays and weekends.
What if it rains?
Páramo weather is unpredictable. We do the hike rain or shine — cold and misty can actually be beautiful in the medicine. Bring full waterproofs and warm layers regardless of the forecast.
Can I book for a large group?
Yes, up to 15 people. For groups larger than 5, please write to us directly — pricing may vary depending on logistics, transport, and food. We can accommodate private group bookings with advance notice.
Where exactly do we meet?
We meet in Tumbaco, about 30 minutes from central Quito by taxi or Uber. We will send you the exact meeting point after you register. We can also recommend accommodation in Tumbaco/Cumbaya if needed.
Ready to go
Begin a conversation
with Sandra
Tell us your preferred dates and group size. Sandra responds within 24 hours.
Reserve your place
Write to us.
We read every message.
This goes directly to Sandra. She responds personally — usually within 24 hours. No set dates means we work around your schedule.
Ready to commit? Use the registration form:
Register now →WhatsApp & Phone
+593 985 271 478
Email
[email protected]
Read the safety and screening page and diet guidelines before your experience.
We received your message. Sandra will write to you within 24 hours. If urgent, message on WhatsApp.
One of the best ways to experience San Pedro cactus, also known as wachuma, huachuma, or aguacolla, is in movement (hiking) and in nature.
In this San Pedro cactus day hike, you’ll spend entire day in the Andean páramo, surrounded by nature to gently introduce you to the beautiful, glimmering world of San Pedro. At the end of the day, you’ll soak in the exquisite Papallacta hotsprings.
Make sure to check out our photos.
chat with us on WhatsApp
or simply write to
[email protected]
Location: Departing from Tumbaco, about 30 minutes from Quito and the hike and soak takes place near Papallacta, 45 minute drive from departure point.
Duration: Full day (9am-5pm, roughly)
Price: Private Solo = $350, Couple = $200 pp, Small Group (min. 3) = $150pp
# Participants: 1-15
Includes: meals, transportation (Quito area-Papallacta-Quito area), medicine and accompaniment
Weather: Andes Paramo weather, can be bright a sunny and/or rainy, cold.
