Shamanism is an ancient, pre-religious, holistic approach to healing. Our indigenous grandfathers and grandmothers know that balance is a key to happy and healthy living and that balance includes all bodies - physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual. Working with a shaman, or developing your own shamanic habits, includes bringing your bodies into alignment. Shamanism works with your luminous body, with the subtle energies that compose your being, through both physical and psychic means.

More about shamanism
The definitive study on shamanism was written by the late Mircea Eliade in his book, Shamanism, Archaic Techniques of Ecstasy . The word "shaman" comes from tribes in Central and Northern Asia . The concise definition Eliade offered is that shamanism is the "technique of ecstasy." Ecstasy refers to the shaman's process of going into a trance, whereby he leaves his body and travels to the upper or lower worlds. Here he engages in activities such as obtaining information, or mediating or negotiating with the spirits in those realms on behalf of the tribe or patient. Tribes and indigenous peoples from around the planet normally include an extraordinary individual identified to be this mediator with Spirit. This person may also be the medicine man, magician, sage, and/or healer. Western society has utilized the label "shaman" to refer to masters of the technique of ecstasy in any culture.

Interest in the abilities and techniques of the shamans has grown in western societies. Those of us born and raised in the West are realizing that western medicine, although very powerful and needed for certain diseases and injuries, has severe limitations for "healing."

Healing comes from within.

Often a surgical procedure or a course of medicine will produce a "cure," but the person reverts to the same disease because they did not change their thinking, their habits, their living circumstances, or whatever was causing the disease in the first place. The shaman connects with Spirit and works to bring the client back into harmony with Spirit.

Working with a shaman, or developing your own shamanic habits, includes bringing your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual selves into alignment. Shamanism works with your luminous body, with the subtle energies that compose your being.

Imagine learning to live with one foot in this world and one foot in the next. Imagine traveling to many worlds beyond this one and returning to tell the tales to those who remain. Imagine being free of your past and overcoming death. Imagine fully experiencing and developing a deep respect for and connection with the infinite and awesome power of Spirit, discovered in the moment of being.

We are fortunate to live in a time when our indigenous elders have chosen to share with the western world their ancient wisdom about the Earth and her people. From Siberia , Africa and Australia to the Americas , caretakers of the Earth, who have lived unceasingly in harmony with Nature for thousands of years, are teaching us to wake up and learn to tend the planetary garden that sustains us so beautifully.

Ayahuasca - Our most prevalent activity is the ongoing Ayahuasca Ceremonies, which are held approximately 150 days throughout the year.

The Medicine – Ayahuasca is considered by many of the indigenous peoples of the Amazon to be the Mother of All Medicines. The medicine reaches deep into the body's systems and cleanses and energizes. It often provides a powerful kinesthetic and visionary journey and opens the mind and body to information pertinent to your life awareness. Most come away with a life altering experience.

While praying to the spirit of the plants, the shamans spend hours preparing the ayahuasca with the banisteriopsis caapi vine, chakruna leaves and other ingredients harvested fresh from specific areas of the jungle. From extensive experience in participating in ayahuasca ceremonies in areas throughout the Amazon, we believe one cannot find a more consistent and powerful medicine than that produced at the Refugio.

The Ceremonies – The Ayahuasca Ceremonies normally begin in the evenings and last anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. The shamans bless the smoky tasting liquid and take the first dosage, then pour a predetermined amount for each participant. After participants are blessed, the shamans begin singing, whistling and drumming their plant and animals songs (ikaros), inviting the spirits to protect and guide you in your journey. Assistants are always available to assist the guests throughout the ceremony and insure their comfort and safety.

Located in the massive Amazon Basin , an ancient, oxygen rich rainforest teaming with life and home to unique, indigenous people and cultures, The Refugio Altiplano combines the wisdom of 1000's of years of shamanism with the knowledge of the use of healing plants and the mother of all medicines, Ayahuasca.

The Refugio Altiplano is a natural retreat of beauty, wilderness and solitude available year-round for international guests to engage in adventure, healing, balance, and alignment.

We provide a wide range of activities and excursions depending on the purpose of your stay at the Refugio.

For those who want play and adventure, there is trekking in the jungle, swimming, fishing, bird-watching, and for the brave of heart, water-skiing on the Amazon!

Most come to experience the powerful Ayahuasca Ceremonies, the healing, cleansing plants, and to study the ways of the Amazon Shaman.

6 days, 3 ceremonies
We recommend this program as a minimum. First time participants are normally give light doses on the first night to gently introduce them to the medicine and prepare them for deeper benefits. The depth of the next two journeys depends on the participant's willingness and trust in the medicine, the shamans, and the results. A day in between give the participants a chance to integrate the learning. We will accommodate those who prefer to do daily ceremonies, particularly those experienced in the work.

The "Shaman Diet" is becoming more popular for those desiring to connect with power plants and their Mother the Earth at a deeper level. The diet consists of a number of days of silent retreat in an isolated hut where you are given daily supplies of water and specific foods. The retreat begins with an ayahuasca ceremony to prepare your body and tune you in to a particular plant. Another ayahuasca ceremony completes the end of the solitary retreat, followed by at least one full day at the Refugio to process your experience and integrate the learning.

While at the Refugio, there is ample are plenty of opportunities to hike in the jungle, visit the campo, row a dugout canoe, and take a swim. If you want to really feel like a Campesino you may get the chance to help during seasonal yucca harvests.

For guests on retreat, those looking for healing and alignment, and those engaging in Ayahuasca ceremonies, the main activity we recommend is non-activity. The environment supports your self awareness which is anchored by being with your body sensations, feelings and thoughts.

Regardless, there is sufficient time to read, journal, walk, meditate, contemplate, do your Yoga or Tai Chi, lay in a hammock, engage in conversations with fellow guests, and with Scott, the shamans and the staff.

In addition to treks through the Refugio, we often make river journeys throughout the area.

Depending on the length of stay, you may accompany us into the nearby town of Tamishakyu where you can see and interact with the locals and get a feel for life in a small jungle town.

Guest housing consists of several "malukas", two story wooden huts with traditional thatched roofs. They are fully screened, have a bathroom, and four netted beds.

El Centro is a massive, three story structure that is the hub of activity with the kitchen, dining area and meeting space. It is also a great place from which to view the sunset while relaxing in your hammock.

The Ceremony House is a large, round two story structure, 50 feet in diameter with a 30 foot rise to the roof in the center of the ceremony room. There is a bench around the circumference where participants sit to engage with Ayahuasca in the traditional manner.

Diet Malukas, retreat huts for individual practitioners are situated in jungle locations that are private yet serviceable from the Centro. These will support the more intense practice of the Shaman Diet.

Food – Refugio's full-time cook prepares fresh meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The meals consist of delicious local fare which includes fresh fish and chicken, with yucca, rice, plantains and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Water – The water used for cooking and available for drinking is always purified, bottled water.

Other Guest Services – Your maluka is checked daily for cleanliness and supplies. Laundry is done every two days. Ask if you have special needs and we will do our best to accommodate you.

As you know, it is the people that make the difference in an organization and we are proud of the wonderful humans that comprise the Refugio support staff.

We have a full-time, year round staff at both the Refugio and at our office in downtown, Iquitos . The Iquitos office is open 7 days a week to greet our reserved guests and the flow of walk-in traffic.

Many of the staff in Iquitos and on the Refugio have worked with us for over 3 years providing delicious food and clean and maintained housing and property. There normally is at least 6 full-time staff at the Refugio with several others on the property helping build and repair the buildings, keep the common areas clear.

SCOTT PETERSON, Director
Scott Petersen is the Founder and Director of the Refugio Altiplano. Scott grew up in Michigan and took his first trip to South America when he was 17 to teach English in Ecuador and travel across the continent. He studied philosophy, anthropology and literature at Calvin College , UCSC, and the University of New Mexico . He studied herbal and shamanic medicine in New Mexico , Arizona and California with the Taos , Navajo and Hopi Indians in the Native American Church. He continued his shamanic and medicine studies in Brazil , Nepal and Indonesia , and lived in Bolivia and the Peruvian Andes for eight years, working and doing research on healing and belief systems. He worked with Shipibo and coastal shamans in Peru for seven years before locating the ideal location for an exceptional healing center. He established the Refugio Altiplano in 1996.

Scott has become a reputable shaman in his own right, and he travels throughout the region to work with other shamans and participate in ceremonies. Some of the most highly regarded shamans in Peru work with Scott at the Refugio, helping hundreds of individuals and groups from all walks of life, many of whom now regularly visit the Refugio to purify and recharge their bodies and souls for the challenges of living on this rapidly changing planet.

Scott lives at the Refugio and in Iquitos , coordinating the business of the Refugio, its employees, teachers, shamans and guests. Scott also teaches various subjects including shamanism, use of rainforest plants and medicines, and offers western style of counseling as well. Scott is a key citizen of the surrounding communities and provides jobs for the locals, counsels families and meets with village elders.

SHAMANS
The Refugio engages reputable and experienced teachers and shamans for various individuals and groups depending on need and wants of the groups and availability of the teachers and shamans. Of the hundreds of shamans available, we choose to work with a select few that meet our requirements for experience, connection with Spirit and professional integrity. Two shamans that have been doing most of the work with Scott in the last half of 2002 are Benjamin and Guillermo.

ADJUNCT STAFF
Janet is our coordinator in Lima , Peru , coordinating alternative trip plans for our clients and assisting those wanting to spend more time in Lima .

John Welch is our US Liaison, wears a couple of hats for the Refugio. He assists individual clients and US teachers in travel planning for individuals and groups as well as supporting them upon their return to western culture. John also is on the board of advisors and assists with web collaboration and marketing efforts. John also is a healer and therapist that brings groups to the Refugio for healing and alignment and supports Refugio.

BOARD OF ADVISORS
In order to assist the further development of the Refugio, Scott has engaged the assistance of three individuals who have experience in hospitality, business and healing.

John Easterling As Founder and CEO of Rainforest Bioenergetics, the Amazon Herb Company, John is very familiar with the culture of the Amazon where he harvests the indigenous plants and herbs used in his popular line of products. John provides his wisdom and support as a successful businessman, years of experience in South American business and his knowledge of healing herbs and medicines of the Amazon.

Tom Curren Tom is the founder of the Hawthorne Group and has a long an impressive history of consulting, entrepreneurship and corporate leadership including executive level management at the Marriott Corporation where he led the creation and launch of Courtyard by Marriott. His extensive hospitality experience, coaching for top performance and appreciation of the healing work, provide the Refugio powerful and in-depth support.

•  It is the largest river in the world (in overall size and volume). It is 4075 miles in length starting only 120 miles from the Pacific Ocean in the Andes . (This is exceeded only by the Nile River of Africa with a total length of 4170 miles).

•  The average discharge of water into the Atlantic Ocean by the Amazon River is approximately 175,000 cubic meters per second, or between 1/5th and 1/6th of the total discharge into the oceans of all of the worlds rivers!!! This discharge is 4-5 times that of the Congo River , and 10 times that of the Mississippi River .

•  The Rio Negro , a tributary of the Amazon, is the second largest river in the world in terms of water discharge, and is 100 meters (over 300 feet) deep and 14 kilometers (almost 9 miles) wide near its mouth at Manaus , Brazil .

•  Average rainfall in the entire basin is 7.5 feet, with as much as 19.7 feet in the northwest portion.

•  Rain make up 1/3 of the water that flows into the Atlantic, _ evaporates before hitting the ground after being captured by the trees.

•  The mouth of the Amazon is over 320 km wide (approximately 200 miles), and contains the worlds largest freshwater island, Marajó Island .

•  Water levels vary up to 65 feet during the year.

•  The width of the Amazon at Iquitos, Peru is about 2 km. Ocean-going ships can easily access the Port of Iquitos at high water, as the mean depth of the current-canal of the Amazon is up to 150+ feet deep, and in places, over 300 feet deep. Even hundreds of miles away from the ocean, sections of the bottom of the river channel actually lie below sea level!

•  The Amazon Basin is over 2,500,000 square miles

•  The Amazon basin is home to over 2,400 known species of fish, more species than are found in the entire Atlantic Ocean ! Some scientists estimate that there may be as many as 5,000 species! These range from giant air-breathing fish (Arapaima gigas) and river catfish weighing up to 600-700 lbs, to tiny tetras, electric eels, sting-rays, needlefish, fresh-water flying-fish, and knife-fish.

Is travel to Peru safe right now?

Flying to Lima and Iquitos and back is safe. When you arrive at the Iquitos airport, the Refugio staff will be there to greet you and transport you the downtown office.

How about health concerns?

Malaria exists in some parts of the Amazon, although for a majority of travelers, this is not a concern in the areas around Iquitos and the Refugio. The choice for medical prevention is yours. We recommend that you consult with your health care practitioner and research the side effects of the available malaria preventatives and medications.

Will I get to see jungle wildlife? What about snakes, bugs and mosquitoes?

The jungle is teaming with wildlife. Being wild, the animals rarely venture into the guest area of the compound. For those wanting to see more wildlife, we offer walks into the jungle. The Refugio also built a "mirador," or an observation deck above one of the ponds the animals frequent for drinking. One can be quiet, tune into the energy of the jungle, and wildlife will appear. There are bugs and mosquitoes of every imaginable shape, color and size, mostly harmless and all interesting. The Refugio is fumigated periodically but you will still need bug spray. Although they can be pesky, the mosquitoes there are nothing like what we've experienced in Michigan !

I am an adventurous traveler but am not interested in shamanism, healing or ayahuasca. What is there for me?

The Refugio is the ideal safe, yet rustic place to enjoy "life in the Amazon". Everything from the meals to the activities is available for all our guests. Ceremonies are only a small part of what goes in the Refugio. On the nights when there are ceremonies you will not be disturbed as they do not begin until 9 PM when the other guests and staff are preparing for sleep. The diversity and constant flow of guests, who come from all over the world to the Refugio, provides yet another opportunity for intriguing adventure and new friendships.

What is the "shaman diet"?

The shaman diet is a program that includes ayahuasca ceremonies and 3-7 days on a "solo" in a secluded jungle hut (longer periods are allowed for experienced dieters). As directed by an experienced shaman, the time is spent away from other people and in direct contact with the spirits of the rainforest. The participants are brought small amounts of food and water daily.

The physical diet, combined with solitude in the jungle is a powerful path of learning that realigns and deepens your awareness of the Earth, and the heights and depths of your own spirit.

Why ayahuasca?

Because Ayahuasca penetrates to the source of the human being, to the heights and depths of the subconscious, the holy of holies, where other sciences have no access.

Working with our plant medicine is one of the most powerful healing paths that we have experienced in the many combined years of spiritual practice, psychotherapy, and alternative healing work.

Ayahuasca reaches deep into the systems of the physical body, emotions, and mental processes for cleansing and aligning, healing imbalance and disharmony with our higher selves and creative spirit. Whether the ayahuasca journey is directed toward healing chronic disease, or evolution of the participant's perception through the removal of blockages in their energy filed and nervous system, the experience is vitalizing, clarifying and invigorating. One of the impressive aspects of the ayahuasca session is that it is different for each individual. The medicine affects each participant according to his or her personal needs and goals, while making them deeply aware of their connection with the Earth, the Universe, and the other species and people around them.

Is taking ayahuasca safe?

Yes. It is safe and healing. Scott and the shamans who work with him have performed hundreds of ceremonies for hundreds of people. Although the Ayahuasca ceremony and experience is often intense and dramatic, we are not aware of anyone being harmed or effected negatively by our work. What we see is rejuvenation, serenity, alignment, and clarity.

Can one overdose?

Under our direction, no, and we are not aware of people being harmed from even large doses of Ayahuasca, when the shamanic work directing the trance state is done completely and well. In fact, Ayahuascero shamans will, on occasion, take a very large dosage to induce a very deep and powerful trance and explore new psychic territory. This is recommended for experienced shamans only, of course.

Scott has performed hundreds of ceremonies and will help you determine the best dosage for each journey. Sometimes, even minute dosages will allow for profound healing and learning experiences.

I read recently that the Spirit of Ayahuasca is a "jealous mother" and that shamans and others get on the path and are not able to get off. Anything to be cautious of?

There are many myths and superstitions about Ayahuasca, as there are about any powerful teacher. People often experience dramatized versions of their fears, worries, and emotional baggage when they are learning from an objective, capable teacher. If your experience with the Ayahuasca should become one with a "jealous mother" - that is an opportunity to look more clearly at yourself.

The point is this: Healing and ayahuasca is not about the medicine or the shaman, but about you, your perceptions, and your unique view of reality. The Ayahuasca and the shaman can divert your attention to your defenses and projections to show you a new way of perceiving and experiencing the world around you. This allows you to take the new information and reorganize your life at a more liberated, joyful level of functioning.