Arriving at Spirit Vine

Whether it is your first time in Brazil or you’re a local, we’ve outlined the best way to get to our retreat center. Scroll down to find everything you need, or download our full travel guide for all the details.

Arrive at Ilhéus Airport

International flights will be connecting through Sao Paulo or other major cities, so be sure to collect your bags at the first point of entry in Brazil to go through customs. When you arrive at the Illhéus airport, we will arrange a taxi to pick you up and drive you one hour to Itacaré. Be sure to bring cash to pay for the drivers, laundry service, and to tip if you’d like.

We require that you arrive at least one day before the scheduled retreat, but suggest 2-3 days before.

Stay in Itacaré Before the Retreat

Our taxi driver will drop you off right at your Pousada. You will book your own accommodations on a site like booking.com, but we have a list of recommended places for you to stay. If you are traveling from afar, it is imperative that you take time before the retreat to allow your body time to adjust. Remember to stick to the dieta and wear sunscreen!

See our recommended places to stay >

Aboard the Shuttle to Spirit Vine

We will arrange a shuttle bus to pick up every participant from their Pousada the morning of the first retreat. Please remember to bring cash to pay the driver!

You will be asked to turn in any of the prohibited items when you arrive and will get them back before you leave. Do not plan to leave the retreat center until the last day. If you need anything at all, we can arrange to have it delivered.

Shuttle Back to Itacaré

On the last day of the retreat, the shuttle will take everyone back to Itacaré where you will stay in the Pousada you prearranged. Take at least one day to integrate all of the lessons from the ceremonies.

Many participants enjoy booking site-seeing activities together after the retreat. Read more on our blog.

Taxi Back to the Airport

We will arrange a taxi to take you from your Pousada to the Illhéus airport on the day you fly out. Don’t forget to save cash for your taxi driver!

Download the full Travel Guide >

Other Ways To Get Here

Some people like to arrive via Salvador in Bahia, a bustling city thriving with culture and the old capital of Brazil. To come from Salvador by road, you must cross the Bay of All Saints via the Ferry Boat, which then connects with buses directly to Itacaré. The total trip to Spirit Vine takes 6 hours.

Before You Arrive

It is imperative that you prepare your mind, body, and spirit before embarking on the journey to our retreat center. Once you are approved to attend, our lead facilitator, Silvia Polivoy, will be able to answer any questions you have before, during, and after your stay.

Remember: Do not bring or consume any recreational drugs.
They interact with Ayahuasca and have negative consequences.

“I felt so safe the entire time I was in Brazil for the retreat. Having direct contact to Silvia helped make me feel prepared for anything I might need.”

-Lacey | USA | 2024

Itacaré, Bahia

Originally a fisherman’s town, Itacaré is known for its white sand beaches, surfing, and footvolley from the locals. Hire a boat taxi to experience nearby islands and waterfalls as you explore the lush jungle. Enjoy shopping from artisans and walk around the vibrant city at night for delicious food.

Our Blog

Sustainability at Spirit Vine

The Spirit Vine Center was founded by Silvia Polivoy with the intention to help people, nature, and animals. This intention was ignited in her first

How to Choose an Ayahuasca Spiritual Retreat: A Practical Guide

Taking part in a spiritual retreat is a meaningful way to reconnect with yourself and find peace. The most important is to find a retreat

Benefits of a Small Group Retreat vs. a Large Group

When planning where to attend an ayahuasca retreat, one of the most important decisions is whether to join a small group or a large group.

Volunteer Program

The volunteer program is aimed exclusively at past participants interested in spending a minimum of three months at Spiritvine, assisting Silvia during the retreats.

Apply For Volunteer Program >

Support Local Workers

We employee workers from the area to help ensure the accommodations remain clean and tidy throughout your stay. Local chefs, massage therapists, and yoga instructors contribute to the world-class retreat experience.

What Makes Spirit Vine Unique >

Secure Transportation

We partner with local taxi drivers to ensure each participant is picked up from the airport and dropped off in the correct location. While not at the retreat center, enjoy options for local boating excursions in Itacare.

How To Get To Spirit Vine >

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Where We’re Located

Spirit Vine is safely nestled in the heart of the lush Atlantic rainforest sanctuary, on the Northeast coast of Bahia, Brazil. We’ve created a Travel Guide to help ensure you arrive safely.