Mazatec Mushroom Tradition Excursion - Mexico
With Hugo Esteban Perez, Agder Iztacmitl (White Arrow), Eva Evers, Kesem Itzchaki and Kate “Sunny” Ziesenheim, PA-C
October 19 - 25, 2026
Overview
Join us on a unique journey into the heart of the Mazatec mushroom tradition, where centuries of sacred healing wisdom come alive in Huautla de Jiménez, Oaxaca, Mexico, the birthplace of this powerful lineage. This immersive experience offers direct connection with indigenous healers, sacred sites, and authentic ceremonial practices.

Known globally since the 1950s through María Sabina, the revered medicine woman who first opened the sacred mushroom ceremonies to the world, this tradition goes far beyond that. The Mazatec path also incorporates candle readings, egg healings, traditional temazcal (sweatlodge), and a deep reverence for the forces of nature and spirit.
This excursion is designed for those who seek genuine cultural immersion, spiritual healing, and connection to a living ancestral tradition.
What to Expect
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Authentic mushroom ceremonies with Mazatec elder healers
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Traditional modalities: candle readings, egg healings, and sweatlodges
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Visits to sacred sites and the house of María Sabina
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Guided nature excursions in the surrounding mountains
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Intimate group size (maximum 15 participants)
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Thoughtful preparation and integration support before, during, and after the retreat
Location & Accommodations
You will stay just outside the town of Huautla de Jiménez, in a peaceful mountain setting with sweeping views. While quiet and surrounded by nature, it remains conveniently close to the cultural life of the town.


Participant Screening
To ensure the safety and integrity of this retreat, all participants must complete a mandatory application and screening process. Due to the powerful nature of the work and the importance of group harmony, participation is limited to 15 selected individuals.
Preliminary Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival
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Pick-up from Mexico City Airport (morning)
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Drive to Huautla de Jiménez (approx. 8 hours)
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Settle in, orientation, and group welcome
Day 2 – Ceremony with Elder Healer
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Visit nearby waterfall
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Group sharing circle
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Evening: Mushroom ceremony


Day 3 – Rest & Recovery
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Morning rest
- Afternoon sharing circle

Day 4 – Market Visit & Ceremony
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Morning exploration of Huautla town and market
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Evening: Mushroom ceremony with Hugo


Day 5 – Rest & Recovery
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Morning rest
- Afternoon sharing circle with Hugo
Day 6 – Sacred Sites & traditional sweatlodge
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Morning visit to the sacred mountain
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Afternoon visit to María Sabina’s former home, now a museum
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Afternoon/Evening: Traditional sweatlodge ceremony
Day 7 – Departure
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Return drive to Mexico City
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Drop-off at the airport by late afternoon/evening
Integration & Support
We offer extensive preparation and integration resources to support your journey—emotionally, spiritually, and practically—ensuring the experience serves your long-term healing and growth.
Interested in Going Deeper?
We are also co-creating an Mazatec apprenticeship program with our Mazatec teacher. If you feel called to study this path more deeply, let us know on support@ancestralceremonies.org and we can count this experience towards your program credits.
About the Facilitators
Hugo Esteban Perez
Hugo Esteban Perez is a Mazatec mushroom ceremony facilitator with over 50 years of experience in the Mazatec healing tradition. He began working with the healer María Sabina at the age of eight, serving as her translator in Huautla de Jiménez, Mexico. He continued his studies with many other respected healers from the region, deepening […]
Learn more about Hugo Esteban Perez
Agder Iztacmitl (White Arrow)
Agder Iztacmitl (White Arrow) is a sacred pipe (Canupa) carrier and Sun Dancer from Mexico. He has over 30 years of experience working with the Mazatec mushroom tradition and was initiated more than 25 years ago. His father was a medicine man before him, and Agder was introduced to the medicine path at the age […]
Learn more about Agder Iztacmitl (White Arrow)
Eva Evers
Eva is a retreat, excursion, and ceremony facilitator, as well as one of the teachers and the program manager of the Mazatec Apprenticeship Program. She is a certified transformational and integration coach specializing in psychedelic therapies and spiritual development. Eva has worked with clients around the world for over 25 years. Her experience includes personal, […]
Learn more about Eva Evers
Kesem Itzchaki
Kesem is an initiated facilitator in the Mazatec tradition, an apprenticeship program teacher, and a close collaborator of Hugo Esteban Perez, supporting ceremonies including translation. As an emotional healing therapist, she works with clients from around the world. With nine years of dedicated study and practice in the Mazatec mushroom tradition, she is deeply committed […]
Learn more about Kesem Itzchaki
Kate “Sunny” Ziesenheim, PA-C
Sunny is a certified physician assistant, combining her expertise in psychiatry and addiction medicine with over a decade of spiritual practices, including meditation, breathwork, Native American sweat lodges, and indigenous earth medicine ceremonies. Her work bridges ancient wisdom and modern healing, fostering personal growth and connection.
Learn more about Kate “Sunny” Ziesenheim, PA-C