CAYA Sanctuary
About Us
CAYA Sanctuary is here, first and foremost, to support the complete connection to ourselves, one another, our ancestors, and to the Divine Spirit of the Creator. CAYA Sanctuary’s mission is to co-create a sacred space of love, compassion, forgiveness and unity for all humanity so we may see each other as a collective, working together in harmony. Traumas endured in this life can, and often do, disconnect us from ourselves, others and with the spiritual aspects of life. This disconnection magnifies the importance of healing the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual parts of our being and to bring them into coherence. When mind and spirit are out of harmony it causes great suffering in our life, when mind and spirit are in harmony we experience peace, comfort and wellbeing. This connection experienced between mind and spirit highlights the inseparable nature of healing and spirituality. Through ceremonies, service to others, applying ancient spiritual teachings and community engagement, we can restore our connection to Divine Love, which is the birth right of all beings.
32 Reviews on “CAYA Sanctuary”
I recently completed a 5-day retreat at Caya Sanctuary and I’m honestly still integrating how profound the experience was. It’s difficult to put into words, but I’ll try.
From the moment I arrived, I felt held in a deeply intentional, loving, and safe container. The guardians and facilitators are truly exceptional—present, compassionate, skilled, and deeply attuned. You can feel the integrity behind everything they do, and that creates a level of trust that allows for real transformation.
The ceremonies themselves were absolutely beautiful—powerful, sacred, and thoughtfully guided. The music and singing deserve a special mention—they were incredibly moving, skillful, and heart-opening, adding such depth and magic to the ceremonies. The integration support, both during and after, is just as impactful as the ceremonies, which speaks volumes about how much they care about long-term healing and growth.
Beyond the inner work, the entire experience is incredibly nourishing:
* The food is outstanding—clean, delicious, and clearly made with love
* The massage offerings are deeply restorative
* The yoga, breathwork, and workshops are intentional and supportive
* The spa amenities (hot tubs, sauna, cold plunge) are incredible for grounding and integration
* The land itself is breathtaking—forest, river, wildlife, and a sense of deep peace everywhere you go
There’s also so much heart in the little things—creative/art opportunities, time to hike and reflect, and the presence of the animals (Milo the cat, Jasper the dog, ducks, chickens, and even deer passing through), which add warmth and life to the space.
What stood out most to me is the community. It truly feels like a family—open, supportive, authentic, and grounded in love. Nothing feels forced; it’s just real human connection.
This was not just a retreat—it was a deeply awakening, beautiful, and life-changing experience. I am endlessly grateful and would recommend CAYA to anyone seeking true healing, connection, and transformation.
Wow. Although setting low expectations is generally a good practice, I have to admit I had high ones going into my ceremony weekend with Caya Sanctuary, and somehow, they were still surpassed immensely. Everything from the beautiful land that held us, to the nourishing meals, the cozy river homes, the medicine ceremonies and integration sharemonies, to the guardian angels who supported us throughout preparation, ceremony, and integration, was better than I could have imagined—and always infused with love. From the moment I arrived, I felt a deep sense of safety, which was my highest priority going into what I knew would be a very vulnerable and expansive experience.
As a younger woman, it was incredibly important to me to find a ceremony space that took ethics seriously. When I spoke with Crystal for the first time, I knew I had found the right sanctuary for me. With her background in the mental health field and her commitment to truly supporting people in all aspects of the healing journey—not just the ceremony itself, but the preparation and especially the integration afterward—she felt like a genuinely safe and well-boundaried keeper of the space. And after meeting her intentionally handpicked group of guardians, I felt that everyone responsible for the safety of the space held themselves to those same standards.
The ceremonies themselves were held in such divine energy, with a truly egalitarian sense of community (no seekers putting themselves on pedestals), where everyone had more than enough space to be heard, seen, and witnessed in their beingness. Each container was opened and closed with such beautiful intention, and just the right amount of silliness to remind us we’re all just silly little humans. I always felt the guardians knew exactly what to offer when I needed support. The music shared was so heart-opening and incredible; I felt honored to be surrounded by such talented humans.
And it really wouldn’t be the same without the integration “sharemonies” afterward, which helped us make sense of the whole experience and place it into context alongside other people’s human journeys. The reflections shared by the guardians in integration were incredibly helpful to my process, and I don’t think I would ever want to have another plant medicine journey without that kind of support.
The weekend, surrounded by nature with access to wood-fired hot tubs, massage, and river cold plunges, could have been enough of a healing experience on its own, even without the ceremonies. But in combination with them, it became the most sublime healing experience I have ever come across. And returning to the “real world” has been such a transformative and confidence-building experience.
I would recommend Caya to anyone ready to take the next steps on their healing journey.
I have just returned from a 4-day retreat at Caya, and I cannot speak highly enough about the experience enough for anyone who may be called to this journey. As a therapist and a person in long-term recovery, it was important for me to find a retreat that was grounded in safe, ethically bound practices and principles given the vulnerable state one is in while sitting with the medicine. The fact that Crystal has a mental health background provided me with a sense of safety in her training and understanding of how to safely support individuals going through various emotional experiences. After meeting both her and Damian, I had no doubt that they take with work and their roles in it with great reverence and honor for space they hold in people’s journeys.
The living quarters were beautiful, comfortable, and warm. The food was delicious and nourishing, and the amenities provided the perfect options to integrate and connect with nature, self, and others. I cannot imagine a more peaceful and calming place for a retreat like this. The love and care that Damian and Crystal have put into the property can be felt at every turn, in every moment.
The ceremonies themselves held a deep and loving respect for the medicine. I felt cared for and supported through every step by Damian, Crystal, and the guardians. We were well-prepared for what to expect and had extensive integration after. I was surprised by how “ready” I felt to re-enter the “real world” at the end of the experience, and I credit that to the incredible support was offered throughout our time at Caya.
I am so incredibly grateful for my time at Caya and for the attention and love shown by the team there. I would recommend this retreat to anyone seeking this type of setting and experience.
I had an incredible experience at CAYA Sanctuary. The grounds feel purpose-built for this work. This is not a retrofitted environment; it is a sanctuary where every design choice reflects clear intention and care. Surrounded by the deep greenery of the Pacific Northwest, the atmosphere is quiet and grounding. It is a space that makes it easy to step away from daily life and turn inward.
My glamping cabin was clean, comfortable, and consistently warm, even in colder weather. There were many bathrooms available, and they were well-appointed, offering a level of comfort and cleanliness rarely found in this type of setting. Hot tubs and a sauna were available and provided a welcome way to decompress after long days of reflection. The food was a consistent highlight: simple, nourishing, and plentiful, served at regular intervals with more than enough to feel supported throughout the stay.
The staff are attentive and service-oriented, and the atmosphere they create feels warm and personal without being formal or institutional. With shared spaces open at all hours, the environment naturally becomes close-knit. There is an ease to it, where conversation, reflection, and vulnerability emerge without force.
The ceremonies are held with a high level of care and attention. Support feels individualized, with the team meeting people where they are in the moment. The live music during ceremony is beautiful and responsive, shifting with the energy of what is unfolding and deepening the experience without overwhelming it.
One moment that stayed with me came early the morning after my first ceremony, well before the scheduled group work. I felt uneasy about what I had experienced and unsure of how to interpret what I had found. It was a difficult thing to sit with. Damian listened patiently and offered a perspective that helped me reframe what I was holding. This individual support shifted my mindset in a meaningful way and led into a second night with more clarity and emotional steadiness.
This level of care carries over into the formal integration sessions, which are approached with the same reverence as the ceremonies. Integration is treated as an integral part of the overall experience rather than an afterthought. These sessions are unhurried, grounded, and practical. There is a clear respect for tradition and the more mystical aspects of the work, while the guidance remains accessible. It is translated into tangible terms that help you carry the experience forward once you return home.
I left with a defined sense of direction and practical tools that I know I will continue to use long after the experience ended.
I came to CAYA seeking an authentic Ayahuasca experience, and what I found exceeded every expectation. Nestled in a stunning natural setting, the entire center is immersed in beauty—flowing water, abundant greenery, and thoughtfully designed, comfortable accommodations. It’s a 5/5 experience in my book. From the moment you arrive, the sound of rushing water surrounds you, and within the first hour a deep sense of peace settles in. Even the drive to CAYA felt like part of the journey. If you’re caught up in the pace of everyday life, simply being here offers a profound sense of calm and grounding.
As remarkable as the place is, it’s the people who truly set CAYA apart. Damian and Crystal are not only wonderful, genuine souls, but deeply knowledgeable and experienced guides. Their understanding of Ayahuasca, the ceremonial space, and the integration process is rooted in years of guiding others with care, wisdom, and insight. Throughout my stay, I felt fully supported by the guardians (loveable beings!!!), whose presence made the entire experience both safe and comfortable. With the group size intentionally kept under a dozen, everyone received meaningful, individual attention. Combined with the exceptional food, ambience, music, and shared sense of camaraderie, this was an experience I will cherish for a lifetime.
What stands out to me about Caya and the experience I’ve had there is that the folks who lead it really have a handle on what they’re doing and why they’re doing it. Beyond the amazing accommodations, the fantastic meals, and all additional activities at the retreat, the love and intention supporting our transformative journeys really comes through. I felt cared for in my process, and the way integration was emphasized and front and center over the weekend spoke to me about how the retreat could have an enduring impact on my life and it has.
If you’re looking for a place where you feel free to be yourself, be supported in the most beautiful way, and maybe even a new understand of your life, look no further than Caya. Highly recommend!
Before staying at CAYA Sanctuary for 5 days (including the arrival and departure days), I was looking for a medicine experience that could help me deal with anxiety and depression.
I did a lot of research and eventually found this place, and my instinct told me that CAYA was the right place for a first meaningful experience with the medicine. My instinct was right.
I was blown away by my stay at CAYA. The actual experience with the medicine is something personal, depending on one’s openness to it. In my case, it was transformative. It was a process.
Everything that CAYA Sanctuary offered made me feel safe and in very good hands. Beyond that, I was amazed by the beauty of the place and how perfectly it’s balanced with the surrounding nature. The lodging made me feel integrated with nature and, at the same time, warm and protected.
It’s not only that Damian and Crystal take their roles seriously and are amazing organizers. It’s also the good hearts, the caring energy they put into making sure guests have a joyful stay and feel supported. The meals were delicious and healthy. I could even taste the love that was put into them. There’s also a sense of community that feels honest and grounded in real human connection — not forced, not pressured. Real.
I can only say I feel incredibly fortunate to have found CAYA Sanctuary.
And by the way, I also acquired powerful tools to work on my mental health. That part is on me, but CAYA Sanctuary gave me access to those tools and left me with beautiful memories to cherish.
I came to Caya not knowing what I truly wanted, and I didn’t realize how much trauma and fear I was carrying until I stepped into this journey. Thank you Crystal and the amazing facilitatots for holding me with such compassion, wisdom, and safety — it allowed me to surrender and trust the process fully. The ceremonies were deeply healing and opened my heart in ways I never thought possible. I am leaving with a lighter spirit, clarity, and profound gratitude for each of you who guided me along the way. This was truly a life-changing experience, and I will carry it with me always. I know I will be back next year to continue this beautiful journey.
Without a doubt, CAYA provides the best experience (by a long shot) out of the 4 retreats I’ve attended in multiple states. The food, lodging, ceremonies, and integration are incredible. Of particular note is the therapy-level integration sessions, in which Damian and Crystal (a trained therapist) help participants to extract meaning from their journeys, and assign individual “homework” and accountability partners for continued integration after leaving the retreat. This has been the single greatest distinguishing factor for squeezing every drop of meaning out of the ceremonies, and what makes CAYA unique amidst every retreat center I’ve been to or heard about from the experience of friends. I have told multiple people not to bother going to Costa Rica etc. for ceremonies, and all of them have thanked me profusely after attending CAYA. The sheer volume of repeat participants is a testament to how incredible CAYA is- and I say this as someone who flies from one side of the country to the other rather than attend any of the half dozen more local ceremonies within easy driving distance. There is simply no substitute.
Thank you for your kind and thoughtful review. It is the highest honor to walk this path alongside you brother, and we are truly blessed to witness, and be a part of your journey. May you continue to deepen and expand your spirituality and personal growth. Blessings to you and yours for all of your days.
My experience at CAYA exceeded all my expectations. Crystal and Damian create an incredibly supportive, thoughtful, meaningful, and beautiful retreat from start to finish. I so appreciated the chance to have a preparation call with Crystal. As someone new to psychedelics, I was a bit nervous going into the weekend, but our conversation made me feel sure this was the right decision for me. Damian was there to meet me when I arrived with a wonderful welcoming energy, and the grounds and lodgings are all beautiful.
The ceremony itself is done with such incredible care for the participants and the medicine. I have rarely felt so supported and safe, and the 1-to-1 ratio of participants to guardians/facilitators made it so that a helping hand was always available when needed. The process of integration in the following days was equally thoughtful and healing, and was such an important part of the weekend. I also really appreciated having a rest day between ceremonies – it would have been difficult for me personally to be physically and mentally prepared for back-to-back ceremonies, as I know is common at other churches. The time between ceremonies included integration, meditation, and an inner child workshop that Crystal led, which was very powerful. Crystal, Damian, and the guardians were always available for one-on-one talks, and they are all amazingly receptive and insightful listeners. The second ceremony was, for me, the most joyous and healing experience of my life. It would not have been possible except as part of a larger process of self-reflection, learning, and growth.
I also really appreciate the continuing support that Crystal and Damian provide and facilitate. We set commitments for the weeks after ceremony and will keep in touch with a participant “buddy” to discuss our journey and progress. CAYA also hosts weekly integration meetings to continue support even after you return home. I look forward to staying in touch for years to come.
I really can’t say enough about CAYA and the incredible people there. I can’t imagine a better place to sit with the medicine and embark on a healing journey. I am changed in ways I never could have expected or hoped, and I am so grateful.
What a powerful and detailed review, we are so grateful for the time you took to share your experience. It was truly an honor to get to know you before, during, and after the retreat and to hold the sacred container for you to reveal your Divine nature. It is a great blessing to know how the CAYA process has continued to support your integration. Many blessings to you and all your relations, Aho!
My time at Caya Sanctuary was such an integral part to my spiritual journey and healing process. From even before I arrived, I felt held, welcomed, and deeply supported by Stewards Crystal and Damian, they are such beautiful individuals with a commitment to sharing all that Mother Aya has to offer, and ensuring anyone partaking in the journey is met with sincere compassion and genuine care. They have created a truly magical space where I felt completely safe to explore the depths of my healing journey.
The land itself is something sacred, so beautiful, peaceful, and inviting. Every corner of the sanctuary seems infused with intention and love. The accommodations were not only comfortable but also stunning, offering a nurturing space to rest and reflect between ceremonies, even wood-burning hot tubs and a spacious sauna to enjoy after my morning cold plunges in the river.
The food was healthy, organic, and clearly prepared with love and mindfulness. It nourished both body and spirit, supporting the deep inner work of the retreat.
The ceremonies themselves were challenging, powerful, and deeply rewarding. At every step, I felt surrounded by support, love, and unwavering dedication from the stewards and guardians to our well-being and process. That support has even continued post ceremony with weekly integration calls for those who are interested. The care and love that Crystal, Damian, and the entire team pour into this retreat is palpable and rare.
I can’t express enough how highly I recommend Caya Sanctuary to anyone considering an ayahuasca retreat. It’s a place of true healing, growth, and connection and I’m forever grateful for the experience.
Fallon, we deeply appreciate the time you took to write this review. It is so helpful to others who are looking for a church to join. We are honored to know you and to have been trusted with your healing journey, it is not taken lightly. We understand the depth of trust and vulnerability it takes to sit with the sacrament of Ayahuasca. Thank you, thank you, thank you! May your days be blessed and filled with beauty and love!
I had a life changing experience at CAYA Sanctuary. Sitting in ceremony there was the first time I felt fully safe, supported, and held enough to bravely go deep with the medicine.
Crystal and Damian facilitate with a rare blend of integrity, love and wisdom that can be felt the moment you arrive. They’ve thoughtfully curated a support team that bolsters the container of their sacred space. I found it easy to trust the team and allow myself to be cared for throughout my stay.
The sanctuary itself is tucked away on a beautiful peace of land that invites exploration, reflection, and ease. Every detail, from the cozy lodging to the hot tubs reflects the same intentionality of care the permeates their ceremonies.
What really sets CAYA apart is the intentional space created for integration that extends beyond the ceremony. They offer ongoing integration calls that I have found to be paramount to nurturing and anchoring in the lessons from the medicine. Those sessions have created an essential bridge between ceremony and everyday life.
I cannot recommend CAYA Sanctuary enough and am endlessly grateful for my experience!
I had a phenomenal experience at Caya Sanctuary. If you’re looking for a safe, welcoming, and loving place to do plant medicine..look no further. The growth and healing I’ve experienced here has been truly life changing, and I’m still unfolding all the insights and peace I received. Crystal, Damian, and every single person who helps hold this space are absolute blessings. The care, presence, and integrity they bring made me feel safe and supported from beginning to end. I’m especially grateful for the ongoing group therapy they offer; it’s been an incredible support system since returning home. I’ve made new lifelong friends here, and I carry so much gratitude in my heart. I truly love you guys. Thank you for everything love, Maddy 🙏🏼❤️
There is so much I could say about this space and the ceremony. This was my first time on this plant medicine and I was a bit apprehensive at first. As soon as I arrived though a blanket of peace and calm came over me as I realized I was in a safe space. The introduction and warm welcome I received only enhanced that. Damian and Krystal’s smile and presence is so warm and inviting it was impossible not to feel like a kid at on the first day of Summer break. The ceremonies were handled with great care, love and respect for the sitters, the guardians and the medicine alike. The property itself has amazing amenities to enhance the level of peace and grounding you receive from day one. They provided amazing meals made from home grown veggies and local sources, well crafted to fit with the medicine as you prepare for the journey and as it works with you over the days you are there. The various integration programs they host help anchor in the lessons learned while sitting with the medicine. It was a real blessing to have been able to experience this healing journey at Caya Sanctuary and I made new connections with amazing people I never thought was possible. I cannot recommend this place enough and will be telling the stories for decades to come.
There are not enough words to express my gratitude to Damien and Crystal for all they’ve built in this space. From medicine to integration and relaxation I truly felt at home. My transformation had been a long time coming and Iam so so grateful to have been in this space to do the work. Thank you from bottom of my heart.
There’s no way I can fully express my gratitude and appreciation for Damian, Crystal, and Caya. I’ve done four retreats with them over the past several years, both in FL and in WA, and I truly believe that you will be hard pressed to find a more compassionate, understanding, and truly amazing retreat or people. From the moment you speak to them, you can feel just how genuine and amazingly talented they are, and that Caya is their life’s mission.
Caya Northwest is absolutely breathtaking, and you can feel how special the property is, especially with all of the healing that takes place there. I stayed in the Cobb house, and just wow! The building is just beautiful, and there’s nothing like waking up to a river 10 steps from your front door.
Sitting with Ayahuasca can be a difficult decision, but Damian and Crystal are there to help guide people to whatever choice is right for them. I believe they’re probably one of the few places that offers on-going Integration calls every week, and also places a big focus on Integration after each ceremony. Even people who haven’t sat with Ayahuasca are invited to join the weekly Integration calls.
Needless to say, I love Damian, Crystal, and Caya and I am eternally grateful to them for their support in my healing journey.
I can’t articulate the comfort I felt at Caya. Every inch of the property was created with love and purpose for the guests staying there. Crystal and Damien really went out of their way to make this property exactly what was needed for a getaway into nature. I have been to other places seeking the same reward, but Caya is it. I’ve found my new home away from home and will definitely be back.
I just wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible ceremony weekend. For the first time, I truly feel like I’ve found my home. I’ve never felt safer or more supported in a ceremony space and I have attended many.
The love, care, and effort that was poured into helping my healing was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. And the setting—absolutely breathtaking. Every part of the property was clearly created with such intention, comfort, and heart. It’s rare to find a place where no corners are cut and every detail speaks of genuine care rather than profit.
Not only did I find healing, but I made memories and friendships that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. “Perfect” is a strong word, but honestly, it’s the closest I can get to describing the experience. Thank you
Crystal and Damian have created the most beautiful and sacred space in Caya. I couldn’t be more appreciative of them and the work they do. I have never felt so held and cared for as I do in the container they’ve created. Every single piece has been curated to serve you to your deepest need and it’s done with absolute intention. If you are looking for a safe place to dive deep into your self healing journey, I can’t recommend Caya enough. The love that they exude into their work is felt and the community they are creating is so beautiful.
Coming to Caya Sanctuary is hands down the most beneficial thing I have ever done for myself. I learned that sitting with the plant medicine is only half the battle when it comes to self discovery. The work they do here with integration I came to realize is just as important if not more. Crystal and Damian do an absolutely phenomenal job giving you a safe space to talk and be heard but also allowing you to listen to others with full intent. To say Ayahuasca changed my life is a false statement. What is true however is that the medicine gave me the realization that at any moment I have and have always had what it takes to change my own life. If you are even slightly on the fence about coming here just do it without thinking about it. The property is gorgeous and they are happy for you to explore it and take in all it has to offer. The hot tubs are always hot, the sauna heats up quick and most importantly the icy river is there for you to jump in at any time. There are not enough synonyms for the word beautiful to describe what happens in this little pocket of heaven. My gratitude is endless.
My experience at Caya Sanctuary now stands as the most phenomenal and transformative experience of my entire life. While ayahuasca was center stage, the support and sensitivity of Crystal and Damian Espiritu made my transformation possible. Caya Sanctuary is truly a special place. From organic meals, luxurious lodging, amenities, and supportive activities— all contributed to and made possible all that I am grateful for. In addition, I was blessed to have the support of compassionate guardians that enabled me to trust, feel safe, and able to go deep into the transformative process. I fell in love with everyone who shared this journey with me. Words are insufficient when it comes to expressing my gratitude for what Caya Sanctuary stands for and what is seeks to bring forth in me and in our world.
Caya Sanctuary provided the most incredible and life-changing experience. They truly take a holistic approach to healing, from the ceremonies to the intensive integration work, I am completely changed. Throughout my journey, I felt challenged but safely held in caring arms. They will gently push you towards growth and hold you accountable to do the work. I can’t imagine there are other healers offering such a comprehensive approach. Both the people and land are beautiful beyond words, and the accommodations are very well thought out. The caliber of people participating to make this vision a reality is absolutely inspiring! I urge you to take the first step and schedule a call.
I am writing this to comment on my personal experience with Caya and to highly recommend them. Self-disclosure: I am a person in long-term recovery from Alcohol Use Disorder. That being said, there was some initial hesitation to this path.
Because of these reservations, I asked many questions and did a lot of self-reflection before attending my first ceremony at the original CAYA location. During my preparation period, I reached out to Crystal multiple times because of her background in the Behavioral Health field. That gave me comfort and confidence, helping me to come to the decision to move forward.
I met Damian on site, and I immediately saw the Ying to Crystal’s Yang. He is very grounded and wise, his connection with spirituality is palpable. The combination of the two of them helped me open up to the medicine and really gain maximum benefit.
18 months later, after having gone through one of the worst years of my adult life, I felt called back to Caya. I truly believe the lessons I learned with my first journey prepared me for my “Year of Hell”. Having been sober 13 years before the first Caya experience, there were points in my sobriety where I was “white knuckling” just trying not to give into the cravings. Post Aya, I never once had the desire to drink. Not once. In the worst year of my life. It was literally not there. The only difference was my journey with the medicine and having Caya help me process it.
The land at the new location to me is almost as powerful as the Aya journey itself. It definitely enhanced the experience for me personally. Being from a large Midwest city I had never spent that much time in nature before. The support volunteers make you feel safe and like family. The combination all of those factors held space for me to truly be my authentic self.
If you are considering including Ayahuasca as part of your spiritual path I strongly encourage you to research Caya deeply. For me, the integration phase was key to processing the experience of the medicine. Both of my Caya experiences gave me the perspective shift I needed to elevate myself and begin to live my best life.
I am so grateful for the opportunities to grow, the support I was given, and the freedom to make the entire process my choice, every step of the way.
As someone who is exploring different retreat options, I really appreciate your detailed insight—especially regarding the level of support and integration they offer. It’s reassuring to hear how intentional and caring the facilitators create a balanced, grounded, and spiritual environment.
I’ve visited Caya multiple times both to sit in ceremony with the medicine and to offer some assistance in building out this incredible space. I also visited a different retreat prior to my first visit to Caya.
Before my first Aya ceremony, I under-appreciated multiple aspects of the experience: the music, the “space”, the integration, and certainly the facilitators. It is crucial to feel trust in everyone involved, and I can’t imagine trusting anyone more than Damian and Crystal to create a safe and productive space for healing. They bring so much love and compassion while also challenging everyone to examine their intentions and post-retreat integration work. There are people in this “business” who develop a know-it-all, ivory tower mindset over time, but Damian and Crystal sit in the same circle as everyone else and assume no moral or spiritual high ground.
During my first Ayahuasca ceremony before I discovered Caya, I felt my basic needs were cared for, but I kinda had to manage myself and align to their agenda. We’re very vulnerable while on the medicine, and dealing with ordinary tactical problems or uncertainty can negatively affect the experience. I always felt like the guardians at Caya knew what I was going through and what I needed, which allowed me to focus on my journey.
Before Caya moved to the Pacific Northwest, I attended a retreat at its previous location on the outskirts of Orlando. That was an amazing, life-changing experience for me, and it was in a house on a small-ish residential lot. Caya now sits on an expansive, beautiful location in the forest surrounded by hills and a river. While it has all the modern amenities such as electricity, running water (with bidets!), and wifi, it allows you to feel rather disconnected from modern society. It was a great time to be within myself, my Caya family, and where we fit within the natural world.
I never outright recommend Ayahuasca to anyone as it is a very personal decision, but for those considering it, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Caya Sanctuary. There is no dogmatic belief system pushed, no timeshares peddled, no cult to pledge. Crystal and Damian do not float around the woods in robes speaking only in sage-like riddles. They are very normal people who have built an extraordinary community through their selfless work. If your beliefs make room for compassion, gratitude, respect, and love (or you want them to make more room), you will feel at home at Caya.
I went to Caya and could not have felt more love and support through my experience than I did with Crystal, Damien, and the others there who helped with the ceremonies. They are impeccable with their handling of the guests and the ceremony itself. I had such an amazing experience, and came out of there with such an expanded outlook on life. Ah…I need to go back soon! I highly recommend Caya Sanctuary!
Spent a beautiful weekend with new and old friends at Caya. Much healing and beauty took place. I felt so safe and held by the staff and land. Always felt like I was given personal attention. The grounds are spectacular. Food was nourishing and delicious. Sleeping quarters are cozy. The ceremonies were deeply intimate, uncrowded, not rushed. They’ve consciously thought through all of the details. Damien, Crystal and Steve have built something magical there. I’m so grateful to have spent time with them and myself in such a lovely space.
Caya Sanctuary is truly a magical place. I’ve been fortunate to call Damian and Crystal dear friends for many years, and their warmth and authenticity shine through in everything they do. Having experienced retreats in several places, I can confidently say that I’ve found my tribe at Caya.
From the moment you arrive, you feel welcomed and supported. The ceremonies are beautiful and deeply meaningful, with a genuine focus on healing and integration. Each visit has been not only an amazing experience but also profoundly life-changing.
If you’re looking for a space where you can feel safe, connected, and deeply nourished, I can’t recommend Caya Sanctuary enough. It’s a gift to the soul.
My experience at Caya:
I met Damían & Crystal in ceremony last year.
I was invited into their space and I felt safe and welcomed all along.
I was amazed by the love and peace they both held, unshakeable.
Damian was coming back that same day we started our 3day retreat to a ceremony-ready space, that Crystal prepared with so much devotion for all of us attending. I arrived early and got time to see all her preparations. She has a gift, she’s calm and trusting and the outcome can only be perfect, clean, comfortable.
Damian was coming back from Caya Nw, showing us all, that his visions for finding this land and developing this amazing project, are part of his purpose, and he’s emboding it powerfully, with his own hands.
Both Crystal and Damian have unique skills that can make your ceremony feel safe and loving. Their trust for each other’s roles, before, during and after ceremony, makes the experience effortlessly harmonious and authentic.
They are attentive listeners and there’s light in their words.
Their support and integration are priceless.
And Nico’s music is beyond amazing.
Truly grateful for a super expanding ceremony.
I was blessed to have my first ceremony with Damian and Crystal at Caya. This experience was transformative and will stay with me throughout my life.
Accommodation: the grounds, sleeping quarters, community space, all of it was surreal with how much you could feel the love and care that was put into this place.
Ceremony: The guardians Nico and Tash were most influential in sharing their music medicine with all of us. There were times that their music was all I could lean into to know I was love and light.
Damian and crystal both have an essence about them that feels both nurturing like a loving parent, but also a brother/sister bond vibe. Not to mention their clear and palpable connection to the medicine and sharing that wisdom! The days and space between ceremony were filled with group integration, sharing, and connecting with each other, along with various activities, and plenty of space for just processing or relaxing.
I can’t say enough about the entire experience and how much it has moved me.
If and when I am called back to the medicine I will always know i have a safe, supportive home at Caya.
This place changed my life! Damian and crystal are amazing and caring people.
If you are considering communing with Mother Ayahuasca and want a safe space with genuine, caring, supportive people and an intimate group setting, I simply cannot recommend Crystal, Damian and CAYA Sanctuary enough! That being said, it was the most amazing, life-changing experience of my entire life! For that I am so grateful!!! Ineffable is the best description of the entire experience because no matter how much you try to explain it, there are really no words that do the experience justice. I know this is going to be long but I wanted to answer the questions I had when looking for a place to take this journey for the first time.
After over 20 years of struggling with my mental health and grief and exhausting my efforts with the western medicine way of drugs and talk therapy, which never really cured anything, I can’t express how thankful I am that I found Crystal, Damian and CAYA Sanctuary!
While I’ve known about ayahuasca for over 10 years, it wasn’t until almost 2 years ago that I really felt called to take the journey with Mother Ayahuasca myself. So, I started researching places to go. Making a decision to explore a healing journey like this is not something to be underestimated. Obviously, I wanted to make sure I found a safe place. After a great deal of searching I came across CAYA Sanctuary. My first thought after reading through their website was “This place sounds perfect!”. It had everything I was looking for. However, I didn’t find a lot of reviews, so I was still a bit skeptical. If you’re reading this, you are probably feeling somewhat the same way. I am fortunate enough to live within 2 hours of CAYA, so I arranged an in person meeting and tour of the site with Crystal and Damian. From the moment I arrived I felt like I was on the right path and after meeting them in person I was completely at ease and comfortable. They took their time and answered any questions I had. They are two of the most authentic, genuine, caring souls I have ever met! I decided that day that CAYA was going to be where I would take my journey. They helped me choose the right dates for my ceremony as I had a few high stress things going in my life at the time.
Crystal and Damian assisted me with all the preparation necessary. They did a zoom prep call and helped with my intention setting. One of the things that attracted me to CAYA was Crystal’s background in psychology. I even had a breakthrough realization during my prep call that I hadn’t had in years of therapy. They were available to answer any questions I had leading up to the retreat.
From the moment I arrived for my retreat I felt welcomed and completely safe. Everything was nice and clean without feeling sterile. The beds are super comfortable. The mats they provide for the ceremony are also comfortable. All the food they provided was high quality, healthy and delicious and there was plenty of it! If you need anything all you have to do is ask.
The guardians for my retreat, Fia, Nico and Kris were equally as authentic, genuine and caring! They were all available to you 24 hours a day, if needed. Everyone was very knowledgeable. Before ceremony they did a great job giving orientation and answering any questions. During ceremony it was almost like they anticipated your needs. If I needed something there was always someone right there ready to help. I truly felt safe and supported during the entire experience! With set and setting being so important when communing with Mother Ayahuasca feeling safe is of utmost importance!
The music played during ceremony was wonderful! They provided live music as well as recorded. The icaro sung by Nico was absolutely beautiful! The song selections couldn’t have been more perfect!
Another thing that attracted me to CAYA was the intimate group setting. I had some anxiety about going alone. I also worried, with a larger group, if I would get the care and support needed. I was glad they limit the group size at CAYA. You come as strangers and leave as family!
They say one night with ayahuasca is equal to 10 years of psychotherapy, in my experience, it’s true, if not more! Sitting with the medicine provided more than almost 30 years of prescription drugs and psychotherapy ever has for me! I am not claiming it’s a magic potion that will solve all your problems. YOU still have to do the work afterwards, which is where integration comes into play. They hold group integration discussions the morning after each ceremony which allowed everyone to process their journey and gain insight from others they might not have seen themselves. I wondered if the additional day after the ceremonies was necessary. For me it was and it was much appreciated! The continue to offer weekly zoom integration calls after your retreat that you are welcome to join.
I feel so fortunate to have had such an amazing first experience and hope this review helps others do the same. I hope to be able to attend another retreat at CAYA soon. Thank you Crystal and Damian for all you do!
Caya was my introduction into plant medicine. They provided a beautiful and truly supportive environment for healing. My experience was absolutely profound I’m so grateful to have had this life-changing opportunity that Caya offers. Thank you Crystal!!