APRIL 12-18, 2027 | COLUMBIA

Stepping into the lush mountain lands of Colombia, where the scent of freshly brewed coffee, warm arepas and ripened tropical fruit mingles with the mist. Clouds drift across emerald hills, and the evening light beckons your own inner God/dess to soften, awaken and emerge.

Imagine being surrounded by powerful women & men you’ve come to appreciate + trust through ceremony, ritual and moments of courageous vulnerability. Adorned in garments that evoke your inner God or Goddess, you gather around a candlelit table—your council of fellow Kings + Queens—sharing nourishing food, laughter and the delicious anticipation of what awaits.



Imagine...

This retreat is a dedicated practicum for Temple Arts Alchemy Practitioner students along with special guests: a space to deepen, embody, and practice the skills, frameworks, and modalities of the Temple Arts Alchemy Mystery School learned throughout the year-long program.

Across the week, you’ll have the opportunity to both offer and receive the practices you’ve studied or that you are introduced to as a special guest in the retreat.

IN THE APHRODITE 

EXPERIENCE

This is also an initiation into the Aphrodite current:

the field of love, beauty, sensuality, and magnetic feminine essence. To be initiated by Aphrodite is to awaken a natural radiance and erotic intelligence that draws others closer... through embodied consent, truth and pleasure.

Alongside Aphrodite, we’ll explore inspiration from Huitaca, a figure from Colombia’s Muisca traditions associated with beauty, pleasure and a rebellious feminine spirit. Through our own practices of movement, sensuality and play, we’ll invite these qualities to awaken within us.


HUITACA | The Untamed Goddess of Pleasure & Liberation

Rooted in the ancient mythology of Colombia's Indigenous Muisca people, Huitaca is a rebellious feminine figure associated with pleasure, revelry, beauty and the untamed spirit of freedom. Defying the rigid laws and austerity of Bochica, she invited humanity to embrace joy, celebration and the sensual pleasures of being alive.

Legend tells that she was transformed into a white owl for her defiance—a symbol we embrace as an invitation into the mysteries of the night, feminine wisdom and the power of the untamed.

Throughout our ceremonies, Huitaca will serve as a mythic guiding figure, inspiring us to reclaim our wildness, honour our desires and liberate the parts of ourselves that have been silenced, shamed or suppressed.

An invitation to remember that pleasure can be sacred, freedom is our birthright, and our wildness is not something to be tamed.



Huitaca

Sensuous beauty, sacred stillness & rainforest magic at Heart of Colombia — a riverside sanctuary in San Agustín, Colombia

Nestled in the lush mountain landscape of San Agustín, Huila, Heart of Colombia is a handcrafted riverside sanctuary set within 60 acres of vibrant forest. Created by founder Steven Foord and cared for by a dedicated local team, this intimate haven invites you to slow down, awaken your senses and simply Be.

Here, birdsong accompanies your mornings, butterflies gather along a sandy riverfront beach, and the soothing sound of flowing water carries you into sleep. Warriors Waterfall is just a 12-minute journey away, with forest trails and beautiful nature spots nearby—offering space to explore, bathe and deepen your connection with the living landscape.

With cooking and cleaning taken care of, you can settle into nourishing rest. Three daily buffets celebrate locally sourced and organic ingredients, with dietary needs thoughtfully accommodated.

The property and available experiences include:

• 60 acres of lush forest, home to around 80 species of birds
• a sandy riverfront beach and peaceful places to rest
• river bathing, fresh aloe vera and natural exfoliation experiences
• nearby waterfalls, scenic hikes and horseback riding
• massage offerings to complement your embodiment journey
• opportunities to explore local coffee, sugar-making and rum production

Held by the river and forest, this is a place to soften into your body, honour the land and make room for pleasure, connection and the sacred art of being.

OUR JOURNEY

Explore ritual, neo-tantra and Temple Arts through embodied practices that invite deeper presence, pleasure and connection. Share your gifts within community as we journey into conscious touch, authentic expression and the artistry of creating sacred space.

All rituals, workshops, ceremonies + initiations held by Phoenix Amara & Aphrodite SUPPORT Team

Let your inner God/dess take the stage. Through adornment, movement and storytelling, we’ll bring our archetypes to life—giving voice to hidden desires, exploring new expressions of ourselves and allowing play to become a doorway into transformation.

RITUAL THEATRE

Journey through Colombia’s lush countryside on horseback, taking in mountain views and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. An invitation to awaken your adventurous spirit and experience the land at a slower, more intimate pace.

HORSEBACK ADVENTURE

Follow forest trails to Warriors Waterfall and explore the river’s refreshing waters. With river bathing, fresh aloe vera and quiet moments along the sandy shoreline, nature becomes our spa—a place to replenish your senses and simply Be.

WARRIORS WATERFALL + RIVER SPA

Step into your artistry and let yourself be seen. With guidance from our lead videographer, co-create photographs + moving imagery that capture your embodied expression, creative spirit and inner God/dess—magical keepsakes of your unfolding journey.

PHOTOSHOOT + VIDEO CREATION

For those who feel called, an optional Ayahuasca ceremony led by an experienced elder shaman offers space for spiritual exploration and reflection. Participation details, suitability and preparation requirements will be shared ahead of the retreat.

AYAHUASCA EXPERIENCE

Gather for a final evening of delicious food, music and dance as we celebrate the connections and discoveries of our journey. Dress in your favourite adornments, share your gratitude and let your joy move through you—carrying a little Temple magic home.

THE CLOSING CELEBRATION

Sensuous beauty, sacred stillness & rainforest magic at Heart of Colombia — a riverside sanctuary in San Agustín, Colombia

Nestled in the lush mountain landscape of San Agustín, Huila, Heart of Colombia is a handcrafted riverside sanctuary set within 60 acres of vibrant forest. Created by founder Steven Foord and cared for by a dedicated local team, this intimate haven invites you to slow down, awaken your senses and simply Be.

Here, birdsong accompanies your mornings, butterflies gather along a sandy riverfront beach, and the soothing sound of flowing water carries you into sleep. Warriors Waterfall is just a 12-minute journey away, with forest trails and beautiful nature spots nearby—offering space to explore, bathe and deepen your connection with the living landscape.

With cooking and cleaning taken care of, you can settle into nourishing rest. Three daily buffets celebrate locally sourced and organic ingredients, with dietary needs thoughtfully accommodated.

The property and available experiences include:

• 60 acres of lush forest, home to around 80 species of birds
• a sandy riverfront beach and peaceful places to rest
• river bathing, fresh aloe vera and natural exfoliation experiences
• nearby waterfalls, scenic hikes and horseback riding
• massage offerings to complement your embodiment journey
• opportunities to explore local coffee, sugar-making and rum production

Held by the river and forest, this is a place to soften into your body, honour the land and make room for pleasure, connection and the sacred art of being.

Come experience the wild rawness of your spirit &  the Columbian jungle with Temple Arts Alchemy  

WHAT'S INCLUDED

 (April 12th - 18th 2027) in intimate & uniquely furnished traditional Columbian style retreat home (6 days/7 nights) along with meals.

SHARED ACCOMODATIONS & MEALS

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare to/from Columbia  | Additional meals offsite

Additional alcohol (some wine is served with dinner and our banquets)

Travel and personal insurance

Additional coffees, bottled water and snacks outside of what is included

Personal tours and any related expenses

Gratuities ($40-100USD is recommended for the Staff, and an additional 10-20% for treatments)

Treatments (massages etc)

We have some lovely activities planned like a horse back tour, hikes to the waterfalls and a lovely stay in a hotel and celebration party before everyone heads home.

Additional activities 

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare to/from Columbia  | Additional meals offsite

Additional alcohol (some wine is served with dinner and our banquets)

Travel and personal insurance

Additional coffees, bottled water and snacks outside of what is included

Personal tours and any related expenses

Gratuities ($40-100USD is recommended for the Staff, and an additional 10-20% for treatments)

Treatments (massages etc)

You'll be led through a transformational experience including practices, and skill building in workshops and ceremony style experiences in ritual, ritual theatre, tantra, and ceremony facilitation. We also have a traditional ayahuasca ceremony being offered (that is optional) for every participant, should they want to participate.

All rituals, workshops, ceremonies + initiations held by Phoenix Amara & Aphrodite SUPPORT Team

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare to/from Columbia  | Additional meals offsite

Additional alcohol (some wine is served with dinner and our banquets)

Travel and personal insurance

Additional coffees, bottled water and snacks outside of what is included

Personal tours and any related expenses

Gratuities ($40-100USD is recommended for the Staff, and an additional 10-20% for treatments)

Treatments (massages etc)

Use of Retreat Spaces including private acreage with garden, waterfall and jungle.

USE OF RETREAT SPACES

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare to/from Columbia  | Additional meals offsite

Additional alcohol (some wine is served with dinner and our banquets)

Travel and personal insurance

Additional coffees, bottled water and snacks outside of what is included

Personal tours and any related expenses

Gratuities ($40-100USD is recommended for the Staff, and an additional 10-20% for treatments)

Treatments (massages etc)

Come & be nourished at the Heart of Columbia Retreat Centre

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is the retreat taking place?

Our 7-day, 6-night immersion is planned for April 12–18, 2027, in the lush, mystical landscapes of San Agustín, Huila, Colombia.

Nestled in the Andean foothills, our rustic retreat sanctuary offers an intimate setting surrounded by nature, where we'll gather for ritual, embodiment, connection, adventure and the living practice of Temple Arts.

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What's included in the retreat experience?

Your retreat experience is included in your Temple Arts Alchemy Practitioner Training tuition and includes six nights of rustic accommodation, nourishing meals, facilitated group experiences, ceremonies, and selected local adventures.

This is an opportunity to take the work we've been exploring online and bring it into the body, the land and our relationships with one another.

International and domestic flights, travel insurance, personal expenses and optional plant medicine ceremonies are not included.

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What are the sleeping arrangements like?

Our retreat sanctuary offers a variety of rustic sleeping arrangements, including private and shared rooms, queen and single beds, and additional glamping accommodations immersed in nature.

Sleeping arrangements will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to those who confirm their enrollment earliest and Pay in Full. 

As this is an intimate, community-oriented retreat, most participants should anticipate shared accommodations. Additional glamping options will also be available for those who would love a little more connection with the natural surroundings.

If you have specific accessibility, mobility or sleeping needs, please reach out before enrolling so we can discuss what's possible.

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 What are the bathroom and shower facilities like?

Our retreat centre is a rustic, nature-based sanctuary with three toilets and three showers shared among our group.

Think more jungle temple than luxury resort!

We'll be embracing a slower, simpler way of living, where connection to nature, community and the elements becomes part of the experience.

We invite you to arrive with a spirit of flexibility, openness and adventure.

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What kind of food will be served?

We'll be enjoying freshly prepared, nourishing meals throughout our stay, with an emphasis on simple, wholesome food that supports our bodies through the retreat experience.

Meals will be shared communally, offering opportunities to connect, unwind and enjoy the flavours of Colombia.

If you have dietary restrictions, allergies or specific food requirements, please let us know in advance. We'll do our best to coordinate with the retreat kitchen, although not every dietary request can necessarily be accommodated.

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 What kinds of activities and experiences can I expect?

Expect a beautiful weaving of sacred ritual, embodiment, creative expression, practitioner development and adventures into the surrounding Colombian landscape.

Our immersion is designed to deepen the teachings of Temple Arts Alchemy through lived experience, with opportunities for ceremony, facilitated practices, connection, reflection and integration.

We're also planning local cultural and nature-based experiences, including a horseback adventure and a special evening celebration.

The detailed itinerary will be revealed closer to the retreat, with space for both structured experiences and the spontaneous magic that unfolds when we gather together.

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Will there be an ayahuasca ceremony?

For those who feel called, there may be an opportunity to participate in an optional ayahuasca ceremony, facilitated separately by local ceremonial practitioners.

The anticipated contribution is approximately $100 USD per ceremony night, paid separately from your retreat tuition.

Participation is entirely optional and is not required for your Practitioner Training or retreat experience.

Ayahuasca is a powerful psychoactive substance and is not appropriate for everyone. Participation would be subject to medical and medication screening, informed consent, confirmation of the facilitator's qualifications and safety protocols, and applicable local laws.

Those who choose not to participate will be equally welcomed and supported in their retreat journey. No part of your learning or belonging depends on participating in plant medicine.

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How do I get to the retreat centre?

The easiest route is to fly internationally into Bogotá's El Dorado International Airport (BOG), then take a short domestic flight to Pitalito Airport (PTX).

Two airlines serving this regional route are SATENA and Clic Air.

Our retreat centre is located in the San Agustín region, and ground transportation from Pitalito Airport is planned as part of the retreat arrangements.

We recommend arriving in Bogotá at least one day before your domestic connection to allow for international travel delays.

Please wait for our confirmed travel instructions before purchasing non-refundable flights.


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What is the weather like in April, and what should I pack?

April brings lush, vibrant landscapes to the San Agustín region, with warm days, cooler evenings and the possibility of tropical rain.

As we'll be spending time outdoors, we recommend bringing comfortable clothing for movement and ceremony, layers for cooler evenings, a rain jacket, sturdy walking shoes, sandals, natural insect repellent and any personal items that support your comfort.

We'll also send a more detailed packing list before departure, including any special items for ritual and ceremonial experiences.

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Is this retreat suitable for everyone, and do I have to participate in every activity?

This retreat is designed specifically for our Temple Arts Alchemy Practitioner Training cohort, offering an opportunity to deepen your personal transformation while developing your skills as a ritualist, sacred sexuality guide and facilitator.

You can expect an intimate, experiential environment where we explore embodiment, ritual, authentic connection, creativity and the full spectrum of the human experience.

While we encourage participants to engage wholeheartedly with the journey, consent, personal sovereignty and respect for individual boundaries are foundational to our work.

You will never be required to participate in an exercise, ceremony or experience that does not feel aligned for you.

Our invitation is to arrive with curiosity, courage, compassion and a willingness to meet yourself—and others—with an open heart.

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