1. What the retreats are (and are not)
Our retreats are wellness, rest and personal-growth experiences in the rainforest. They are not medical, psychological or therapeutic treatment, they do not diagnose or cure illness and they do not replace care from health professionals. We do not guarantee specific results: every person’s experience is different. If you are unsure whether a programme suits you, consult your doctor first.
2. Telling us about your health
After you confirm your booking we will ask you to complete a health questionnaire. Please answer honestly and fully: it is confidential, handled under our Privacy Policy and known only to those who need it to look after you. Update it if your situation changes before the retreat. Withholding relevant information can put your safety and the group’s at risk.
3. Situations that need prior advice
Speak with your doctor and write to us before booking if any of these apply to you:
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, diabetes or other chronic conditions.
- History of, or treatment for, psychiatric conditions including bipolar or psychotic disorders, or eating disorders.
- Regular medication, in particular antidepressants, lithium, antipsychotics, anticoagulants or any drug acting on the nervous system.
- Food allergies or intolerances, insect bites and other reactions.
- Recent surgery or injury, or limited mobility.
Programmes with cleansing meals, exercise, heat (such as the temazcal) or cold baths may not be suitable in some of these situations. In Golden Horizons we adapt the pace, and may ask for a prior medical assessment.
4. Ceremonies and ancestral practices
Ceremonies and practices with traditional plants and medicines are part of Amazonian culture and are carried out with respect for the communities that safeguard them and with the guidance of experienced people. They are voluntary: you may choose not to take part, or stop at any moment, without explanation. They can bring intense emotional and physical experiences and some interact dangerously with certain medications or health conditions. That is why, before any ceremony, we hold a preparatory conversation and may decline your participation in it if we detect a risk to your health.
5. Activities and environment
The lodge is in the Amazon rainforest: heat, humidity, rain, uneven terrain, insects and wildlife are part of the setting. Walks, hiking, canoeing, waterfalls, caves, night walks, the temazcal, cold baths and other activities involve inherent risks (falls, knocks, bites, dehydration, heat exhaustion). Always follow the guides’ instructions, wear the recommended footwear and protection, and tell us if anything feels uncomfortable. Check with a travel-health clinic for vaccinations and preventive measures recommended for the Amazon.
6. Medical assistance and insurance
The lodge is in a rural area, and higher-complexity hospital care may be some distance away. In an emergency the team will arrange the assistance and transfer needed; the costs are borne by the person concerned or their insurance. We recommend travel insurance with medical, evacuation and cancellation cover.
7. Emotional wellbeing
Retreats can stir emotions. If you are in psychological or psychiatric treatment, or going through a delicate time, talk beforehand with your professional and with us. Our team supports you but does not replace clinical treatment.
8. Informed acceptance
By booking you declare that you have read this notice, that the health information you give us is truthful, and that you take part voluntarily, accepting the risks inherent in the activities described. We may ask you to sign a specific informed consent before or on arrival. This acceptance does not limit liability that the law does not allow to be excluded, nor your rights as a consumer. Questions: retreats@hamadryade-retreats.com.