The U.S. Embassy in Lima, Peru, has issued a health alert advising American citizens against using traditional hallucinogens such as ayahuasca and kambo while visiting the country. These substances are often marketed to travelers as "ceremonial" or "spiritual cleansers." Ayahuasca contains dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a potent hallucinogen illegal in the United States and many other countries.
Ayahuasca consumption can lead to adverse health effects like nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, and even death. Long-term consequences may include psychosis, sleep disturbances, neurological diseases, and ongoing hallucinations. In 2024, several Americans died or experienced severe illness after consuming ayahuasca. These incidents typically occurred in remote areas near or within the Peruvian Amazon with limited access to medical facilities.
In addition to health risks, there have been reports of sexual assault, injury, or robbery involving U.S. citizens under the influence of these substances at various "healing" or "retreat" centers. Such facilities are not regulated by the Peruvian government and may not adhere to health and safety standards.
U.S. citizens are urged to avoid taking ayahuasca, kambo, or any unknown substances while in Peru. The embassy advises reviewing the Country Information Sheet for Peru on travel.state.gov for essential travel and safety information. Immediate medical attention is recommended if these substances are ingested.
For assistance in Peru, contact details for the U.S. Embassy in Lima and the U.S. Consular Agency in Cusco are provided along with information on enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
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