Tamshiyacu's Ayahuasca Journey: The Story of an Amazon Town

Tamshiyacu, a town with nearly 5,000 residents, lies 29 kilometers south of Iquitos, Peru. Founded in 1911 by Toribio Fernández Bautista, it began as a frontier post meant to solidify Peruvian presence amid neighboring countries. It has since become a singular destination, blending historical roots with a vibrant culture of experiential tourism — and it is the home of Ayaselva.

A town planned in the heart of the jungle

Fernández Bautista, a tax collector and timber entrepreneur, envisioned Tamshiyacu as a beacon of civilization. He planned the town with wide streets and public spaces, hoping to create a stable community in the heart of the Amazon and to propagate Peruvian culture and values. His efforts laid the groundwork for a community where tradition and modernity still coexist.

The early years were marked by significant challenges. The dense rainforest presented obstacles, from transportation difficulties to health issues. But the resilience of the settlers, combined with Fernández Bautista’s leadership, allowed the community to expand and establish the essential services and infrastructure that supported its growth.

A center of Amazonian healing

Today Tamshiyacu is known for spiritual and cultural immersion. The town is home to a number of lodges and centers offering ayahuasca ceremonies and traditional healing practices, drawing visitors from around the world who seek a deeper connection with nature and themselves. The presence of experienced curanderos and healers gives these experiences their authenticity.

The local community has embraced this carefully. The town’s school is named after the renowned ayahuasquero Agustín Rivas, underscoring how deeply the plant-medicine tradition is woven into local life — passing indigenous wisdom and customs to new generations alongside academic learning.

A living paradox

Tamshiyacu holds a fascinating tension. Some locals uphold the traditional values of its founding — Catholicism and Peruvian nationalism — while others welcome visitors in search of authentic jungle experiences. That duality is a testament to the town’s ability to adapt and thrive. Efforts continue to preserve both the natural environment and the cultural heritage, through community-led conservation, reforestation, and a commitment to keeping tourism small and respectful.

For us at Ayaselva, this is exactly why we chose to stay here, and to stay small. Tamshiyacu offers peace and privacy while remaining close enough to Iquitos for practical needs. If you feel drawn to work with the medicine in this setting, we invite you to read about our retreats.