Don Benigno, The Godfather

Don Benigno, affectionately known as the “Maestro de los Maestros” (Master of Masters), is one of the oldest and most respected shamans still practicing the ancient art of white magic in Iquitos, Peru. Despite his advanced age of 80+, Don Benigno continues to drink the sacred ayahuasca medicine, a testament to his lifelong dedication to his craft.

Coming from the old school of vegetalistas, Don Benigno was born and raised on the border between Peru and Ecuador. His first encounter with Mother Ayahuasca occurred when he was just six years old, and his powerful icaros—the sacred chants used during ayahuasca ceremonies—are a blend of native Quechua and Spanish.

"Energetic blockages are more common than we realize — many of us carry them without even knowing."

He explains that the healing during a ceremony takes part on an energetic level. The ayahuasca enables him to see and remove any energetic blockages the patient might have.

For example, During a traumatic experience you might subconsciously block energetic channels or chakras as a defense mechanism to protect yourself from further pain of that experience. This can later in life manifest as depression, anxiety or physical disease. During the ceremony I will remove the blockage, and when thats done, you are healed” he says.

Don Benigno has been an integral part of La Luna del Amazonas since its inception, sharing his vast knowledge and wisdom with students, patients, and guests from around the world. As a renowned master, he has numerous disciples and has treated countless individuals seeking healing from a wide array of ailments.

Don Guido

Don Guido, son-in-law and long-time apprentice of the legendary Don Benigno, has dedicated his life to the sacred path of Amazonian healing. Born into a family of curanderos, he was raised among plants, prayers, and ceremony, where healing was not just a practice but a way of life. From a young age, he was guided by the elders and by the spirits of the plants themselves, undertaking countless dietas: periods of isolation and communion with master plants, that deepened his understanding of illness, suffering, and the road to restoration.

For decades, Don Guido has carried this ancestral wisdom with humility and integrity. He is able to diagnose, prescribe, and guide plant dietas tailored to the unique needs of each person who seeks his help. His ceremonies are infused with powerful icaros, healing songs that channel the spirit of the plants, and his gift for whistling melodies — subtle yet potent currents of sound — creates an atmosphere of profound peace and deep energetic cleansing.

What truly defines him is not only his knowledge, but the way he holds space: with quiet strength, deep compassion, and respect for every soul that comes before him. Bridging ancient tradition with the needs of the modern world, Don Guido meets guests with clarity and kindness, understanding both the Western search for meaning and the timeless truths of the forest. Those who encounter him often say his very presence is medicine, a reminder that the Amazon still speaks, and its healers still listen.

Don Leonardo

At just twelve years old, Don Leonardo stepped into his first Ayahuasca ceremony. The gatherings were held in the traditional way, every Tuesday and Friday, bringing together villagers and healers under the soft glow of kerosene lamps. In those early years, he sat quietly, absorbing the icaros (healing songs) and the sacred silence between them. Though still a boy, he felt the stirrings of a deeper calling — a pull toward the path of the healer.

It was not until adulthood, however, that this calling could no longer be ignored. Guided by destiny, Don Leonardo came under the mentorship of two respected maestros: Don Benigno, a master of the old ways whose deep knowledge of plant spirits was rooted in generations of experience, and Don Guido, his spiritual heir and son-in-law, known for his ability to bridge ancient tradition with the modern seeker’s heart. Together, they guided Don Leonardo into the hidden science of the curandero — a path requiring discipline, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the truth of the plants.

Don Jack

Don Jack, the youngest of four shaman brothers, was born into a family where the art of healing is not just a vocation, but a sacred inheritance. From his earliest days, he was surrounded by the songs, rituals, and plant medicines that form the heart of his lineage. Under the watchful eyes of his older brothers, and the profound mentorship of their godfather, Don Benigno, he absorbed the wisdom of the old ways as naturally as one breathes the air of the Amazon. In this household, every leaf, root, and vine had a story to tell, and from childhood, Don Jack learned to listen.

Though the youngest, he carries the fire of his lineage with remarkable strength. His icaros, the sacred healing songs, flow like the rivers of his homeland: sometimes gentle and sweet, other times powerful and commanding. When his distinctive whistle pierces the ceremonial space, it is as though the spirits themselves are moving through him, weaving protection and guidance into every note. Guests often speak of feeling an immediate shift in the energy when Don Jack begins to sing, a clarity, a deepening, a sense that the unseen world has drawn closer.

His training has been long and demanding, marked by countless plant dietas, vigils, and nights of communion with the medicine. In silence and solitude, he has learned the language of the forest and the precise ways to call upon the spirits for healing. Each lesson has been earned through dedication, humility, and a willingness to serve those who seek his help.

What sets Don Jack apart is not only his skill, but his presence. Humble, approachable, and open-hearted, he meets each guest without judgment, listening with patience and offering guidance with sincerity. He is a living embodiment of the ancient traditions, a bridge between the wisdom of generations past and the seekers of today. His place within the circle at La Luna del Amazonas is both a is both a blessing and a testament to the enduring power of the shamanic path.

Enrique - Facilitator & Translator

Originally from Sweden, Henrik, known here as Enrique, has called the Amazon his full-time home since 2015.

After years of wandering through Sweden, the USA, Spain, and Costa Rica, he found himself in a place of deep despair. Struggling with severe depression, on the brink of suicide, and feeling a complete lack of meaning in life, he searched for relief in many ways. He tried many Western medical treatments, from pharmaceuticals and psychotherapy to benzodiazepines and antidepressants, and, at times, self-medicated with street drugs. None of these paths brought lasting healing.

That changed when he arrived in the heart of the Amazon and encountered the transformative power of ayahuasca. Before founding La Luna, he immersed himself in village life, spending 1 year living with shamans and their families in a traditional shamanic clinic. Surrounded by the rhythms of nature and living in extremely rustic conditions, he gained deep insight into the medicine, the ceremonies, and the unseen world of the shamans.

Long before the jungle called him, Enrique served as an emergency medical dispatcher in Sweden. In those moments, he learned to navigate chaos with clarity, to guide others through fear, and to make decisions where safety was always the first priority. These skills remain at the core of his work today, as he holds space in the maloka with steady presence, watchfulness, and readiness for whatever the night may bring.

Since then, Enrique has facilitated over 1,000 ayahuasca ceremonies, serving as a bridge between modern Western culture and the ancestral Amazonian tradition.

He is certified in First Aid and CPR, and beyond his work with ayahuasca, studies theology at the Stockholm School of Theology, exploring ancient mysteries and sacred texts to deepen his understanding of the direct, visionary experiences the medicine can bring.

He is also an active member of the Zendo Project by MAPS, supporting psychedelic harm reduction and integration, and has completed training in Ayahuasca safety through ICEERS (The International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and Service).

Walter

The son of the esteemed Shaman Don Benigno and a versatile member of our community. Raised in the Amazonian shamanic tradition, Walter has developed a deep respect for the ayahuasca medicine and the healing arts. At our center, Walter wears many hats—he assists in ceremonies, prepares the sacred brew, and ensures a comfortable and harmonious environment for our guests.

As our property caretaker, Walter takes great pride in maintaining the grounds, tending to the lush vegetation, and keeping our facilities in shape. His adaptability, dedication, and connection to the shamanic lineage make him an invaluable member of our team.

Nina

Nina, whose name means "fire" in Quechua, is a proud descendant of the Yagua people. Her roots are deeply intertwined with her ancestral history, as her grandmother was part of the first generation of Yaguas to establish the tribe in Nuevo Perú, where the Yagua language is still taught in schools.

Growing up in the village of Santa María, Nina was raised in a family of paleros (tree healers) and curanderos Napinos from Diamante Azul, a renowned shamanic village on the Napo River. This rich cultural heritage has shaped Nina's character and her deep appreciation for the healing arts.

At our center, Nina is a versatile and invaluable member of our team. Her warmth and gentle presence can be felt in her facilitation of ceremonies and the soothing flower baths she provides for our guests. Nina's connection to her ancestral knowledge and her innate healing abilities make her an asset to our community.

Ismael

Ismael, the adorable son of Enrique and Nina, is the youngest member of our family and a cherished part of our center. Though still just a little one, Ismael already has a vital role to play: bringing joy and smiles to all those around him.

You can often find him hanging out, soaking up the positive vibes, and sharing his infectious grin. His youthful presence is a constant reminder of the beauty and innocence of childhood, and we're grateful to have him as a part of our community.

Natalia

Natalia, our radiant facilitator and artist, brings joy and creativity to our center. Her captivating smile reflects her warm and welcoming personality, which resonates with everyone she meets. Natalia's artistic talent is on full display throughout our center, where her beautiful paintings, inspired by her own ayahuasca visions, adorn the walls. She is an integral part of our ayahuasca ceremonies, providing guidance and support to those seeking healing and self-discovery.

Outside of ceremonies, Natalia can often be found in our ayahuasca plantation, where she lovingly tends to the baby vines and happily shares her knowledge with our guests. Her passion for nature, spirituality, and personal growth is contagious, making her an invaluable member of our community.

Oscar

A multi-talented and free-spirited member of the La Luna del Amazonas team. Born and raised in Colombia, Oscar's passion for art and nature has been a driving force in his life, leading him to pursue studies in biology while developing his artistic talents. This unique blend of scientific knowledge and creative expression allows him to explore the intricate connections between the Amazon's diverse flora and fauna and share them with others through his captivating artwork. Oscar's artistic style is a testament to his deep connection with the natural world, as he masterfully captures the beauty, mystery, and complexity of the rainforest in vibrant and intricate depictions. His canvases come alive with the colors, textures, and essence of the Amazon, serving as a visual celebration of the environment he holds so dear.

Whether through his captivating artwork, engaging discussions about the rainforest ecosystem, painting workshops, or simply sharing his love for the natural world, Oscar's free-spirited presence at La Luna del Amazonas contributes to the immersive and transformative experience that guests seek. His contagious enthusiasm and boundless creativity inspire others to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery and connection with the world around them.

Delfina

As a translator, Delfina's linguistic skills and cultural sensitivity allow her to communicate the shamans' teachings with clarity and empathy, ensuring that each participant fully grasps the depth and meaning behind the ceremonies. Her warm, compassionate nature creates an atmosphere of trust and comfort, making her an invaluable guide during the retreat experience.

A creative spirit at heart, Delfina is an accomplished ukulele player, often serenading our guests with her gentle melodies during moments of relaxation and reflection. Her love for music, combined with her dedication to healing and spirituality, makes Delfina a cherished member of the La Luna del Amazonas family and a valuable resource for our guests seeking transformation and growth.

Ada

Our warm and welcoming facilitator and translator from Sweden. Ada has been an integral part of the La Luna del Amazonas family for several years, deeply invested in helping guests navigate their transformative journeys through the rainforest.

Ada's fluency in Spanish, Swedish and English allows her to bridge the language gap between guests and the indigenous shamans, ensuring that each participant fully understands and benefits from the ancient wisdom and practices shared during their stay. Her gentle and supportive approach creates an environment of trust and comfort, fostering a sense of community among guests.

In addition to her translation and facilitation duties, Ada is also an avid yoga practitioner. She is delighted to share her love for this ancient discipline with guests, guiding them through yoga sessions that complement their transformative experiences and promote physical and spiritual well-being. With her deep connection to La Luna del Amazonas and commitment to supporting guests on their paths to healing, Ada is an invaluable member of our team.

Danilo

Danilo is our smiling guide in Iquitos. He has been working with ecotourism in the Amazon since he was born, and has an amazing knowledge about the jungle and its habitants (flora and fauna).

He picks up our guests in Iquitos with his air-conditioned minivan, and take them to the boat. After the retreat he meets up at the port and drops off at the airport or any hotel.

Carmencita

Carmencita is our gourmet chef. She is always up for a smiling picture with out guests. She practice kitchen magic and cooks healthy but delicious food optimized to the ayahuasca treatment. Occasionally fish from the river just outside the kitchen, but mainly vegetarian and always with a vegan option.

You

Our center offers a unique opportunity for volunteers who are passionate about personal growth, healing, and indigenous wisdom. As a volunteer, you will be immersed in the Amazonian shamanic tradition and assist in various aspects of our guests' transformative experiences. This may include helping to prepare the sacred ayahuasca brew, maintaining the property, assisting in ceremonies, and providing support for our guests.

Volunteers will have the chance to learn from our skilled shamans and experienced facilitators, gaining insights into the ancient wisdom of plant medicine and indigenous healing practices. This is an excellent opportunity for those seeking personal growth, cultural exchange, and a deeper understanding of the connection between nature, spirituality, and healing.

If you are interested in volunteering at our center, please note that you must first participate in one of our retreats. This ensures that you have an understanding of our practices and can better support our guests during their transformative experiences. We look forward to hearing from you and discussing how you can contribute to our community!