Last updated: 24 August 2026
These terms apply to retreats, plant dietas, ceremonies and integration sessions offered by John Patton, operating as [LEGAL NAME], RUC [RUC], of [ADDRESS], Peru.
John is an independent shamanic practitioner and curandero. Work takes place at Nova Terra near Tarapoto, and at retreat locations in the Sacred Valley near Cusco, in settings chosen to support reflection, healing and learning. All work is conducted with care for participant wellbeing, respect for traditional knowledge, and stewardship of the surrounding forest.
Participation and responsibility
Participation is voluntary. By attending, you accept responsibility for giving accurate and complete information during the intake process, and for telling John about any physical or psychological condition relevant to your safety.
Everyone must complete the medical questionnaire before participating. It sets out the conditions of participation, what is expected of you, and the health and safety considerations that apply. The questionnaire and any related correspondence form the primary agreement between you and John, and these terms sit alongside them.
Withholding or misrepresenting information can result in serious complications when working with these medicines. If information material to your safety is withheld, John may decline your participation at any point, including after arrival, and without refund.
Booking and payment
A deposit of [DEPOSIT %] holds your place. The balance is due [BALANCE DUE].
[CANCELLATION TERMS]
If John cancels a retreat, all money you have paid is returned in full. He is not responsible for travel, accommodation or other costs you have committed to separately, so travel insurance covering cancellation is strongly recommended.
Safeguarding
John works with a commitment to safeguarding participants and protecting the surrounding environment. Facilitators maintain attentive care and respectful boundaries, and work to hold a safe environment in which you can have your own space to reflect and heal.
You are expected to follow the guidance given, respect other participants, and act in ways that protect the land, the buildings and the surrounding community.
Conduct that endangers you or anyone else — including ignoring safety guidance, or the use of alcohol or undisclosed substances — may end your participation immediately, without refund.
Personal responsibility
This work may involve traditional plant medicine ceremonies, dietary restrictions, and periods of reflection or solitude. By choosing to take part, you acknowledge that these experiences can involve demanding emotional and physical processes.
You accept responsibility for your decision to attend, and agree to follow all safety guidance given to you.
Scope of what is offered
Retreats, dietas, ceremonies and integration sessions are cultural, educational and personal development experiences. They are not medical, psychological or psychiatric treatment, and are not offered as a substitute for it.
You remain responsible for your own health decisions. Consult a qualified professional about any medical condition before attending, and do not stop prescribed medication without medical supervision.
John and the facilitators provide guidance and support throughout. Individual experiences and outcomes vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Reviews and photography
If you submit feedback, John may publish your words along with your first name and country, but only with your permission and only as you have agreed it. You can ask for it to be removed at any time through our reservation enquiry form.
Photographs taken during retreats are not published in any way that identifies you without your specific consent.
Donations
Donations to the Elder’s Fund are voluntary and non-refundable, and are used to support the maestros and elders whose knowledge underlies this work.
Complaints
Concerns about anything offered should be raised directly with John through our reservation enquiry form, or through the communication route established during intake. Complaints are taken seriously and answered.
Privacy
Information given during intake or through the website forms is used only to organise your participation, safeguard your wellbeing, and answer enquiries or complaints. It is treated as confidential and is not shared with third parties except where the law requires it, or where it is necessary to deliver what you have asked for. Full detail is in the Privacy Policy.
Jurisdiction
These terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of Peru. Any matter arising from participation is addressed under Peruvian jurisdiction.
Acceptance
By completing the medical questionnaire and attending, you confirm that you have read and understood these terms and agree to take part in accordance with them.