About Us — Shambala Iboga
Shambala Iboga

Authentic. Ethical. Transformational.

A family-run retreat honouring one of Africa’s most sacred spiritual traditions — where genuine transformation begins with respect for people, for nature, and for the Bwiti way.

Our Purpose

We are not here to offer Iboga. We are here to create a space for people to reconnect, gain perspective, and change.

Financial gain has never been our primary motivation. Our purpose is to change lives while honouring the people, traditions, and environment that make this work possible.

The Setting

A natural place for healing

Our retreat centre is located in a peaceful natural setting, away from the distractions of everyday life. Surrounded by nature, guests slow down, reflect, reconnect with themselves, and immerse in an environment built to support healing, personal growth, and spiritual exploration.

We believe nature itself plays an active role in the transformational journey.

The Tradition

Honouring the Bwiti tradition

The Bwiti tradition has safeguarded the ceremonial use of Iboga for generations throughout Central Africa. We approach this tradition with humility and deep respect.

For those who choose to participate, Bwiti initiation is conducted according to traditional cultural practices by experienced Bwiti practitioners — preserving the authenticity, dignity, and spiritual significance of the ceremony. Our aim is to preserve, not commercialise, this sacred tradition.

The Source

Ethically sourced Iboga

Our Iboga is ethically sourced from Cameroon through trusted relationships with experienced growers and members of the local Bwiti community.

  • Working directly with trusted local growers
  • Paying fair wages significantly above the local average
  • Supporting families and local communities
  • Encouraging sustainable harvesting practices
  • Protecting the future of Iboga through responsible cultivation
Many of our mature Iboga trees are up to 30 years old, alongside a significant number of healthy 7–10 year old trees — ensuring both exceptional quality and long-term sustainability. We are currently having every grower’s Iboga independently analysed to understand its alkaloid profile and ensure consistency across our supply.
Safety First

Safety above everything

Transformation should never come at the expense of safety. Every guest undergoes a thorough screening process before participating in any retreat or ceremony.

  • Comprehensive medical screening
  • Detailed health questionnaires
  • Review of medications and medical history
  • Assessment of individual suitability
  • Preparation before ceremonies
  • Continuous supervision throughout
The Community

Supporting local communities

Everything we do is built around long-term relationships. Rather than simply purchasing Iboga, we invest in the people and communities who have protected this sacred plant and its traditions for generations.

By paying fair prices and providing employment with wages well above the local average, we contribute to stronger families, healthier communities, and a more sustainable future.

Beyond the Retreat

More than a retreat

It is a place where people come to find clarity, reconnect with themselves, heal, learn, and grow — to experience authentic Bwiti culture with respect, and the wisdom of one of Africa’s oldest spiritual traditions.

Every person’s journey is unique. We are honoured to walk alongside them with compassion, humility, and respect.

What Guides Us

Our values

Aletheia

Authenticity

Remaining true to the Bwiti tradition.

Integritas

Integrity

Always acting honestly and ethically.

Salus

Safety

Placing the wellbeing of every guest first.

Honora

Respect

Honouring people, culture, and nature.

Communitas

Community

Supporting local families through fair employment and ethical partnerships.

Metamorphe

Transformation

Helping people discover lasting positive change.

Our Promise

What we place first, always

  • PeoplebeforeProfit
  • SafetybeforeCeremony
  • EthicsbeforeConvenience
  • CommunitybeforeCommerce
  • RespectbeforeRecognition
  • AuthenticityaboveEverything else
“When ancient wisdom is shared with integrity, compassion, and respect, it has the potential to transform lives — not only those who visit us, but also the communities that make this work possible.”
Shambala Iboga