DMT Retreats and Ceremonies in California.
California has become a hub for alternative healing and consciousness-expanding experiences, including those involving powerful psychedelic substances like DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) and its potent variant, 5-MeO-DMT (commonly referred to as Bufo). While traditional DMT remains a Schedule I controlled substance under both federal and state law, its use in spiritual or ceremonial settings is growing in popularity, often operating in legal gray areas or under the banner of religious freedom. Here’s an in-depth look at the types of DMT retreats and ceremonies happening exclusively in California.
1. The Rise of Bufo (5-MeO-DMT) Ceremonies
Among the various forms of DMT, 5-MeO-DMT derived from the Sonoran Desert Toad (Bufo alvarius) has gained significant attention in California’s spiritual and therapeutic communities. This compound induces intense, short-lived mystical experiences often described as ego-dissolving or unity consciousness.
One of the most recognized names in this field is Bufo Sacred Medicine, based in Mount Shasta, CA—a location already steeped in New Age spirituality and metaphysical lore. Their retreats typically last two to three days and include not just the Bufo ceremony but also complementary healing modalities such as sound baths, energy healing, and integration coaching. For instance, their March 2025 retreat titled “Ascension Portal at the Pleiadian Starship” blends cosmic spiritual themes with the use of sacred medicines, creating a deeply immersive and transformative experience. This retreat requests a donation of $1,444 to cover the event’s expenses.
2. Small Group Psychedelic Retreats in Los Angeles
Southern California, particularly Los Angeles, also hosts intimate 5-MeO-DMT retreats catering to those seeking a highly personalized experience. These multi-day retreats are often run discreetly by underground facilitators or loosely affiliated spiritual organizations. A notable event scheduled for November 2024 in Los Angeles combines Bufo ceremonies with other sacred plant medicines such as psilocybin and San Pedro. The retreat emphasizes holistic healing through workshops, guided meditations, and integration support sessions.
These experiences are often held in private, serene settings, such as secluded homes, rental estates, or nature-centered properties to ensure participant privacy and provide a safe space for deep inner work. Attendance is usually limited to a small group to maintain a sense of community and personalized care.
3. Integration-Focused Retreat Centers
Some California-based wellness centers, such as Transcendelic Retreats, focus heavily on preparation and integration rather than the direct administration of DMT. Located in Southern California, they provide therapeutic support for those who have undergone or are planning to undergo psychedelic journeys—either legally in jurisdictions outside the U.S. or through underground networks. Their programs often include integration circles, trauma-informed therapy, somatic work, and practices like yoga and breathwork.
While they currently focus on legally available psychedelics like ketamine, Transcendelic Retreats has publicly stated its intention to incorporate substances like DMT and 5-MeO-DMT should they become legal in therapeutic settings.
4. Legal and Ethical Considerations
Despite the growing interest, it’s essential to understand that DMT remains illegal in California unless used within certain religious exemptions recognized by federal law. For example, some religious organizations—such as the UDV (União do Vegetal) and Santo Daime—have received exemptions to use Ayahuasca (which contains DMT) in sacramental contexts. However, these organizations operate primarily outside of California, and very few public exemptions exist for 5-MeO-DMT.
Many California retreats operate in legal gray areas, relying on private invitations, disclaimers, and sometimes religious framing to mitigate legal risks. Participants are often required to sign liability waivers, and facilitators emphasize confidentiality and respectful conduct.
Conclusion
California offers a diverse landscape of DMT-related experiences, from full immersion retreats in mystical Mount Shasta to intimate healing circles in Los Angeles. While the legal status of these substances is complex, the demand for transformative, consciousness-expanding experiences continues to grow. Whether pursued for spiritual awakening, trauma healing, or personal insight, DMT ceremonies in California reflect the state’s leading role in the modern psychedelic renaissance. However, those considering participation should be diligent, informed, and mindful of both legal risks and ethical responsibilities.