About the Bwiti Tradition

Bwiti is a spiritual tradition originating from Central Africa, particularly from Gabon, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea and Kongo. It is closely connected to the use of the sacred plant Iboga, which serves as a key to self-discovery, spiritual awakening, and connection with the ancestors.

Bwiti involves profound rituals, music, chanting, dancing, and rites of passage that help individuals understand the meaning of their life and their place in the universe.

This tradition is passed down from generation to generation and is regarded as one of the most authentic African spiritual systems, still alive and continuously evolving.

Bwiti is a sacred tradition practiced in Gabon and surrounding countries Cameroon and Congo in Africa, to the Western world it is a traditional African religion. Iboga plays a central role in Bwiti. During the ceremonies and rituals of the Bwiti tradition, smaller or larger amounts of the root bark of the Iboga plant that grows in the area are used.

Those who feel an invitation can undergo the so-called Initiation, which is a roughly two-week transition ritual, when a child becomes an adult and a legitimate member of the village, similarly, in the case of foreigners, a visitor becomes a legitimate member of the community. The whole process consists of prayers and rituals, and is accompanied by music and dance and several doses of iboga and lasts usually between one and two weeks.

We invite you to become part of our Bwiti family.

We offer you our Bwiti Initiation

What does that mean?

Bwiti is an initiatory tradition. Bwiti is not something to talk about — it must be experienced in your own body and soul.

Entering Bwiti means undergoing your own initiation with a high dose of Iboga root bark.

There is no Bwiti without Iboga. And for us, who live in Africa, there is no Iboga without Bwiti.

Come to Africa and experience the rich culture, music, and rituals of Bwiti tradition for yourself.

Our Bwiti Initiation Retreat Includes:

Minimum stay of 7 days, ideally 10 days to 2 weeks (or longer)
After your initiation, you may stay longer to discover our country, African life, national parks, etc.
We will pick you up at the airport in Yaoundé, Cameroon
Food and accommodation are provided
If you don’t speak French, we will provide an English translator (or other language upon request)
We offer support before your trip (e.g., visa assistance) and long-term support after your return
You are welcome to return at any time to take part in further ceremonies and Bwiti education

Bwiti is a lifelong spiritual school. The initiation is just the beginning. You are welcome to not come only for the initiation, but we’ll be happy if you return from time to time and learn more from our rich spiritual culture.

Who is the retreat for?

For anyone who wants to deeply explore African culture and the spiritual foundation of the Bwiti tradition.

For those who want to move forward on their spiritual path. Iboga is truly a master medicine — it grounds you in your physical body and elevates your spirit.

For people struggling with addiction to substances such as alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana, cocaine, opiates, etc. Iboga is the most effective medicine in the world for breaking addictions.

For those who feel called to share Iboga in their country, we offer long-term support. You will learn to play you the Ngomo harp, we will teach you certain Bwiti rituals, and we will remain in long-term connection.