The retreat-center project in Colombia
Putumayo region is the cradle of shamanism in Colombia. Eco-retreat center, which is going to be built, could become real home for travelers, who respect thousand-year-old traditions and show their careful attitude to the nature… In this place everyone could connect with ancient knowledge. In every beginning, as we know, the first step is important, and we have already made it.
Enjoy your reading…
Pre-history
Putumayo region - is Columbian gates to the Amazon basin, homeland of shamanism in Columbia. This place, on the border with Ecuador, is being inhabited by Cofan and Inga indigenous tribes, who aren't less famous in the world of spiritual practices as a Peruvian Shipibo or Brazilian Huni-Kuin and Yanawa. Colombian shamanism's main difference - is the way of preparing ayawaska. It is also being known as a Yage, and it works mostly with men's energy rather than women's.
Several years ago, I was accidentally turned out to be here. But you know for sure, accidents are not always incidental. Exactly here I got all that knowledge, which helps me now to provide ceremonies with Ayahuasca and Yage. I constantly keep visiting this place because I am sure - this place is a perfect opportunity to gain new knowledge, new experience and to take ceremonies with the best shamans in Columbia.
Alvaro Aivars Proveys - Leader of the project
Putumayo region - is Columbian gates to the Amazon basin, homeland of shamanism in Columbia. This place, on the border with Ecuador, is being inhabited by Cofan and Inga indigenous tribes, who aren't less famous in the world of spiritual practices as a Peruvian Shipibo or Brazilian Huni-Kuin and Yanawa. Colombian shamanism's main difference - is the way of preparing ayawaska. It is also being known as a Yage, and it works mostly with men's energy rather than women's.
Several years ago, I was accidentally turned out to be here. But you know for sure, accidents are not always incidental. Exactly here I got all that knowledge, which helps me now to provide ceremonies with Ayahuasca and Yage. I constantly keep visiting this place because I am sure - this place is a perfect opportunity to gain new knowledge, new experience and to take ceremonies with the best shamans in Columbia.
Alvaro Aivars Proveys - Leader of the project
Territory
An area is placed in 15 minutes driving from the capital of Putumayo - Moсoa, and 20 mins from the international airport of Villagarzon. Bogota - Villagarzon flight takes a bit more than one and a half hours. Furthermore, there is an option to get from Bogota to Mokoa by bus, which is going to take 12-14 hours. Total surface of the area is 90 hectares. It is placed on the shore of Mokoa river, in the place, where two shores are connected by suspension bridge. Likewise, there is an entry to the territory of Pastos indiginous reservation, passing through which, you can get to the most famous tourist attraction the Fin del Mundo Waterfall.
Out of 90 hectares about 12-14 hectares are suitable for commercial development. This area is on a flat surface. The rest of the territory, which is located 10 meters higher the level of the river, is on a hill. Although, the structure of soil and breed is suitable for construction.
There is a little stream with drinking water running across the territory. Furthermore, there is a waterfall stands next to it that is a perfect place for meditation. Water from the river can be used for filling a water pool or any of the household needs.
As the territory lies next to the river, it includes 350 meters of river Moсoa's shoreline. This place could be elevated, could be made a beautiful embankment and promenade. Rocks from the river could be used for building basements.
Around 80 hectares of the territory is surrounded by forest- it can be used as a source material for construction. The land around is very shale. This shale is perfect option for making bricks and tile; production of them can be easily organized locally.
There is a little stream with drinking water running across the territory. Furthermore, there is a waterfall stands next to it that is a perfect place for meditation. Water from the river can be used for filling a water pool or any of the household needs.
As the territory lies next to the river, it includes 350 meters of river Moсoa's shoreline. This place could be elevated, could be made a beautiful embankment and promenade. Rocks from the river could be used for building basements.
Around 80 hectares of the territory is surrounded by forest- it can be used as a source material for construction. The land around is very shale. This shale is perfect option for making bricks and tile; production of them can be easily organized locally.
What is going to be?
A place for sacred plant medicine ceremonies and spiritual practices in the jungle by a mountain river. Ceremonial Maloca will be equipped by recording studio to preserve cultural heritage, cozy eco-houses for comfortable accommodation with an opportunity to become the co-owner of this project, based on the membership investment.
Our team divided the territory into two parts - commercial and residential
Commercial part is intended to provide income for the members of the project.
Initially, we are going to build 10 individual houses and one main building for 20 people (for example, 5 hostel rooms for 4 people each). The main building, for now, is intended to be an accommodation for the very first guests of the retreat-center as well as for volunteers later. On this stage we are planning to use glamping-tents - light construction on a wood basement with all facilities.
These constructions are not only nature-friendly, but it is much easier to obtain the necessary construction authorizations. In the next stages we are thinking of implementing building houses with basement, but, eventually, we will continue to use the concept of the light tents.
Initially, we are going to build 10 individual houses and one main building for 20 people (for example, 5 hostel rooms for 4 people each). The main building, for now, is intended to be an accommodation for the very first guests of the retreat-center as well as for volunteers later. On this stage we are planning to use glamping-tents - light construction on a wood basement with all facilities.
These constructions are not only nature-friendly, but it is much easier to obtain the necessary construction authorizations. In the next stages we are thinking of implementing building houses with basement, but, eventually, we will continue to use the concept of the light tents.
On this land we are planning to build the first vegetarian restaurant in the area. There are all the reasons to believe, that it is going to be not only the first, but the best as well for the vegetarians and lovers of healthy food. But why exactly vegetarian? Most travelers come to Mokoa to take part in the ceremonies with shamans. Preparation for these ceremonies includes being on special diets. No matter whether customers of the restaurant visit our retreat-centre or any other, vegetarian restaurant would be very healthy in terms of nutrition program. In addition to the restaurant, there will be a pizzeria with its own oven and a bar serving juices-fruit, vegetable, smoothies, coconut milk, sugarcane juice. It goes without saying, everything is fresh and natural.
Second-largest section of commercial part's development - is Maloca for the ceremonies with capacity of 50 people. It is particularly important to install high-quality floor covering, to make not only ceremonies of Yage and another master plant medicine, but also yoga-classes, meditation and the other spiritual practices as well. At least once a week we are going to organize folk music concerts of local musicians and ensembles. We would love to build recording studio, to keep living legacy of Cofan, Inga and Pastos indigenous people.
Furthermore, there will be small hall or platform for meditation in the commercial part, which could be placed next to the waterfall, straight away on the territory.
Furthermore, there will be small hall or platform for meditation in the commercial part, which could be placed next to the waterfall, straight away on the territory.
Facilities
Casas de CascadaSeparately detached houses or glamping tents
Mocoa River DeckBreakfast, lunch and dinner with the view on the river and the jungle
Casa Dantayaco & LoungeHostel, swimming pool and lounge-zone
Jungle SpaAir-opened SPA area surrounded by the tropical forest
Iaku Kausat LodgeAn area for yoga and meditation next to the waterfall
Owners Village ClubCozy club-house with swimming pool for owners and their guests
Ayni Shop- handicraftsman's shop: store where you can find souvenirs, pieces of arts and other craftsman's creations. Word "ayni" means "mutuality" on indigenous language. By making purchases in the store, you are contributing to these people's life, providing them a decent quality of life, and keeping their centuries-old culture.
Residential part or Owners Village will take its place on an upland.
Every investor, who is taking part in our project, will get in return lifetime usage of certain area of the land where they can build their own house. The only requirement is to follow the suggested architectural decisions to keep the unique style for all the constructions.
Every investor, who is taking part in our project, will get in return lifetime usage of certain area of the land where they can build their own house. The only requirement is to follow the suggested architectural decisions to keep the unique style for all the constructions.
Building together
Our team has an idea to separate members in 4 parts.
Founder
Contribution from 10 thousand US dollars or more.
Invests financially in purchase or long-term rent of the land, part of buildings (investor's own or joint, roads, electricity, canalization and etc., what project includes). Contributes informationally as well as shares skills and takes part in construction.
Invests financially in purchase or long-term rent of the land, part of buildings (investor's own or joint, roads, electricity, canalization and etc., what project includes). Contributes informationally as well as shares skills and takes part in construction.
Co-founder
Contribution from 5 to 10 thousand US dollars.
Similar to founder, but takes his part in the process occasionally. Appears as a member of a project, which could be secondary in priority for him (for example, if a person already owns another retreat-center).
Similar to founder, but takes his part in the process occasionally. Appears as a member of a project, which could be secondary in priority for him (for example, if a person already owns another retreat-center).
Shareholder
Invests from 2 up to 5 thousand dollars.
Invests financially in building of the visitor's objects for the following rental. Can participate by investing money, also by sharing knowledge and skills as well.
Invests financially in building of the visitor's objects for the following rental. Can participate by investing money, also by sharing knowledge and skills as well.
Volunteer
Contribution of work or any other possible option in equivalent up to 2 thousand US dollars.
Participates informationally and/or by providing skills or work on the place. Takes his part in construction and work. Has a right on living, discounts and etc. proportionally equivalent to his investment.
Participates informationally and/or by providing skills or work on the place. Takes his part in construction and work. Has a right on living, discounts and etc. proportionally equivalent to his investment.
Founder
Invests financially in purchase or long-term rent of the land, part of buildings (investor's own or joint, roads, electricity, canalization and etc., what project includes). Contributes informationally as well as shares skills and takes part in construction.
Co-founder
Similar to founder, but takes his part in the process occasionally. Appears as a member of a project, which could be secondary in priority for him (for example, if a person already owns another retreat-center).
Shareholder
Invests financially in building of the visitor's objects for the following rental. Can participate by investing money, also by sharing knowledge and skills as well.
Volunteer
Participates informationally and/or by providing skills or work on the place. Takes his part in construction and work. Has a right on living, discounts and etc. proportionally equivalent to his investment.
Contribution from 10 thousand US dollars or more.
Contribution from 5 to 10 thousand US dollars.
Invests from 2 up to 5 thousand dollars.
Contribution of work or any other possible option in equivalent up to 2 thousand US dollars.
Depending on commitment, there is an option to raise your role (with an approval of all the participants above).
Owners Village Club
Every investor, who is taking part in our project, gets in return a right on a life-time usage of a certain territory, where he can build his own house.
Owners, co-founders and their guests gain access to the cozy, club type lounge. Club membership provides personalized facilities of arrival/departure, free drinks, afternoon tea and separate access to the high speed Internet. Furthermore, club members are provided the services of a personal concierge.
Every investor, who is taking part in our project, gets in return a right on a life-time usage of a certain territory, where he can build his own house.
Owners, co-founders and their guests gain access to the cozy, club type lounge. Club membership provides personalized facilities of arrival/departure, free drinks, afternoon tea and separate access to the high speed Internet. Furthermore, club members are provided the services of a personal concierge.
Privilege for owners
In addition to the land for the building of the house, owner gets a right to:
- 1Breakfast on the villa (on a pre-order)
- 2Personal check-in /out
- 3Daily afternoon tea from 16.00 to 18.00
- 4Daily cocktails from 18.00 to 21.00
- 5Daily two non-alcohol drinks from the mini-bar
- 6Free usage of computers with access to the internet
- 7Discount of 5% in handicraft shop
- 810% discount in restaurants and cafes (food only)
- 915% discount in Jungle Spa and ceremonies
What is already done
Land
Reached an agreement with the owner on buying and selling the land. Price of it is 180 thousand US dollars at the moment. However, should be taken into consideration, that nowadays this number could change. It could be a great option to negotiate with the owner about long-term rental, but at this stage he refused to provide such an opportunity. Our team keeps negotiating with him.
Management
We have already registered company in Columbia, which is owned by me- Alvaro Proveys, neither co-founder of the project Alina Krasnova and Francesco Pariset who is performing their duties as a director of the company. Currently the company provides legal framework of our activity. This company can become an owner of the land, owner of the properties which is going to be built on the territory or represent as a legal entity, who runs the company. In any case, we have to register new companies because it is more correct (I am sure in it), when the owner of the land, the owner of the real estate and business managing company - are different companies. Investors falling under the category of "Founder" and "Co-Founder" can get shares in the already existing company and/or become a co-founder of the new registered company. We will discuss these conditions in details with each individual investor.
Administration
Currently there is a bank account opened on the company name in the Columbian branch of BBVA bank. We cooperate with local law company that helps us with legal matters.
Equipment
We made an analysis of the manufacturers of light and economical constructions for guest's residence- glamping tents. Over time a production of these tents for the local market could become a part of commercial activities of our project. Here are the links on the two most optimal solutions we found: https://www.outstandingtent.com/ и https://www.adria-mobilehome.com/mobile-tents (second alternative is more expensive but it has a right to exist).
At first, we have to finish negotiations with the owner of the land, decide with the final price and buy the land if he refuses to accept a long-term rent. Currently the owner is ready to sell the territory for 50% of its cost equivalent to 180 thousand US dollars. The rest 50% he agreed to get in 2-year period.
If someone is able and wants to buy this land and to give it to us on a rent basis, we are ready to pay 15% of our turnover that is a payback of the full price guaranteed within 6-7 years.
If someone is able and wants to buy this land and to give it to us on a rent basis, we are ready to pay 15% of our turnover that is a payback of the full price guaranteed within 6-7 years.
Secondary: we need an engineer in all the construction areas. We have a support of Sandra Loganovska who is the main architect of Latvian architectural firm that was building Latvian National library. Sandra is ready to start the project and technical facilities on Co-Founder's conditions.
Later we will ask gardeners and designers for some help.
Later we will ask gardeners and designers for some help.
What is necessary on the next stage
It is necessary as well to make a measurement and detailed topographic plan of the land at a scale of 1:50 instead of already measured 1:500.
Topographic plan and architectural project makes it possible for us to distribute zones of construction, canalization's location, wastewater facilities and engineering communications. After that we can start an implementation phase. First, we have to build all the engineering communications by installing an electricity across the territory, Internet and the other communication facilities. Furthermore, we need to know where we are planning to build basement of the houses that are requiring an authorization for the construction processes.
It is necessary to spread the sectors/ land that will be given for agricultural industry. We can grow different fruits and vegetables on the territory- this land is suitable for any activities. We can (and we have to) make a pond for fish cultivation.
Topographic plan and architectural project makes it possible for us to distribute zones of construction, canalization's location, wastewater facilities and engineering communications. After that we can start an implementation phase. First, we have to build all the engineering communications by installing an electricity across the territory, Internet and the other communication facilities. Furthermore, we need to know where we are planning to build basement of the houses that are requiring an authorization for the construction processes.
It is necessary to spread the sectors/ land that will be given for agricultural industry. We can grow different fruits and vegetables on the territory- this land is suitable for any activities. We can (and we have to) make a pond for fish cultivation.
What we need to learn and to think about:
- An ability to produce glamping tents locally. Possibly as a separate unit or as a branch of selected manufactures. Tents could be in demand in this region.
- An ability of an emplacement of the equipment for burning bricks and tile. I already said that this location is full of clay. Finished products could be used in construction or could be sold.
Our team
- AlvaroFounder
- SandraArchitect
- AlinaCommunication with media
Second important moment is that I have an experience in tourism and hotel management for more than 30 years. I was the head of many projects, took part in building of hotels at their different stage of development, prepared the resorts for opening, put new tourist services on the market, related to certain hotel and location.
This experience allows to make the project with the knowledge of what and how everything is going to happen. Considering that I keep in contact with all my friends and colleagues from the hospitality branch, you can say that our overall experience is more than 100 years.
This experience allows to make the project with the knowledge of what and how everything is going to happen. Considering that I keep in contact with all my friends and colleagues from the hospitality branch, you can say that our overall experience is more than 100 years.
Our advisors and co-founders:
- JeanHospitality40 years of experience in hospitality field. Successful supervisor of international hotel chain and leading European SPA Hotels group vice-president as the last business position.
- LauryRestaurant business17 years old experience in public catering. In the recent past Laury was the owner of the famous vegetarian brand "Vegan World" in Lisbon. He knows about kitchen even more than vegetarians by themselves.
- EfimPermaculturePromotes ideas of ecological interaction. Efim is sure that energy produced by a human return back with the compensation. He is against the wastage of sources, believes that Love rules the world.
- MishalFranchiserMusician and creator in all genres, an idea initiator and partner of the Tribal Gathering Festival. He is an expert of local indigenous traditions.
I know how it has to be - not only in terms of spiritual growth but in terms of project's growth.
I know as well how the participation of all the specialists from different fields is important for the project: architects, engineers, designers, technologists. We are inviting to our team if you have an experience in one of the professions above.
I know as well how the participation of all the specialists from different fields is important for the project: architects, engineers, designers, technologists. We are inviting to our team if you have an experience in one of the professions above.
Co-Founders. Inspirers of the project
- Viktor PipaA strategist of community developmentHe knows a lot of methods of self-development and centuries-old practices of personal growth.
- EnricoAn alchemist and shaman of 21 centuryHe knows everything about extraction (from the smell up to ingredients of master plants medicine).
Besides all of the specialists above, it is important to us to have creative, enthusiastic and caring people into our team.
If you like an idea of this project, we are inviting you to join our team.
If you like an idea of this project, we are inviting you to join our team.
Relationship with the Locals
- Help with the construction of public buildings.
- Priority during the research of contractors and hiring new workers.
- Fixed minimum salary.
- Work under contract.
- Financial help for the local projects if needed.
- Respect the traditions and culture (dress-code in the village) and etc.
Reports, plans and Your questions
We will regularly keep reporting about the progress of the construction and the stages of crowd-finding on this web-site or social network. Follow us where is comfortable for you. You can follow us on Instagram @aluna_retreats, ask questions on aivars.provejs@yandex.com or on the phone: +33640213921. We are always happy to help you.
P.S. Our team replies on all the mail during 48 hours (usually it occurs faster than that). Please email to us again or call us if you message was without an answer.
P.S. Our team replies on all the mail during 48 hours (usually it occurs faster than that). Please email to us again or call us if you message was without an answer.
Here are the contacts in case if you have any questions
