Indigenous Healing Practices You Can Experience While Traveling

As travelers increasingly seek meaningful, wellness-focused experiences, Indigenous healing practices offer a profound connection to ancient wisdom and the natural world. From the temazcal ceremonies of Mexico to the Ayurvedic treatments of India, these holistic traditions provide a pathway to physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation. Most of all, remember that engaging with Indigenous cultures requires deep respect, ethical consideration, and cultural sensitivity.

In this guide, we explore some of the most revered Indigenous healing practices around the world that travelers can experience respectfully, along with tips to ensure your wellness journey is rooted in integrity.

1. Temazcal Ceremony – Mexico and Central America

A temazcal is a traditional sweat lodge ceremony practiced by many Indigenous peoples across Mesoamerica. The ritual involves entering a dome-shaped structure where volcanic stones are heated and infused with medicinal herbs. A temazcalero guides participants through chants, meditations, and steam therapy.

How to experience it respectfully:

• Choose facilitators with Indigenous lineage or direct training from Native elders.
• Avoid touristy versions that strip away the ritual’s spiritual significance.
• Learn the history of the tradition and approach with humility.

Find out more about: How a Temazcal Works

2. Ayurveda – India and Sri Lanka

Ayurveda, meaning “the science of life,” is a 5,000-year-old holistic healing system developed by ancient sages in India. Treatments often include herbal medicine, diet, yoga, meditation, and massage tailored to one’s dosha (body type).

Guidance to the experience:

• Visit Ayurvedic clinics or wellness centers certified by the Ministry of AYUSH (India).
• Always consult trained practitioners rather than wellness spas offering superficial experiences.
• Respect the spiritual and philosophical foundations of Ayurveda.

Recommended Experience: Kairali Ayurvedic Healing Village in Kerala is government-certified and deeply rooted in traditional practice.

3. Rongoā – New Zealand (Aotearoa)

Rongoā is the traditional healing system of the Māori people, using native plants, massage (mirimiri), and spiritual practices. It is a sacred and deeply cultural form of wellness.

When wanting to experience Rongoa:

• Seek out practitioners who are Māori and trained in traditional rongoā.
• Understand that rongoā is a living part of Māori culture, not a commodity.
• Participate with a willingness to learn and listen more than speak.

Find out more: Rongoa Maori

4. Bush Medicine and Dreamtime Healing – Australia

Aboriginal Australians use bush medicine derived from native plants and connect to healing through Dreamtime stories, songlines, and sacred rituals. These practices are rooted in a deep spiritual relationship with the land.

Experience it respectfully by:

• Book tours or healing experiences run by Aboriginal-owned businesses.
• Never appropriate Dreamtime stories or symbols.
• Understand that some aspects are sacred and not meant to be shared publicly.

Recommended Experience: Anangu Tours offers cultural tours and healing workshops.

5. Amazonian Plant Medicine (e.g. Ayahuasca) – South America

Ayahuasca ceremonies led by Indigenous shamans in the Amazon are becoming increasingly popular among spiritual seekers. These rituals are not recreational; they are sacred and often involve strict preparation and integration practices.

How to fully enjoy the experience:

• Only participate in ceremonies led by trained Indigenous shamans.
• Research the center’s ethics, safety protocols, and cultural credibility.
• Avoid “ayahuasca tourism” that exploits local communities.

Recommended Experience: Temple of the Way of Light in Peru works with Shipibo healers and prioritizes sustainability and respect.

Guidelines for Respectful Participation in Indigenous Healing Practices

1. Do Your Research: Understand the origin, purpose, and cultural significance of the healing practice.
2. Support Indigenous Practitioners: Choose experiences that are Indigenous-led or directly support Indigenous communities.
3. Practice Cultural Humility: Approach each experience with openness, humility, and a willingness to learn.
4. Avoid Commodification: Don’t treat sacred traditions as exotic entertainment.
5. Ask for Permission: Always ask before taking photos or sharing sacred knowledge.

Wellness travel can be a deeply transformative experience, especially when it is rooted in respect and cultural awareness. By engaging thoughtfully with Indigenous healing practices, you not only enhance your personal well-being, but also actively contribute to the preservation of ancestral wisdom and, moreover, support the sovereignty of Indigenous communities.