Costa Rica psychedelic retreats under scrutiny after tourist death

American Tourist's Death Sparks Scrutiny

The death of Lauren Levis, a 40-year-old American social worker, during a psychedelic retreat in Costa Rica has reignited concerns about the safety and regulation of such retreats. According to the New York Times, Levis died in August 2024 after ingesting ibogaine at Soul Centro, a retreat facility in Paquera. Her case has drawn international attention as part of a broader investigation into the risks associated with unregulated psychedelic therapy abroad.

Details of the Incident

Levis, who had previously visited the retreat in October 2023, returned for a second session in August 2024. Her family reported that the ceremony lasted through the night, and she was later found unresponsive in a shower. The family faced difficulties contacting the facility in the aftermath. Levis had paid approximately $4,000 for the treatment, unaware of ibogaine's illegal status in Costa Rica. The Judicial Investigation Organization in Nicoya conducted an eight-month investigation before forwarding their findings to local prosecutors in March 2025.

Regulatory Context and Industry Growth

Costa Rica's psychedelic retreat industry operates largely in a legal gray area, with minimal government oversight. The country is home to around 80 retreat centers, with a significant number offering ayahuasca, psilocybin mushrooms, and ibogaine. The largest centers, primarily located in Puntarenas and Tamarindo, can accommodate up to 100 guests per session, charging about $5,000 per person. The industry's growth has been fueled by celebrity endorsements, including NFL players Aaron Rodgers and Adrian Colbert, and musician Machine Gun Kelly.

Why It Matters

The case of Lauren Levis underscores the potential dangers of unregulated psychedelic retreats, which attract many Americans seeking treatments not available in the U.S. A safety review in JAMA found that fewer than half of the 49 retreats and clinics studied employed medical professionals, and only about 10% had staff trained for emergencies. The lack of consistent medical screening and emergency preparedness poses significant risks to participants.

Broader Implications

The New York Times investigation highlights a pattern of safety concerns beyond Costa Rica, with similar incidents reported in Mexico and Peru. Mexico, in particular, has seen a rise in psychedelic tourism due to its proximity to the U.S. and looser regulations. The risks associated with ibogaine, which can cause fatal cardiac complications, emphasize the need for stringent medical oversight during treatment.

Costa Rica's Institute on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence has reported 569 deaths linked to psychoactive substance use between 2014 and 2020, though this figure encompasses a broad range of substances, not just those used in retreats.