Shipibo Shaman Benjamin Ochavano Interview

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Benjamin Ochavano Is a traditional Shipibo Muraya .He is in his late eighties, and his chants (icaros) sung in the Shipibo language are extraordinary beautiful and with a powerful and extensive vocal range.

Note: This interview was with Peter Cloudsley and Howard G Charing on the Rio Tamishaku in 2002. The article has been revised to include end notes, plant classifications, and some additional photos. I last met up with Benjamin in Pisaq January 2010, he still looking strong and very robust – he is in his late eighties! Benjamin is holding ayahuasca ceremonies in the Cuzco area, and if anyone has an opportunity to drink with this traditional Shipibo Muraya and Palero and hear his amazing icaros – go for it!