On the basis of luminescence lifetime studies we have determined the energy transfer parameters and population evolution for the F-2(5/2)(Yb3+), I-4(11/2) and I-4(13/2) (Er3+) energy levels in single crystals of ScBO3 (SBO), LaSc3(BO3)(4) (LSB), LiY(BO3)(3) (LYE) and CaGd4Si3O13 (CGS), codoped with Yb3+ and Er3+. For the first time we have studied the interaction of dopants in CGS, GSAG and CaYAlO4 (CYA) with the ion-relaxator Ce3+. Fast and efficient energy transfer to the laser level is achieved in LSB-Yb, Er, When energy is transferred from Yb to Er in CGS. the level I-4(11/2) is populated. This level is affected by reverse energy transfer? excited state absorption and accumulation. The population of this level could be reduced by an order of magnitude using Ce3+ ions as a dopant.