The Healing and Education Center Pakarinka Ushay in the mountains of Ecuador is run and managed by Yachak (Shaman) Tayta Willak and his family since 2003. Today he is supported by an international team.
Yachak Tayta Willka Willak
Tayta Willak is a 7th-generation indigenous Yachak (shaman) from the Kichwa community of Agato, Ecuador. With over two decades of dedicated training, he was entrusted by the elders to lead sacred ceremonies with powerful plant medicines like Ayahuasca and Huachuma, as well as energetic cleansings, sweat lodges, and other transformative rituals.
He carries the ancient wisdom of countless generations of Yachaks, safeguarding it for future generations. Tayta Willak is here to remind us of the profound importance of reconnecting with our spiritual origins, for it is through living in harmony with nature that we find the foundation for a healthy, balanced life. Over the course of his journey, he has guided more than 5,000 souls on their path to healing, sharing the timeless teachings of his ancestors.
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Family of Tayta Willak
For the indigenous community of Otavalo, family is everything. Tayta Willak's wife Matilde takes care of the beautiful garden around the healing center and enjoys to be deeply connected with Allpamama (Mother Earth) when taking care of the garden and the organic corn & beans field of the center. She is rooted in the Kichwa traditions, likes to laugh and sing. Tayta Willaks two adult children Yla and Atik, are currently studying in the University of Quito, but spend their weekends at Pakarinka Ushay to support their family project. Yla is a strong young woman, striving to preserve her culture and protect the rights of women and Pachamama. Atik is a passionate musician with a gentle and kind heart and follows the path of his father.
Maja Krauss
Maja is a passionate nature-assisted therapist (M.Sc.) from Germany, currently living and working alongside Tayta Willak in Ecuador. With a deep commitment to healing, Maja has been working in the field of nature-assisted therapy and coaching since 2018, primarily through the transformative connection with horses. In 2022, her personal healing journey led her to discover the profound power of psychedelic plant medicines, prompting her to become a trained psychedelic facilitator last year.
As a Co-Host for upcoming retreats, Maja brings her scientific perspective, compassionate nature, and a unique ability to bridge cultural gaps. Maja is excited to support each individual on their journey, helping them connect deeply with themselves, others, and the natural world around them.
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