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Frequently Asked Questions

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Pakarinka Ushay offers participants an authentic indigenous cultural immersion and healing experience. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask us.

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What kind of ceremonies does Tayta Willak offer?

Tayta Willak performs traditional Andean ceremonies, both private and public. He has conducted thousands of ceremonies for weddings, namings, events, and raymikuna. He also offers spiritual energy cleansing and balancing ceremonies for individuals (wayrapichay, limpiezas) and homes (wasipichay).
In alignment with his ethical practices as an indigenous yachak, Tayta Willak serves Ayahuasca and Huachuma exclusively for healing purposes, never for recreational use. We offer three types of Healing-Retreats to support people from all over the world in their healing journey.

 

To arrange ceremonies at Pakarinka Ushay or another location, please contact Tayta Willak Guillermo Santillan via WhatsApp at +593 96 719 2214. He speaks English, Kichwa, Spanish, French, and Italian.

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Are private consultation sessions with Tayta Willak available?

Yes, Tayta Willak offers personal guidance, education, and healing ceremonies both at Pakarinka Ushay and online.

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What is the altitude of the Healing and Education Center?

Pakarinka Ushay is located at an elevation of over 8,300 feet in the Andes mountains. If you are not accustomed to high altitudes, please be aware that altitude sickness can affect you. Plan to arrive one to two days before the retreat begins to acclimate to the altitude. There are medicinal plant leaves and prescription medications available here to alleviate or eliminate symptoms. These can be prescribed in advance of your arrival if necessary.​​

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Is there a risk of malaria or dengue at the center?

Due to our high-altitude location, there is no risk of contracting malaria or dengue, unlike retreat centers in the Amazon or coastal areas of Ecuador. We do have "noseeums" here—tiny flying insects (Cerato-pogonidae) that do not transmit diseases. While they do not bother the indigenous people who have always lived here, about half of all foreign visitors develop an itchy reaction to their bites. Be sure to bring an effective insect repellent (preferably DEET-free and with natural ingredients, such as lemongrass oil).

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What is the area like?

We are situated in a rual indigenous community, only 10 minutes outside of Otavalo. The center is situated on a hilltop, surrounded by a diverse range of flowers, medicinal plants, fruit trees, crops, and grass. Sheep, llamas, cats, and dogs often roam freely on the property. From the Healing Center, you can view Tayta Imbabura and Mama Cotacachi, two of the sacred mountains in the region, as well as enjoy stunning views of the city of Otavalo.

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Do you have a museum for the ancient artifacts found on the property?

Pakarinka Ushay has a small local museum that serves as an educational experience for participants and other guests. We are happy to offer guided tours and answer any questions you may have about Andean culture and spirituality. Admission is free, with donations welcomed to support our local indigenous youth cultural programs. Please contact us in advance to arrange a visit.

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Is there smoke during the ceremonies?

Participants with asthma or smoke allergies should be aware that it is almost impossible to avoid smoke during our ceremonies, workshops, and retreats. Outdoor fires are often lit for warmth, cooking, lighting, and ceremonial purposes. Most Andean ceremonies also include "cleansing" individuals with a fragrant smoke produced by palo santo wood.​​

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CONTACT US HERE 
Website: PakarinkaUshay.org
Facebook: Pakarinka Ushay
Instagram: Pakarinka_Ushay
YouTube: @PakarinkaUshay
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