Centro de Saberes Ancestrales Yankuam

Awaken consciousness, connect with Mother Earth.

Ecuador Macas paid

set on an ancient Shuar necropolis overlooking the Rio Upano, Centro de Saberes Ancestrales Yankuam offers a unique space for awakening consciousness. This holistic center in Macas, Ecuador, is envisioned as a "Learning for Life" environment, fostering a sacred relationship with Mother Earth amidst a stunning landscape of mountains, waterfalls, and valleys. The focus here is on deep connection, both with the natural world and within oneself. Meals emphasize local organic products, with provisions for fasting or light eating during ceremonial times. It's a place where the rich cultural heritage of the region intertwines with a journey of personal growth, inviting visitors to step away from the everyday and immerse themselves in a profound, nature-infused experience.

Highlights

Located on an ancient Shuar necropolis overlooking the Rio Upano
Emphasizes a sacred relationship with Mother Earth
Meals based on local organic products, with ceremonial fasting
Focuses on "Learning for Life" in a family-like setting
Offers plant medicine practices

Good for

nature loversthose interested in plant medicinespiritual seekerseco-conscious travelerscultural immersion

Setting

The center is situated on an ancient Shuar necropolis, offering commanding views of the Rio Upano. Surrounded by the lush, vibrant landscape of Macas, Ecuador, it boasts a backdrop of majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and verdant valleys, creating a deeply immersive and serene natural environment.

The practice

While the specific tradition is not detailed, Centro de Saberes Ancestrales Yankuam focuses on awakening consciousness through a sacred relationship with Mother Earth. Practices likely involve deep connection to nature and may include plant medicine, as indicated by their offerings. Beginners can expect an immersive experience centered on holistic well-being and environmental reverence.

A typical day

The daily rhythm at Centro de Saberes Ancestrales Yankuam is designed to foster connection and awakening, though specific schedules vary by retreat. Expect a balance of structured activities, potentially including plant medicine ceremonies, and time for personal reflection amidst the natural surroundings. Meals will feature local organic produce, with provisions for fasting on ceremonial days.

Accommodation

Information about specific lodging arrangements is not available; please inquire directly with the center.

What to bring

Given the warm, wet climate, pack light, breathable clothing and rain gear. Consider bringing insect repellent and comfortable shoes for exploring the natural surroundings. As plant medicine is practiced, an open mind is also recommended.

How to get there

To reach the center, first travel to the Quitumbe land terminal in Quito from the airport by bus or taxi. From Quitumbe, take a bus to the Macas land terminal. Finally, a short taxi ride from Macas will bring you to Yankuam in the Nueva Jerusalem neighborhood.

Nearest airport: Coronel E Carvajal Airport (XMS) (1 km)

Coronel E Carvajal Airport (XMS) is approximately 1 km from the center. You would likely take a short taxi ride from this airport.

Nearest city: Macas

Public transport: Public buses are available from Quito to Macas, and taxis can be used for local transport.

How to book

Booking information is not provided; please contact the center directly for reservations.

Pricing

Pricing starts from USD 120. Please contact the center for specific retreat costs and what is included.

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Jan, Aug, Sep

Avoid: May, Mar, Apr

Macas experiences a warm climate with an annual average temperature of 20.1°C. The warmest months are December, April, and November, while July, August, and June are slightly cooler. Expect wetter conditions in May, March, and April, with January, August, and September being the driest months.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What kind of food is served at Centro de Saberes Ancestrales Yankuam?

The diet is based on local organic products. They offer vegan, vegetarian, organic, and dairy-free options. On some days, meals may be light or involve fasting for ceremony or ritual purposes.

What is the best way to get to the center from Quito?

From Quito airport, you can take a bus (USD 6) or taxi (USD 40) to the Quitumbe land terminal. From Quitumbe, take a bus to the Macas land terminal (USD 14). Finally, from Macas, a taxi to Yankuam, Nueva Jerusalem neighborhood, costs about USD 4.

What currency should I bring to Ecuador?

The local currency in Ecuador is the US dollar. It is advisable to have USD 20 bills, as larger denominations may not be accepted everywhere.

Are there specific practices or traditions followed at the center?

The center focuses on awakening consciousness through a sacred relationship with Mother Earth and offers plant medicine practices. The specific tradition is not detailed, but the emphasis is on holistic well-being and connection to nature.

What amenities are available at the center?

Centro de Saberes Ancestrales Yankuam offers Free Wifi, Free Parking, a Kitchen, Tour Assistance, and Coffee/Tea facilities.