Immerse yourself in the rich indigenous history and culture of Costa Rica on a tour of the Maleku Indigenous Reserve. Discover the customs and traditions of the Maleku people and learn how they have preserved their way of life.
- Maleku Chocolate - The tour begins in La Fortuna at 8:00 am. After a 1 hour drive through the northern plains, you will arrive at the Indian community Palenque Tonjibe and be warmly received by their people. After a short presentation, you will begin a hike through the village to observe many important aspects of this unique place, such as the way they bury their dead, the antique type of home structures, and their artwork and craftsmanship which currently provide a means of income, the use of cocoa in their farming, and the creation of their clothing.
Later you will continue with a walk along a forest trail with 600 meter long (0.37 miles) in order to learn about medicinal plants that the ancestors used, and how we benefit from them today. Here you will also observe some antique huacas or indigenous tombs.
Finally you will pass through a Palenque were you will be treated to a traditional Maleku meal.
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- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional guide
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Traditional Maleku lunch
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi
- Gratuities
Positioned in the North of Costa Rica, the Maleku Indigenous Reserve houses three separate villages. These are Palenques Margarita, Tonjibe y El Sol, and they all lie within the boundary of the reserve, which covers an expansive area of 2993 hectares (7395 acres). A thousand indigenous individuals form the population here, with 80% of them conversing in their traditional language, Maleku Jaica. This tour enables you to gain an understanding of the tribe’s contemporary lifestyle and the steps they’ve taken to uphold their enduring customs and traditions.
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.