La Fortuna: Small-Group Maleku Indigenous Reserve Visit｜Costa Rica

The Maleku Indigenous Reserve is in the Northern Region of Costa Rica. The reserve consists of 3 different towns that are known as "Palenques"; Margarita, Tonjibe, and El Sol, all within a territory of 2993 hectares (7396 acres). The population of 1000 inhabitants speak the dialect known as Maleku Jaica around 80% of the time. The purpose of this tour is to allow you to learn about the way of life of these indigenous groups in the present day, and what they have done to keep their customs and traditions alive.

Your tour begins in La Fortuna at 8:00 AM and after a 1-hour drive through the northern plains, you will arrive at the Palenque Tonjibe community 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. This includes the way they bury their dead, the antique type of home structures, 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 600-meter walk along a forest trail in order to learn about medicinal plants that our ancestors used, and how we benefit from them today. Here you will also observe some antique indigenous tombs. Finally, you will pass through a Palenque where we will be treated to a traditional Maleku meal. Around 1:00 PM, you will have completed your visit to this village and will begin your return to La Fortuna.