Maleku Indigenous Reserve

On this tour, you will learn about the Maleku culture and traditions, as well as participate in activities such as a traditional Maleku ceremony, a guided hike through the forest and a demonstration of traditional crafts. The Maleku are one of the indigenous groups in Costa Rica and their reserve is located in the northern part of the country. The tour starts at 8am in La Fortuna and after an 1 hour drive we arrive at the Maleku town Tonjibe Palenque.

The community gives us a warm welcome and a short presentation before we start our walk through the village to visit some of the traditional Maleku homes and learn about their daily life. We will also learn a lot about their traditions and about their efforts to keep their culture alive. 

In addition to the cultural experience, the tour also offers the chance to support the Maleku community by purchasing handicrafts made by local artisans. The Maleku people are known for their intricate weaving and pottery, so they will proudly present you some of their masterpieces, which for sure are one of the most unique souvenirs you can find. The proceeds from these purchases go towards supporting the community and preserving their way of life. Of course, you are not obligated to buy anything. 

The tour also offers the opportunity to explore the reserve's forests and rivers and learn about the Maleku's relationship with the environment. They will explain you which medicinal plants they use and why the use of cocoa is so important in their agriculture.

At the end of the tour we will enjoy a delicious Maleku lunch before returning to our hotels in La Fortuna. 

Overall, a visit to the Maleku Indigenous Reserve provides a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the culture of one of Costa Rica's indigenous groups while supporting the preservation of their traditional way of life.

Notes:

• - Price is per person
• - 13% sales tax will be added upon booking
• - Minimum number of participants: 2 adults
• - Child rate ($58) is for children 5-11 years old, children 0-4 years old are allowed free of charge, child seats are available free of charge (subject to availability).
• - Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• - Vegetarian option available for lunch, please specify when making reservations.
• - The tour is bilingual in English and Spanish
• - Transportation from most hotels is included in the price. If your hotel is far from downtown La Fortuna or the road to the Arenal Volcano, additional pick-up costs may apply. Please inquire at the time of booking.
• - The departure times are approximate and we will send you the exact pickup time.

Policies:

• - Cancellations or changes to the booking are possible until 24 hours before departure. After that, the full booking price will be charged in any case.
• - If a participant does not appear at the agreed time at the agreed place, we can wait a maximum of 5 minutes. In case of non-appearance, the full booking price will be charged.