Maleku Territory

The Maleku live in three palenques, Margarita, Tonjibe and El Sol, in the Guatuso district of the northern lowlands, a population of around a thousand and among the smallest indigenous groups in Costa Rica, whose language is one of the few in the country still spoken by children as well as elders. The communities run their own visits: guided walks explaining medicinal and useful plants, demonstrations of carving on jicaro gourds and balsa masks, traditional food, language, music and an account of their history and their present situation. Craft is sold directly. The visits are organised by the families themselves rather than through outside operators, and booking ahead is the way to arrange them.

What you actually see

• Language and storytelling - the Maleku language used and explained.
• Gourd and mask carving - the craft demonstrated and sold.
• Plant walks - the guided explanation of medicinal and useful species.
• Traditional food - the meal served as part of the visit.

When to go

December to April in the drier season for the roads; the northern lowlands are wet from May to November. Visits need booking ahead with the communities. Weekdays are usual.

Honest expectations

These are people's homes and communities, not an attraction; visits are booked, guided and on the community's terms. Some presentation is arranged for visitors rather than everyday practice, which the hosts are open about. Facilities are basic. Roads in are rough in the wet season.

Nearby

Guatuso lies close; La Fortuna and Arenal are southeast.