The Maleku are one of Costa Rica’s smallest indigenous groups, practicing herbal medicine and sustainable farming.

Population

~600

Origins

The Maleku people are one of Costa Rica's smallest indigenous groups, residing in the northern region of Alajuela near the Arenal Volcano. They have a history of living in the forested areas of northern Costa Rica and southern Nicaragua.

Customs and Culture

The Maleku culture includes traditional hunting, fishing, and farming practices. They speak the Maleku language, which is currently endangered. The community places a strong emphasis on preserving their language, traditional crafts, and spiritual beliefs, which often center on nature and the forest.

Activity

Visitors can explore Maleku villages, learn about traditional crafts such as gourd carving and natural dye use, and participate in guided nature walks to understand their traditional ecological knowledge.

Other

Efforts to preserve language and healing practices