Cultural Canoe Experience – Bribri Traditions & Spirituality
Journey by canoe into Bribri territory to explore Indigenous spirituality, visit a traditional spiritual house, make cacao by hand, and enjoy a local lunch — all guided by members of the community.
Connect with the roots of Bribri culture on this meaningful journey through river, forest, and spirit.
This full-day experience takes you deep into the heart of Talamanca, where the Bribri people have lived in harmony with nature for generations. Your journey begins with a peaceful canoe ride through the jungle, where you’ll be surrounded by lush rainforest, wildlife, and the sounds of the river. Guided by a Bribri host, you’ll hear stories about the land, the people, and the traditions that continue to shape life in this region.
Once you arrive in the community, you’ll be welcomed into a traditional spiritual house — a sacred space where you’ll learn about the Bribri worldview, spiritual practices, and the symbols that guide their daily life. This is not a performance, but a genuine invitation to understand how nature, spirit, and community are deeply connected.
You’ll also take part in a hands-on cacao demonstration, where you’ll learn how chocolate is made the traditional way — roasted, ground, and prepared with intention. Cacao is much more than a treat here; it’s medicine, tradition, and a symbol of connection. Of course, you’ll get to taste the results.
A home-cooked Bribri lunch made with local, plant-based ingredients is included — simple, nourishing, and rooted in ancestral knowledge. After some time to relax and connect, you’ll return by canoe and head back to Puerto Viejo with a deeper understanding of the people and traditions that make this region so unique.
We work directly with Bribri families and spiritual leaders to offer respectful, community-based experiences. This tour is perfect for travelers looking to explore Indigenous culture in an honest, immersive, and meaningful way.