The smallest of the three Indian reserves is found just 15 minutes inland from Puerto Viejo where the local people stick to traditional customs and ways of living. This 5,000+ hectare reserve is part of the Talamanca-Caribbean Biological Corridor, which has more than 36,000 hectares of land under protection. The reserve has no specific ‘centre’ with traditionally built homes spread all throughout the area. Scattered around the reserve you’ll also find an iguana project, bird viewing station (where an annual bird count takes place) and both a cultural and a scientific center. You can choose to hike to an impressive waterfall or through a traditional farm, or buy handcraft goods in the “Basket House.” Tours to Kekoldi to learn about the culture, traditions and use of the forest can be arranged with ATEC on Puerto Viejo’s main street

This group of indigenous people lives as they have in years gone by and Puerto Viejo offers a great opportunity to see how they go about their daily routines. The community is off the beaten track and a guided trip, which depending on time also includes bird watching, nice views and a trek to a waterfall, is the only respectful way to catch a glimpse of their culture. Guide required.

Phone

ATEC 7500191, 7500398

Website

www.greencoast.com/atec.htm

Cost

Cost $20p/p

half day, $35p/p full day

Hiking, Birdwatching, Cultural Tour

By Ruth Bell

Scottish, 24, female. Works hard plays hard. Favourite quote- "Though we travel the world to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us or we will...