Maleku Indiginous Reserve

The Maleku Indiginous Reserve is located south of the town of Guatuso, in the count of the same name. The Maleku Village is settled in three different sectors of the reserve, called Palenques Margarita, Tonjibe and El Sol, all within a 2993 hectar territory, with a population of only 1000.

The Maleku people speak a language known as Maleku Jaica, which is the primary language of 70% of the population today.

The Maleku Indians were originally settled in the land which today includes the counties of Guanacaste and San Carlos. The Malekus testify that around the 19th century their territory covered around 100.000 hectares.

Currently, the Maleku dedicate their lives to agriculture and making beautiful handmade crafts, which can be purchased directly from the indigenous people, or in most souvenir shops in the Arenal region.