Costa Rica
Sacred temple tour
Three-day experience immersing in the Bribri place of worship, learning about their beliefs, dietary habits, and moral code.
The god Sibö was born in a realm of spirits. One day, he decided to create the Earth and the sky, but the land was dry and barren. So, he called upon his friend the Bat, who had bitten Sibö’s sister, and from the Bat’s feces, trees and crops began to grow. Sibö then planted corn seeds to create the Bribri people, dividing them into groups and instructing them not to marry within their own clan. He entrusted magic stones to the awápa (shamans), charging them with curing illness and protecting souls. Sibö also taught that kinship is passed down matrilineally and emphasized the importance of respecting both women and men.
This tour will take you to discover the Sibö worship temple, where you’ll learn about the stories of the world’s creation and the role of animals in providing moral guidance to humanity.
Price upon request
- Suretka
- Community based tour
- 3 days tour
- Daily departure
- Easy activity
- Full board included
- English speaking guide
Nature and outdoors
History and culture
Solidariety and community
Food and socialization
Schedule
The itinerery
DAY 1
Arrival in Suretka and overnight stay in a typical indigenous home—a simple, basic, and very clean wooden accommodation.
DAY 2
Today’s tour begins with a visit to the sacred Temple of the Bribri, a cornerstone of their community. We reach this destination via a journey partly by boat (along the Telire-Lari river) and partly by car.
This temple serves as a gathering place for families and friends, where they strengthen their bonds and commune with Sibú, the Bribri god of creation. Its distinctive cone-shaped structure symbolizes the creation of the world and the teachings imparted by Sibú to humanity.
During our visit, we learn about the construction of the temple and witness the inauguration ceremonies that mark its significance. We also explore the surrounding area to gain insights into the activities of the shamans and observe an ancient grinding stone traditionally used in Bribri cuisine.
We enjoy a communal lunch with the Bribri community, discovering their remarkably healthy eating habits rich in fruits, many of which are unfamiliar in the Western world, and free from fried foods. Corn and cocoa are also integral parts of the Bribri diet, often used in ceremonies and purification rituals.
DAY 3
The following morning, we begin the day with breakfast provided by our host before departing from Suretka.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- Suretka is a small village located 16 km from Bribri and 30 km from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
- Accommodation: Typical Bribri home, basic and clean, with an outdoor bathroom.
- Free parking is available on-site. For those arriving by public transport, travel to the Bribri terminal station and take a chicken bus to Suretka (choose the one heading towards Bambù).
- Transport services from Suretka to other locations can be arranged upon request through our guide.
What is included?
- 2 overnights
- Guide in English, Spanish and Bribri
- Entrance fee to the indigenous reserve
- Full board meals
- Water and snacks
What to bring?
We recommend dressing comfortably in appropriate clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Please bring a jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, waterproof jacket, sunglasses, sun hat, and any other items you may find necessary for your comfort and enjoyment.
What to expect?
