The Quitirrisí Indigenous Community

Tour/Activity , Costa Rica

About this activity

Visit the Indigenous Territory of Quitirrisí and learn about the traditions of the Huetar people, once Costa Rica’s largest indigenous group, in hands-on workshops

Your Travel Experience with Finest Journeys

The Quitirrisí Indigenous Community

Visit the Indigenous Territory of Quitirrisí and connect with the traditions of the Huetar people, once Costa Rica’s largest indigenous group. Led by a family dedicated to cultural preservation, this three-hour tour at El Rancho Biriteca offers an authentic look into their heritage. Begin with an introduction to Huetar history, including Cacique Garabito’s resistance against Spanish colonization. Walk through a reforested area that was once a coffee plantation, now a thriving secondary forest. Along the way, explore sacred tombs and ceremonial altars, gaining insight into the community’s spiritual traditions. Engage in hands-on workshops, shaping clay with ancestral techniques, preparing 'chilate' - a maize-based drink - and practicing traditional bow and arrow skills. These activities reflect knowledge passed down for generations. The experience concludes with a meal featuring traditional dishes, offering a taste of the Huetar way of life. More than just a tour, Rancho Biriteca stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural identity of the Huetar people, ensuring their legacy endures.