Indigenous Talamanca

Simplicity, radical natural beauty, wildlife and friendship are all terms which come to mind when talking about Bambu, which is part of the indigenous area of Talamanca. Come, integrate yourself into a local indigenous community, while participating in a variety of ongoing sustainable, educational, and cultural volunteer projects. 

Bambu, located just across the Panamanian border, on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, is labeled on traditional maps as “Bratsi.” Here is where a very charismatic man named Danilo Gabb fulfilled a dream by building a magical place to “exchange cultures.” The real magic, however, is what happens in and around these structures.

This Bambu Indigenous Project is the perfect place to:

  • Show your children how other people live simple, fulfilled lives — despite the fact they don’t have much money;
  • Unplug and truly relax and be present;
  • Learn about ancient indigenous traditions.

Activities available:

  • Bribri Temple Tour
  • Organic Cacao (Chocolate) Tour
  • Alto Katsi Tour
  • Yorkin Tour
  • Organic Banana Farm Tour
  • Waterfall Tour
  • Frogs and Butterflies Tour

Volunteering options include helping:

  • Elementary School
  • Retirement Home
  • Neighborhood Kids
  • Radio Station
  • Customized, utilizing your own skills

It is not a requirement to do volunteer work here. We are happy to customize your experience. We strongly suggest staying here with us at the lodge or with a host family, but we can also arrange premium lodging in nearby Puerto Viejo. Even if you are only interested in a one-day experience, we are also happy to arrange that.

This Indigenous Talamanca Project is Tropical Adventures longest-running project. We started here in 2005, and we are proud to partner with such an amazing community.