Maleku Tribe a great family experience in Arenal

 Legend Maleku says that "Tocú laca" was one of the places where his god lived. Each time the majestic volcano emanated fumaroles, Tocu was showing his dominion and power through the magma fire. In their surroundings the Maleku settled to live near the house of Tocu, the land of sacred fire and keep their fury off.The tribe met at the foot of the colossus to beg for protection, strength and wisdom, with cacao offerings they worshiped the sovereign to avoid their wrath. Not everyone could climb their skirts, only those who had the mantle could access the sacred place. He who was willing to reach the bowels, would have to cover his body with volcanic mud and oil, to dye his skin and obtain the strength of Tocu. He had to request the permission of the elders, but, not of anyone, he should be the one who maintained total devotion to Tocu and his wisdom intact. He alone would decide if that person could approach the deepest and most dense forest of the sacred earth.The elders interpreted the messages that Tocu sent with each rumble of the Arenal volcano and transmitted them to the town. The lava flows brought messages that warned of an event that would happen, or remembered something that was happening and the village could not perceive. The great creator demanded respect and devotion to the sacred ground, in exchange for his protection at all times and in all places.

One day, strangers arrived in their lands, invading and bringing with them the destruction of the forest and the curse for the people. The Malekus fled to save their lives to high and distant lands. When Tocu saw that the times of peace and harmony had been altered, he manifested his anger with a rash of fire, gases and rocks, which caused the death of people who roamed the land ruled by the sovereign.When such misfortune came to the ears of the Malekus, the tribe prostrated itself and with the cajúli in hand they implored the creator once and again not to spread the wrath on the man. The anger did not stop. One of the wise elders took a creature that did not surpass 4 years, raised it saying these words: "this is your disciple, it belongs to you, do not spread your anger that here is your disciple, take it, it is yours" minutes after the volcano He stopped erupting, and calm returned.
 The people sent a message to the non-Malekus saying, "Do not make Tocu's wrath spread over the earth again, you can go in peace." Months later the disciple delivered to Tocu died, and he lives today in the bosom of Tocu. Since then "Tocú laca" remains calm. It is said that only the Maleku can ask for your peace of mind.The old Maleku, know from before that very soon they have to leave the land and in advance advise their families and tell them that in the direction of "Tocú laca" they should point their head, in order to be able to watch and rest next to Tocú in their forest sacred.

IL VIAGGIO TRAVEL can help you  be part of this culture, traditions, leyends, food, arts and crafts.