(Deportes y Juegos Ancestrales de los Pueblos Indigenas de Costa Rica)

Thinking of visiting Costa Rica in 2027? Are you looking to:

  • Embrace a true sense of adventure?
  • Make a real difference for indigenous youth in remote Costa Rica?
  • Support a powerful cultural cause?

Yes exactly what you had been thinking about :-)) Join us from April 16 to 18, 2027, in Gavilán Canta, deep in the Caribbean heart of Talamanca. This historic reunion brings together athletes from all eight of Costa Rica's indigenous peoples: the Bribri, Cabécar, Maleku, Chorotega, Boruca, Ngäbe-Buglé, Huetar, and Térraba. More than a sports competition, these games are a vital affirmation of cultural identity and unity.

third indigenous games costa rica Join us at the 4th Ancestral Games

A Mirror for the Soul

For outside visitors - the Sicuas - the Games offer a profound lesson in community, tradition, and nature. This isn't a static museum piece; you will meet tech-savvy youth seamlessly balancing ancestral forest knowledge with modern smartphones.

This movement is organized by the Asociación de Juegos y Deportes Indígenas Autóctonos y Tradicionales de Talamanca , managed by the Asociación de Mujeres Kábata Könana "Defenders of the Mountain" and led by Gamaliel Molina Díaz (Gama) uniting hundreds of athletes from 24 territories to preserve their heritage while focusing on indigenous identity for the youth of the territories and creating some economic opportunity for the area.

Catch a glimpse of the legacy via this 2018 event video.

Gama Join us at the log carry.
Games photos by Manuel Sancho-Gutiérrez.

Where is Gavilán Canta?

Located about an hour east of Puerto Viejo via Bribri, the final 15km is an unpaved road easily managed by locals in 2WD vehicles. This remote territory is a hidden gem rarely seen by traditional tourists. While local lodging is highly limited, excellent accommodations are readily available just south in Puerto Viejo, Cahuita and neighboring coastal towns.

indigenous games costa rica Join us at the 4th Ancestral Games

Events & Cultural Experiences

Traditional Competitions and Activities Include:

  • Moving target & long-distance bow and arrow
  • Spear throwing & target blowgun shooting
  • Endurance log carrying and racing
  • Rope pull, firewood pick, and arm wrestling
  • Open water river swimming & traditional boat rowing
  • Leaf weaving, banana peeling, and traditional drink contests
  • Special children's sports activities and a children's theatre and more

Immersive Guest Opportunities: Learn local history, try your hand at select games, or participate in traditional crafts like cocoa processing, leaf-roof construction, and natural dye weaving.

Make friends in the territory Make some new friends in the territory

Where to Stay?

For eco-lodging near the site, reach out to coordinator Gamaliel Molina Díaz (Gama) via WhatsApp at +506 8877 0228 or email at gamitaditsofree@hotmail.com. He operates the Se Siwá Eco Lodge just a few kilometers away in Monte Sion. He may be able to hook you up with other local accomodation in the nearby villages.

Alternatively, find plenty of coastal lodging options nearby on TripAdvisor: Puerto Viejo Hotels and Cahuita Hotels.

womens association Meet the women's association making the Games happen

Can You Get Involved?

Come witness the event firsthand! Show up anytime after 8:00 AM on April 17th. Whether you stay for an hour or a full day, it promises unforgettable memories as well as delicious local foods and crafts.

Support the Cause with a Donation:

Contributions can be made directly via The Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation (Direct Donations), an organization led by Gail Nystrom dedicated to improving life for vulnerable populations.

Important Note: Please mark your donations "Ancestral Games 2027". Funds are managed directly by the foundation. Surplus contributions directly support community initiatives like the Indigenous Libraries project. For questions, contact bernij@puravidahotel.com.
Brörán Have you been wondering about the Brörán? Meet them in April 2027

Supporting Cast

Special thanks to the local businesses and individuals championing remote sustainable tourism this year:

Games Making new friends April 2027