Traditional chacara bags are handmade using fibers extracted from plants, gathered in the jungle surrounding the indigenous village of San Cristóbal. During this half-day introduction to this unusual art form, you will be shown how the fibers are extracted, participate in the production of natural dyes used to color the fibers, and will be able to begin the process of weaving your own chacara bag.

The women of the village will also instruct you in the preparation of a traditional Ngöbe lunch, using the tropical ingredients grown around the community. After enjoying this nutritious lunch, we will return by boat to Bocas town.

The Village

As you sail through the mangroves to the entrance to the community of San Cristóbal, your boat will be greeted by wide-eyed Ngöbe children, excited to lead the visitors up to their village. This community of around 800 people sprawls down a hillside, with gorgeous views of the surrounding islands across the bay.

Highlights

• Learning how to extract the fibers from the jungle plants
• Preparing natural dyes with which to color your chacara bag
• A Ngöbe lunch - made with delicous and unusual local ingredients, grown organically around the village
• Learn to weave by handand start your own chacara

Itinerary

9:00 Depart from Bocas town

9:30 Arrival in San Cristóbal

9:45: Crafts workshop

1:00: Lunch

2:30: Community tour

3:00: Depart from San Cristóbal

3:30: Arrival in Bocas town

Price

Package Includes

• Return boat transportation
• Handicraft workshop and materials
• Community tour
• Lunch and bottled water

What to Bring

• Sun screen
• Insect repellent
• Plastic bags to protect cameras and other equipment
• Bottled water and snacks

Sustainability

This Ngöbe village relies on the surrounding land and natural resources.  Many of the vegetables and herbs used in the meals are grown on Isla San Cristóbal, and fish and lobster is caught by local fishermen.

The handicrafts displayed and sold are made from seeds, plants and fruits collected from the surrounding jungle. The money generated from the sale of the artisan products is shared between the community and the artist. Additionally, five dollars of every tour package purchased goes towards the education of youth dancers, to maintain this traditional form of expression.

In addition, several green practices have been implemented throughout the Ngöbe village. Electricity is only used in the evenings, while showering and washing facilities are communal, aiding water conservation. There are composting toilets shared in several locations throughout the community, reducing water use as well as water pollution. The villagers rely on hand-paddled cayucos (traditional wooden boats) and take minimal trips to other islands by motorboats.

Reservations

Please contact BSTA to reserve this tour, or visit their Tourist Information Center between Calle 1 and 2, on the road to the airport.

Inquire Now