Community-based tourism -Agua Blanca

We got to see a great example of community-led tourism as we learned about the Agua Blanca community. This is a modern day mestizo/indigenous community that comes from the Mantena tribe. 

They have used ceramics found in the area to determine lineage. Check out the similarities below. 

The current community is self-sustaining through agriculture. They grow bananas and other tropical fruits among other produce. They also use tourism as a form of income. They developed a museum of their culture and heritage and lead guided tours within the community to educate tourists about their traditions

One of the most unique elements of the community was the fact that there is a natural sulfur lagoon fed by a stream. The lagoon contained 70% sulfur and locals swim their daily for its healing properties. MC students tried it out to heal some sunburns. 

The same lagoon water is used for agriculture. They highlighted this as one of their practices to better conserve water. 

The museum gave us a great look into Manteno past life. Below are a few examples of what we saw. 

Burial pots

How they sailed and hung anchor

Ancient tattooing