We started the Ecotourism Productive Project in July 2021, in cooperation with “Cuidar la Tierra” Foundation, in 4 Matavén communities; andwe have completed the first phase: construction and equipment of the sustainable infrastructure. All the tasks of this Productive Project are presented, defined and executed by the members of the Indigenous Community Tourism Council (CITC), the captains, the women and men of the communities. They are also the ones working on/building the cabins, trails, furniture and handicrafts.
The Ecotourism Project is part of “ REDD+ Matavén Activity 6: Development of Productive Projects” to protect Matavén natural resources, strengthen their local governance, promote unity and teamwork, and create new economic and commercial opportunities, to improve their indigenous peoples quality of life.
In the communities of Barranco Colorado (Zone 3) and Laguna Cacao (Zone 4):
We completed the construction of the “Kuyawisi Lodge” ecolodge cabin (Barranco Colorado) and the “El Encanto de Maiyeka” ecolodge cabin (Laguna Cacao), each can accommodate up to 4 people. The cabins of 6m x 7.5m, have straw roof from palm leaves 4m height, wooden floor, solar panels, angeos for mosquitoes protection, 2 rooms with 2 single beds and 1 double bed with fans, sheets, blankets, towels and one bathroom.
In the community of La Urbana (Zone 3):
We finalized a viewing platform (15m2), a wooden corridor (102m) and an interpretive trail (500m) with 6 rest areas with benches and information signs.
In the community of Laguna Negra (Zone 4):
We completed the design of the botanical interpretive trail, and we are finishing building the ecolodge cabin, which is an open room of 45m2 with one-bathroom, straw roof from palm leaves, wooden floor, solar panels and fans.
Matavén communities are experiencing how a dream comes true, thanks to the work and commitment of all the parties involved. During the second phase of this Productive Project, we will provide the communities with training on hotel management, cultural gastronomy, tourism guide and transportation, among other skills that will allow them to enhance this opportunity at a commercial level.