The Community of Sabalo

The community of Sabalo is located in a remote part of the Osa Peninsula. These 50 plus families have never had public electricity, water or telephones. There is no real commerce here and most families get by from living off the land or working menial jobs offered by foreigners who own land in the area. These jobs consist of keeping property cleared of brush and usually pay well below standard with no benefits.

Sabalo used to thrive on the extraction of natural dyes found in the trees of the mangroves. These dyes were used in many leather products around the world. On Friday and Saturday night they would fire up a generator for the local bar (no longer in existence) in town complete with lights and music. This used to be a happening place. Once the mangroves received protected status by the Costa Rican government, Sabalo's only source of commerce was wiped out and has never recovered. The people that live here today are what are left of that once booming time.

The people of Sabalo are a very simple and humble people who generally are good natured and friendly. They are religious, mostly Catholic and live a life of minimal existence. They seem to get along fine without the trappings that most people are used to like television, internet, refrigeration, cars, electricity, etc. In some ways they are the model of sustainable living leaving a small carbon footprint.

There is no police presence in Sabalo yet the people have lived together without major conflict. I feel it’s their strong religious beliefs that keep them humble and living harmoniously. The standard tool owned by a Tico (male Costa Rican, Tica-female Costa Rican) is a long-blade machete for clearing brush. Do not be alarmed as you walk through this modest town where all the men seem to be armed with steel. This would be the equivalent of you walking around with a cell phone. It’s a necessity for living in the jungle.

This community has never really seen that many tourists in the area except for the occasional foreigner looking for land to purchase. There are no other tourist-based businesses in the area. The following tips are offered to help you enjoy this unique experience of exploring where most tourists to Costa Rica have never been.

 

Tips for interaction with the community of Sabalo

Although most people are very friendly and as curious about you as you are of them you should never assume everyone wants to meet you. When approaching someone watch their body language, some people are more shy or uncomfortable meeting foreigners than others.

When walking through town remember that you are guests in this remote community. Things are very quiet here. Try to refrain from loud conversation, pointing, or other things that might draw attention to you. A simple wave and a smile go a long way.

If you want to take a picture of someone always ask permission first. If you are not sure you have permission do not take the picture.

Try to refrain from wearing expensive items like fancy watches, jewelry or showing off things like GPS’s, hand held devices, IPODS, etc. These people have very little and ultimately it’s just not appropriate behavior to try and impress someone who has less with what you have more of.

Refrain from giving coins or candy to children, this only encourages begging. Currently there is no begging problem in Sabalo; they don’t see tourists. Please help us to make sure we do not bring this behavior to the village children.

Respect people's property, they are very serious about that. Do not cross a fence line to get a picture of something or a closer look unless you have the owner's permission.

Stay on the well marked main road through town.

Be cautious of dogs, they are not on leashes and will approach strangers when they come near the property they are protecting. You are encouraged to bring our two female dogs on your walks, they know how to charm the best watch dog.

 

How can you contribute to the community of Sabalo?

Participate on one of our local cultural tours or locally guided tours. We have places that have never been seen by tourists. Your local guides Douglas and Isaac, know Sabalo better than anyone else. The rides by horse into the mountainous jungle will simply amaze you. These tours are not to be missed with their beauty, abundant wildlife and the best secluded swimming holes.

Bring a reference book for the school that could be used for children ages 5-12; pictures are always best. You can also bring school supplies like pens, pencils, crayons, notebooks, etc.

Bring extra clothing, shoes, etc. that you no longer wear. We will bring these items to the church for dispersal among the village.

Make a financial contribution to the school. We will personally make sure all contributions are spent for the school based on what the teacher feels is needed most.

Sports equipment or simple toys will always be appreciated by the children who have so little here.

 

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