Bua de los Tsa’chila

Website: www.yanapuma.org
E-mail: staff@yanapuma.org
Phone: Alfonso Aguavil: +593 (0)91 812 011 or Fundación Yanapuma: +593 (0)2290 7643

Who they are

The Tsa’chila are a unique culture in Ecuador who traditionally lived in the rainforest on the lowest slopes on the Pacific side of the Andes. Their language is Tsa’fiki, but most people speak Spanish as well. No English is spoken. Their traditions and culture have suffered over the last 50 years with the disappearance of the forests in which they lived and the explosive growth of the city of Santo Domingo on their doorstep. There are 7 Tsa’chila villages with a total population of around 2500. Their distinctive appearance makes them an iconic presence in Santo Domingo and they are renowned as shamans and healers.

What they offer

In the community of Bua there is a cultural group, Shinopi Bolon, who work together to preserve and promote their culture and traditions to travellers. You will have the chance to visit their small ethnographic museum and stroll through the 10 hectare forest reserve which they are gradually reforesting and expanding.

There are guided tours of the reserve and museum and visitors who speak some Spanish can learn first hand about the culture and history of this unique people and there attempts to recuperate their culture and environment. This is a truly wonderful opportunity not only to emerse yourself in this unique cultural world, but also to learn about their struggle to maintain their identity in the face of rapid change and often destructive external elements.

Location

Visitors can reach Shinopi Bolon by taking either a bus or taxi from Santo Domingo. A bus costs 75 cents and there are about 6 per day. Taxis will cost around US$10. There is some cellphone reception there and visitors can call ahead to speak to Alfonso Aguavil on the contact number provided to make a reservation for a visit or to stay there. Alternatively visitors can communicate through Fundación Yanapuma.

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What you need

- Insect repellent
- Torch
- Rubber boots
- light waterproof jacket
- Recommended clothing consists of lightweight long pants and light shoes with socks and a lightweight long-sleeved shirt to keep the insects away.

Accommodation & Amenities

Guests can stay in rustic cabañas at the visitor centre. The cabañas have mosquito nets, foam mattresses and sheets.
There are ecological toilets and bathing is done in the river.
There is basic electricity
Meals are cooked by members of the cultural group and consist mainly of rice, yucca, plantain, with either chicken, eggs or fish. The diet is fairly plain, but filling.
Prices will be available soon.