PUERTO VIEJO de TALAMANCA...

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Limón Province, Costa Rica

Puerto Viejo (lovingly called Wolaba by the locals) is a small beach town in the Limón Province. Limón is both the name of the Limón Province and the capital city.  Puerto Viejo de Talamanca being apart of the Limón Province is largely known for its creole and black population. Limón Province has evolved separately from the rest of Costa Rica for many years and so developed its own styles, languages, and way of life. 

Many of the locals are of Jamaican descent giving the area a Reggae-Rastafarian vibe. Puerto Viejo, a surf and fisherman oriented seaside village, is the most popular destination in the eastern region. It is located along the southernmost coast of Costa Rica and is a short distance from the border of Panama. Puerto Viejo is steeped in colorful tradition, yet is also a haven for those looking for a good bar and dancing. 

The gorgeous beaches of Playa Negra and Playa Cocles are a main attraction, however, be sure to visit the Jaguar Rescue Center to learn all about Puerto Viejo’s conservation efforts. The majestic cacao and banana plantations are a must see also. If you are lucky you may spot one of Costa Rica’s most famous residents - the sloth - that can often times be seen climbing the trees in town.

Afro-Caribbean Culture

Puerto Limón was once home to Marcus Mosiah Garvey, the Jamaican-born, London-educated founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (U.N.I.A-ACL). The association was founded upon social, humanitarian, and charitable purposes with the goal of uplifting Africans throughout the world to advance in society. The UNIA-ACL started Black Cross Nurses, Negro Factories Corporation, Black Cross Trading and Navigation Corporation, and the Black Star Steamship Line. The Black Star Line was the steamship company operated by Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association from 1919 to 1922. 

A large amount of the Afro-Caribbean population was forcibly brought to Limón through the slave trade, which influenced the new way of life, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is now known for. Later on, particularly during the 19th century, workers were hired from nearby islands like Jamaica. You can experience this unique blend of cultures, during Costa Rica's afro-descendants month. It takes place annually August 1st-31st. The Dia del Negro day (Black Peoples Day) parade displays in Limón, Limón Province, Costa Rica and The Wolaba Parade in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Limón Province, Costa Rica each occur during the final week of festivities.