Attraction Guide: Ak'Tenamit, Rio Dulce, Guatemala

Ak'Tenamit Guide

Empowering Indigenous Communities: A Visit to Ak'Tenamit Guide

Ak'Tenamit is more than just a destination; it's a testament to sustainable tourism and community empowerment in the Rio Dulce region. This unique project, meaning "New Hope" in Q'eqchi' Mayan, provides education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for indigenous communities along the river. Visiting Ak'Tenamit offers a chance to learn about Mayan culture, support local initiatives, and experience the beauty of the Guatemalan rainforest. Founded in 1994 by the Riecken Foundation, Ak'Tenamit was created to address the lack of access to education and healthcare for the Q'eqchi' Mayan people living in remote villages along the Rio Dulce. The project started with a boarding school, providing secondary education to students who would otherwise have no opportunity to continue their studies. Over time, Ak'Tenamit expanded to include a clinic, a vocational training center, and a tourism program. Tourists can participate in various activities that directly benefit the community. Take a guided tour of the school and learn about the educational programs. Visit the vocational training center and see students learning skills like carpentry, weaving, and sustainable agriculture. Explore the surrounding rainforest on a guided hike led by local guides, learning about medicinal plants and the local ecosystem. You can also purchase handicrafts made by local artisans, supporting their livelihoods. The on-site restaurant serves delicious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, offering a taste of traditional Q'eqchi' cuisine.