Indigenous Brothers
Revealing the Rich Indigenous Communities of the Peruvian Amazon
Explore the cultural richness of our indigenous brothers in the Peruvian Amazon with Takinuna as your guide. Immerse yourself in the Shipibo, Bora, Yagua, Kukama, and Huitoto Murui traditions, where you’ll experience their unique art and shamanic practices. Join us on this enriching journey of cultural exchange.
The Shipibo – Guardians of Ancient Traditions
Discover the resilient spirit of the Shipibo, a tribe of approximately 35,000 people living along the Ucayali River. Despite external influences and significant Christian conversion, they maintain a strong tribal identity. As hunters and fishermen, the Shipibo demonstrate their exquisite artistry through pottery and fabrics that reflect their Ayahuasca-based cosmology. Takinuna offers a unique opportunity to witness and acquire their extraordinary creations during our retreats.
The Bora – Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explore the Bora, an indigenous tribe near Iquitos celebrated for their resilience during the early 20th-century caucho trade era. Caucho, a natural resin from an Amazonian tree similar to latex, was harvested by the Bora as they traversed Peru and established their community in the Amazon. Despite enduring exploitation during this period, the Bora diligently maintained their ancient traditions and cultural identity. The Bora display their resilience and artistic skills, dressed in clothes woven from palm fibre. Today, with a community of 2,000-3,000 semi-traditional Bora members, their crafts encompass wood carvings, weaponry crafted from natural materials, and intricately detailed jewellery.
The Yagua – Ancient People of the Amazon
Explore the Yagua, among the Amazon rainforest’s oldest indigenous peoples. Their name derives from the Quechua word yawar (blood), symbolizing their tradition of painting their bodies with a red dye obtained from the achiote fruit. The Yagua refer to themselves as nihamwo (‘we the people’) and are unique in Peru for speaking a language belonging to the Peba-Yagua family. Explore their traditional clothing and hunting tools, essential elements in the cultural tourism of Peru’s Loreto department.
The Kukama: Guardians of the Rainforest
Explore the resilience of the Kukama people thriving in the rainforest near Iquitos. With a population of 15,000-20,000, the Kukama demonstrate their artisanal skill through wood carvings, bows, arrows, and intricate jewellery. Visit Kukama malokas, cultural and trading centres that preserve their traditions. Takinuna provides a platform for transcultural encounters, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of Kukama and indigenous life.
The Huitoto Murui: Preserving Identity in the Amazon
Embark on a journey to Centro Arenal, the Huitoto Murui native community navigating challenges in preserving its language and culture. Despite historical challenges and mistreatment during the caucho boom, the community revitalized its culture in the 2000s. Arthur Cruz Ochoa, the current leader, played a crucial role in revitalizing the Murui Buue language. Explore their autonomous school project, initiated by residents to reclaim and celebrate their cultural identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon
Indigenous Brothers
- Q: Can I buy indigenous crafts during my visit?
- A: Absolutely! Takinuna offers opportunities to acquire unique crafts from the Shipibo, Bora, Yagua, Huitoto Murui, and Kukama tribes. Bring soles or trade items like clothing, fishing gear, or small flashlights to exchange for their remarkable creations.
- Q: How can I contribute to the indigenous communities?
- A: Takinuna maintains a warm relationship with indigenous neighbours, providing financial help through community outreach programs. Inquire about current needs and projects to support these vibrant communities.