Akawaio

Akawaios have polytheistic beliefs. Mythological figures like Makunaima, Kanaima, Iwarrika and Sigu are an important part of their culture. The most important god is Makunaima because, in their opinion, he created the tribe. Furthermore, they associate some natural phenomena to some divinities like Iwarrika who is blamed for flooding the earth. The Shaman plays an important part in their religious practice. He meets the god during hallucinogenic rituals when tobacco and a specific diet are used.

To be self-sufficient, the Akawaio people grow banana, yams, raw cane sugar, taro, cotton, calabash… However, they don't exclusively feed on plants, they also hunt deer, peccary, tapirs, agoutis or pacas. For hunting, they traditionally use blowpipes or bows and arrows but nowadays they also use guns. They make a lot of different alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks.

Pécari

The community makes trade with other groups. They swap quivers or other productions for clothes, fruits and weapons.

Work in the Akawaio community is gender-based. Women work in weaving, pottery and house keeping. Meanwhile, men tend to devote to hunting or peddling.

The tribe of Akawaio has a particular educational model based on non-violence and respect. Akawaio focus on dialogue and separating rivals during disagreements.

Ignames

Sharing is a central value. Indeed, in the village, no one has more property than the other members of the community.