Nambikwara

Who are the Nambikwara?

The Nambikwara are an Indigenous people of Brazil, living mainly in the Amazon region of Mato Grosso. They are organized into many smaller bands, each with its own name and identity, but share a common language and cultural ties. The Nambikwara maintain a sense of unity through shared traditions, language, and their connection to their lands along the Guaporé and Juruena rivers. Their society has drawn the interest of anthropologists and is known for its resilience in the face of dramatic population loss and outside pressures.

Where do the Nambikwara live?

The Nambikwara live in the western part of Brazil, in the state of Mato Grosso. Their homeland covers parts of the Amazon region, especially along the Guaporé and Juruena rivers. The area is characterized by tropical forests, rivers, and savannas. Many Nambikwara villages are located within officially recognized Indigenous territories and can be reached from the Pan-American highway.

What language do the Nambikwara speak?

The Nambikwara speak the Nambikwara language, which belongs to the Nambikwaran language family. Their language is written using the Latin script, and both a dictionary and a grammar have been produced. Portuguese is also spoken. The language remains a key part of their identity and is still in use among the community.

How do the Nambikwara live?

Traditionally, the Nambikwara make their living through a mix of foraging and farming. They gather wild foods from the forest and cultivate crops in small gardens. Their diet is supplemented by fishing and hunting. The Nambikwara build their villages in accessible areas, often near rivers, and use local materials for houses and tools. Their way of life has adapted over time, especially after contact with outsiders.

How is Nambikwara society organised?

Nambikwara society is organized into numerous bands, each with its own name and leadership. Family and social life have been studied by anthropologists, who note the importance of kinship and cooperation within and between bands. Decisions are made at the band level, and each group maintains its own traditions and customs. Marriage and descent are important for social organization.

What do the Nambikwara believe?

The Nambikwara practice a mix of animist and Christian beliefs. Traditional rituals and spiritual practices remain important, often centered around the land and nature. Art and music are part of their cultural life, and their artwork has been collected by museums. Dress and adornment, such as pierced ears, are noted in their name’s origin.

The history of the Nambikwara

The Nambikwara were first contacted by outsiders in 1770, but sustained contact began in the early 20th century when telegraph lines were built through their territory. At that time, their population was estimated at around 10,000. Soon after, epidemics of measles and smallpox brought by outsiders caused a dramatic decline, reducing their numbers to about 500 by 1930. The Nambikwara have been the subject of anthropological study, notably by Claude Lévi-Strauss.

Nambikwara life today

Today, the Nambikwara number about 2,332 and live mainly in Indigenous territories in Mato Grosso. Their villages are accessible by road, but they continue to face pressures from outside development and historical population loss. Efforts to maintain their language and culture continue, and their rights to land are recognized through Indigenous territories.

Questions people ask about the Nambikwara

Sources and further reading

• Nambikwara on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Nambikwara themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.