The Kaxinawá - or Huni Kui, meaning True People, are
one of the world's most secretive tribes.
Living deep in the Amazon rainforest in the state of Acre, western
Brazil, the clan is made up of 5,550 people - all of whom pride
themselves on their heritage.
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Much of the tribe's culture is secretive such as their knowledge of
language, painting, art and traditional medicine.
Due to their proximity to Peru, the Kaxinawá have a strong influence
from the Inca kingdom, especially in their clothes and body paintings
which feature geometric shapes, known as Kenes.
Children learn to speak Portuguese when they are 11-years-old, but the
official language spoken between the Kaxinawá is hãtxa kui. In
September, the tribe celebrate the Xina Bena Festival, giving the
western world an opportunity to gain an insight into their fascinating
lives.
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Specialist Brazil tour operator Bespoke Brazil has launched a unique new
tour encompassing the festival, giving guests rare access to join in the
celebrations.
Taking a light aircraft into the small town of Jordão, travellers then
take a boat to the tribal villages where they will witness art, singing,
dancing, body painting and the preparation of traditional medicines.
'This itinerary offers an exciting insight in to one of the more remote
tribes of Amazonia during a time of great celebration within the
Kaxinawá community', says director Simon Williams.
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'Don’t expect a high degree of luxury on the trip though, during the
expedition you will sleep in the local homes of the Kaxinawá in
hammocks.' |