In a world where it seems like everyone is living by the clock, working for more stuff, and permanently attached to their cell phones, there are a few groups of people who live a nature-centered life, just as they did centuries ago. Climate change and modern encroachments have caused some of their populations to dwindle, but for now, these 10 tribes are still here.
10 The Kayapo
The Kayapo are a Brazilian tribe that lives along the Xingu River in 44 separate villages linked by barely visible trails. They call themselves Mebengokre, which means “people of the big water.” Unfortunately, their “big water” is about to change drastically, as the enormous Belo Monte Dam—which is currently being constructed on the Xingu—nears completion. At 668 square kilometers (258 sq mi), the reservoir will flood 388 square kilometers (150 sq mi) of forest, which will not only displace many Kayapo but also harm the fish and vegetation they depend on.
The Kayapo have battled infiltration from modern man for centuries. They’ve contended with everyone from hunters, trappers, loggers, and rubber tappers. They even successfully prevented the construction of a major dam in 1989. At one point, their population was down to only 1,300 but has since grown to nearly 8,000. Today, the bigger question is not if the people will survive but if their culture can stay intact. Tribe members—who are known for their elaborate body painting, farming, and colorful headdresses—are now just as likely to be seen driving motorized boats, watching TV, or even logging onto Facebook.
9 The Kalash
Situated in the Pakistani mountains, bordering the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, is a most unusual tribe of white, European-looking people known as the Kalash. Many of the Kalash have blond hair and blue eyes, an appearance which stands in stark contrast to their darker-skinned neighbors.
Not only do the Kalash differ in physical appearance, they have a vastly different culture from the Muslims who surround them. They are polytheistic, have a unique folklore, produce wine (which is forbidden in Muslim culture), wear brightly colored clothing, and women are given much more freedom. They are a decidedly happy, peace-loving people who enjoy dancing their way through numerous yearly festivals.
No one knows for sure how this light-skinned tribe came to exist in remote Pakistan, but the Kalash claim they are long-lost descendants of Alexander the Great’s army. DNA evidence shows they had an infusion of European blood during the time of Alexander’s conquests, so it’s possible their tales are correct.
Throughout the years, surrounding Muslims have persecuted the Kalash and forced many to convert to Islam. Today, there are only about 4,000–6,000 Kalash left, who subsist largely on pastoral farming.
8 The Cahuilla
While Southern California is typically associated with Hollywood, surfers, traffic, and wannabe actors, nestled within the region are nine Native American reservations inhabited by the ancient Cahuilla people. They have lived in and near the Coachella Valley for over 3,000 years and are believed to have settled there when the prehistoric Lake Cahuilla was still in existence.
Despite facing disease, the gold rush, and persecution, this tribe has managed to survive, though its membership has dwindled to just 3,000. They’ve lost much of their heritage along the way, and their unique language is on the brink of extinction. This dialect—a blend of Ute and Aztec languages—is only spoken by about 35 middle-aged or elderly members. Currently, elders are working hard to pass on their language, “bird songs,” and other cultural practices to younger generations. Like most indigenous people of North America, they must tackle the challenge of fitting in with the broader community while holding onto their old traditions.
