Indigenous People in Amazon Rainforest, Manaus, Brazil - Encircle Photos

Indigenous People in Amazon Rainforest, Manaus, Brazil

Prior to the mid-17th century, millions of índios (Portuguese for Indians) lived across the Amazon Rainforest in 2,000 nations. Three tribes resided near here: Tamurãs, Barés and Manaós, the namesake for the city of Manaus. The majority of indigenous Brazilians died from European diseases or harsh treatment as slaves on rubber plantations. Only 200 tribes remain today. Some are together on their ancestral land or government-established reservations. Others, like this old man, prefer to live in relative isolation on small plots deep in the forest. Yet they have adapted western amenities such as clothes, electricity and communications. The Dessana tribe – who are on the Tupé reserve about 15 miles from Manaus – welcome tourists to witness their native lifestyle and customs.

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