Photo Credit (Gettyimages)
I’ve always believed that traveling opens up new possibilities. As travelers, we gain an understanding of the world’s vastness and diversity. We are out of our comfort zone and are appreciating the small pleasures of life. After roughly 15 years of traveling throughout India and beyond, we’ve seen some spectacular sights and explored some inaccessible locations. However, meeting new people and learning about different cultures has always been my favorite aspect of our road trip adventure. Agni and I enjoy documenting interesting places and individuals, as well as cultures and customs that are disappearing or evolving throughout time.
Here are some of the most interesting civilizations on the globe, as suggested by my travel blogger pals. This blog highlights some of the intriguing rituals and traditions of the community.
Taos Pueblo, Mexico.
- Head Hunters in Nagaland, India
Contributed by Amrita of Experience Northeast.
Portrait of a Konyak Naga Headhunter from Nagaland
Northeast India is home to many unique tribes and civilizations from around the world, but the Konyak tribe, or the savage headhunters of Nagaland, appears to be the most intriguing to us. Konyaks, one of the major tribes in distant Nagaland, are known for their valour, taking satisfaction in cutting the heads of their opponents as trophies to be hung in their Morungs (traditional community houses). The Konyaks are seen in Longwa, a rural village in Nagaland’s Mon district.
Headhunting continued to be conducted in Nagaland until 1969. The Konyaks believed that a young man’s entrance into manhood could only be accomplished if he returned a head to the village. So they would fight their foes, rip off their heads, and return the heads to decorate the Morungs. Each slaughter resulted in a tattoo on their face and breast, which is one of the tribe’s most intriguing elements. These tattoos represent their honor and pride, and the Konyaks think that without a tattoo, they will not be able to have a pleasant afterlife.
However, with the advent of modernism, things changed. The Konyaks are no longer headhunters, but they preserve their bold and strong spirit. There are barely a few headhunters left in Longwa village. The greatest time to visit the KonyakNagas is during the Aoling Festival, which takes place every April.
- Nyishi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Contributed by Anjali of Travel Melodies
Nyishi women in traditional clothing during the Nyukom Yullo Festival, Arunachal Pradesh. Interesting cultures throughout the world.
Arunachal Pradesh, in north-eastern India, features 26 indigenous tribal groups, the Nyishi being one of the largest. Nysihis’ cultural traditions and beliefs are similar to those of Myanmar’s Mongoloid tribes. Nyishis refer to themselves as the descendants of Abo-Tani, a fabled forefather.
They speak Tibetan-Burman and have yet to develop a script. Because they have nothing in writing, it’s fascinating to learn that they pass on their culture, customs, and history from generation to generation via an amazing oral folklore tradition. Nyishis have strong faith in their culture and rituals. They believe that rituals, if not executed religiously, might lead to problems.
Mithun (traditional cattle) play a crucial part in all aspects of life, including social, cultural, economic, and religious. During the marriage, the groom pays the bride’s price in the form of Mithun, and practically all ceremonial ceremonies involve the sacrifice of Mithun (holy to them) to appease their deity.
I found their Traditional Grain Analysis (Amyemch Hikanam) Ritual intriguing, in which the priest holds a bamboo measuring cup and asks a woman to fill it with grain before predicting her future depending on how she fills the cup. Isn’t that interesting?
Compared to our metropolitan society, Nyishis are highly progressive. They treat their ladies equally and include them in decision-making processes.
I adored their people, culture, traditions, dance (Rikham Pada), clothes, dwellings (Namlo), and the native brew apong, which was served in a lovely patha (a bamboo shoot goblet). In this fast-paced and competitive world where people are attempting to bring each other down, they live in complete peace and harmony. Nyishis are simple, honest, cheerful, and practical people who value their culture and the environment. They accept things as they are and do not seek to change anything for selfish reasons. Plus, they are excellent hosts.
- Kalash People
Contributed by Alex Reynolds of Lost With Purpose
Kalash people of Pakistan—interesting cultures around the world.
The Kalash, one of the world’s most fascinating cultures, are a distinct tribe who inhabit three small valleys in the mountains of western Pakistan: Bumburet, Rumboor, and Birir. The valleys in northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province lead to mountains on the border with Afghanistan.
The Kalash people are remarkable in several aspects. Some researchers believe they are descended from Alexander the Great’s army, as some of his warriors remained on the Indian subcontinent following his conquest through the region. Although this is a prevalent myth in Pakistan and India, the Kalash are the only people whose genes reveal evidence of European DNA injection during Alexander’s campaign.
Aside from the veracity of the assertion, there is no denying that the Kalash people do not resemble their neighbours. Many men and women have fair skin and light eyes, which are uncommon in South Asia.
The Kalash people have their own religion and culture. Although Pakistan is a Muslim-majority country, the Kalash are animists. Kalash culture is thought to be related to ancient Hinduism. The Kalash people make and drink their own alcohol. Women dress in vibrant colors and wear headpieces with Kalash-specific needlework.
The pinnacle of Kalash culture can be seen at one of three major Kalash festivals. At each celebration, people dress up, drink, and dance while praying for good crops, animal protection, and so on.
If you ever visit Pakistan, I recommend that you visit the Kalash Valleys. However, please respect their traditions and culture.
- Khasi community in Meghalaya, India.
Contributed by Zinara of NatnZin
Babu Derma from the Khasi community in Kongthong village.
The Khasi people are the primary indigenous group in the Indian state of Meghalaya. They are a matrilineal community. The property belongs to the family’s youngest daughter. Children are given their mother’s last name. It also includes matrilocal residence, which indicates that following marriage, the husband relocates to live with the wife’s family. Due to all of these factors, Khasis live a totally different life from their mainland Indian counterparts.
The first time I visited Meghalaya was in August 2018. My native guide, Khraw, led me to crowded markets. Chattering women sat next to one another. Others carried baskets of feathered chickens on their heads. Women wearing indigenous Khasi clothes sliced meat. It was an egalitarian society.
I sensed a close-knit society wherever I went. Khraw is from Mawsynram, the rainiest area on Earth. “If someone doesn’t have a house in our village, we get together, give them a plot of land, and build them a house,” Khraw told me. “They can cultivate the land to earn a livelihood.” The Khasi community is also very connected to nature, and they live in perfect communion with it.
- Tibetans, Tibet.
Contributed by Wendy Werneth from The Nomadic Vegan
Tibetan Monks Chanting: Fascinating Cultures Around the World
Alexandra David-Néel’s My Journey to Lhasa piqued my interest in Tibetan culture, which has lasted many years. In her tale of how she entered Lhasa disguised as a Tibetan beggar to learn about Buddhism from Tibetan lamas, David-Néel demonstrates a genuine regard for and fascination with Tibetan Buddhism that I found inspiring.
I’ve experienced Buddhism in a variety of Asian nations and have always felt drawn to its teachings of compassion and nonviolence toward all sentient beings. However, the Tibetan version of Buddhism has always seemed enigmatic to me, and I was captivated by the spooky tones of the singing bowls, the deep guttural vibrations of the chants, and the vivid colors of the sand mandalas.
While you are undoubtedly already aware that Tibetans come from Tibet, it is vital to remember that the Tibetan Autonomous Region, as designated by the Chinese government, is not the only region where Tibetans live. Tibet used to cover a much greater territory, which is now divided into the Chinese provinces of Gansu, Sichuan, and Qinghai. In some of these provinces, ethnic Tibetans continue to constitute the majority of the population.
These locations are likely much more rewarding to visit because, unlike the Tibetan Autonomous Region, outsiders are permitted to explore them independently. A visit to the Labrang Monastery in Gansu province, for example, can be a terrific way to experience Tibetan culture on your own without needing to join a Chinese-approved tour group. Just keep in mind that some portions of these provinces are still fully forbidden to foreigners, and laws can change at any time, so consult government websites for the most up-to-date information.
- Rungus, Sabah.
Contributed by Leyla Giray Alyanak from Offbeat France.
Rungus lady prepares a feast for visitors and extended family members—tribes in Malaysia
Inuliah Itam belongs to the Rungus tribe, one of several dozen tribes located in Sabah. Here she prepares a feast for visitors and extended family members.
With young people moving to cities for work, the future appeared bleak for ethnic groups like the Rungus, who dwell at the tip of Borneo in Sabah on Malaysia’s side of the island. However, tourism has the potential to save their culture by supporting the revival of traditional trades such as dance, gong-making, nose flute playing, and traditional longhouse construction. I was lucky to spend a few days living with the Rungus family and participating in their regular activities.
Much of that life revolves around food, which is cultivated on family-owned property and cooked fresh every day: rice, a variety of green vegetables I was unfamiliar with, fish (due to the nearby sea), and chicken. None of it was extremely hot, but it was excellent and filling.
In the adjacent town of Kampung Sumangkap, gong craftsmen hammer and bend zinc sheets into curved, vibrating instruments. This traditional ability is significant since the gong is the most valuable musical instrument in Rungus culture, and it is used at all big events. It likewise faced a bleak future until the Rungus recognized that visitors would enjoy the gong-making and purchase gongs to take home, bringing much-needed revenue to local communities.
With the increase in tourism in Sabah, locals can now supplement their income by practicing traditional crafts, including gong-making, bead-stringing, dancing, singing, nose flute-playing, and longhouse maintenance. While young people continue to travel to cities, they can now opt to live closer to home due to career opportunities.
- Akhu Tribe of Kengtung, Myanmar
Contributed by Maya and Sari from Chasing Landscapes
Woman from the Akhu tribe of Kengtung, Myanmar—the fascinating cultures of Southeast Asia
Kengtung (or Kyaing Tong) is in Myanmar’s Shan State and is one of the greatest sites to visit if you want to understand more about the country’s cultural diversity. Kengtung district is located in Southeast Asia’s golden triangle region. As a result, there are varied impacts from other countries, and certain native tribes can also be found in neighboring states.
During our visit to Kengtung, we went to some of the indigenous tribes. One of our most memorable visits was to Akhu village. The Akhu ladies are known for their long bamboo pipes, which they like smoking and will gladly demonstrate for their guests. They wear a black headdress (akin to a turban), and most of their clothing is also black, with the exception of the colorful bead necklaces and dazzling silver earrings. Their residences are quite plain, wooden cabins with no ornamentation, running water, or electricity. The local guides do their best to support the local communities.
In terms of religion, the hamlet was once an animist community, but missionaries converted the locals to Christianity, as they had done with many other tribes in the vicinity.
We were welcomed to a nearby house and were able to converse with the hostess thanks to our guide. Her warm manner put us at ease, and we could tell she enjoyed smoking her long pipe and telling us about her daily life. The women of the hamlet appear to survive long into their 80s or even 90s, which is remarkable given the poor quality of medical care. However, men rarely live past the age of 60. It is difficult to explain this discrepancy because both men and women work really hard. Anyone who enjoys learning about different cultures and discovering hidden gems should plan a trip to Kengtung, Myanmar.
- Thai society offers Red Fanta to God!
Contributed by Abhishek and Neha of Revolving Compass.
Gods offered Red Fanta in Thailand.
On our two-week journey to Thailand, one thing that stood out everywhere we visited was a red Fanta bottle sitting in front of God idols, complete with a straw! This is one of the most interesting cultures we’ve seen around the world.
We first observed it near a Ganesha statue in front of a mall in Bangkok. Then we assumed someone ignorant had left it there. The next day, we noticed two bottles and a bowl of eggs in the same position! It appeared to be some type of rite now. We’ve seen various types of offerings, but never a soft drink delivered to God. Was it that Thailand’s hot and humid conditions caused even the gods to crave soft drinks? Intrigued, I couldn’t resist asking a local Thai in Doi Suthep. Then, an intriguing story unfolded.
Traditional Thai culture is deeply based on the Indian subcontinent. For thousands of years, sacrifices to daemonic gods, including human, animal, and blood sacrifices, have been an essential component of pleasing the spirits and keeping them from interfering with the lives of ordinary people. As civilizations progressed, such sacrifices were eventually banned. And each region witnessed the development of an alternative.
In Thailand, it took the appearance of crimson Fanta, which is so similar to blood! And the current Thai people began presenting red Fanta to the gods! In fact, Thailand is one of the largest consumers of Red Fanta nowadays. The majority of it actually goes to the gods. Interestingly, if a Thai drinks red Fanta, he is fawned over and mocked in his culture for having “daemonic symptoms”!!
- Black Hmong, Northern Vietnam.
Contributed by Marya of The Beau Traveler
The Black Hmong are a small ethnic group who live in northern Vietnam. The ethnic minority has established in several villages near Sapa, including Supan, Lao Chai, and Cat Cat Village. I met them in Sa Pa a few years ago on my first solo trip to Vietnam.
My first interaction with the Black Hmong people was during a trekking expedition around Lao Chai, and I was surprised to see that the majority of the Black Hmong participants were women. If anything, I only saw a few Black Hmong males as we passed through the rice fields.
As it turns out, the Black Hmong are an ethnic group with strong feminist beliefs ingrained in their customs and culture. They value gender equality, and the majority of Black Hmong families include both men and women as breadwinners. While Black Hmong women typically rely on their embroidery abilities to make ends meet, men tend to grasp skills such as livestock handling and agricultural cultivation.
Aside from that, most Black Hmong women work as tour guides for trips around their communities. However, if you join a group trip, even if the tour has a dedicated guide for you and the other participants, you will most likely be accompanied by some of these Black Hmong ladies who will interact with you throughout the tour and assist you while trekking. However, the trekking trail around Sapa town is so hilly that it may be tough for some of us. I understand since it was for me.
- Akha, Laos.
contributed by Marie from A Life Without Borders.
Akha woman in Muang Sing, Laos—interesting and fascinating civilizations around the world.
The Akha are a tiny ethnic group who live in the remote high mountain regions of Laos, China, Thailand, and Myanmar. The Akha of Laos are easily identifiable by their elaborate headdress full of silver ornaments and coins. They can only be found in the far northern Luang Namtha Province. I met Akha women at a village in Muang Sing, Laos, and was lucky to spend the day learning about their textiles and ethnic clothes.
Despite tremendous economic and social changes, the Akha remain one of the world’s most unique cultures, with many components of their customs and traditions still practiced. The Akha style of life is characterized by strong familial bonds and stringent restrictions. Typically residing in stilted bamboo dwellings high on the slopes, the huts are separated by gender, with one half occupied by women and the other by men.
Akha men are skilled farmers and hunters, while women excel at weaving and sewing. In fact, Akha women are one of the few ethnic groups in Laos that still dress traditionally. The ensemble consists of striking headgear, a short black skirt and vest, and brilliantly coloured leggings. The majority of the parts are ornamented with silver balls, buttons, and coins, all accented with brightly coloured threads. Surprisingly, Akha women never remove their headpiece; they even sleep with it on, draped with a simple towel to protect it.
A massive wooden frame called a “spirit gate” adorned with talismans and sculptures marks the entrance to an Akha hamlet. The spirit gate distinguishes between the spirit realm beyond the gate and the world of the Akha people within. The gate efficiently prevents evil spirits from entering while keeping favourable spirits inside.
- The Bajo people of Southeast Asia
Contributed by Campbell and Alya of Stingy Nomads
Bajo Dive: Interesting Cultures Around the World
As a scuba instructor and avid free diver who enjoys the ocean, I’ve always been interested in the Sama-Bajau or Bajo people, a nomadic sea-dwelling community known in popular culture as sea gypsies or sea nomads. For centuries, the Sama-Bajau have been nomadic, maritime people living in Southeast Asia, in the waters around the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. I was quite fortunate to spend a few days at a Bajo settlement in Indonesia. Indonesia has around 17,000 islands, some of which are tiny. The Bajo hamlet I stayed at was on the little island of Pulau Papan, one of the Togean Islands, with the nearest large island being Sulawesi.
For many years, this tribe has subsisted on fishing and commerce. The Bajo are famed for their boating lifestyle, and many have spent their entire lives at sea. Despite the fact that certain tribes continue to live on small boats at sea, the majority of modern
Sama-Bajauli live near the shore by building stilt houses and traveling on lepas, which are handcrafted boats. We were hosted by a local family and compensated them for food and lodging; the people were quite welcoming and polite. The Bajo’s freediving talent is famous, with some claiming they can hold their breath for up to 5 minutes while spearfishing. It was great to go spearfishing with them, using traditional handcrafted gear.
- Toraja, Indonesia.
Contributed by De Wet and Jin from the Museum of Wander.
Toraja on Sulawesi in Indonesia.
On the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, there is a valley surrounded by misty mountains. This valley is known as Tana Toraja, or Toraja Land, and it is home to the Toraja people. For ages, these mountains have preserved the Torajas and their culture, and this valley is now one of the archipelago’s most unique destinations.
The Torajas, one of the world’s most unique cultures, are tall, proud people whose most treasured assets are their water buffaloes. As you travel through the valley, you will notice folks combing their buffaloes and decorating their horns and ears with flowers and colorful leaves. The artistically adorned buildings in which the Toraja people dwell are also shaped like buffalo horns.
Toraja country is best known for its extravagant death ceremonies. When someone dies, the Torajas just consider them to be unwell, and the body is kept in the house with the family (within a coffin). In the meantime, the family will begin saving and planning for a suitable send-off, which could take a year or more following the family member’s death.
Funerals in the valley are a somber but intriguing event that should not be missed if you visit TanaToraja during the funeral season. The Toraja people believe that souls depart the earth only when a buffalo is sacrificed, and on a burial day, at least six of these buffalos will die.
The meat is then shared among the community members, and a feast is prepared for all of the funeral guests. Tana Toraja’s funeral season lasts from May to October, and if you happen to be in Rantepao at the time, you will almost certainly be invited.
- Kazakhs, Kazaksthan
Kazakh with eagle from Kazakstan.
The Kazakhs are semi-nomadic people that originated in northern Central Asia. They are primarily pastoral tribes that move their herds several times a year through the highlands of Kazakhstan and some areas of Mongolia. The Kazaks are said to have originated in the 15th century.
The Kazakh people are reputed to have magnificent horses and fearsome eagles for wings.
The custom of eagle hunting is well ingrained in Kazakhstani culture. The Kazakhs hunted foxes and hares on horseback and taught their eagles to detect intruders from a considerable distance. They would sometimes ride long miles to hunt in order to provide for their families. Today, hunting with eagles is officially acknowledged as a national sport, but falconers no longer conduct it on horseback.
According to tradition, when a child turns 13, his father begins training him to hunt with eagles. The tribe captures and raises young female eagles who have not yet reached the age to fly. After seven years, they are released into the wild to mate. The annual Golden Eagle holiday is an important holiday in Kazakhstan, where wolf-skin-clad Kazakhs ride to the mountains on horseback with golden eagles soaring high in the sky as they celebrate their
Interesting civilizations around the world—Europe
- Khinaluq, the people of Xinaliq, Azerbaijan.
contributed by Ellis from Backpack Adventures.
Xinaliq tribe of Azerbaijan, Europe
The Caucasus region is one of the most multicultural in the world, with a wide range of languages and cultures. Before I traveled to Azerbaijan, I read an article about Xinaliq and its people, who believe they are direct descendants of Noah.
Xinaliq is one of Europe’s tallest communities. It is located in the northeastern corner of the country, near the border with Dagestan in Russia, and is so isolated that the distinctive Khinaluq people have preserved their own language and cultural traditions for millennia. Most notable is their language, which is unrelated to any other language in the region.
Obviously, I wanted to visit this site, and it turned out to be easier than I expected. Tourism has become a welcome source of income for the residents of Xinaliq. A handful of welcome homestays have opened their doors to international visitors to demonstrate their way of life.
Xinaliq is a proud and resourceful mountain community. Despite language problems, they are eager to explain aspects of their culture and how they survive in the hard climate of the mountains. The views are breathtaking, but living can be difficult up here.
It was an unforgettable opportunity to spend one night with a family and see firsthand how they cook bread, milk their goats, and bring back their grazing sheep from the highlands. The lady of the house was initially shy but finally opened up to me.
Although the Khinaluq are now Muslims, they have maintained some animist practices. Locals are glad to take you around and point out some of the remaining animist shrines in the neighborhood. The trekking chances are excellent, and the views from the mountains are the best in the Caucasus.
- Scottish culture
Contributed by Kat of Wandering Bird
A Scottish band marches on grass.
If you ask someone to describe Scotland, they will most likely suggest words like “tartan,” “music,” “kilts,” and “haggis.”
And they’d be correct. Along with the breathtaking environment (some of the world’s most gorgeous roads are in Scotland), it is the people that truly define the region. Their history, traditions, and hospitality are inextricably linked to the country as a whole.
Some of the most fascinating traditions are:
Each clan has its own tartan design and colours, and they are extremely proud of them. Wearing the ‘wrong’ tartan is a major insult, and they do take it seriously. Receiving your first kilt (boys) or dress/sash (girls) is part of growing up and a moment that every Scot cherishes. Kilts/traditional dress are worn at all formal social occasions, as well as many parties and events throughout the year (the Scottish LOVE to party!). Every Scotsman I know is used to people inquiring what they’re wearing beneath. Give him enough to drink, and he might just show you!
Don’t try to outdrink a Scot, regardless of gender, since it will end poorly!
This is one of my favourite Scottish customs. Hogmanay, which means ‘final day of the year,’ is the New Year’s Eve celebration. These rituals are not like today, when we rent a car from Enterprise and eat as a family in a country house for a holiday dinner. Traditionally, the house is cleaned from top to bottom in preparation to begin the New Year ‘fresh’. As the clock strikes midnight, revellers all over join arms and sing Auld Lang Syne before beginning the procedure of ‘first footing’. First footing refers to being the first person to cross the threshold of another household. You provide a little present, such as whiskey, fruit bread, coal (for warmth), salt, or shortbread (traditional). The first footer begins with a ‘little dram’ of whiskey and is intended to set the ‘tone’ for the year ahead.
- Sami, Lapland.
Sami culture is one of the oldest, originating in the Sápmi region, which includes northern Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Russia’s Kola Peninsula. The Samis are descended from nomadic people that inhabited northern Scandinavia for millennia.
Reindeer are very vital to the Sami way of life. The Sami people’s economy was based mostly on reindeer herding. They were previously nomadic, moving about with their reindeer herds. However, as of late, only the herders go with their reindeer, while their families remain in modern and permanent homes. Traditionally, the Sami people’s livelihoods have included fishing, livestock rearing, and hunting near the coast and in fjords.
The Samis have traditional garments known as Gakti. They wear them during parties, festivals, weddings, baptisms, funerals, and other important events.
Interestingly, nine separate Sami languages are closely linked. However, today, just three are commonly used. Samis have their own parliaments in Norway, Sweden, and Finland. They have their own publications and radio stations that cover subjects relevant to them.
Interesting civilizations around the world—Africa
- Nubians in Egypt
Contributed by Nadine of Curls en Route
Nubian children: Interesting cultures around the world
The Nubian culture is one of the most fascinating cultures I’ve ever encountered. Nubians are one of the most ancient ethnic groups still alive today, living in Nubia, which runs from Aswan in Upper Egypt to Khartoum in Sudan. I’ve never gone to Sudan, so I’ll focus on the Egyptian part of Nubia, which I’ve always wanted to return to.
Nubian villages in Egypt are well renowned for their folkloric music, brilliant, colorful houses along the Nile’s banks, and welcoming, kind residents. Staying at a Nubian guesthouse, where a native welcomes you into his own home, is a delightful experience that you will undoubtedly appreciate. During your visit, you’ll discover more about the ancient region’s rich history and culture, as well as sample some of the world’s finest cuisine. Expect some reptile action, as Nubians often rear crocodiles as pets!
Another fun fact about Nubians is that they speak their own language. It is a spoken and unwritten language that they continue to practice today as a means of maintaining their culture, which dates back to the Ancient Egyptian civilization.
I have had several memorable encounters in Nubia. The one nearest to my heart was when I became quite ill during my first visit to Gharb Sohail Island. Because they do not utilize artificial medications, the kind Nubians took good care of me and assisted me in treating myself with natural medicines. I’d have to say it’s far more effective!
- Berber, Morocco
Contributed by Daniela of Grumpy Camel
Berber people of Morocco
My encounters with Morocco’s Berber communities have been fascinating, and the Berbers are one of the world’s most unique cultures. In 2014, my husband and I went hiking in Morocco, where we spent a few days in the High Atlas Mountains. We stayed with a Berber family and learned about rural life in Morocco.
Berbers, or Imazighen in their native tongue, are an ethnic group indigenous to numerous North African countries, notably Morocco, where they have lived for at least 5,000 years. Many Berber populations in Morocco live in remote settlements along the Atlas Mountains. Historically, Berbers were farmers and traders. Although many Berbers now live and work in Moroccan cities, agriculture remains the primary source of income for the majority of Berber households in mountain areas. Berber women typically work in the fields, weaving colorful wool blankets, while men travel to adjacent towns to sell or barter their harvest and cattle.
During our stay in a Berber community in Morocco, we were treated to excellent traditional meals prepared in tagines, which are conical clay pots that serve as both cooking and serving dishes. The ingredients, which frequently include couscous, veggies, and beef or chicken, are combined in a pot and cooked over an open fire. Our dinner was followed by traditional Berber entertainment, including singing, drumming, and dancing in a circle. Songs are passed down orally from generation to generation, and Amazigh families frequently gather to sing and dance to hypnotic pounding on bendirs (circular hand drums). It was an absolutely magical experience, enhanced by the generosity and kindness of the Berber people we encountered along the journey.
- Masaai Tribe, Africa
Contributed by Joanna from The World in My Pocket
Interesting civilizations from throughout the world, including the Masaai tribe in Africa
The Maasai Tribe is an ethnic group that lives a semi-nomadic lifestyle in Kenya and northern Tanzania. They are famed for their colorful costumes and traditional dance, in which tribal warriors jump as high as they can.
The Maasai lead a primitive existence in villages with dwellings constructed of cow excrement. Men primarily care for the cattle, while women stay at home to cook and care for the children. Maasai take great pleasure in their cattle, which are a symbol of their status. The Maasai typically consume only raw flesh, blood, and milk. They practice ceremonies that entail drinking cow blood on special occasions like circumcisions, births, and marriages.
In Tanzania, you can visit a Masai hamlet and learn about their culture and traditions. Some settlements attract more tourists and charge higher prices. I organized a tour by myself, and I was fortunate because the guide was a Maasai from that area who now lived in Moshi town. I had the impression that the village I visited was off the tourist trail and did not receive many foreign visitors. They weren’t pushy at all, and they appeared really excited to exhibit me their culture.
The Maasai fascinated me because of their way of life and culture. The younger generations are acquiring an education by going to school and finding work in adjacent communities. However, they continue to follow their traditions, dressing the same and refusing to consume grains.
- Himba tribe of Namibia.
Contributed by Sabine and Sean of The Travelling Chilli
Himba woman in Namibia—interesting cultures around the world
The Himba are one of Namibia’s 13 ethnic tribes, and they are arguably the best-known internationally. They are a semi-nomadic tribe that originated in Namibia’s northwestern region and has since moved to other regions of the country, where visitor centers have been established to help tourists learn more about their culture and history.
What’s interesting about these real-life visitor centers is that they’ve been designed to conserve the native Himba culture while minimizing outside intervention. These centers are placed far away from any large city, town, or village, which helps them avoid the impact of the contemporary world. However, I’ve seen Himbas use cell phones on occasion, and they’re familiar with the internet and television.
While the Himba men don’t dress up too much, the women will only wear a single leather loincloth. They will next completely coat themselves in a red ochre powder-based ointment composed of incense and butterfat, which will leave their skin feeling soft and silky. They will braid their hair extensions with the same mixture. Each Himba tribe also wears unique jewelry, similar to how Scottish clans have distinct kilt styles.
So, when you’re seeking things to do in Namibia, I definitely recommend visiting a Himba community.
- Omo People
Contributed by Oksana and Max from Drink Tea and Travel.
Ethiopia’s Omo people are among the world’s most fascinating cultures.
The Omo Valley tribes are a tenacious collection of people that live in southern Ethiopia. They are mostly undisturbed by the outside world and are regarded as practitioners of some of the world’s oldest customs and traditions, as well as one of the most fascinating cultures on the planet.
For centuries, the valley’s 16+ indigenous tribes have followed in their ancestors’ footsteps. They do not have power or other modern facilities. They follow a different set of ideals and cultural norms, which may include wearing colorful clothing or painting their bodies.
Each tribe has slightly different traditions, dialects, and skills. Overall, it was amazing to hear about their culture and the Omo Valley tribes’ strong connection to nature. The tribes rely significantly on the changing seasons, annual floods, and other natural phenomena for their survival. The landscape of the region can be harsh, so we left with a strong respect for the Omo Valley tribes.
Omo Valley may not be the most accessible destination on a vacation to Ethiopia, but that is no reason to cross it off your bucket list. The valley receives few tourists, and Ethiopian tourism is relatively undeveloped in the area, so walking around the villages gives you a sense of the region’s and its people’s refreshing authenticity.
Interesting civilizations around the world, including South America.
- Zapotec people of Mexico
Contributed by Rose of Where Goes Rose?
Zapotec Village
While most people think of Mexico as a largely Spanish-speaking country, there are really 68 official languages. This is due to the large number of indigenous communities throughout the country, many of whom have spoken their original languages, which bore no similarity to Spanish, for decades. One such tribe is the Zapotec people, who live primarily in Oaxaca and neighboring states.
Visit Zapotec villages, such as the 8 protected Pueblos Mancomunados villages in Southern Mexico, to not only support a protected eco-tourism region but also to meet the indigenous people that live there. Benito Juarez is one such community that can be visited on a day or overnight excursion from Oaxaca City.
Before ending your journey to Mexico, consider taking an adventurous Cancun tour, which is known for its beaches, various resorts, and nightlife. It is divided into two separate areas: El Centro, the more traditional downtown section, and Zona Hotelera, a lengthy seaside strip of high-rise hotels, nightclubs, shops, and restaurants. Visit this page to plan a trip or learn more.
I visited the lofty settlement, surrounded by forests and mountains, with a local guide who told us about the Zapotec people we encountered. Even if you understand Spanish, it is recommended that you visit Mexico with a guide because many Zapotecs do not speak Spanish and will need to interact in their dialect. The residents wore hand-embroidered colorful clothes and ate vegetarian meals, which can be found in Benito Juarez village. The Zapotecs here live in simple dwellings made from the surrounding woodland. A visit to Zapotec is a must-see in Mexico for breathtaking scenery and a memorable cultural encounter.
- Wayuu Tribe of Colombia
Contributed by Daniel of Layer Culture
Wayuu people in Colombia, South America.
Source: Wikimedia.
When seeking unique and interesting cultures around the world, you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to observe or perhaps visit the Wayuu people. The Wayuu tribe, one of Colombia’s many indigenous American ethnic groupings, can be found in the country’s far north.
After hiking around Colombia for several weeks, I became attracted to the work of the creative Wayuu tribe, whose handmade bags are sold throughout the country. One day, I decided to take a vacation to Colombia’s La Guajira region, home of the tribe and its culture. My first interaction with the tribe occurred in Riohacha.
I immediately purchased one after seeing the tribe sitting on the sidewalk with their amazing bags displayed in a very tidy manner. Not only was the price competitive, but my overall aim for visiting the region was to purchase a Wayuu bag from the tribe directly rather than a wholesaler in the larger city. I found the tribe women to be quite savvy in business, and while prices can be negotiated, they drove a very hard bargain. In Colombia, the Wayuu are famed for their colorful woven bags, and after purchasing one, I will appreciate it for many years.
- Quechua people of Peru
Contributed by Heather Trimm of Trimm Travels
Quechua people from Peru, fascinating cultures around the world.
Learning about the indigenous people of whatever place I visit is really interesting to me. The Quechua people of Peru have captivated my interest more than any other group.
Quechua-speaking indigenous people dwell in Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador, in addition to their homeland of Peru. As a result, they are commonly referred to as South America’s indigenous people.
Quechua, the second official language of Peru after Spanish, is spoken by around 4 million people in the country. There are several dialects, the most popular being Southern Quechua.
During my travels in Peru, I was drawn to the people for various reasons. One was that the Incas spoke Quechua. The Incas are the great empire responsible for the development of the breathtaking Machu Picchu. Despite the absence of Incas, the language is widely spoken in many regions of Peru.
Quechua people of Peru
The Quechuas’ physical, mental, and emotional strength is what drew me in the most. They are incredibly hard workers, having mainly come from farming and agricultural backgrounds. They have also faced significant persecution, most notably during the Peruvian Civil War in the 1980s.
Quechuas are a varied population. Some are quiet and shy, living on their family’s land and dressed in colorful traditional clothes. Others are less traditional and have adapted to modern society, and they may be found singing and playing the guitar at bars in Peruvian cities like Cusco.
Having encountered both sorts listed above, I can assure you that there is a lot to learn from this incredibly accomplished set of people, including hard work, perseverance, resilience, and pride in their traditions!
- Taos Pueblo Tribe in Mexico.
Contributed by Andy Vanr of Avrex Travel.
Taos Pueblo offers traditional arts and crafts.
Meet the residents of Taos Pueblo, an adobe-walled community located approximately a mile northeast of Taos, New Mexico. About 150 people live here without electricity, running water, or indoor plumbing, like their ancestors did for decades. They have claimed an aboriginal presence in the Taos Valley of the Southwestern United States since time immemorial and continue to preserve their culture now.
We visited Taos Pueblo, which is UNESCO-recognized for being continually inhabited and maintained using traditional ways since its creation. The multi-story adobe houses at the village’s heart are thought to have been constructed between 1000 and 1450 CE.
Despite its reputation as one of the most exclusive, secretive, and conservative communities, the pueblo is available to the public. Visitors can take a group tour of the village conducted by a member of the Taos community who will explain their history and traditions.
Their history is oral, sacred, and fiercely protected by them. They continue to practice their own religious beliefs and do not share information with those outside of their community.
Many tribe members live in modern homes on tribal land outside the walled village, but they frequently come to the village for social and cultural events.
Our journey to Taos Pueblo was an interesting experience with people who had lived in the same way for hundreds of years.
Black Hmong ladies from Vietnam.
Cultural tourism has a good impact on the economy and people’s social lives when done appropriately. A traveler can interact with and learn about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the locals and the region they are visiting.
However, some travelers overreact and become overly curious when documenting specific tribes and traditions. We often fail to respect people’s privacy. I would always recommend asking before taking images and obtaining permission from the people before deciding to post them online. It is also usually a good idea to bring a local guide with you when visiting an unfamiliar or isolated location.
Disclaimer: This blog is designed solely for the purpose of learning and does not support the advertising of tribes or individuals. I am confident that all of us are responsible here and that we will be able to strike the right balance between documentation and intrusion.