Chachi

Chachi, Indians of the coastal lowlands of western Ecuador, one of the few aboriginal groups left in the region. The Chachi speak a Chibchan language somewhat related to the language of the neighbouring Tsáchila people. Like the Tsáchila, the Chachi believe themselves to be descended from peoples of the Andean highlands. The Chachi probably number about 3,000 to 5,000. Agriculture, fishing, and hunting are the chief sources of food for the Chachi. Plantains, cassava (manioc),...