Waurà

The Waurá are a South American Indian people inhabiting the tropical forests of western Brazil. Historically, they lived near the mouth of the Jamari River on the Madeira River. Known for their fishing skills, their villages are small and loosely organized, with families often spending significant time in canoes.

The Waurá are facing extinction as an ethnic group, with most now speaking Portuguese and few remembering their native language. While nominally Christian, their rituals incorporate the use of a narcotic from the parica tree, flagellation, and shamanism. Their women are noted for their pottery, including animal-shaped bowls.12