A trip into another world. The Emberá are an indigenous people living in Panama and Colombia. They have their own cultural traditions, language and customs, which they have preserved, cultivated and passed on for many generations. The Emberá Quera are a subgroup of the Emberá based in Panama. They live mainly in the Darién, a region in eastern Panama shaped by dense rainforest and rivers. Their traditional villages are often reachable only by boat. The Emberá are known for their close community, their social structure and their strong connection to nature. They live in round communal houses, often built from palm leaves and wood. Emberá clothing is simple and made from fabric the women produce themselves. They live from traditional farming, including growing cassava, bananas and other fruit. Fishing also plays an important role in their diet. Body art, such as tattoos and body jewellery made from natural materials, is an important part of their culture and is often worn on special occasions. The Emberá make artful baskets, bowls, masks and jewellery.
Some Emberá Quera communities have taken up tourism as a source of income. Visitors can come to their villages, experience traditional dances and music and buy their artwork.
Despite Panama’s modernisation, the Emberá preserve their customs and way of life. It is important to respect and protect their culture, as it is a unique and valuable part of Panama’s cultural heritage.
