Amazing Tribes and Curious Names

Three Extraordinary Tribes

There are three extraordinary tribes on the South American continent.

Some of the facts about them are amazing, and some people believe them, while others do not.

The Paraya Indians of the Amazon Valley can speak without moving their lips. Sounds are formed with the help of the tongue and go through the nose instead of the mouth. Men and women of this tribe speak two different dialects, and it is difficult for them to understand each other. Some people believe this story, but it is not fully confirmed.

The Campa Indians of Peru are said to see everything upside down. The sight of people or animals moving upside down does not disturb them. But when they see a paper or an illustration, they hold it upside down to see it straight. Again, this is a story that may or may not be true.

The Chane Indians who live on the banks of Rio Papapiti, Paraguay, are said not to drink water at all. They make maize beer as a substitute for water. Some people believe this, but it is not confirmed.

A City Named through a Misunderstanding

The city and region of Arequipa in southern Peru got their name because of a misunderstanding.

In 1537, Diego de Almagro, the first European to visit the area, pointed to the ground and asked the local people the name of the place. The natives replied “Arequipa”, which is said to mean, “Yes, you may rest here.” Some people believe this story, while others think the name comes from the local language.