The Selk'nam, or Ona, lived in northern Tierra del Fuego as hunter-gatherers with elaborate ceremonial body painting and shamanistic rituals.

Population

~1,000

Origins

The Selk'nam, also known as the Ona, were originally native to the northern part of Tierra del Fuego. They lived a nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle, with cultural practices that included ceremonial body painting and shamanistic rituals.

Customs and Culture

The Selk'nam culture involved hunting guanacos and other wildlife for sustenance. They were known for their elaborate initiation ceremonies, where participants used body paint to depict mythological beings. The Selk'nam language and culture were heavily impacted by colonization.

Activity

Visitors can learn about the Selk'nam through cultural exhibits in museums in Tierra del Fuego. Guided tours may also include visits to historical sites and educational experiences focused on the cultural revival efforts and history of the Selk'nam people.

Other

Efforts focus on reviving and preserving cultural heritage