Top tips when meeting tribal people

1. Always ask before taking photographs of people.
2. Ask your guide to teach you how to say hello in the local dialect.
3. Ensure you are dressed appropriately. For example, if the tribe doesn’t bare their shoulders, then ensure yours are covered too.
4. Ask what happens to rubbish left behind while staying in a local home. Some things they may be able to reuse, but others might be better disposed of in a town later on your trip.
5. Take pictures of your home, town and family to show them. They are likely to be as interested in you and how you live as you are in them.
6. Ask your guide if it would be appropriate to take a gift, and if so what.
7. Do not give sweets or money to children. It is normally best to give any gifts to the head of the village so he can ensure they are evenly distributed.
8. If staying in a remote village, do be mindful of the amount of water that you use for washing as water can be a rare commodity.
9. Be careful to observe any customs such as removing your shoes before entering a building. Your guide will be able to advise you of anything specific for the tribe you are visiting.