Amahuaca - Settlements

Hamlets of fifteen to twenty closely related people are located on high ridges near permanent streams, separated from other settlements by several hours' walk. Each nuclear family occupies a separate house in the midst of a garden plot adjacent to gardens of other families. Houses are open rectangular shelters with pent roofs thatched to a few feet from the ground with yarina (Phytelephas sp.) palm leaves. Settlements are moved every year to ensure productivity. adequate game, and security from enemies.