Isolated until the 18th century, they are currently under threat from ecological devastation, disease and violence brought by oil extractors and illegal loggers.

The Amahuaca are one group of indigenous Amazonians in which shamans are known to use ayahuasca in ritual ceremonies, typically for the purpose of entering the realm of spirits and deceased relatives or ancestors.

Since the group established contact with Westerners in the 18th century, they have been threatened by illegal logging, disease, and loss of territory.

[2] The Amahuaca are also known as: Amaguaco, Amawaca, Amawáka, Amawaka, Amenguaca, Ameuhaque, Ipitineri, Sayaco, Sayacu, Yora or Hondi Kuí.

[1] Amahuaca people hunt, fish, farm, and work in the lumber and oil industries or as domestic servants.