Like many ancient peoples, they relied on waterways for routes of transportation; and due to their navigation skills and knowledge, could get around much of their territory fairly rapidly.

They used techniques such as "lost wax" casting, rolled gold, filigree and other methods to make their balacas (ornaments) and other items for ceremonial use, such as the poporos (bowl with lid).

They tied slats on male babies' heads to alter their frontal and occipital regions, perhaps to give them a look of ferocity.

They pierced the nose and the ear lobes to wear gold ornaments and decorations symbolic of their religion.

Due to the tropical climate and excellent soil in the highlands, they were able to grow, harvest and cultivate many crops including potatoes, yucca, maize, mangoes, papayas, guavas and many other fruits and vegetables.

The Spanish captain Diego de Bocanegra (one of many military leaders who battled against the Pijao) accused them of having cannibalized up to 100,000 Spaniards in approximately 50 years.

[citation needed] Despite regularly driving back the invading Spaniards, the Pijao population kept decreasing and they were pushed further south in the highlands.

«para ser gentiles hombres, pintanse con bija que es una cosa colorada»