Intangible Tours is more than just a business. It is a means through which the Huaorani of Bameno can make a profit without having to work with the oil companies and loggers that have been, in large part, responsible for the destruction of their land and culture. All profits from the tourism go directly to the residents of Bameno. Outsiders working with the Huaorani to build and maintain eco-friendly tourism are unpaid volunteers; it is of the utmost importance that this remains so. The principal goal of Intangible Tours is to provide the Huaorani of Bameno with tangible reasons to preserve their traditions and culture. Though eco-tourism may threaten the integrity of indigenous culture, if something is not done to give the Huaorani of Bameno economic incentives to preserve their customs, the Huaorani way of life may perish, the victim of oil excavation, logging and migration to cities. It is the wish of the Huaorani of Bameno to show others their culture, to show others that they live well and it is the sincere hope of all those involved with Intangible Tours that this eco-tourism program, run by Huaorani with minimal outside help, will help preserve the Huaornai way of life so that others may experience it and learn from it.
Thank you,
Matthew Ruggirello, volunteer