Nahá, a small village in Chiapas hidden in the Lacandon Jungle

Lost in the heart of the dense and humid vegetation of the mountains of the Selva Lacandona, in the magnificent State of Chiapas, in the Southeast of Mexico, lies the small village of Nahá, a true oasis of tranquility

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With a population of less than 200 inhabitants, Nahá is home to the indigenous community of the Lacandons. These men and women are among the last direct descendants of the Mayas in Mexico. Deeply attached to the traditions of their ancestral culture, the Lacandons of Nahá keep alive the customs and beliefs passed down from generation to generation. In this region of the country, they embody a living link to the rich heritage of the Mayas, thus perpetuating a unique and precious cultural legacy.

The Lacandons of Nahá, while preserving their language, traditional clothing, and ancient rituals, maintain a special relationship with nature, inherited from pre-Hispanic civilizations. Their example reminds us of the vital importance of preserving our environment, a lesson we should all embrace today.

The inhabitants of Nahá, last remnants of the Maya civilization

Deep in the heart of the Selva Lacandona, Nahá is almost isolated from the rest of the State of Chiapas, which undoubtedly contributes to the maintenance and preservation of ancient customs and techniques. This solitude is part of the charm of the place, preserving its authenticity and cultural heritage.

In Nahá, men continue the tradition of growing their hair long, attributing magical powers to their manes, while wearing white tunics, just like their ancestors did. Women, for their part, wear similar outfits, adorned with delicate embroidery and decorated with seed necklaces, which distinguish their appearance.

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The inhabitants of Nahá, in the heart of the Selva Lacandona, also continue to practice shamanism and other ancestral rituals of the Hach Winik culture, or "Maya Lacandon" in their dialect. These ceremonies, dedicated to ancient deities, take place in temples and offer an immersive and soothing experience. The incense and scent of burned copal, along with the accompanying chants and incantations, help create a unique atmosphere conducive to relaxation and spiritual connection.

Furthermore, one of the main activities of the natives in Nahá for centuries has been fishing, practiced traditionally. They also live from agriculture and crafts, particularly around ceramics, using techniques passed down from generation to generation. Indeed, the milpa is an ancient cultivation system that combines three plants. Although they no longer need it for hunting, the Lacandons keep the knowledge of making bows and arrows from wood, thus perpetuating an ancient tradition.

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Eco-tourism, the future of the Nahá reserve

Finally, the privileged geographic location of Nahá, in the heart of the Selva Lacandona, as well as the richness of its environment, have always allowed its inhabitants to live in perfect harmony with nature. Today, the indigenous community continues to worship certain plants and flowers that their ancestors considered as gods.

The village is also located in a protected area: the Nahá reserve, declared an area for wildlife and flora protection in 1998 to preserve the region’s exceptional natural resources. In the Selva Lacandona, live several threatened species or endangered, such as the quetzal and the jaguar, reflecting Mexico’s incredible biodiversity.

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Thanks to its lake, lush biodiversity, and cultural richness, Nahá, in the heart of the Selva Lacandona, is an ideal destination for eco-tourism enthusiasts. Eco-tourism is a responsible mode of travel that prioritizes natural destinations while respecting the environment and supporting local communities. For those who long for hikes deep in a dense jungle inhabited by rare species, or peaceful strolls on a quiet lake, Nahá is a true paradise. Moreover, meeting the local inhabitants, deeply connected to their traditions, offers travelers a rewarding and authentic experience.

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The village of Nahá, right in the heart of the Selva Lacandona, is a unique place for those seeking to escape their daily routine. With its cultural heritage and the Maya legacy still very present in the daily lives of the Lacandons, in addition to its exceptional landscapes, Nahá embodies everything that makes Mexico so wonderful.

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