Siriono in Bolivia

People Name:	Siriono
Country:	Bolivia
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	1,100
World Population:	1,100
Primary Language:	Siriono
Primary Religion:	Christianity
Christian Adherents:	70.00 %
Evangelicals:	5.00 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Guarani
Affinity Bloc:	Latin-Caribbean Americans
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Siriono people live in the tropical forests and savannas of Bolivia, primarily in the Beni Department near the village of Ibiato and surrounding areas. Their language, Siriono, belongs to the Tupi-Guarani family and is considered endangered, with only a small number of fluent speakers remaining. Spanish is now the dominant language for daily communication due to close contact with urban centers like Trinidad.

Historically, the Siriono were semi-nomadic, practicing a lifestyle that combined hunting, gathering, and seasonal agriculture. Early attempts by missionaries and government agents to settle them were largely unsuccessful and led to population decline through disease and displacement. Today, they maintain an autonomous territory recognized by the Bolivian state, though cultural erosion continues as younger generations adopt Spanish and modern practices.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Siriono traditionally lived in temporary palm-leaf shelters and moved seasonally to hunt, fish, and gather forest resources. They cultivated crops such as maize, cassava, and sweet potatoes during the dry season, returning periodically to tend fields before resuming their migratory life. Modern Siriono communities are more settled, with small villages and scattered farms, but they still rely heavily on subsistence agriculture and forest resources.

Access to healthcare and education is limited, and many families face challenges from deforestation and land-use pressures caused by cattle ranching and infrastructure development. Cultural practices such as body painting, communal dancing, and maize beer preparation persist, though they are less common among younger generations.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Siriono historically practiced animistic beliefs, revering spirits associated with nature and ancestral traditions. They lacked formal shamans but believed in spiritual forces that influenced daily life. Catholic influence arrived through missionary efforts, and today some Siriono communities blend Catholic rituals with traditional practices. This syncretism reflects their desire to maintain cultural identity while adapting to external religious influences.

What Are Their Needs?

Healthcare services are scarce, leaving communities vulnerable to preventable diseases and lacking access to emergency care. Educational opportunities are minimal, with few schools and limited resources for preserving the Siriono language and culture. Legal protection of their ancestral lands is critical, as deforestation and agricultural expansion threaten their environment and traditional way of life.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Siriono to encounter the gospel in ways that honor their language and cultural heritage.
Ask for wisdom and perseverance for those sharing gospel materials in Siriono, so that God's word becomes accessible and transformative.
Intercede for spiritual openness among community leaders and families, that they may find hope and unity in Christ amid social and environmental challenges.
Pray that soon Siriono disciples will disciple other indigenous peoples in the ways of Christ.