Maco in Venezuela

Introduction / History

The Maco people, also known by alternate names such as Wotuja, Jojod, Mako, and Itoto, are an indigenous group residing exclusively in Venezuela. Their primary language is Maco, which belongs to the Sáliban language family. Historically, the Maco have lived in the Amazonas state, particularly along the Ventuari River and its tributaries, in villages such as Mariche, Marueta, Morocoto, Porvenir, Tavi-Tavi, and Wapuchi. Although they were once considered a subgroup of the Piaroa, the Maco have maintained a distinct cultural and linguistic identity.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Maco live in remote forested areas of southern Venezuela, where they engage in subsistence activities such as hunting, fishing, and farming. Manioc is a staple crop, and hunting is typically done with blowguns. Their communities are small and scattered, and they use canoes—locally called "bongos"—to navigate the rivers. Social life is organized around communal sharing, especially of forest resources, while garden produce is more privately managed. Despite limited contact with outsiders, the Maco have preserved many traditional practices, including basket weaving and ceramic production.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Maco primarily practice animism, a belief system in which natural entities such as animals, plants, and rivers are considered to possess spiritual essence. A reverence for nature and ancestral spirits shapes their worldview.

Christianity has made some inroads. However, traditional beliefs remain dominant, especially in more isolated communities. Missionary influence has been minimal, and many Maco continue to rely on indigenous spiritual practices for guidance and healing.

What Are Their Needs?

Access to healthcare is limited in Maco communities, making them vulnerable to preventable diseases and lacking basic medical services. Educational resources in the Maco language are scarce, which hinders literacy and cultural preservation among younger generations. Legal protection of their ancestral lands is increasingly important, as external pressures from mining and deforestation threaten their environment and way of life.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Maco people would encounter the gospel in ways that honor their cultural identity and spiritual heritage.
Ask God to raise up indigenous believers who can share the message of Christ with clarity and compassion.
Pray for the translation and distribution of Scripture in the Maco language, and for the Holy Spirit to work through these materials to bring transformation.
Lift up efforts to protect their land and culture, and for peace and healing in communities affected by environmental and social disruption.

Text Source:   Joshua Project