The Guambiano are a tribe of about 20,000 people whose reservation is located in the mountains of southern Colombia near the city of Popayan. They call themselves Pi Urek - Children of the Water. The traditional way of life of the Guambiano is in harmony with Mother Earth; they consider the protection of water as their special task. Two traits distinguish the Pi Urek: their community spirit and their ethnic identity. They work together in the fields or in building a new house. The reservation is largely self-governed by the indigenous people. In recent years, a Mamita (= grandmother), who is a traditional healer, was elected leader of her people, which shows the resurgence of tradition. When visiting the reservation of the Pi Urek, one can feel their community spirit and respectful treatment of the earth.

The mochilas (bags) are made from untreated, hand-spun sheep's wool dyed with vegetable dyes. By purchasing the handicrafts, you support these guardians of water and traditional knowledge.