Vale do Javari: Uncovering the Amazon’s hidden treasures
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Apr 7
- 21 min read
When visiting the area, it is essential to respect the rainforest's vulnerability and the rights of indigenous peoples.
Also, be aware of the higher crime rates in the region and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe experience.
Deep within the heart of the Amazon rainforest in Brazil lies one of the most mysterious and least explored regions—Vale do Javari. This area, situated in the Brazilian part of the Amazon, primarily in the state of Amazonas and partially in Acre, is an enormous indigenous territory nearly the size of Portugal.
Explore the intricate river channels by canoe or take a boat ride along the rivers to experience the rainforest from a unique perspective. Listen to the roaring sound of the waterfalls and be amazed by the diverse wildlife that roams among the trees.
How to get there
Traveling to Vale do Javari, located in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil, requires some planning due to its remote location.
Here's how to reach this pristine and off-the-beaten-path destination:
Fly to Manaus or Benjamin Constant
Manaus: Start by flying to Manaus, the capital of Amazonas state and the main hub for travel into the Amazon. Many international flights, as well as domestic connections, arrive in Manaus.
Benjamin Constant: From Manaus, you will need to take a domestic flight to Benjamin Constant, a town located closer to Vale do Javari. Benjamin Constant is a key gateway to the region, though flights to this town are limited and may require a connection through other smaller airports in the region.
Boat or river transport
From Benjamin Constant, travel to Vale do Javari is typically done by boat. You can take a riverboat from Benjamin Constant or nearby towns like Atalaia do Norte or Santos Dumont to navigate the Javari River.
Several travel agencies or eco-lodges offer boat tours along the river, providing transportation into the heart of the region. This is also an opportunity to explore the Amazon’s waterways and spot wildlife.
Eco-Lodges and guided tours
Booking a Tour: Given the remoteness and the lack of direct infrastructure, it’s highly recommended to book a guided tour or stay at an eco-lodge that can arrange transport. Many eco-tourism providers offer package deals that include transportation, guides, and accommodation in the region.
Indigenous and Local Guides: Arranging transportation through local guides ensures safety and access to the most pristine and culturally significant areas.
Travel restrictions and safety considerations
Permits and regulations: Travel to certain parts of Vale do Javari, especially around indigenous territories, may require special permits or authorization. Make sure to consult with tour operators who are familiar with the region’s regulations.
Health and Safety: Make sure you are vaccinated for tropical diseases, such as yellow fever, and carry any necessary medication. The region is remote, so be prepared for basic amenities and a lack of modern infrastructure.
Tips
Plan your trip well in advance, as transportation options can be limited and dependent on weather conditions.
Be prepared for a rustic experience, as infrastructure in the region is minimal.
Book through eco-tourism agencies to ensure your trip is both sustainable and respectful of local communities.
Higher than average prices in Brazil
Prices can vary significantly depending on the type of experience you're seeking, but overall, expect costs to be higher than average due to the remoteness of the region.
Transportation
Flights: Domestic flights to nearby towns like Tabatinga or Benjamin Constant can cost between $150-$300 USD depending on the season and availability.
Boat travel: Riverboat transport from nearby towns (like Benjamin Constant) into Vale do Javari typically costs $20-$50 USD for basic services or more for private charters.
Accommodation
Eco-lodges: Prices for eco-friendly accommodations in or near Vale do Javari can range from $100-$300 USD per night, depending on the lodge’s amenities and level of service.
Local stays: Simple accommodations in nearby towns like Atalaia do Norte are more affordable, around $30-$50 USD per night, but offer basic facilities.
Guided tours
Full-day guided tours (including wildlife spotting, cultural visits, or jungle trekking) range from $100-$200 USD per person.
Multi-day expeditions, including meals and lodging, can cost $500-$1,500 USD depending on the itinerary and level of comfort.
Meals
Local restaurants in nearby towns serve traditional Amazonian dishes for $5-$15 USD per meal.
Meals at eco-lodges or tour packages are often included but could cost $20-$50 USD if billed separately.
Permits and Fees
Access to certain areas, especially indigenous territories, may require permits, which can cost $50-$100 USD or be included in guided tour packages.
Varied topography
Vale do Javari falls under the jurisdiction of four municipalities in Amazonas: Atalaia do Norte, which encompasses the largest area, along with Benjamim Constant, Jutai, and São Paulo de Olivença, situated along the upper Rio Solimões. This region is characterized by diverse topography, featuring rivers, lakes, mountains, and forested terrain. It is part of the larger Amazon basin, home to the world’s largest tropical rainforest.
Covering over 85,000 square kilometers, Vale do Javari is named after the Javari River, the region's primary waterway, which has defined the border with Peru since 1851. The area includes much of the municipality of Atalaia do Norte and adjacent regions in western Amazonas. In addition to the Javari, it is traversed by the Pardo, Quixito, Itaquai, and Ituí rivers.
Rich history
Vale do Javari boasts a long and rich history that spans thousands of years. The area has been inhabited by various indigenous communities for centuries, with evidence of human settlement and culture dating back over 20,000 years.
During Brazil's colonial era, the region was explored by Portuguese discoverers and missionaries who came into contact with the local indigenous populations. This period was marked by conflicts between indigenous peoples and colonial authorities.
In the 20th century, modern exploration and mapping of Vale do Javari began, leading to the establishment of protected areas to preserve the unique ecosystem and the culture of the indigenous communities residing there.
Explore the natural splendor
Vale do Javari is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The area is crisscrossed by several major rivers and waterways, including the Javari River, which lends its name to the valley. These rivers are the lifeblood of the region, providing water and sustenance for both humans and wildlife.
The rivers of Vale do Javari also play a crucial role in transportation and trade among the indigenous communities living along their banks. The mighty Javari River and its tributaries flow through dense foliage, creating a diverse ecosystem that is home to a myriad of plant species, wildlife, and birds. Notable inhabitants include jaguars, tapirs, macaws, pink dolphins, and arapaima fish.
The rich biological diversity and varied ecosystems of Vale do Javari provide an ideal habitat for many unique species that have evolved to adapt to their specific environments.
Endemic species
Among the endemic species found in Vale do Javari, many are unique to the Amazon rainforest as a whole, while others are particularly tied to this specific region. For example, the Kulina toucan (Ramphastos tucanus kulinae), a subspecies of the toucan, is critically endangered due to habitat loss and human disturbance. Additionally, the Kulina spiny rat (Coendou prehensilis kulinae), a subspecies endemic to the Amazon basin, is a small mammal that lives high in the trees and feeds on leaves, fruits, and shoots.
Plants, insects, birds, mammals, and fish all play vital roles in the ecosystem's function and stability.
Conserving these endemic species is crucial for maintaining the biodiversity of Vale do Javari and protecting the entire ecosystem.
Meet the indigenous communities
What truly makes Vale do Javari a phenomenon on a global scale is the indigenous people who still live there. More than 2,000 individuals, belonging to at least 14 different tribes, connect with the outside world only through the air they breathe and the forests they traverse. Among these tribes are the Isolados do Rio Quixito, Isolados do Itaquai (Korubo), Isolados do Jandiatuba, and several others, each representing a small world unto itself.
Discover the unknown
Some indigenous people live in isolation deep within the rainforest, remaining untouched by the outside world. While access to these communities is limited to ensure their safety and well-being, the very thought of their existence adds an aura of mystery and adventure to the area.
Fabricio Amorim, a representative of the Fundação Nacional do Índio, has stated that Vale do Javari has the highest concentration of isolated groups in both the Amazon and the world. This designation makes the area a powerhouse of indigenous culture and a key player in biodiversity conservation.
A mystery to the outside world
The indigenous peoples living in isolation in Vale do Javari remain a significant mystery to the outside world, with only limited knowledge available about their lifestyles, culture, and traditions. The isolated nature of these tribes makes it challenging to study them, and their contact with modern society is minimal or non-existent.
Nevertheless, there have been some sporadic observations and clues that provide insight into their lives.
Observations from aircraft and satellites have revealed the presence of villages or settlements scattered throughout the area. These villages are often built near water sources or fertile lands and are typically hidden among the trees.
The isolated tribes in Vale do Javari primarily subsist through hunting, fishing, and gathering wild plants and fruits. They are skilled hunters and gatherers, having developed techniques to survive in the demanding rainforest environment.
There are several different tribes among the isolated peoples of Vale do Javari, each with its own unique language, culture, and traditions. Their language, along with their oral history and customs, has been preserved through generations.
Knowledge about the health conditions of these isolated tribes is limited, but they are believed to be susceptible to diseases such as malaria and other tropical illnesses. A few instances of contact with outsiders have resulted in the transmission of diseases to the tribes.
There have been a few sporadic cases where members of isolated tribes have encountered outsiders, either voluntarily or accidentally. These events have often led to conflicts or disruptions in the tribes’ lives.
Many threats and challenges
However, Vale do Javari also faces significant challenges. Threats such as deforestation, illegal mining, and increasing pressure from external actors threaten to disrupt this harmonious ecosystem and force the indigenous peoples from their shelters.
Illegal hunting and fishing also jeopardize the wildlife in Vale do Javari, with hunters and fishers taking unregulated amounts of game and fish. This can endanger populations of threatened species and disturb the ecosystem's balance.
Conflicts over land rights and territories are common in Vale do Javari, with illegal settlers and companies seeking to occupy indigenous lands. This can lead to violent confrontations and threats to the indigenous communities.
Various criminal networks, including drug traffickers and human traffickers, also operate in the area, exploiting the vulnerability of indigenous peoples. There is, for example, a route for cocaine traffickers that has thrived on the lack of government presence and the struggle for control over smuggling routes between Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. This has resulted in increased violence and crime in the region.
This is the area where British journalist Dom Phillips and indigenous advocate Bruno Araújo Pereira were killed in June 2022 while working to protect indigenous peoples from illegal drug traffickers, miners, loggers, and hunters. Mauro Esposito, a former coordinator for special border operations for Brazil's federal police, told the Guardian that the triple border had become the most dangerous part of the country’s 10,492-mile border due to Peru’s «massive» increase in coca cultivation.
Vale do Javari has been the focus of various discussions concerning indigenous rights, environmental conservation, and security challenges. Here are some notable quotes from individuals addressing these issues:
Carlos Travassos, Indigenous defender: «The Javari Valley shows us how the words of a president can lead to an increase in crime.»
Céline Cousteau, Activist and Filmmaker: «The Indigenous Peoples of the Vale do Javari were instrumental in the search for them when they disappeared on June 5, just a few hours from...»
Fernanda Wenzel, Journalist: «Teenagers from Indigenous and river communities are being recruited to work in coca fields in the Vale do Javari region in slave-like conditions...»
Stephanie Al-Qaq, Diplomat: «I was invited to join a government delegation to Vale do Javari and could personally thank local communities for their effort during the search...»
Travel with a guide
Given the widespread crime in Vale do Javari, it is crucial to prioritize safety when considering a trip to the area. Before traveling to Vale do Javari, make sure to obtain thorough information about the security situation from reliable sources. Local residents, tourist information centers, and authorities can all be useful sources of information.
Traveling with an experienced guide who is familiar with the area and its people can enhance your safety. A guide can also help you navigate the region and avoid dangerous situations.
Identify and avoid areas with high crime or conflict in Vale do Javari. This includes areas affected by illegal mining, deforestation, or other unlawful activities.
Starting from Tabatinga?
The nearest major cities to Vale do Javari are usually located outside the reserve, as it is a remote and isolated area in the Amazon rainforest. Tabatinga is a city in the state of Amazonas in Brazil, located near the borders of Colombia and Peru. Situated along the banks of the Amazon and Solimões rivers, it provides access to waterways leading to Vale do Javari.
Atalaia do Norte is a smaller town in the western part of the Amazonas state located near the border with Colombia and Peru. It is relatively close to Vale do Javari and is also serves as a starting point for journeys into the reserve.
Benjamin Constant is another town in Amazonas state near Vale do Javari. The town is named after the Brazilian politician and military figure, Benjamin Constant. Located along the Javari and Solimões rivers, it can be a convenient launching point for visits to the reserve.
To visit Vale do Javari, it is advisable to start your journey from the city of Tabatinga.
From Tabatinga, you can organize further transportation, either by boat or plane, to nearby areas in Vale do Javari. The city has good transport connections, including an airport and access to riverboats that can take you to Vale do Javari. Guided tours and services can also be arranged from Tabatinga. The city offers a range of hotels, restaurants, and other amenities that may be helpful before and after your visit to Vale do Javari. As a border town, Tabatinga features a unique cultural blend of Brazilian, Colombian, and Peruvian influences.
Exploring the city can be an interesting experience in itself, both before and after your visit to Vale do Javari. The place is primarily known for its indigenous communities and pristine natural landscapes. As such, the area doesn't have many traditional hotels, bars, or restaurants like those found in larger cities. However, there are some eco-lodges and small-scale accommodations that offer authentic experiences, and local eateries that cater to travelers seeking to explore the region.
Key places and features in Vale do Javari
Atalaia do Norte– The main gateway town to the Vale do Javari. It’s where government officials, NGOs, and Indigenous representatives organize expeditions. Boat access to the Javari River starts here.
Javari River (Rio Javari)– A major tributary of the Amazon River, forming a natural border between Brazil and Peru. It’s the main transportation route through the region.
Indigenous villages (contacted tribes):
Matsés (Mayoruna)
Kanamari
Marubo
Ticuna (on the edge of the territory)– These groups live in scattered, traditional villages deep within the forest and along riverbanks.
Uncontacted tribes zones– The Vale do Javari is home to the largest number of uncontacted Indigenous groups in the world, protected under Brazilian law. Their exact locations are kept secret by FUNAI and UNIVAJA to prevent contact and exploitation.
FUNAI Base Stations– Government monitoring posts (e.g., Ituí base) used by Indigenous protection agents to patrol and observe illegal activity like logging or poaching.
Vale do Javari Indigenous Territory (TI Vale do Javari)– Officially demarcated and protected since the early 2000s. Entry is restricted to Indigenous peoples, authorized researchers, and specific government personnel.
🛑 Important note
Travel into the Vale do Javari is not permitted without strict authorization, and its main purpose is cultural and environmental protection, not tourism.
Accommodation, dining and bars
Accommodations
Javari Lodge: An eco-lodge located on the banks of the Javari River, offering a remote and immersive experience in the rainforest. The lodge supports local communities and sustainable tourism efforts.
Ararinha Eco Lodge: A sustainable and eco-friendly lodge in the Amazonas region, providing comfortable stays with a focus on nature preservation and cultural interaction with local indigenous communities.
Dining Dining options in the Vale do Javari region are often limited to simple, locally-owned restaurants or the facilities at eco-lodges. Meals tend to feature local Amazonian cuisine, such as fish from the river, tropical fruits, and traditional Brazilian dishes like feijão (beans) and farofa (toasted manioc flour).
Local restaurants in the nearby towns (e.g., Benjamin Constant) may offer regional dishes, though dining establishments are small and simple.
Bars
Bars in the region are typically found in the larger towns and are often informal. These places may serve local beverages, such as cachaça (a Brazilian sugarcane liquor) and fruit-based cocktails. However, the remote nature of Vale do Javari means that entertainment and nightlife options are quite limited.
Unique activities
There are several other unique activities you can enjoy in the Vale do Javari region:
River Exploration
Javari River Cruise: Take a boat tour along the Javari River to observe the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The river is home to various species of fish, birds, and reptiles, offering opportunities for nature photography and wildlife watching.
Fishing Trips: Experience traditional fishing methods used by local communities. You can also try your hand at catching Amazonian fish like the piranha or tambaqui.
Wildlife Watching
The region is rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot rare and endemic species. Apart from river wildlife, you can observe unique birds, monkeys, and other animals. Guided tours help ensure safe and respectful wildlife encounters.
Cultural Workshops
Participate in traditional cultural workshops, such as crafting, cooking, or music, led by indigenous community members. This hands-on experience allows you to learn more about their heritage and daily life.
Visit Local Villages
Spend time in small riverside villages where you can engage with locals, learn about their way of life, and purchase handmade crafts. This experience provides a deeper understanding of the Amazon’s cultural diversity.
Eco-Tourism Activities
Some eco-lodges offer educational programs on the Amazon’s ecosystems, focusing on conservation efforts and the importance of protecting the rainforest. You might engage in activities like tree planting or guided nature walks.
Nighttime Jungle Tours
Experience the Amazon at night by taking a guided tour into the jungle. Nighttime wildlife observation can reveal species that are active after dark, such as nocturnal insects, frogs, and owls.
A global concern
The protection of Vale do Javari and its indigenous peoples is therefore not just a local but a global concern. As part of the Amazon rainforest, the conservation of Vale do Javari is crucial for maintaining the planet’s biodiversity and the livelihoods of its indigenous peoples. When visiting this area, remember to respect the rainforest's vulnerability and the rights of its indigenous communities. Choose sustainable travel methods, and support local initiatives that work toward conserving this unique and fragile ecosystem.
Sustainable travel
Eco-Friendly Transportation: Use electric boats, bicycles, and eco-friendly public transport to reduce emissions.
Sustainable Accommodations: Support eco-lodges and community-based tourism that use renewable energy and involve local communities.
Responsible Wildlife Tours: Offer ethical wildlife watching with local guides and support conservation efforts.
Supporting Local Communities: Encourage buying local goods and involve indigenous communities in tourism.
Environmental Education: Teach tourists about sustainability, waste reduction, and conservation.
Sustainable Food Practices: Promote local, organic food and sustainable farming methods.
Regulations and Certification: Enforce sustainable tourism regulations and eco-certification programs for businesses.
These practices help protect the environment and benefit local communities while providing meaningful experiences for travelers.
Immerse yourself respectfully
Visiting Vale do Javari requires respect for the local environment, indigenous communities, and their customs. Here's how to behave and immerse yourself respectfully:
Respect indigenous communities
Seek Permission: Do not visit indigenous territories without prior authorization or a local guide. Many areas are protected and require permits.
Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid taking photos of people or ceremonies without explicit consent. Understand that some communities have traditions against being photographed.
Dress Modestly: Wear simple, modest clothing to show respect for cultural norms.
Learn and Listen: If interacting with locals, listen more than you speak, and show genuine interest in their culture and stories.
Environmental awareness
Leave No Trace: Avoid littering or leaving anything behind. Carry reusable items like water bottles to minimize waste.
Avoid Disturbing Nature: Do not pick plants, disturb wildlife, or feed animals. Maintain a safe distance during wildlife spotting.
Eco-Friendly Products: Use biodegradable soaps, shampoos, and sunscreens to avoid polluting rivers and ecosystems.
Cultural customs
Gift-Giving: If you wish to bring gifts to communities, choose practical items like school supplies or tools. Avoid giving money directly unless part of a structured initiative.
Participate Respectfully: If invited to participate in a ritual or activity, do so respectfully and follow local instructions.
Non-Verbal Communication: Understand that some communities may rely on non-verbal cues or have their own customs for greetings and interactions.
Health and safety
Vaccinations: Ensure you have necessary vaccinations, including for yellow fever, and carry mosquito repellent to protect against insect-borne diseases.
Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: Many indigenous communities prohibit alcohol and tobacco use; always ask before consuming these products.
Stay With a Guide: Always travel with a licensed guide familiar with local customs and areas.
Language and communication
Learn Basic Phrases: If possible, learn greetings or basic words in local indigenous languages or Portuguese. Even small efforts show respect.
Patience: Communication may take time due to language or cultural differences. Be patient and open-minded.
Supporting local economies
Buy Local Crafts: Purchase handmade goods directly from artisans to support the local economy.
Eco-Tourism: Choose tour operators and lodges that work with and benefit local communities.
General etiquette
Avoid Loud Behavior: Keep noise levels low to respect the tranquil environment and local way of life.
Be Curious, Not Intrusive: Ask questions if appropriate but avoid being overly intrusive about personal lives or sacred practices.
FACTS - Vale do Javari and Funai
Location: Vale do Javari is located in the Brazilian Amazon, primarily in the state of Amazonas, with some parts extending into Acre. It is situated near the borders with Peru.
Size: The area covers over 85,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest indigenous territories in Brazil, nearly the size of Portugal.
Biodiversity: Vale do Javari is known for its incredible biodiversity, housing numerous species of plants and animals, many of which are endemic to the region. The area includes a variety of ecosystems such as rivers, lakes, forests, and mountains.
Indigenous populations: The region is home to over 2,000 individuals from at least 14 different indigenous tribes. Some tribes, like the Isolados do Rio Quixito and Isolados do Itaquai (Korubo), live in isolation and have minimal contact with the outside world.
Cultural significance: The indigenous communities in Vale do Javari have rich cultural traditions and languages, which have been preserved for thousands of years. Each tribe has its own unique customs and practices.
Environmental threats: Vale do Javari faces significant threats from illegal activities such as deforestation, illegal mining, and poaching. These activities endanger both the biodiversity of the region and the rights of the indigenous peoples living there.
Protection measures: FUNAI (the National Indian Foundation) plays a vital role in protecting the indigenous territories in Vale do Javari, working to prevent illegal activities and promote the welfare of indigenous communities.
Access: Due to its remote location, access to Vale do Javari is often limited. Travelers typically start their journeys from nearby towns like Tabatinga or Atalaia do Norte, using boats or small aircraft to reach the area.
Ecotourism: Although access is limited, the region offers opportunities for ecotourism, allowing visitors to experience the unique ecosystems and indigenous cultures, while emphasizing the importance of conservation and sustainability.
Scientific research: Vale do Javari is of great interest to researchers studying biodiversity, indigenous cultures, and environmental conservation, providing valuable insights into the Amazon rainforest's ecosystems and the challenges they face.
These facts highlight the ecological and cultural significance of Vale do Javari, as well as the challenges it faces in preserving its unique heritage and biodiversity.
FUNAI is a federal agency in Brazil responsible for protecting and promoting the rights, culture, and traditions of indigenous peoples. Established in 1967 as part of the Brazilian government, its primary objectives include overseeing and managing indigenous territories, implementing policies for indigenous communities, and advancing their welfare and self-determination.
FUNAI plays a crucial role in safeguarding Brazil's indigenous populations and their lands from illegal encroachment, deforestation, and other threats to their rights and habitats. The organization is also involved in land registration, mapping indigenous territories, and monitoring the health and well-being of indigenous communities.
In addition to its protective efforts, FUNAI fosters dialogue and collaboration between indigenous communities and various stakeholders, including government entities, non-governmental organizations, and international partners.
Céline Cousteau and the call of the rainforest
Céline Cousteau, filmmaker, environmentalist, and granddaughter of legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau, directed the powerful documentary Tribes on the Edge, focusing on the Indigenous peoples of the Vale do Javari in the Brazilian Amazon.
What it’s about
Tribes on the Edge explores the cultural, environmental, and political threats facing the Indigenous communities of the Vale do Javari, one of the most remote and biodiverse regions on Earth. The area is home to the highest concentration of uncontacted tribes in the world.
The film follows Céline's journey with the Union of Indigenous Peoples of the Javari Valley (Univaja) and sheds light on:
The impact of deforestation and illegal invasions on indigenous land
Health crises like hepatitis, malaria, and tuberculosis
The struggle for land rights and protection
The resilience and wisdom of the tribes living on the front lines of ecological and cultural survival
Why she made it
Céline was invited by Indigenous leaders to share their story with the outside world. She has called the film her most personal and urgent work, aiming to be a voice for those who have none on the global stage.
They asked me to help them tell their story — and when someone asks that of you, you don’t walk away Céline Cousteau
Activism beyond the film
After the documentary, Céline launched the Tribes on the Edge Impact Campaign, which supports:
Healthcare access
Legal support for land protection
International awareness of Amazonian Indigenous issues
President Lula's renewed support for indigenous peoples
In April 2025, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva made a historic visit to the Xingu region in Mato Grosso, reaffirming his government’s commitment to protecting Indigenous rights, land, and culture.
The visit took place at the Piaraçu Village, in the Capoto-Jarina Indigenous Territory, home to the iconic leader Chief Raoni Metuktire, a long-time voice for the Amazon and its peoples.
Standing before dozens of Indigenous leaders from across Brazil, Lula declared:
We are a government that respects Indigenous peoples and recognizes their rights. — President Lula, Piaraçu, April 2025
This moment echoed Lula’s campaign promises and his earlier efforts during previous terms to demarcate Indigenous territories and halt environmental degradation.
During the gathering, Lula’s administration announced new initiatives including:
Strengthening healthcare and education within Indigenous territories
Increasing the protection of demarcated lands
Expanding FUNAI’s authority and field presence
Supporting sustainable economic development led by Indigenous communities
