A sacred samaúma tree

The samaúma tree is considered sacred by around 500 Amerindian tribes of the Amazon. These large, old trees tower above the forest and for generations have been used as a landmark to guide fishermen. The Asháninka people and other tribes use the huge buttress roots as drums to communicate. The Asháninka people talk about samaúma trees as a source of connection and liberation – they represent a connection to the spiritual world.