Learn Kichwa
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A living Andean language taught with community-led lessons and cultural context.
About Kichwa
Where It Is Spoken
Ecuadorian Andes and neighboring Andean communities
Who Speaks It
Indigenous families, elders, teachers, and community members across urban and rural communities
Cultural Encyclopedia
Pawkar Raymi (Flowering Festival)
TraditionPawkar Raymi
Pawkar Raymi is the flowering festival, celebrating the first blossoms.
Cuy (Guinea Pig)
FoodKuy
Cuy (guinea pig) is a traditional food, cooked and eaten at festivals.
Pachamama (Mother Earth)
TraditionPachamama
Pachamama is Mother Earth, the giver of life, for the Andean peoples.
Minka (Communal Work)
TraditionMinka
Minka is collective voluntary work that strengthens the community.
The Hummingbird and the Fire
StoryKinti ninapash
A traditional Andean story about a small hummingbird who does its part to fight a great forest fire, teaching that every action matters.
Fresh Corn
FoodChukllu
Chukllu is fresh corn on the cob, boiled and eaten as a snack or meal.
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