People
Who they are
The Diaguita are an Indigenous people native to the valleys and mountains of northwestern Argentina and northern Chile. Historically known for their ingenious hillside farming and intricate pottery, they maintain a deep connection to the land and the memory of their ancestors.
Although they adopted Spanish after centuries of colonization, Diaguita families keep their communal roots alive in the Calchaquí Valleys and surrounding areas. Today, local leaders seek to protect their lands and revitalize the ancestral traditions that define their way of life.
Where they live
2
Countries
124K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Argentina Partially reached
|
59.7%
|
74.000 |
Chile Partially reached
|
40.3%
|
50.000 |
How they live
Daily life in Diaguita communities revolves around family farming, goat herding, weaving, and pottery. Growing corn, beans, and grapes for locally made wine is common in the Andean valleys. Community decisions are usually made at local assemblies, where family ties and mutual support strengthen life together in rural villages.
What they believe
Most communities express a faith that combines historic Catholicism with ancestral Andean customs. Religious festivals honoring patron saints mingle with offerings of gratitude to Pachamama, Mother Earth, celebrating harvests and the cycles of nature. Small evangelical congregations are beginning to form in some villages, bringing a new biblical understanding to community life.
The Bible in this people's language
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
Spanish
Complete Bible
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Done
- Whole Bible Current stage
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)70.8%
Evangelicals3.6%
Needs
Many communities face challenges in securing tenure of their ancestral lands, water shortages in arid regions, and limited access to healthcare and education. Spiritually, there is a need for ongoing discipleship and local Christian workers who understand rural life and can nurture vibrant churches rooted in the region’s culture.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Por segurança jurídica e preservação das terras agrícolas das famílias diaguitas.
Por acesso a recursos hídricos e melhores serviços de saúde nas regiões dos vales.
Pelo fortalecimento e amadurecimento das pequenas congregações cristãs locais.
Por líderes comunitários que conheçam a graça de Cristo e guiem seu povo com justiça.
Pela proclamação clara do evangelho, gerando esperança e reconciliação nas famílias.
Pray for Diaguita
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar