Living in the rainforests of Siberut off the coast of Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia is a small society of indigenous people, the Mentawai. Keeping the world as they know it is the goal of the Mentawai Cultural Ecotourism Association (MCEA). The tribal elders are teaching the young Mentawai how to better understand, respect and appreciate their own culture, which has been under attack for years and is in danger of disappearing.

By learning about their ancient cultures the Metawai become better tourist guides, being able to provide tourists with a understanding of this indigenous culture. The Native Planet organization is helping to empower their society by developing a global and cultural tourism strategy to implement sustainable economic alternatives; make the world aware of the Mentawai culture; secure international support; and in addition develop a managed tourism plan.

Native Planet has introduced some unique volunteer opportunities by offering volunteer bicycling adventures to raise funds. Through ride4areason.org they offer exciting bicycling adventures. The Native Planet Classic, is held in the breathtaking North Cascades available for both cyclists and non-cyclists. The pledges raised during this bicycling adventure provides more than 75% of the funding for on-site malaria control and other projects in Indonesia. Bicycling tours are also available in France, all benefiting Native Planet and indigenous peoples.

While researching these beautiful people I came across a website created by Joeyl , who made this incredible video of the Mentawai.

The Mentawai from Cale Glendening on Vimeo.