Nomadic Peoples

Most people live in one place, but nomadic peoples move from place to place. They travel to find food, water, and fresh pastures for their animals. Nomads have lived this way for thousands of years. Today, some people still follow a nomadic way of life.

Nomadic Lifestyles

Many nomads are herders who move with their animals. Mongolian nomads travel across grassy plains with their horses, sheep, and goats. They live in portable tents called yurts. The Bedouin people of the Middle East move through deserts with their camels. The Sami people of northern Europe follow reindeer herds across the tundra.

Nomads Today

There are still millions of nomadic people around the world. Some continue to herd animals the traditional way. Others have adapted to modern life while keeping their customs. Nomadic cultures teach us about living close to nature. Their knowledge of the land and weather is very valuable.

Fun Facts

• Mongolian nomads can set up a yurt in about two hours.
• The Tuareg people of the Sahara Desert are known as the "Blue People" because their indigo-dyed clothing stains their skin.
• Some nomadic groups travel over 1,000 miles in a single year.

Did You Know?

About 30 to 40 million people around the world still live a nomadic lifestyle today. That is more than the entire population of Canada!