The objective of this study is to understand the practices of indigenous caregivers in the context of cultural change. Part of the idea of the need to build ethnographic bases that serve as inputs for the implementation of cross-cultural health and cross-cultural nursing approaches, as well as part of the evidence that facilitates health practices, based on competent descriptions that help to understand the cultural diversity of human populations. The methodological approach was carried out from qualitative research, with an ethnographic approach, combining documentary review and semi-structured interviews with 44 people. Codes were identified, grouped into subcategories and categories. Several types of caregivers were found, of which the traditional doctor and the midwife were considered relevant. Their practices are based on knowledge of the material and spiritual dimension, among which the use of medicinal plants, prayer, dream interpretation and collective ceremonies is highlighted. In addition, their work depends on social recognition, caregiver status and role in social organization. Intercultural models must consider caregivers, within the framework of strategies based on the dialogue of knowledge and participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]