Your Tribal Tattoo Guide With 110 Inspirations

Tribal tattoos have a rich history that spans across cultures and continents. These bold designs are rooted in traditions and hold significant meaning for the communities that they represent. While tribal tattoos have evolved, their essence remains a powerful symbol of heritage and identity. 

Today, we’ll take a deep dive into tribal tattoos and their symbolism.

Tribal tattoos often feature bold, black ink designs. You’ll notice that every such tattoo has strong lines, geometric patterns, and symbols. That’s because they draw inspiration from indigenous cultures, such as Māori, Polynesian, Native American, and African tribes, and more. Each tribe has its own unique style, motifs, and meanings associated with their tattoos.

In tribal cultures, tattoos are not merely decorative but have a deep cultural and spiritual meaning. In the past, they even marked important milestones in a person’s life, such as coming of age, motherhood, tribal affiliation, or nature tattoos that represent oneness with Mother Earth. These tattoos were believed to ward off evil spirits and represent a person’s identity and connection to their community.

These trippy tattoo designs are quite popular for their aesthetic appeal. We’ve collected over 150 tribal tattoo ideas for your next ink-spiration. 

However, it’s important to note that while tribal tattoos look beautiful, you should approach them with respect and cultural understanding. Find a knowledgeable tattoo artist who can provide insight and ensure that the tattoos are designed and applied with cultural sensitivity.

14 PHOTOS

#1 Aztec Tribal Tattoo On The Back

#2 Filipino Tribal Tattoo

#3 Tribal Tattoo On The Chest

Māori tribal tattoos, on the other hand, have curvilinear patterns, spirals, and intricate motifs. They hold immense spiritual significance within the indigenous Māori culture of New Zealand. In fact, they are considered an integral part of Māori identity. They represent ancestry, social status, and history. Another interesting fact about these tattoos is that they are applied using chisels or needles, and are believed to be less painful.

#4 Hand Tribal Tattoo

#5 Tribal Tattoo On The Leg

#5 Tribal Tattoo On The Leg

"Got my first tattoo done by Maori tattoo artist Shaun from Otautahi Tattoos in NZ."

#7 Tribal Ear Tattoo

#8 Tribal Tattoo On The Hand

Tribal Tattoos And Their Meanings

Tribal tattoos are rich in symbolism. These are some common themes:

• Arrows: Symbolize direction, progress, and focus.
• Sun: Represents life, energy, and vitality. It symbolizes power, light, and the cycle of life.
• Moon: Signifies femininity.
• Cross: Represents spirituality, faith, and protection.
• Feather: Associated with birds, which represent freedom.
• Tree of Life: Represents strength, growth, and interconnectedness.
• Spirals: Signify growth and transformation.
• Waves: Symbolize the flow of water, representing adaptability and resilience.
• Triangle: It can symbolize the union of mind, body, and spirit.
• Mandala: Represents wholeness, unity, and balance.

Sometimes their meanings can be highly personal and may vary based on cultural traditions, individual beliefs, and personal experiences. Consult a knowledgeable tattoo artist to gain a better understanding of their meanings.

#9 Tribal Tattoos On Feet

#10 Tribal Black Tattoo

#11 Tribal Leg Sleeves Tattoo

#12 Spine Tribal Tattoo

#13 Tribal Tattoo On The Hand

#14 Tribal Tattoo Sleeve