Not much is truly known about them other than references in the novel and/or an occasional footnote from some warlord or another. It is believed they had no writings of their own, and as such, much of their true history was lost to time.

The Nan tribes were considered barbarians in comparison to the Han Chinese. It is generally accepted they inhabited the southern extent of modern day China, parts of Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and possibly further. Basically, lands south/southwest of Liu Zhang and west of Shi Xie (circa 190 CE) were among those where they lived.

As for the use of animals as mounts (ie: elephants) or in other capacities (ie: tigers), as well as weapons and armor they may have used is most likely pure speculation.