v2.webp){kind=logo}
- Live cumbia ensembles and traditional instruments — The heart of the festival is the sound: gaitas (Indigenous flutes), maracas, tamboras and call-and-response singing. Bands range from stripped-down folkloric groups to big orchestras, so you’ll hear authentic, raw cumbia alongside more polished arrangements — it’s the real sonic history of the genre in one place.
- Open dance floors and communal cumbia — Unlike a staged show, most performances invite the crowd in, so expect wide, open dance circles where locals teach steps on the fly. The energy is contagious: people of all ages mix, partners swap, and it’s as much about joining in as it is about watching — perfect if you want to learn by doing.
- Colorful parades and folkloric costumes — Troupes march or perform in bright, hybrid costumes
- Live cumbia ensembles and traditional instruments — The heart of the festival is the sound: gaitas (Indigenous flutes), maracas, tamboras and call-and-response singing. Bands range from stripped-down folkloric groups to big orchestras, so you’ll hear authentic, raw cumbia alongside more polished arrangements — it’s the real sonic history of the genre in one place.
- Open dance floors and communal cumbia — Unlike a staged show, most performances invite the crowd in, so expect wide, open dance circles where locals teach steps on the fly. The energy is contagious: people of all ages mix, partners swap, and it’s as much about joining in as it is about watching — perfect if you want to learn by doing.
- Colorful parades and folkloric costumes — Troupes march or perform in bright, hybrid costumes that trace Indigenous, African and Spanish influences. The pageantry isn’t just for show — it’s storytelling through dress and movement, so pay attention to details like headdresses, body paint and choreography that reference local myths and histories.
- Street food, drinks and coastal flavors — Festival stalls turn into a street-food marathon: coconut, fresh fish and rice dishes, grilled snacks and fruity drinks fuel the dancing. Eating from a vendor between sets is part of the experience — practical, cheap and a great way to meet locals and try regional tastes you won’t find on a typical menu.
- Workshops, instrument demos and late-night jams — Many festivals run hands-on sessions where you can try a gaita or join a percussion circle, then stick around for unofficial late-night jams. These moments are when performers relax and mix styles — you get context, technique and the chance to actually play alongside musicians. Personal favorite: jumping into a midnight jam — it’s messy, friendly and the best way to feel like you’re part of the scene.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.
Best Backpacking
.jpg)
Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.