On your trip to Colombia, discover different indigenous cultures
The Sibundoy Valley is located in the southwest of Colombia. In the valley you find the municipalities of Colón, San Francisco, Santiago and Sibundoy. It is not a frequently visited area, but an area of great beauty where indigenous tribes still cherish their culture.
The valley is one of the most beautiful mountain and jungle landscapes of Colombia.The Sibundoy Valley has two indigenous tribes of great cultural importance: the Kamentsá or Kamsá which means “men from here” and the indigenous ethnic Inga tribe, which means “good friends”.
In this region the inhabitants honour the customs of indigenous ancestors. For example, their old medicinal practices with ayahuasca and yagé, which nowadays are still practiced by shamans and doctors of every tribe.
Come and discover the special indigenous cultures and customs in this region of Colombia. Or visit the Laguna de la Cocha, a sacred lagoon for the native population and the second largest lake in Colombia.
Weather
Average temperature 12°C.
Recommended clothing
Warm clothes and comfortable walking shoes.
How to get there?
From Pasto, the capital of southern Nariño, you can take a bus or taxi to the Sibundoy Valley (60 km)
What does this place offer you?
• The special Kametsá culture.
• Traditions of the indigenous people.
• Nature.
• Fauna and Flora.
What to do?
• Learn about the Kametsá culture and the local medicinal plants and organic crops.
• Have a look at the products made by the locals based on fabrics and wood.
• Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the hot springs of El Salado and the viewpoint of San Sebastián.
Typical local dishes
• Cuy: a large guinea pig from the region that is eaten roasted.
• Vishana: a soup prepared with beans, corn, meat and cabbage.
• Chicha: an alcoholic drink made from fermented corn.
Tips
• The word “PAI” means “thank you” in the native language of the Kametsá Indians.
• If you choose to participate in a Yagé ceremony, you should eat lightly the days before.
What else to see and do?
• Laguna de la Cocha: at almost 2700 meters altitude you will find special plants and animals in this beautiful lagoon that you can explore by boat – 73 km from Sibundoy.
