Cesar

CULTURE

Museums and culture:

El Cesar invites you to live an experience cultural unforgettable starting in Valledupar, where the Historic Center keeps the memory of centuries in its colonial streets with the emblematic Plaza Alfonso López and the majestic Catedral del Rosario. Visit the Accordion Museum, the Composer's Museum and the El Cocha Molina Museum, and discover the history of the instrument that gives rhythm to the region. Continue to Pueblo Bello, gateway to the sacred land of Nabusímake, the cultural capital of the Arhuacos, and a site that preserves the indigenous culture at its best.

Vallenato: Heritage Treasure of Humanity

In Cesar, vallenato is lived with intensity and emotion. This genre, recognized as a World Heritage Site, fuses Colombian, African and European roots, forming part of the soul of the Colombian Caribbean. In Valledupar, the world capital of vallenato, the Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata is held every April in the park of the same name, an unforgettable party with accordion competitions, piquerías and parades. Come and feel the strength of vallenato, a musical expression that unites tradition, joy and Caribbean pride.

NATURE

Colombian Caribbean Birding Route:

El Cesar opens its roads to the lovers of the nature and birds. In the Serranía del Perijá, in eastern Cesar, adventure lovers will find mountain trails, cloud forests that host a variety of bird species such as the Perijá Metalura. Near Valledupar, Los Besotes Ecopark offers trails among cacti, guayacanes and viewpoints where with luck you can spot the Blue-billed Curassow, Golden-winged Finch and Yellow-footed Horned Hornbill. Discover the Reserva ProAves Chamicero de Perijá, a crucial area for the conservation of endemic species such as the elusive Perijá Tapaculo, the Montes de Phelps Sparrow and the unique Chamicero del Perijá.

ANCESTRAL COMMUNITIES AND RURALITY

Nabusímake: Spiritual Nature at Pueblo Bello

Discover the Arhuaca culture in Cesar, one of the most authentic of the Sierra Nevada. They inhabit places like Nabusímake, the “Place where the Sun is born”, which is accessed through Pueblo Bello. The Arhuacos preserve their “ika” language, their weavings and a deep connection with nature. Their territories offer a unique experience to learn about their ancestral cosmovision through hikes with certified guides and under indigenous norms, guaranteeing a respectful encounter with this community that keeps its traditions alive.

Ancestral Knowledge System: Indigenous Peoples of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

In the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the Arhuaco, Kogui, Wiwa and Kankuamo peoples preserve an ancestral knowledge system, World Heritage Site, which guides their spiritual life and their relationship with nature. Through rituals, songs and offerings, they connect with rivers, mountains and sacred places. The Mamos and Sagas, spiritual guides, interpret the messages of nature.

Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata:

The Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata in Valledupar invites you to experience the essence of vallenato, recognized as cultural heritage of humanity. Enjoy exciting contests of accordionists, performances of artists and colorful parades. Delight yourself with gastronomic samples, craft fairs and activities for the whole family. Experience up close the four traditional forms of the genre: paseo, merengue, son and puya. Pay tribute to its great exponents and discover why thousands of visitors return every year.

GASTRONOMY

Traditional cuisine:

Cesar surprises travelers with its gastronomy full of tradition and Caribbean flavor. Cesar offers flavors that conquer the palate with traditional recipes full of identity. Pangá meat, slowly cooked in its own juice and accompanied by yucca and plantains, is a classic of the region. Three-phase sancocho, with chicken, beef and pork, is enjoyed at family gatherings and parties. And roasted goat, especially in rural areas, stands out for its strong seasoning and slow cooking. Try other dishes such as dulce de leche and viuda de pescado (fish widow) that reflect the culinary essence of Cesar and invite you to try it all.

Every Easter, the Feria del Dulce Vallenato in Valledupar offers more than 100 stands with traditional delicacies such as coconut and milk cut. An ideal event to savor Cesar.

CRAFTS

Arhuaca backpacks:

The Arhuaca backpacks of Cesar are authentic works of art, hand-woven with natural yarns, reflecting the ancestral tradition of the Arhuaca community. Each piece, loaded with symbolism and vibrant colors, is unique. When visiting the region, you will have the opportunity to purchase these backpacks, perfect for carrying a cultural and artisanal souvenir of the Sierra Nevada.

Colombian Caribbean Symbol: Sombrero Vueltiao (Vueltiao Hat)

The vueltiao hat is a symbol of the Colombian Caribbean identity, it has its origin in the Zenú indigenous community. It is made with arrow cane and woven by hand. This cultural symbol of Colombia, accompanies the departments of La Guajira, Magdalena and Cesar in their cultural festivities becoming a living expression of the Colombian Caribbean.