Visit Guambiano territory
Visit the gorgeous countryside which is the territory of the Guambiano indians and their famous market at Silvia.
The countryside around Popayán is delightful, with range after range of pea-green, rucked hills adorned with ribbon-like waterfalls and pitted with lagoons and hot springs. The region is well worth exploring in its own fight, but more so if you are planning to visit the villages of the Guambiano indians.
This indigenous community is easily identified by the costume which the people still choose to wear, the men sporting blue and fuchsia tunics while the women envelope themselves in deep blue shawls and cover their heads in black bowler hats. Once reserved and suspicious of outsiders they are now beginning to appreciate the benefits of inviting visitors in to their homes and craft workshops and offer you a friendly welcome.
If you visit the main town Silvia on a Tuesday you’ll have the chance of browsing the renowned market bulging with fruit, vegetables and household goods: this is not a tourist affair, rather a shopping opportunity for Guambianos from the villages around which you might be tempted to visit if you are not there on a Tuesday. The market has grown in popularity recently and Otavalo Indians have moved in with their distinctive artesania, but discovering the Guambiano territory is still very much an authentic experience.
Ready to start planning?
Tell us where you want to go, and we’ll take it from there. No obligation, no sales pitch – just a conversation with someone who knows the region inside out.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
