Southern Caribbean · Colombia

Barranquilla and its Carnival

Cultural Weekend difficulty: Easy with kids: yes

The most joyful city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, home to one of the biggest carnivals in the world. Cumbia, enormous costumes and drums that never stop: here music is lived in the street.

The pop wink

The city where Shakira was born and where the Barranquilla Carnival beats, declared a World Heritage treasure by UNESCO.

With kids

Watch the marimondas and the giant costumes parade by
Learn the basic steps of the cumbia
Try the arepa de huevo and the coastal bollo
Paint your face with the colors of the party

Accessibility: All ages. During Carnival there are big crowds and noise; bring ear protection for the little ones and a clear meeting point.

With family

Experience the Batalla de Flores from a shaded stand
Visit the Museo del Caribe and the Magdalena River boardwalk
Ride the Gran Malecón by bike at sunset
Dance together to the beat of the drums in the square

Full listing, routes and recommendations at Mi País — Barranquilla and its Carnival. ← All destinations