Indigenous peoples and cultures of
COLOMBIA

Colombia is home to 115 indigenous peoples. In the 2018 census, more than 1.9 million people identified as indigenous, about 4.4% of the population, and the country recognises 65 indigenous languages alongside Spanish. Afro-Colombian, Raizal, Palenquero and Rom communities complete one of the most diverse cultural maps in the Americas.

Peoples you may meet on your journey

• Wayúu: the largest indigenous people in Colombia, in the desert of La Guajira, known for their woven bags, the mochilas.
• Arhuaco, Kogui, Wiwa and Kankuamo: the four peoples of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, who consider these mountains the heart of the world. Their ancestors built Teyuna, the Lost City.
• Nasa and Misak: communities of the Andes of Cauca, with strong traditions of self-government.
• Emberá: peoples of the Pacific rainforest and its rivers.
• Zenú: the weavers of the sombrero vueltiao, a national symbol of Colombia.
• Peoples of the Amazon: such as the Ticuna, around Leticia.

The Muisca legacy in Boyacá

Before the Spanish arrived, the Muisca inhabited the highlands of Boyacá and Cundinamarca. Their ceremonies with gold offerings in sacred lagoons gave rise to the legend of El Dorado. Near Villa de Leyva, the archaeological site known as El Infiernito preserves stone columns linked to Muisca astronomy.

Afro-Colombian and Raizal cultures

San Basilio de Palenque, near Cartagena, was founded by Africans who escaped slavery and is considered the first free town in the Americas; its cultural space is recognised by UNESCO, and its people still speak Palenquero, a creole language. On the islands of San Andrés and Providencia, the Raizal people keep their own English-based creole and Caribbean traditions.

How to visit communities with respect

We only visit communities that choose to receive travellers, with local guides from the community whenever possible. Ask before taking photos, respect sacred sites and follow the guidance of your hosts. Buying crafts directly from artisans is one of the best ways to support them.

Updated by Colombie Travel, Colombia DMC and member of ANATO and ACOTUR. Last reviewed: November 2026.