Destination Facts

• Official Name: Nabusimake (also known as “Pueblo de los Hijos del Sol”)
• Type of Destination: Indigenous Tribe
• Brief Description: A sacred settlement of the Arhuaco people, nestled in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, revered for its spiritual significance and preservation of ancestral traditions.
• Location: Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, within the Cesar Department, Caribbean Region of Colombia.
• Significance/Known For: Considered the spiritual and political heart of the Arhuaco indigenous community, known for its deep connection to nature and cosmology.
• Main Attractions/Key Features:
  • The sacred ceremonial sites and stone pathways reflecting Arhuaco cosmology.
  • The traditional mamos (spiritual leaders) who maintain ancient wisdom and rituals.
  • The surrounding pristine landscapes of the Sierra Nevada, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (December to March) for easier access, though visits require cultural sensitivity and prior arrangements.
• Entrance Fee/Ticket Info: Access is restricted; permission must be obtained from the Arhuaco authorities.
• Website: N/A (No official public website; inquiries are typically handled through local indigenous councils or authorized cultural tours.)

Essentials

• Best Months to Visit: December, February, January, November

History

History of Nabusimake

Nabusimake, the spiritual and political heart of the Arhuaco people, is nestled in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a sacred mountain range in Colombia’s Caribbean region. This indigenous settlement, whose name translates to “the land where the sun is born,” has been a center of Arhuaco culture for centuries. The Arhuaco, one of the four ancestral tribes of the Sierra Nevada, have preserved their traditions, language, and cosmology despite colonial and modern pressures. Nabusimake remains a living testament to their resilience, where the mamos (spiritual leaders) continue to guide their community in harmony with nature.

Key Historical Dates

• Pre-Columbian Era: The Arhuaco people, descendants of the ancient Tairona civilization, established Nabusimake as a spiritual and administrative center long before Spanish colonization. Their society thrived on agriculture, trade, and a deep connection to the land.
• 16th Century: Spanish conquest disrupted the region, forcing the Arhuaco to retreat deeper into the Sierra Nevada to avoid enslavement and cultural erasure. Despite this, Nabusimake remained a refuge for their traditions.
• Early 20th Century: The Colombian government and Catholic missions attempted to assimilate the Arhuaco, but resistance from the community, particularly the mamos, ensured the survival of their autonomy and customs.
• 1980s–1990s: Nabusimake became a focal point for indigenous rights movements as the Arhuaco successfully reclaimed ancestral lands and expelled external influences, reinforcing their self-governance.
• Present Day: Nabusimake remains a symbol of cultural preservation, where visitors can witness the Arhuaco’s enduring way of life, guided by the principles of balance and respect for the natural world.

Tours and Day Trips

Popular Tours & Day Trips from Nabusimake

1. Sacred Heart of the Sierra: Nabusimake Village Immersion

Nabusimake, the spiritual heart of the Arhuaco people, offers an intimate glimpse into indigenous traditions. Visitors can explore the village’s circular layout, meet local mamos (spiritual leaders), and learn about the Arhuaco’s deep connection to the Sierra Nevada. The tour typically lasts half a day and includes a visit to the sacred Kankurwa (ceremonial hut). Ideal for cultural enthusiasts and those seeking a reflective experience.

2. Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Trek

A guided trek through the lush foothills of the Sierra Nevada, departing from Nabusimake, reveals cascading waterfalls, cloud forests, and panoramic views of the Caribbean coast. The hike ranges from moderate to challenging, lasting 6–8 hours, with stops at hidden lagoons and ancient petroglyphs. Suitable for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this excursion requires sturdy footwear and a respect for the sacred landscape.

3. Traditional Coffee & Cacao Workshop

In nearby Arhuaco settlements, travelers participate in the cultivation and preparation of organic coffee and cacao, following ancestral methods. The workshop includes harvesting, roasting, and grinding beans, culminating in a tasting session of traditional beverages. Lasting 3–4 hours, this experience appeals to food artisans and those curious about sustainable practices.

4. Río Badillo Exploration

A short journey from Nabusimake leads to the crystalline waters of Río Badillo, where visitors can swim in natural pools framed by boulders and dense vegetation. Local guides share stories of the river’s spiritual significance while leading gentle hikes along its banks. A tranquil half-day outing, perfect for families or travelers seeking serenity.

5. Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) Alternative Route

For those intrigued by the legendary Ciudad Perdida but preferring a less-trodden path, this multi-day trek begins near Nabusimake. The route passes through Arhuaco territories, offering privileged insights into their guardianship of the land. Requires good physical condition and a willingness to disconnect—reservations must be arranged through community-approved operators.

When to visit

Best Time to Visit Nabusimake

Seasonal Breakdown

Nabusimake, the spiritual heart of the Arhuaco Indigenous people in Colombia’s Caribbean Region, experiences a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. The timing of your visit will shape your experience of this sacred place.

Dry Season (December – March)

The dry season brings warm days (25-30°C) and cooler nights (15-18°C), with minimal rainfall. Trails to sacred sites like Pico Bolívar are most accessible during these months.

• Pros: Ideal for hiking and cultural immersion; clearest views of the Sierra Nevada mountains
• Cons: Higher visitor numbers during December holidays

The Arhuaco New Year celebration in late December/early January offers rare cultural insights, though visitors should respectfully observe rather than intrude.

Transition Period (April – May, October – November)

These shoulder months feature moderate temperatures (22-28°C) and sporadic rains. Mornings are often clear before afternoon showers.

• Pros: Fewer visitors, lush landscapes after rains, optimal conditions for photography
• Cons: Some trails may become muddy; occasional transportation delays

Wet Season (June – September)

The heaviest rainfall occurs (especially July-August), with temperatures dipping slightly (20-26°C). Humidity remains high throughout.

• Pros: Deepest cultural immersion as few tourists visit; dramatic cloud formations in the mountains
• Cons: Challenging trekking conditions; some community activities may be postponed

The Kankurwa Festival in August features traditional dances and rituals, though participation is typically limited to community members.

Overall Recommendation

For most visitors, January-March offers the optimal balance of accessibility and cultural opportunities. Those seeking solitude might prefer October-November, while anthropologists may value the rainy season’s authentic rhythms despite the challenges.

Considerations

The Arhuaco carefully manage visitation year-round. Regardless of season:

• Always arrange visits through authorized community representatives
• Expect limited infrastructure – this is not a conventional tourist destination
• December holidays and Colombian school vacations (June-July) see slight increases in regional tourism

What to pack

What to Pack for Nabusimake

Nabusimake, the spiritual heart of the Arhuaco people in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada, demands thoughtful preparation. The region’s high-altitude climate, cultural significance, and rugged terrain call for items that respect both the environment and local traditions.

Clothing & Footwear

• Lightweight, breathable layers: Days can be warm, but temperatures drop sharply at night. Opt for natural fabrics like cotton or wool.
• Sturdy walking shoes: The terrain is uneven, often requiring hikes to reach sacred sites or villages.
• Rainproof jacket: Sudden showers are common in the Sierra Nevada’s microclimates.

Cultural Respect & Practicality

• Modest, neutral-colored clothing: Bright colors or revealing attire may be considered disrespectful in this deeply traditional community.
• Small gifts for hosts: Items like unbleached cotton cloth or organic seeds are appreciated tokens of reciprocity.
• Notebook & pen: For recording insights during rare permission-granted conversations with spiritual leaders.

Health & Comfort

• Altitude sickness remedies: Nabusimake sits at 2,000m+ elevation; coca leaves (legal locally) or prescribed medication can help.
• Biodegradable toiletries: The Arhuaco protect their watersheds – avoid chemicals that could contaminate sacred rivers.
• Solar-powered charger: Electricity is limited; essential for emergencies while minimizing environmental impact.

Culture

The Spiritual Heart of the Arhuaco

Nabusimake, known as the “Land Where the Sun is Born,” is the sacred capital of the Arhuaco (Ika) people, one of Colombia’s four Indigenous Kogi-Arhuaco groups. Unlike other destinations in the Caribbean Region, this remote mountain settlement in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is not merely a place but a living cosmology. The Arhuaco consider Nabusimake the center of the world, where spiritual leaders (mamos) maintain the balance of nature through rituals and offerings. Visitors must approach with reverence—this is not a tourist attraction but a deeply spiritual space where every rock, river, and tree holds meaning.

Language & Symbolism

The Arhuaco speak Ika, a Chibchan language, but their communication extends beyond words. Traditional white cotton tunics (mochilas) woven by women carry intricate geometric patterns representing the Sierra Nevada’s sacred sites. The poporo, a gourd used by men to chew coca leaves, is both a tool and a symbol of wisdom. Unlike the vibrant Caribbean dialects of coastal Colombia, conversations here are deliberate, often punctuated by long silences—a reflection of the Arhuaco’s contemplative worldview.

Rituals & Social Structure

Daily life revolves around pagamento (payment), a ritual offering of coca leaves, shells, or seeds to “pay” the earth for its resources. Unlike the festive carnivals of the Caribbean lowlands, ceremonies here—such as the Kaku Serankwa (New Year)—are solemn, involving chanting and tobacco smoke to cleanse the spirit. The mamos, easily recognized by their staffs and woven hats, hold absolute authority. Outsiders are rarely permitted to witness these rites, but respectful visitors may be allowed to observe from a distance.

Visitor Etiquette

• Always ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites.
• Do not touch ritual objects like poporos or mochilas without explicit consent.
• Engage only with authorized Arhuaco guides—tourism is tightly controlled by the community.

Cuisine: Simplicity as Sustenance

Food in Nabusimake is utilitarian, unlike the bold flavors of coastal Colombian cuisine. Staples include:

• Mote: Boiled corn, often served with fresh cheese.
• Fariña: Toasted cassava flour, eaten with river fish.
• Chicha: Fermented corn drink, reserved for ceremonies.

Meals are communal but silent, emphasizing gratitude over indulgence.

Handicrafts with Purpose

Arhuaco weaving is a meditation, not a commercial craft. Mochilas take months to complete, each stitch a prayer. Men carve wooden staffs from the yui tree, believed to connect the physical and spiritual worlds. Purchases should be made directly from artisans at the community cooperative, avoiding mass-produced imitations sold in cities.