
The Kankuamos
We are one of four indigenous groups that live in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, Colombia. This is a privileged eco-system rich in fauna, flora and water with beautiful views that range from the Caribbean shorelines to snowy peaks rising over 5,700 mt. above sea level. We are the ancestral guardians of this magical place.
We think of our land as the place of origin of all creation. To us, it is sacred, and with the help of the Arhuaco, the Kogi, and the Wiwa peoples, we ensure the continuation of the natural and spiritual equilibrium.
We, the Kankuas, live in the mountainside close to Valledupar (Cesar), in the townships of Atánquez, Guatapurí, Chemesquemena, Los Haticos, La Mina and Río Seco. In these lands we practice small scale agriculture and animal farming, yet is is the creation of artisanal products that enables our women to produce their own income, while perpetuating our traditions and folklore.

Map. Sierra Nevada and Kankuamos territory

Badillo River (Corregimiento La Mina - Valledupar)

Sunset (Corregimiento Atanque - Valledupar)

Kankuama woman
Corregimiento La Mina - Valledupar.
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