Welcome to the most musical department in Colombia!
Tolima is a department defined by Andean rhythms — bambuco, pasillo, torbellino, just to name a few! But it’s home to the largest musical conservatory in the country, a region where music, nature, and community go hand-in-hand.
While it’s not uncommon to hear musicians in the streets of the capital city of Ibagué any time of year, every March musicians flock to the city to celebrate the National Day of Colombian Music. Thousands of folk rhythms echo through the streets, from the Caribbean shores to the high southern Andes, but most prominent are the Andean rhythms themselves, inspired by the landscapes of Tolima.
This department is truly home to some of the most extraordinary landscapes in the country, from towering volcanos to deep canyons, but these landscapes have also been the site of major tragedies. The department of Tolima not solely defined by it’s music, but by it’s resilience, a place where every story makes it’s way into song. I was honored to have a chance to visit the Colombian Music Festival and hear just a few of them (plus explore the region in a tuk tuk, but you’ll just have to watch the video to see that bit!)
More About Tolima
If I’ve written any articles about Tolima, you’ll see them listed here!
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In my journey to visit all 32 departments of Colombia I’ve written extensively about the different places I’ve traveled and people I’ve met. Click below to view all of my guides, stories, and tips from my travels around Colombia.
Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.