WHERE TO GO.

Silvia’s Indigenous Market. Every Tuesday, the main square transforms into a true festival of colors and flavors. The Misak people come down from the mountains dressed in their traditional attire: blue poncho, hat, and multicolored chumbes (woven belts). Here you can buy anything from native potatoes, fresh fruits, and medicinal herbs to unique handicrafts made of wool and fique. You can also taste traditional drinks such as chicha. If you wish to learn more, you could chat with the vendors and listen to stories about their customs and worldview. Silvia Lagoon. This is a sacred place for the Misak and an ideal spot to connect with nature. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it’s perfect for hiking, breathing fresh air, and enjoying a peaceful environment. Visitors should be respectful, as this is considered a site of great spiritual importance. Silvia’s Central Church. Located in the main square, the white church stands in contrast to the colorful market. Here you can learn about part of the town’s religious heritage and witness how Catholic beliefs coexist with the ancestral practices of the Misak. Viewpoints and mountains. Silvia is surrounded by hills where you can observe the coffee landscape, valleys, and the morning mist that covers the town. You can climb to some viewpoints and go hiking in the rural areas.

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TRAVEL TIPS

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You should bring warm clothing because the weather is cold, especially in the evenings and mornings. You must show respect toward the Misak culture: ask for permission if you want to take photos of people and follow their guidance in sacred places. To get to Silvia, you should take a bus from Popayán; the trip takes about an hour and a half, with beautiful landscapes along the way. You might want to plan your visit on a Tuesday, since it’s Indigenous market day and the cultural experience is much richer. You could learn some basic words in the Misak language (Nam trik), which will create closeness and show respect toward the community. Don’t forget to bring cash, because most sales at the Indigenous market don’t accept cards. If you wish to visit Silvia Lagoon, you should go with a local guide, to learn about its spiritual value and avoid getting lost on the trails.
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MY TRAVEL EXPERIENCE.

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Silvia, known as the “Switzerland of America,” is a town nestled in the mountains of the Cauca department. Its name comes from its mountainous landscapes, green hills, and cool climate that resemble European scenery. But what truly makes Silvia special is its blend of culture, history, and tradition. Visiting Silvia is an encounter with the authenticity of Colombia: here, Indigenous communities, farmers, and mestizos live side by side, creating an unparalleled cultural richness. At the heart of this experience is the Misak (Guambiano) Indigenous community, which has preserved its traditions, clothing, and language. This destination not only offers you breathtaking natural landscapes but also the chance to connect with a people full of history and spirituality. If you are looking for a peaceful, cultural, and deeply authentic place, Silvia should definitely be on your Colombia travel list.
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WHAT TO DO

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Go hiking in the mountains. You should explore the trails surrounding the town, as they offer spectacular views and the chance to discover waterfalls, rivers, and local wildlife. Take part in the Indigenous market. If you visit Silvia on a Tuesday, you could live a unique experience by sharing with the Misak people. Here, it’s not only about buying products, but also about exchanging knowledge and traditions. Taste the local gastronomy. You can enjoy typical dishes such as fresh river trout, mote de papa (potato stew), or homemade chicha. By trying them, you will understand the richness of Cauca’s cuisine and the importance of native ingredients. Learn about Misak traditions. If you have the opportunity, you could attend Indigenous celebrations or rituals. This way, you will understand this community’s deep connection with nature and their spiritual beliefs. Do photography. Make sure to bring your camera because Silvia offers unique scenarios: from the mountains and the lagoon to the ...
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