Sibundoy Valley

The valley sits at around 2,100 metres in a flat basin ringed by mountains between the Andes and the descent into the Amazon, and it is the territory of the Kamentsa and Inga peoples. The Bëtscnaté, usually translated as the carnival of forgiveness, is held in February before Lent: the community moves through the streets in masks and woven ceremonial dress with flutes and drums, and the purpose is stated plainly - to settle disputes and forgive before the new cycle begins. It is a community observance rather than a spectacle, and visitors are expected to behave accordingly. The valley is known for carved wooden masks, weaving in strong colours, and medicinal plant knowledge; the Sibundoy taitas are widely known as healers.

What you actually see

• A flat high basin - between the Andes and the Amazon descent.
• Bëtscnaté in February - the carnival of forgiveness before Lent.
• Carved masks and woven dress - made in the valley.
• Kamentsa and Inga territory - with strong plant medicine traditions.

When to go

February for the carnival; year round otherwise. A full day.

Honest expectations

The carnival is a community observance, not a show - attend respectfully and ask before photographing. The road from Pasto is winding and often fogged. Plant medicine tourism in this region raises real ethical questions and unregulated ceremonies have caused harm.

Nearby

Mocoa is east down the descent; Pasto is west over the paramo.