- Comfortable shoes – You’ll be standing and dancing for HOURS.
- Cash – Many street vendors don’t take cards.
- A small bag – Keep your valuables close in the crowds.
- Spray foam – If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em! (You can buy it there)
- Extra clothes – You WILL get covered in foam and possibly flour.
- Portable charger – Your phone will die from all the photos and videos.
Food and Drink Costs
Good news! The costs for food and drinks aren’t too bad in Barranquilla. You pay around one euro for a beer in the palcos, and street vendors sell cheap food and drinks. The prices stay relatively low despite the huge crowds.
My go-to snacks were arepas, empanadas, and fresh fruit from the street vendors. So good and so cheap!
Stay Safe
The carnival attracts MASSIVE crowds, so:
- Keep your valuables secure and out of sight
- Stick with your group
- Watch your drink (don’t leave it unattended)
- Use official taxis or Uber
- Stay in well-lit, crowded areas at night
- Know where your accommodation is and how to get back
I felt safe the entire time, but it’s a big party with lots of drinking, so just use common sense.
The Cultural Significance
What really struck me about Barranquilla Carnival is how meaningful it is. The celebrations showcase dances, music, and folklore from diverse populations across Colombia, from the Wayuu people of La Guajira to the salsa culture of Cali.
It represents the melting pot of cultures that characterizes Colombia’s Caribbean region, with European, African, and indigenous influences reflected in everything.
You’re not just watching entertainment – you’re witnessing centuries of cultural preservation and celebration. The dances you see have been passed down through generations. The music tells stories. The costumes have meaning.
Things That Surprised Me
The foam. SO. MUCH. FOAM. People spray foam on everyone – strangers, friends, tourists, locals. By the end of each day, I was COVERED. Just embrace it.
How friendly everyone is. Colombians are incredibly welcoming, and during carnival, that hospitality is cranked up to 100. People invited me to dance, shared their drinks, taught me cumbia steps, and made me feel part of the celebration.
The energy level. I thought I had good stamina, but four days of non-stop partying is EXHAUSTING. By Tuesday, I was running on pure adrenaline and aguardiente.
How hot it is. The Caribbean sun is intense. I went through like three bottles of sunscreen and was still slightly burned.
The creativity. The costumes and floats are insanely creative. People spend all year preparing for these four days, and it shows.
Is It Worth It?
100% YES. Like, if you have any interest in festivals, music, dance, culture, or just having an incredible time, you need to experience Barranquilla Carnival at least once.
It’s not as famous as Rio, which actually makes it better in some ways – it feels more authentic and less touristy. Plus, it’s less commercial than Rio while being equally exuberant.
As the second-largest carnival celebration in the world, it brings in millions of visitors every year, so you’re part of something truly massive and special.
Final Thoughts
Barranquilla Carnival is pure, unfiltered joy. It’s exhausting and overwhelming and hot and crowded and absolutely incredible. I made friends from all over the world, danced until my feet hurt, ate amazing food, learned about Colombian culture, and created memories I’ll never forget.
The slogan “Quien lo vive, es quien lo goza” (Those who live it are those who enjoy it) perfectly captures the spirit – you have to throw yourself into the experience completely.
Start planning now for next year’s carnival. Book your accommodation and flights early, pack your most colorful clothes, bring your dancing shoes, and get ready for the party of a lifetime!
Quick note: Before you go to Colombia, make sure you have all your documentation in order, including your Check-MIG form if required for entry and exit!