Vallenato is a traditional musical genre from Colombia. Its recognition is so widespread that it has become popular across the entire country and in several parts of Latin America. This danceable musical genre is typically played with four instruments: the “caja vallenata” (a type of drum), the “guacharaca” (a percussion instrument), the accordion, and the “bandola” (a string instrument). The music is usually fast and lively, often telling stories about love, nature, and other aspects of Colombian life.
In the Colombian capital, there are numerous vallenato bars where you can listen to and dance to this music. These bars usually feature live bands playing vallenato classics as well as more modern interpretations of the genre. If you’re in the city and want to enjoy this music, here are the best vallenato bars in Bogotá:
La Trampa Vallenata
Located in the Teusaquillo neighborhood at Calle 53 # 27ª – 31, it’s considered one of the best vallenato bars in the capital. Here you can enjoy excellent vallenato parties with performances from both emerging and renowned artists. The bar is open from Thursday to Saturday, 4:00 pm to 5:00 am.
La Cacik Bar
An exclusive spot located in the northern part of the city at Avenida Pepe Sierra # 19 -40. Its atmosphere and extensive liquor menu accompany the vallenato parties and live concerts. Artists like Martín Elías, Iván Villazón, Jorge Oñate, among other great vallenato musicians, have performed at this bar, which dazzles during special events, offering people the opportunity to celebrate important occasions with family and friends. Cacik Bar is open from Thursday to Saturday, 5:00 pm to 1:00 am.
La Casa en el Aire
Named in honor of the song composed by maestro Rafael Escalona, this bar located in the Zona Rosa of Bogotá offers one of the best vallenato parties in the city, accompanied by a beautiful view of the night sky. While live vallenato music predominates, you can also listen to and dance to vallenato classics.
Matildelina Vallenato House
Also known as the house of vallenato in Bogotá, its name pays homage to the song ‘Matilde Lina’ by Leandro Diaz. The bar is located in El Nogal, at Calle 81 #72b. In addition to hosting live concerts by vallenato artists, the bar also serves as a venue for comedy shows.
La Vallenata
If you want to enjoy the romantic classics of vallenato, this bar is the one for you. La Vallenata is located at Avenida Boyacá # 64c 59 and is recommended for its “viejotecas” (classic music nights) and live events held on Saturdays. The bar is open from Thursday to Saturday, 2:00 pm to 3:00 am.
There’s no doubt that vallenato bars are a very popular concept in Bogotá, becoming a staple of parties and celebrations in the capital. So, if you’re looking to experience vallenato music, make sure to visit one of the many vallenato bars in the city.
