Festive buses, called chivas, are a staple in Medellin, Colombia and in the entire Antioquia region. They were introduced in the early 1900s when a bus chasis was imported from the US and modified to carry agricultural products as well as people. The first basic models were quickly livened up with bright colors and even given nicknames from their drivers. Today, chivas are an artistic point of pride used as everyday transportation and available for hire as chauffeured party buses. As if the chivas that roam the streets of Medellin, Colombia aren’t festive enough, during the annual Feria de las Flores Flower Festival, owners kick it up a notch by adding flowers galore. Here’s what it looked like as drivers put the finishing touches on their chivas before they were paraded during the Flower Festival in Medellin.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Buses in Medellin getting dressed up for the city’s annual Flower Festival.
Flower Festival in Medellin travel tips
Every year the Flower Festival in Medellin brings in thousands of tourists and hotels fill up fast. During last year’s Flower Festival we managed to get a room at 61 Prado Guesthouse and we highly recommend it to any traveler who likes spotlessly clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable rates (US$35 for a private double room with bathroom) in a homey environment just a few blocks from Medellin’s famous metro system.
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Here’s more about travel in Colombia
Here’s more about Festivals & Celebrations in the Americas
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I love the colors. That part of the world (even up through Central America, Mexico and into the Caribbean) is just so festive and colorful. We are currently in Mexico (Merida has great colors!) and will be in the Caribbean in about a month. Can’t wait!
I never heard about this chivas before. Lovely article,it’s worth reading.And those pics are simply superb.
How could you not love those buses. Really awesome shots, and I love all the colors!