The Chiva Bus of Colombia

A chiva is an artisan rustic bus used in rural Colombia and Ecuador.

These buses combine wood and metal. Seats are wooden benches with doors instead of windows.

Chiva buses began operating in Antioquia Department long ago.

Chivas are usually painted yellow, blue, and red with local arabesques. Owners or drivers give each bus a unique nickname.

Chivas are recognized internationally as a symbol of Colombian culture. Customized chivas arrived in New York City too.

In New York these buses became party buses equipped with their own bar. Rural cargo haulers now serve cocktails.