Timeless Colombian Legacy
Bomboná Carriel Collection
The Tale of Colombia's Carriel Bags
The Carriel bag's origins trace back to 19th-century Colombia, specifically Antioquia, and its story is closely woven with the history of Colombian coffee
Colombian Carriel bags are more than leather accessories—they are cultural icons. Originating in 19th-century Antioquia, the Carriel antioqueño or Guarniel was designed for muleteers journeying across the Andes with loads of coffee and supplies. With deep roots in the traditions of rural Colombia, the Carriel became a symbol of practicality and pride.
Today, this saddle crossbody bag has evolved, but it still reflects the heart of Colombian craftsmanship. It’s even become recognizable worldwide thanks to the legendary Juan Valdez, often depicted with a Colombian Juan Valdez bag (a Carriel) and a mule loaded with coffee beans.
The name Carriel comes from “carry all”—and it lives up to that name. This leather bag with lots of pockets was a trusted companion on long journeys, packed with everything from important documents to personal keepsakes. Its signature accordion shape and secret compartments made it a practical and emotional lifeline.
The original Carriel antioqueño had 12 compartments and 5 hidden pockets, perfect for storing money, letters, photos, tobacco, and tools. It was stitched from more than 120 individual leather pieces, sometimes using vibrant tricolor trims—each color telling a story: red for energy, green for the mountains, yellow for joy.
A Touch Of Love
Bomboná Cowhide Carriel
At Bomboná, we take the timeless Colombian Carriel bag and give it a fresh, modern touch—always respecting its rich history while adding a bit of contemporary elegance. Our bags are crafted from beautiful, full-grain cowhide leather from Nariño, a region in southern Colombia famous for producing some of the finest hides around.
Every bag is truly unique, lovingly handmade by skilled artisan families in Nariño. We build long-lasting relationships with these artisans, supporting their communities, preserving Colombia’s rich cultural heritage, and ensuring fair working conditions.
We’re proud that our leather comes from sustainable sources, using by-products from local agriculture. You’ll notice the natural grain and markings in each hide, making every Bomboná Carriel an individual piece with its own story.
While the Carriel wasn’t originally designed as a coffee bag, many people recognize it from Colombia’s coffee culture thanks to the iconic image of Juan Valdez carrying one. Today, we celebrate that heritage by creating elegant and practical handmade leather saddle bags—perfect as saddle crossbody bags in leather that mix tradition with modern style. Our artisanal bags bring that history to life in a way that fits seamlessly into your everyday wardrobe.
Pure Leather Carriel
Bomboná’s coffee saddlebag-style Colombian Carriel bags are 100% handmade in Colombia. We use only full-grain and cowhide leather selected for its durability and timeless beauty. With time and wear, the leather develops a unique patina that adds character to every piece.
Whether you’re looking for a statement accessory or a daily companion, the Bomboná Carriel is a fusion of legacy, craftsmanship, and design—meant to be carried, treasured, and passed down
Welcome to visit our Amazon Forgiveness Collection Click Here
Welcome to visit our TRIADE Pouches Collection Click Here
Welcome to visit our Raw Emerald Collection Click Here