A Rhythmic Royal Adventure: Sussexes Discover Their Drumming Skills in Colombia

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with Colombia’s Vice President Francia Márquez, embarked on a meaningful visit to Escuela Tambores de Cabildo, a drum school situated on the beach of La Boquilla, Cartagena.

Cartagena is a northern port city on the country’s Caribbean coast and the capital of the Bolívar department. It is one of the oldest colonial cities in South America.

Their arrival at Escuela Taller Tambores de Cabildo de la Boquilla, a drum school dedicated to preserving traditional African drumming, was greeted by the energetic beats of drums and the warm welcome of the school’s founder, Rafael Ramos. The Sussexes were captivated by the school’s commitment to cultural preservation and its impact on the local community.

During their visit, the Duke and Duchess engaged in meaningful conversations with local residents, learning about the importance of preserving Cartagena’s rich Afro-Colombian heritage.

I love seeing Meghan’s big, big smile — I can tell she’s excited!” said Mr Ramos.

The highlight of the visit was the Sussexes’ participation in a drum lesson led by the school’s talented students. The Duke and Duchess eagerly joined in, their rhythmic efforts met with encouragement and laughter. Rafael Ramos was delighted to witness Meghan’s excitement and joy as she explored her newfound drumming skills.

The visit to Escuela Tambores de Cabildo showcased the school’s vital role in celebrating and As a token of their appreciation, the Sussexes were gifted a small handcrafted wooden boat, a symbol of Cartagena’s coastal beauty and maritime heritage.

The couple’s choice of attire reflected their respect for Colombian culture, with Meghan donning a traditional print top and skirt by Colombian designer Johanna Ortiz and Harry opting for a comfortable linen shirt and chinos.

A clip from the Vice President of Colombia on X —

#EnVideo📹 | Al son de los tambores del Caribe colombiano, la vicepresidenta @FranciaMarquezM, en compañía de Harry y Meghan, duque y duquesa de Sussex, enviaron un mensaje de paz y contra el racismo. #HarryMeghanEnColombia pic.twitter.com/1ubV1Iys7S

— Vicepresidencia Colombia (@ViceColombia) August 18, 2024

Now a closer look at what Meghan wore for the engagement.

Embed from Getty Images

Meghan is wearing a two-piece outfit from Colombian-based designer Johanna Ortiz.

The Deep Ocean Tie-Detailed Silk Crop Top, $850 (no longer available) and matching Hello Sailor Printed Silk Maxi Skirt, $1350 (no longer available)

The pieces are from the designer’s 2025 Resort Collection — trunk show — and were sold out prior to Meghan wearing them today.

Thanks to Pearl on X for the ID.

Meghan wore her Aquazzura, the Divine Sandal 85 in cognac brown suede, $795. She wore them on Thursday for the Responsible Digital Future Forum.

She had on her Ray-Ban Classic Aviators, $180.

Her necklace and earrings are from Ariel Gordon – the ‘Imperial Disc Pendant’, starting at $1770 and ‘Royal Signet Studs’ in Yellow Gold, $275. She also had on her Cartier ‘Juste Un Clou’ necklace.

She also carried her Cesta Collective crossbody bag in Panna, $750. She carried the bag yesterday – see our post here.

We have one more post for today that will be published shortly. Tomorrow we will be back here to cover the final day of engagements for Harry and Meghan in Colombia.