Rio 013 - Benny

Lucky number 13 in our mix series, and this time we revisit our 8th birthday celebrations with Benny's closing set, which kicked off at 5am and went until just beyond 9.

He's done a few of them, but this was his favourite closing set to date. Working from trance and techno into dreamier territory once the sun came up, it was a morning to remember.

It's these moments on the terrace, when the sun creeps over the hill and hits the back of the dance floor, dancers sprinkled between the terrace and the river, that everything makes sense. Magia.

Rio Hostel · Rio 013 - Benny

Rio 012 - Nao

For our 12th mix in our series, we revisit Nao's sublime sunrise from our November party with the Rural Festival crew. The festival has been flying the flag for deep, trippy techno in Japan for 17 years, so we knew they'd be a great fit for a Rio takeover.

Nao stepped up after a phenomenal, hypnotic peak time set from Atsushi Maeda. Over three hours, she guided the boisterous dance floor through her full colour palette of techno, from raw and percussive to trancey and sublime, with plenty of left turns to keep dancers on their toes. Nao brought out her psychedelic side to full effect, and we couldn't have been happier that she decided to do so.

We've been eager to share this set for a while; turn it up and lock in for the whole ride.

Listen on SoundCloud

Rio Hostel · Rio 012 - Nao

Rio 011 - Azkuenaga (recorded live at Bonanza lite 2024)

To get you in the mood for Bonanza, we thought we'd share with you the recording from one of our residents, Azkuenaga, recorded at Bonanza lite in August last year.

Ricardo has been part of the family since 2019, with a rich history in electronic music dating back to Ibiza in the late '90s. He doesn't gig that much, which is why his sets are extra special; expansive musical forays into whatever he's digging at the moment, be it old UK electronica, trancey and breaky bangers and beyond.

This is Azkuenaga on peak time mode. Catch him this weekend at Bonanza 2025

Rio Hostel · Rio 011 - Azkuenaga (recorded live at Bonanza lite 2024)

Food on the Troncal: Where to Eat Near Rio Hostel Buritaca

The Buritaca food scene might surprise you—if you know where to look. From well-established local street food to newer additions, this stretch of the Troncal del Caribe offers a great variety of eats. Whether you're after fresh seafood, grilled meats, or a quick snack, here’s a rundown of what not to miss when visiting the area around Rio Hostel Buritaca.

Sopa de mariscos

A bit of a cult classic, and for good reason. In the heart of Buritaca, this local spot serves up a daily batch of rich, flavourful seafood soup, paired with arroz de coco and patacones. Get there early—it always sells out. Other options? Try the albondigas (meatballs) or carne desmechada (slow-cooked pulled beef) for a hearty, home-cooked Colombian meal.

Waku Sushi

A newer addition to Buritaca, Waku Sushi serves fresh sushi rolls and poke bowls every afternoon and evening. A solid choice if you’re craving something light, fresh, and different from the usual coastal flavours.

Asadero Los Rubioz

Smoky, grilled meats done right. Choose from yuca, potatoes, or sweet maduro on the side, and don’t forget the garlic mayo and chimichurri—they’re essential. Simple, delicious, and satisfying.

BFC – Buritaca Fried Chicken

Yep, Buritaca has its own fried chicken spot, and yes, it’s as good as it sounds. Crispy, golden, and best enjoyed with their signature house salsa—a must-try for any fried chicken fan.

Buritaca charcoal grills

A long-time staple of Buritaca’s street food scene, these roadside grills serve authentic Colombian coastal snacks. The standout? Sweet, smoky charcoal-grilled plantain stuffed with salty Costeño cheese—a love-it-or-hate-it experience, but undeniably local and unique.

Deli-Café Bella Vista

This new café is perfect for breakfast or a quick bite. With focaccia sandwiches, fresh cappuccinos, and juices, it’s a great stop along the Troncal del Caribe. Bonus? It’s right next to Parque Bella Vista, a newly regenerated green space where you can relax with your coffee.

Beyond Buritaca: Worth the Journey

Dom Samuel

Famous for its huge seafood platters, Dom Samuel on Mendihuaca Beach is one of the worst-kept secrets on the coast—it’s always packed. Their flagship dish? Langosta with seafood sauce—indulgent, rich, and worth every bite.

Los Cocos Tienda

A simple roadside favourite, Los Cocos Tienda serves crispy fish empanadas with homemade ají. Pro tip? Try their tamales—a traditional rice-and-meat lunch that’s pure comfort food.