Prior to the arrival of the Spanish colonizers the area was vastly populated by Chimila indigenous people and a village known as Pongueyca.

The foundation of Ciénaga has always been a matter of dispute due to many different historical theories and the lack of documented sources.

Guillermo Buitrago, who died very young - 29 years old - became a very important figure of the 20th century's folklore in Colombia.

Ciénaga celebrates every year on January 20 the Fiesta del Caimán (Feast of the Caiman) honoring a local legend known as La Historia de Tomasita.

The impact of the banana industry on Ciénaga and the surrounding region is depicted in several stories by Gabriel García Márquez in 100 Years of Solitude and The Leaf Storm.