Visiting the Southwest Andes of Colombia
The Southwest of Colombia is a unique region, boasting spectacular natural destinations, cultural landmarks and fun things to do. San Agustin Archaeological is a UNESCO World Heritage site while Popayan was declared a first city of gastronomy by UNESCO. The Southwest of Colombia can be reached by flying to Cali, Neiva, Popayan or Pasto from Bogota.
Cali is the biggest city in the Colombian Southwest. Cali is known as the “Salsa Capital of the World” and also features a historic area, warm people and destinations for birding outside the city.
Colombia Tours Including in the Southwest Andes
Top Places to Visit
San Agustin
Located in the foothills of the Andes, San Agustin Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the largest group of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America. The sculptures and monuments have been traced back to the mythology of pre-Hispanic people.
Tierradentro
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Tierradentro represents one of Colombia's ancient Pre-Columbian civilizations. This region contains the highest density of pre-Columbian monumental shaft tombs with lateral chambers—referred to as hypogea—crafted into the volcanic tuff beneath hilltops and mountain ridges
Tatacoa Desert
The Tatacoa Desert, situated in the northern part of the Huila department, is the second-largest arid region in Colombia after the Guajira Peninsula. This desert is notable for its grey and ochre hues, complemented by the green of the cacti scattered throughout. Temperatures range from 13°C at night to around 40°C during the day
Popayan
This beautiful city, known as the white city of Colombia for its chalk white buildings, makes visitors feel like they are in a different era. UNESCO also declared Popayan the first city of gastronomy. Popayan can be reached via direct flight from Bogota.
Cali
With its fertile soils and steamy climate, Cali is Colombia’s third-largest city and a destination not to miss. The area is known for growing sugarcane as well as being the salsa capital of the world. This is the perfect city to practice some salsa.
Silvia
This picturesque mountain town is known as the centre of the Guambiano region. The Guambainos are considered one of the most traditional indigenous groups in Colombia. They travel to Silvia every Tuesday to sell their produce, textiles and other products, providing a very traditional market experience.
pasto
This city is often overlooked by tourists who see it as nothing more than a step before crossing the border to Ecuador. But Pasto is in fact, rich in culture and history. Built at the foot of the Volcan Galeras, it has several colonial buildings, and it is the base for visiting the Laguna de Cocha.
las lajas santuary
Las Lajas Sanctuary, located near the Ecuadorian border, is a stunning neo-Gothic basilica built into a canyon over the Guáitara River. It's famous for its impressive architecture and the different legends involving the appearance of the Holy Virgin.
la cocha lake
La Cocha lake is located at 2800 meters above sea level and is the second-largest in the country. It is surrounded by misty mountains and lush forests. Known for its tranquil beauty, the lake is home to Isla La Corota, a nature reserve, making it a serene retreat for nature lovers.is to escape the cities.
Best Things to do in the Southwest Andes
- Visit San Agustín and Tierradentro archeeological parks to learn about ancient Pre-Columbian cultures, see stunning archaeological sites, and admire the breathtaking landscapes.
- Hike in La Tatacoa to immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscapes, unique rock formations, vibrant cacti, challenging trails, and breathtaking starry nights.
- Take a coffee farm tour in Pitalito and learn about an authentic, functioning coffee farm. Visitors will see the whole coffee production process – from planting, picking, drying and roasting. Afterwards, taste various samples and learn about the coffee’s quality.
- Horseback Riding to La Chaquira. It’s a rocky perch overhanging the plunging Magadalena Canyon, where the boulders at the precipice are etched with petroglyphs and great views of the Magadalena River.
- Visit Popayan During Holy Week. Popayan is famous for its Holy Week celebrations. These celebrations are the second-largest in the world (after Seville, Spain) and UNESCO declared them a masterpiece of the oral and intangible patrimony of humanity.
- Visit Purace National Park to see breathtaking volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife, including condors and spectacled bears, natural hot springs, rich orchid species, and unparalleled hiking through lush cloud forests and scenic Andean terrains.
- Put on your dancing shoes in Cali and learn how to dance salsa in the city known as the “Salsa Capital of the World.” Learn some moves in a salsa dancing class or go dancing at one of the authentic salsa clubs in the city.
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