PuraceTravelColombia
PuraceTravelColombia

PASTO AND THE ANDEAN BNW CARNIVAL

Pasto or the Southern Colombia Gate

Ancient culture, volcanoes, and archaeological wonders. The Colombian Massif is where many of the country’s rivers begin. It’s rich in history, with indigenous communities and archaeological sites that date back thousands of years. Popayán, known as the “White City,” and Pasto, famous for its carnival, make this region unforgettable.

Top Places to Visit:

● Popayán – colonial “White City”
● Pasto – Carnaval de Negros y Blancos
● San Agustín – UNESCO archaeological park
● Florencia & Mocoa – waterfalls and nature

San Agustín & Tierradentro: Colombia’s Archaeological Treasures

Deep in the Andes, the archaeological parks of San Agustín and Tierradentro reveal mysteries of Colombia’s ancient past. Both UNESCO World Heritage sites invite travelers to step into a world of sacred art, hidden tombs, and stunning landscapes that few visitors ever experience. In San Agustín, hundreds of carved stone statues stand guard over ceremonial sites known as mesitas. Some are fierce, others playful—each a silent storyteller of a lost civilization. A walk through the Bosque de las Estatuas (Forest of Statues) feels like wandering through an open-air gallery where history and myth blend seamlessly. Nearby, Tierradentro takes you underground. Descend spiral staircases into vast burial chambers, decorated with red, black, and white geometric designs that have endured for centuries. Exploring this site is not just an archaeological journey—it’s also a chance to hike through rolling hills and meet members of the local Paéz community, who continue to preserve their traditions. With our locally guided, personalized tours, you’ll uncover the stories, landscapes, and cultural connections that make San Agustín and Tierradentro two of Colombia’s most extraordinary destinations.

Discover Pasto: Colombia’s “Surprise City”

Tucked in the Andes, Pasto is known as Colombia’s “Surprise City”—a vibrant mix of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Each January, the UNESCO-recognized Carnaval de Negros y Blancos fills the streets with color, music, and joy, offering travelers one of South America’s most unforgettable celebrations. Beyond the carnival, Pasto invites you to wander its colonial streets, admire golden stone churches, and explore lively plazas. In nearby Sandoná, you can meet artisans renowned for their handwoven hats and handicrafts, a tradition passed down through generations. And for coffee lovers, Nariño is now part of Colombia’s newest coffee triangle—the perfect place to sip some of the world’s finest brews while overlooking lush mountain valleys. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore, from the majestic Galeras Volcano to the tranquil waters of La Cocha Lagoon, where Swiss-style chalets and colorful gardens line the shore. Just a short drive away, the awe-inspiring Las Lajas Sanctuary rises dramatically over the Guáitara canyon. With our family-run, bespoke tours, you’ll dive deeper—sharing meals of smoked trout and local sweets, visiting artisan workshops, and discovering the traditions that make Pasto and Nariño so unique.