Venture into Colombia’s mysterious south, where whitewashed colonial streets, dramatic Andean landscapes and ancient stone sculptures reveal a lesser-known side of the country. Starting in Bogotá, fly to Popayán to explore its elegant architecture and rich cultural heritage before continuing to San Agustín, home to enigmatic pre-Columbian statues and archaeological sites hidden among the green hills. In just four days, uncover the stories, traditions and timeless landscapes that make this corner of Colombia so captivating.
Mysterious South
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Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Flight from Bogotá to Popayán.
Transfer from Popayán airport to the hotel.
You will visit the historic center of Popayán, founded in 1537 and concentrated around the Caldas Park, as the clock tower, built between 1673-1682, is considered one of the symbols of the city. Continue to the “Humilladero” bridge, built in 1873 to facilitate access from the city center to “El Callejón”, especially for the faithful who make the journey on their knees. Visit the Church of Santo Domingo, a Baroque-style church, the Church of San Francisco, considered the most beautiful Baroque church in the city, and the “Pantheon of Independence Heroes”. You will also visit the Museum of Religious Art, which houses an interesting collection of religious art, and the Mosquera House Museum, the Settecento-style house that belonged to General Tomás Cipriano de Mosquera.
Location: Popayán
Accommodation: Hotel Dann Monasterio
Type: Hotel
Room Basis: B&B: Bed and Breakfast
Day 2
Your route takes you from Popayán through the Andes mountain range to San Agustín. If the weather permits, you can see the active Puracé volcano in the distance. The winding road takes you through the typical landscape of the Páramo (high moor) in one of the most water-rich regions of Colombia. Four of the country’s largest rivers have their source here. You make a few stops to enjoy the view and the vegetation. In particular, you will discover the famous frailejones, plants that can only be found at high altitudes in Ecuador and Colombia.
Day 3
Today you embark on a journey through time combined with a coffee experience. First, you will visit the San Agustin Archaeological Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Accompanied by your guide, you will see the most important and largest collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in Colombia, and even in South America. Admire the special features of this archaeological collection, such as the “Ceremonial Fountain” and the fascinating “Forest of Statues”. Then continue to a typical coffee farm, where you can learn about the daily life of a coffee farmer, harvest the beans and learn all about the process of drying, grinding and preparing a good cup of coffee.
