Things To Do
in Nariño
Nariño is a highland-and-coast region in southwestern Colombia, renowned for its dramatic Andean scenery, volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural traditions. The capital, Pasto, sits high in the Andean foothills and serves as a gateway to both cloud forests and volcanic beauty. The department is home to the scenic Laguna de la Cocha, the active Galeras Volcano, and a vibrant Carnaval heritage that blends Indigenous, colonial, and Afro-Colombian influences.
Visitors can explore high-altitude markets, crafts villages, coffee and cacao farms, and dramatic natural parks within a relatively compact travel footprint.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. Afterward, take a guided walking tour of the historic center of Pasto, admiring the stunning architecture of the Plaza de Nariño and the San Felipe Cathedral. As you walk, learn about the rich history of the city and its significance in Colombian culture.
For lunch, enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant, perhaps trying the famous cuy (guinea pig) or ajiaco soup. Afterward, visit the Museo del Oro to view its fascinating collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts and other cultural exhibits. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant street art and murals that showcase the artistic spirit of Pasto.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local bar to unwind with a refreshing craft beer or a cocktail made with local fruit. Experience the lively atmosphere as locals gather to socialize and enjoy live music performances. Finally, end your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charm of Pasto at night.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to La Cocha Lagoon, nestled in the Andean mountains, where the mist rises off the water creating a magical atmosphere. Once there, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a lakeside café, sampling local specialties while watching the fishermen go about their morning routines. After breakfast, take a leisurely boat ride across the lagoon, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and lush vegetation.
Spend your afternoon exploring the quaint town of El Encano, where you can visit artisan shops and learn about the traditional crafts of the region. Have lunch at a local eatery, trying the delicious trout freshly caught from the lagoon. In the early afternoon, hike the trails around La Cocha, immersing yourself in nature and enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.
As evening approaches, return to Pasto and enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring local cuisine. Savor dishes like bandeja paisa or trucha a la plancha while enjoying the warm ambiance. After dinner, consider visiting a local cultural center for a dance performance or music showcase that highlights Nariño's rich cultural heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $18-35 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (one night) | $40-70 |
| 🚌Local transportation (bus/taxi short ride) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including Carnaval de Negros y Blancos
- Stunning Andean landscapes and Laguna de la Cocha
- Warm, welcoming small-town atmosphere with good value for money
- Limited direct international flight options to the region
- Rural road conditions can be challenging during the rainy season
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Nariño
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic Andean lake with reflections of surrounding peaks and forested islets; ideal for sunrise/sunset photography and birdwatching.
Historic central square with colonial-era architecture, offering classic cityscape and street photography opportunities.
Dramatic crater views and sweeping mountain panoramas from nearby vantage points; weather can be changeable, so plan accordingly.
Food in Nariño
Nariño Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught trout from the lake, usually grilled or pan-fried, served with potatoes and yuca.
Must-Try!
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish commonly enjoyed with maize and potatoes.
Thick cornmeal arepa often filled with cheese or avocado, a staple street-side bite.
Hearty beef soup with potatoes, corn, and local herbs; a comforting staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local market with fresh produce, prepared foods, tamales, humitas, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a brief chat and a handshake; use polite titles (Señor/Señora) until invited to use first names.
Ask before photographing people, especially in traditional or religious settings; dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Nariño
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service is not included; rounding up taxi fares is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets; cards are common in city restaurants and hotels. Carry some Colombian pesos for small purchases and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear mornings and cooler evenings; great for hiking and long outdoor shoots. Occasional warm spells and intermittent rain can occur.
Frequent afternoon showers; landscapes are lush and green, but travel can be slower due to slick roads. Pack a compact rain shell and waterproof footwear.
Nariño at Night
Hiking in Nariño
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Crater-adjacent routes offering dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views; guide requirements and weather awareness are essential.
Challenging high-altitude hike with expansive valley views; plan for acclimatization and a guided ascent.
Moderate circuits around the lake area with forested sections and opportunities for wildlife photography.
Airports
How to reach Nariño by plane.
Primary regional airport serving Pasto and surrounding areas; operates domestic flights to major Colombian cities.
Largest international gateway in Bogotá; connects to international flights and domestic routes to Pasto.
Major hub in Cali with connections to several Colombian cities and some international services.
International gateway in Guayaquil, Ecuador; useful for cross-border itineraries and regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence in rural areas with distinctive traditions and crafts.
Predominant demographic with cultural blends across cuisine, music, and festivals.
Cultural pockets along the Pacific-facing areas and in certain coastal-adjacent zones.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region; local clubs and casual pick-up games are common in towns and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nariño.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer vegetarian soups, maize-based dishes, and fresh fruit; ask for 'vegetariano' or 'sin carne' and look for salads, beans, and cheese-based plates.