Things To Do
in San Agustín
San Agustín is a small town located in the Colombian Andes known for its archaeological sites featuring pre-Columbian sculptures and tombs. The area is surrounded by lush mountains and offers stunning natural scenery for visitors to explore. San Agustín is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts tourists interested in learning about ancient indigenous cultures.
The town also has a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Archaeological Park of San Agustín, which features impressive stone carvings. Arrive early to enjoy the serene atmosphere and avoid crowds.
After lunch, explore the nearby altars and statues scattered throughout the park. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of these ancient relics.
Dine at a local restaurant and sample traditional Colombian dishes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of San Agustín as the sun sets.
Begin your day with a hike to Lavapatas, a stunning site known for its natural pools and ancient rock carvings. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Spend time relaxing by the natural pools and take a refreshing dip. Have a packed lunch while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the area.
Return to San Agustín for dinner, and consider trying local trout, a specialty in the region. Unwind at a café, sipping coffee and soaking in the vibrant local atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with indigenous roots and historical significance.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby archaeological park and lush green mountains.
- A variety of outdoor activities available, such as hiking, biking, and exploring waterfalls.
- Friendly and welcoming local community that offers a glimpse into traditional Colombian life.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Colombian cities.
- Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities compared to urban areas.
- Transportation can be challenging, with fewer public transport options.
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
- Rainy season can affect travel plans and outdoor activities.
- Less developed tourism infrastructure, leading to fewer accommodation and dining options.
Best Activities in San Agustín
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient statues and tombs while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Experience the thrill of navigating through the breathtaking river canyons and rapids.
Discover the fascinating underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and the nocturnal Guacharo birds.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Agustín with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Agustín
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of ancient statues and burial mounds set against the beautiful Andean landscape.
Provides a stunning vista of the winding Magdalena River and the surrounding lush hills.
Food in San Agustín
San Agustín Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled trout seasoned with garlic and served with cassava and plantains. Try it at Restaurante El Fogón de los Arrieros.
Must-Try!
A traditional Colombian soup made with pork, beef, chicken, and mixed with vegetables and tubers. Don't miss it at La Fonda de Don Eduardo.
Roast guinea pig, a local delicacy often prepared for special occasions. Enjoy it at Mesón de la Estación.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Agustín better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to sample an array of fresh fruits, local cheeses, and traditional snacks like arepas and empanadas.
Stroll along Calle Real to discover street food vendors offering tasty treats such as chorizos, chicharrones, and tropical fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Agustín, it is important to show respect for the indigenous traditions by being mindful of sacred sites, artifacts, and cultural practices. Visitors should seek guidance from locals and tour guides to ensure they act in a culturally sensitive manner.
San Agustín is a conservative and traditional community, so it is advisable for visitors to dress modestly and behave respectfully, particularly when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals.
To show respect for the local culture, visitors can engage in local customs and traditions, such as trying traditional foods, learning about indigenous folklore, and participating in cultural events or celebrations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Agustín with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Agustín
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Agustín, Colombia, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. A typical tip at a restaurant or for tour guides is around 10% of the total bill.
Cash is the primary form of payment in San Agustín. Some businesses may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Agustín.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal time for visiting archaeological sites and enjoying outdoor activities, with sunny and warm weather.
Expect frequent rain showers and lush green landscapes, but some archaeological sites may be inaccessible due to muddy trails. It's a great time for birdwatching and exploring the natural scenery.
San Agustín at Night
Hiking in San Agustín
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A natural reserve located near Manizales, this area offers various hiking trails through diverse ecosystems rich in flora and fauna.
A national park that features mountain landscapes, including volcanoes and snow-capped peaks, with numerous trails for hiking and nature exploration.
Located near San Agustín, this park offers trails that lead through lush vegetation and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
A hiking spot that features scenic trails with opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy the beautiful Colombian Andean landscape.
This hiking destination provides a challenging trail with rewarding panoramic views of the region, ideal for experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Agustín through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Agustín by plane.
Located in Bogotá, approximately 350 km from San Agustín, this is the main international airport serving the capital of Colombia.
Located in Rionegro, near Medellín, about 550 km from San Agustín, it serves the Medellín metropolitan area and is one of the busiest airports in Colombia.
Located in Palmira, near Cali, approximately 250 km from San Agustín, this airport serves the Valle del Cauca region.
Situated in Santa Marta, about 550 km from San Agustín, this airport serves the city and the surrounding Caribbean region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A population primarily of mixed Indigenous and European descent, constituting the largest demographic group.
Includes various ethnic groups native to the region, preserving distinct cultural practices and languages.
Descendants of African slaves, contributing significantly to the cultural diversity of the area.
Individuals of European origin, primarily from Spanish ancestry, representing a smaller portion of the population.
Includes small communities of diverse backgrounds, such as Lebanese, Arabs, and others who have settled in the region.
The Soul of San Agustín
Discover the essence of San Agustín through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in San Agustín, with many local teams and a strong community following. It is played in various parks and fields throughout the town.
Cycling is a favored activity in the scenic landscapes surrounding San Agustín, with both competitive cycling events and casual rides enjoyed by locals.
Basketball has a growing fan base in San Agustín, with local courts available for both recreational play and organized matches.
Volleyball is popular, especially among the youth, with beach volleyball being a common pastime in surrounding areas.
Traditional sports and games, often celebrated during local festivals and gatherings, remain an important part of the cultural heritage in San Agustín.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Agustín.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Colombian cuisine leans heavily towards meat-based dishes, many restaurants in San Agustín offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as fresh salads, vegetable stews, and fruit smoothies.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free alternatives in various eateries, including corn-based dishes like arepas, grilled meats, and seafood.