San Juan de Pasto - Discovering Colombia

Travelling to San Juan de Pasto

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San Juan de Pasto, a pretty good destination in Colombia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to San Juan de Pasto and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around San Juan de Pasto, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Colombia, here's everything to know about San Juan de Pasto for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San Juan de Pasto

San Juan de Pasto is a city located in the southern part of Colombia, in the department of Nariño. It has a population of approximately 400,000 inhabitants and it is known for its rich indigenous culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and vibrant art scene. The city is surrounded by mountains, and it is home to the famous "Carnaval de Negros y Blancos," one of the most important cultural festivals in Colombia. San Juan de Pasto is also a center for trade and commerce in the region and it is known for its production of coffee, dairy products, and handicrafts. Additionally, the city has a number of museums, historic sites, and parks that attract visitors from all over the world.

What to visit in San Juan de Pasto

San Juan de Pasto is a beautiful city located in southwestern Colombia and is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. Here are some of the main tourist attractions: 1. Plaza de Nariño: This is the main square of San Juan de Pasto and is home to many historic buildings and monuments, including the cathedral of San Juan Bautista and the Palacio de la Gobernación. It is a great place to take a stroll and soak up the local culture.
2. Las Lajas Sanctuary: This is a stunning basilica located just outside of the city, nestled in a gorge between two mountains. The sanctuary features intricate stonework and beautiful stained glass windows, and is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
3. Galeras Volcano: This is an active volcano located just outside of the city, and is a popular destination for adventurous travelers who want to hike to the crater and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
4. La Laguna de la Cocha: This is a scenic lake located about an hour outside of the city, and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and hiking. It is also home to several charming villages and is a great place to experience rural Colombia.
5. Museo del Oro: This is a museum dedicated to the rich cultural history of the region, with exhibits showcasing the art and artifacts of the ancient indigenous cultures that once inhabited the area.
6. Morro de Tulcán: This is a hill located just outside of the city, and is a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching. At the top of the hill is a historic monument commemorating a famous battle that took place during the wars of independence.
Overall, San Juan de Pasto has plenty to offer for travelers of all interests, from history and culture to nature and adventure.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Colombia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in San Juan de Pasto.

When to go on holiday to San Juan de Pasto

The best time to visit San Juan de Pasto is between June and August. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it is important to note that temperatures can drop significantly at night, so it's a good idea to bring warm clothing. Other good months to visit include December and January, when the city hosts the famous Black and White Carnival.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to San Juan de Pasto

There are different ways to get to San Juan de Pasto, Colombia depending on your location: By Air: The Antonio Nariño Airport in San Juan de Pasto is the closest airport to the city. Several airlines operate flights to the city from Bogota and other major cities in Colombia.
By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate in Colombia and offer services to San Juan de Pasto. Some of these companies include Bolivar, Expreso Bolivariano, and Fronteras.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can take the Pan-American Highway that connects Ecuador and Colombia. The journey can take approximately 8-10 hours from Quito's capital city.
No matter the way you choose, you must keep in mind your safety and precautions when traveling.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit San Juan de Pasto, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San Juan de Pasto

Here are some typical foods of San Juan de Pasto, Colombia with a short description for each: 1. Cuy Asado - Roasted Guinea Pig: This dish is a staple in the Andean region of Colombia, including San Juan de Pasto. The guinea pig is roasted until tender and served with potatoes and a spicy sauce. 2. Fanesca - This is a traditional soup served during the “Holy Week”. It is made with beans, corn, pumpkin, fava beans, rice, peanuts, and milk. It is usually served with fried plantains and ají.
3. Empanadas - These are pockets of pastry filled with meat, potatoes, vegetables, or cheese. They are either fried or baked and are a popular snack in San Juan de Pasto.
4. Chigüíro - This dish is made with the meat of the Chigüiro, which is a type of giant rodent that is found in the area. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as grilled, roasted, or stewed.
5. Carnes Asadas - Grilled meats are very popular in San Juan de Pasto, especially beef and pork. They are usually seasoned with salt and served with boiled potatoes and a salad.
6. Arroz Atollado - This is a rice dish prepared with chicken, pork, or beef and a variety of vegetables such as peas, onions, and sweet peppers. It's cooked in a broth until it gets the consistency of a cream and then topped with cheese.
7. Cocido pastuso - This is a stew made with beef, vegetables (potatoes, carrots, plantains), beans, and corn. It’s usually served with avocado and hot sauce.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Colombia here.

Is San Juan de Pasto an expensive destination for tourists?

San Juan de Pasto can be considered as a moderately expensive destination for tourists. Compared to other cities in Colombia, such as Bogotá or Medellin, the cost of living in San Juan de Pasto is relatively low, which can help keep travel expenses manageable. However, as with most cities, the cost of tourism in San Juan de Pasto will depend on your preferences and your budget. Accommodation and food costs can vary greatly depending on where you choose to stay and dine, and other expenses such as transportation and activities can also influence the overall cost of your trip. It's always a good idea to plan and budget ahead of time to ensure that you can make the most of your trip without overspending.

Where to find accomodation in San Juan de Pasto

In San Juan de Pasto, Colombia, the best areas to find accommodation are the historic center, La Cocha Lake, and the La Playa district. The historic center is the cultural heart of the city and has many attractions like the Plaza de Nariño, the Cathedral, and the Juan Lorenzo Londoño Palace. La Cocha Lake is a beautiful natural jewel located about 20 km from the city center, and perfect for those interested in nature and outdoor activities. The La Playa district, located in the south of the city, has many restaurants, bars, and shops making it a great area for those looking for a more modern touch.
You can check hotel prices at San Juan de Pasto here:
Booking.com

Is San Juan de Pasto a safe destination for tourists?

San Juan de Pasto is considered a relatively safe city for tourists. However, like any city, it is always advisable to exercise caution and take certain precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended to stay in well-lit and crowded areas, avoid walking alone at night, and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places such as markets or transport terminals. As a precaution, you can also check the latest security information and advice from local authorities or travel advisories before planning your trip. Overall, if you take appropriate measures to protect yourself and your belongings, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to San Juan de Pasto.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Colombia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting San Juan de Pasto.

What type of travelers will enjoy San Juan de Pasto the most?

San Juan de Pasto is a city that has something to offer for everyone but it is particularly popular among couples and families. The city offers a range of cultural, historical and natural attractions that can be enjoyable for all ages. Couples can explore the romantic corners of the city, such as the beautiful colonial architecture of the historic center, the impressive views of the Andes mountains and the colorful and lively Carnaval de Negros y Blancos festival that takes place annually in January. Families can visit the various parks and museums, including the Natural History Museum, the Pasto Art Museum, and the Botanic Garden of Pasto. They can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and climbing in the nearby National Natural Reserve of El Volcan Galeras.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the city, especially in the zone of Avenida Boyacá, a popular spot for bars, clubs and restaurants. Overall, San Juan de Pasto is a great destination for all types of travelers, with a mix of interesting attractions and activities suitable for different interests that are worth exploring.

How to get around San Juan de Pasto

There are several transportation options to move around San Juan de Pasto in Colombia. The most common ones are: 1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in San Juan de Pasto, and they are a convenient mode of transport for short distances. It is advisable to always agree on the fare before getting into a taxi.
2. Buses: There are several buses that connect different parts of the city. This is the most economical option, but it is not the most comfortable one.
3. Car rental: Visitors can rent a car to move around the city. Car rental services are available at the airport and in different parts of the city.
4. Moto taxis: In San Juan de Pasto, moto taxis are a popular and affordable way of getting around, especially in the outskirts of the city. However, they are not as safe as taxis, so exercise caution when using them. 5. Walking: San Juan de Pasto has several pedestrian streets that make it conducive for walking. For shorter distances, walking can be a great way to explore the city.

What to see around San Juan de Pasto

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from San Juan de Pasto: 1. Laguna de la Cocha: A beautiful lake located in the highlands of Colombia, surrounded by mountains, and home to numerous bird species.
2. Ipiales: A town located near the border with Ecuador, famous for the Las Lajas Sanctuary, a stunning church built on a bridge over a canyon.
3. San Lorenzo hot springs: A collection of natural hot springs located in the nearby municipality of Tangua, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
4. Las Piedras del Tunjo: A historic site with ancient rock carvings made by the indigenous people of the region, located in the nearby town of Suesca.
5. Santuario de Flora y Fauna Otún Quimbaya: A stunning national park featuring a range of habitats including rainforest, cloud forest and Andean paramo. It's located about 3 hours driving distance from San Juan de Pasto, but is definitely worth visiting if you have the time.
For every travel information about Colombia you can click here.

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