Top 15 Must-Do Activities in San Juan de Pasto, Colombia

San Juan de Pasto, commonly referred to as “Pasto,” serves as the capital of the Nariño Department in Colombia, situated in the southwestern part of the country. While many visitors overlook this destination, Pasto is ideally positioned for discovering stunning natural landmarks, including volcanoes, crater lakes, canyons, and the picturesque La Laguna de la Cocha.

The residents of this city are welcoming, and the ambiance is relaxed. While in Pasto, indulge in local specialties such as roasted guinea pig or simply enjoy an ice cream as you roam through the streets, with the majestic Galera Volcano as a constant backdrop. Notably recognized for the Carnaval de Blancos y Negros, visitors during late December or early January may experience these vibrant festivities.

Let’s delve into the top attractions in Pasto:

1. La Laguna de la Cocha

La Laguna de la Cocha stands as a prominent attraction within the city, recognized as one of the largest lakes in Colombia. Nestled amid undulating green mountains and Andean meadows, visit the village of El Encano along the lake’s shoreline. Here, you will encounter a community of approximately 200 families and dining options specializing in local dishes, particularly rainbow trout (trucha). Enjoy this dish prepared in various styles, whether creamy, grilled, or accompanied by garlic sauce, alongside a refreshing beer before exploring the town’s charming Swiss-style wooden houses.

Afterward, take a boat ride—or lancha—out on the lake toward La Isla Corota, where you’re invited to hike along trails and vantage points within this compact national park reserve.

2. Casa Museo Taminango de Artes y Tradiciones

A significant collection of traditional indigenous handicrafts can be found within Pasto, and this museum honors that heritage. It hosts an array of antiques, wood carvings, traditional mopa mopa (Pasto varnished items), straw weavings, and wool garments.

Housed in a restored colonial casona dating back to 1623, this museum is a designated National Monument, reputed to be the oldest existing two-story house in the nation. Visitors can take a guided tour and explore the interior courtyard, which showcases plants and flowers utilized in traditional Nariño medicines.

3. Carnaval de Blancos y Negros

A hallmark event for the city, if you are fortunate enough to be present in late December or early January, prepare to join the festivities of the Carnaval de Blancos y Negros. This celebration has historical roots from the few days under Spanish colonial rule, when enslaved individuals were granted a day off for celebration.

Today, the carnival symbolizes the multicultural community, emphasizing tolerance and mutual respect within both the city and the wider country. The celebration kicks off with the Carnival of Water, where participants playfully splash water onto each other, homes, and objects throughout the streets.

On New Year’s Eve, attendees create satirical figures representing the past year, which are subsequently burned. During the concluding days, participants divide their appearances, donning black makeup one day and white talcum powder the following day. Throughout the event, expect colorful parades, floats, costumes, and rhythmic celebrations in the streets.

4. Santuario Las Lajas

Located just near the Colombian border with Ecuador, this stunningly ornate church is set dramatically on a cliff. One of Colombia’s most iconic churches, Our Lady of Las Lajas overlooks the Rio Guaitara canyon—access can be attained via a cable car for picturesque views and photography opportunities.

Constructed in a fairytale-like Neo-Gothic style atop the site of an alleged miracle, the surrounding area is now lined with gift shops and dining establishments. Entrance to the sanctuary and its surrounding trails is free; however, there is a nominal fee to explore the church museum.

5. Museo del Carnaval

Gain insights into Pasto’s principal spectacle, the Carnaval de Blancos y Negros, at this museum dedicated to preserving its legacy. Though modest in size, visitors can explore the history and evolution of the carnival, alongside various artifacts from previous celebrations.

Notable exhibits include past winners of the float contest—updated annually—with their grand colorful faces and intricately painted wooden figures. The museum also displays photographs and vibrant costumes, offering a glimpse into the carnival’s festive atmosphere.

6. Centro Historico

Strolling through the historic center of Pasto reveals a treasure trove of cathedrals, winding narrow streets, charming colonial architecture, and numerous cafes and heladerías to enjoy.

Meander through the city’s principal square, the Plaza de Nariño, where flocks of pigeons gather, and a statue of Antonio Nariño—an influential figure in Colombia’s independence—stands proud. The adjacent yellow government building also bears his name, and there may be individuals outside utilizing vintage typewriters to draft documents and legal forms for a fee.

Enjoy an ice cream, take in your surroundings, and engage in some delightful people-watching.

7. Numerous Churches

Once you have explored the main attraction—Santuario Las Lajas—numerous other churches in the town are worth visiting for their religious architecture and artistry. The Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, situated on the Plaza de Nariño, features a distinctive white facade, arches, and green domes. This structure exemplifies colonial baroque style and is adorned with exquisite gold decor.

The nearby Catedral de Pasto resembles other cathedrals across Colombia; however, its interior is lavishly decorated with religious artwork. The Iglesia San Felipe features an elaborate exterior in blue and white while the imposing Iglesia del Cristo Rey, with its towers and stained glass, was constructed by the Jesuits. Additional notable churches include the Templo de la Merced and the Iglesia de San Andres.

8. Museo del Oro Nariño

Similar to several other cities in Colombia, Pasto hosts its own gold museum. Situated within the Bank of the Republic building, this museum offers insights into the initial indigenous residents of Pasto, exploring their cultural practices, daily life, pottery techniques, and especially their advancements in metalworking.

A wide array of gold artifacts discovered through archaeological excavations along the Andes and Pacific coast are showcased, in addition to other metals and materials utilized by native populations. Entrance is complimentary, guides are available, and the facility also includes a library and a children’s area.

9. Taste Some Pastuso Cuisine

For the intrepid traveler seeking to savor authentic local flavors, be sure to search out asado de cuy, or grilled guinea pig. At Asadero de Cuyes Pinzon, patrons are provided with a whole roasted guinea pig and a pair of plastic gloves—allowing for a truly hands-on dining experience right off the bones! Other delicacies include empanadas de añejo, fried empanadas crafted from fermented corn dough.

Indulge in empanadas de pipián, a regional favorite filled with meat, potatoes, and peanuts. For dessert, consider quimbolitos—delightful cakes composed of raisins, corn, and vanilla, artfully wrapped and cooked in canna leaf. Salon Guadalquivir is a recommended venue to experience traditional Pastuso dishes.

10. Santuario de Flora y Fauna Volcán Galeras

This wildlife sanctuary encircles the Galeras Volcano, visible from Pasto on clear days. The reserve comprises over 7,500 acres of cloud forest teeming with rivers, lakes, and streams. Home to a variety of wildlife, including hummingbirds, endangered frogs, and roughly 100 bird species such as eagles, owls, and wrens.

Due to ongoing seismic activity, climbing to the volcano’s summit is no longer permissible; however, hiking, cycling, and birdwatching along the trails and around the lagoons remain accessible—verify whether a guide is necessary prior to entering.

11. Shop for Artisan Handicrafts

Throughout your time in Pasto and its surrounding areas, local handicraft vendors are prevalent. Opting for authentic products may require a higher expenditure, yet they are worthwhile for collectors. Pasto is especially renowned for barniz, a regional resin derived from seed pods known as mopa mopa, which is employed to create intricate decorative designs.

This resin is often layered to embellish wooden items and jewelry, available for purchase at shops such as Barniz de Pasto Obando or La Casa del Barniz de Pasto. Additionally, leatherwork and woodworking are prevalent in the region, with finely engraved leather-covered wooden furniture commonly available.

12. Laguna Verde and Volcán Azufral

Located less than two hours from Pasto in the town of Tuquerres, Laguna Verde is a brilliant green lake that fills the crater of Azufral Volcano. From the park entrance, embark on a six-kilometer trek up to the volcano’s rim (approximately 3.7 miles). The effort is rewarded with unique panoramic views.

The crater lake is positioned at 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level, surrounded by numerous creeks, streams, and foothills. This park boasts an extensive array of flora and fauna, and it serves as a noteworthy stop en route to Ipiales should you be traveling that direction.

This challenging hike promises stunning scenery—be sure to carry ample water, snacks, sunscreen, and warm clothing.

13. Parque Cañón de Juanambú

Known for its natural pools and verdant scenery, Parque Cañón de Juanambú is located approximately an hour north of Pasto. Adventurous visitors have the opportunity to partake in activities such as climbing, kayaking, rafting, rappelling, and ziplining within this area.

Embark on a hike through the lush hills of Colombian countryside while exploring historical remnants—trenches used during the Nariño’s battles against the Spanish can still be observed. Following your adventure, unwind in the therapeutic natural pools, reputed to be beneficial for overall well-being. This park provides a delightful setting for a family picnic and enjoyment of nature.

14. Visit the Village of Sandoná

Several communities are located near the Galeras Volcano, with Sandoná being one of the most notable. This indigenous village is famous for making Panama hats and boasts a bustling Saturday market.

You’ll witness finished hats drying in the streets—interestingly, they are named for their place of sale rather than their origin. Additionally, basket weaving and traditional sugar cane sweets are specialties of the region. The market and picturesque square lined with palm trees houses the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Rosario, distinguished by its remarkable embellishments. Moreover, indulge in the delightful artisanal ice cream known as helado de paila.

15. Museums Surrounding Parque Infantil

For those eager to immerse themselves in knowledge during their visit to Pasto, several additional museums are worth exploring. Commence with a leisurely walk through Parque Infantil, a green space filled with children at play and locals exercising.

Within a short distance, you will encounter the Museo Taller Alfonso Zambrano, showcasing a private collection of colonial and indigenous artwork, particularly woodcarvings. Additionally, Museo Madre Caridad Brader houses a treasure trove of religious art and artifacts, while the Museo Juan Lorenzo Lucero presents a variety of artifacts from indigenous groups and the colonial period.