Eastern Andino Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gem of Eastern Andino, Colombia with this comprehensive tour guide that includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Eastern Andino

Located in the Andino region of Colombia, South America, Eastern Andino is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers. This beautiful region is home to stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Eastern Andino has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Andino

Here are some of the must-see places to visit in Eastern Andino:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Casa Museo Luis Alberto Acuna
  • Casa Museo Policarpa Salavarietta
  • Casa de la Cultura
  • Museo Arqueológico del Departamento de Nariño

Natural Attractions of Eastern Andino: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Los Morros de Tulcán
  • El Santuario de las Lajas
  • La Laguna de la Cocha
  • Las Cascadas de Juan Curi

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Andino

There are plenty of trails and routes for hikers and bikers to explore in Eastern Andino. Here are some of the best ones:

  • The Cocuy Circuit
  • The Quindio Wax Palm Route
  • The Lost City Trek
  • The Chicamocha Canyon Trail

Best Things to Do in Eastern Andino: Activities and Tours

There are countless things to do in Eastern Andino, from adventure sports to cultural experiences. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Go on a coffee plantation tour
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the Andes
  • Go paragliding over San Gil
  • Visit the local markets and try the street food

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Andino

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Eastern Andino:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Bogota and explore the city
Day 2 Take a flight to Pasto and visit the Casa Museo Luis Alberto Acuna and Casa Museo Policarpa Salavarietta
Day 3 Visit Los Morros de Tulcán and El Santuario de las Lajas
Day 4 Spend the day at La Laguna de la Cocha
Day 5 Hike the Cocuy Circuit
Day 6 Take a hot air balloon ride over the Andes
Day 7 Spend the day exploring the local markets and trying street food before departing for home

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Andino

Eastern Andino has a delicious and varied food scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ajiaco soup
  • Arepas de choclo
  • Tamales Tolimenses
  • Frita santandereana

Local Beverages

  • Coffee
  • Aguardiente
  • Chicha

Where to Stay in Eastern Andino: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern Andino has a range of accommodations to suit every budget and taste.

  • Luxury: El Santuario de las Lajas
  • Mid-range: Hotel Los Morros
  • Budget: Hostel Trailhead

What to Buy in Eastern Andino: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring back from Eastern Andino:

  • Coffee roasted on-site
  • Traditional textiles and handicrafts
  • Local sweets and chocolates

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Andino

Eastern Andino has a rich and diverse culture, shaped by its Indigenous, African, and European influences. Some customs and traditions to be aware of include:

  • Respect for elders and authority figures
  • Greeting others with a handshake or a hug
  • Tipping around 10% in restaurants and cafes

Best Time to Visit Eastern Andino

The best time to visit Eastern Andino is between December and March when the weather is dry and sunny.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Andino

Do:

  • Try the local coffee and cuisine
  • Learn about the culture and traditions of the region
  • Respect the environment and wildlife

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions
  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings
  • Undervalue the importance of nature conservation

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Andino

While Eastern Andino is generally considered safe for tourists, it is always advisable to exercise caution while exploring the region. Here are some tips for staying safe:

  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Keep your valuables in a secure place
  • Follow the advice of trustworthy locals and your tour operator

Health in Eastern Andino

Travelers to Eastern Andino should be up to date with routine vaccinations. It is also advisable to take precautions against mosquito bites and to drink only bottled or treated water.

Getting to Eastern Andino: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eastern Andino can be easily reached by air and land. There are several airports and bus stations near the region.

Airports Near Eastern Andino

  • El Dorado International Airport, Bogota
  • Antonio Nariño Airport, Pasto

Bus Stations Near Eastern Andino

  • Bogota Bus Terminal
  • Pasto Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Private tour operators
  • Car rental services

How to Get Around in Eastern Andino

The best way to explore Eastern Andino is by car. However, public transportation is also available with buses, taxis, and private shuttles.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Andino: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can consider after exploring Eastern Andino:

  • San Agustin Archaeological Park
  • The Archaeological Park of Tierradentro
  • Tatacoa Desert
  • Medellin

Conclusion

Eastern Andino is a breathtakingly beautiful region with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of outdoor adventures. With this comprehensive tour guide, you now have everything you need to plan your trip to this hidden gem in Colombia.



    Barichara
    Bucaramanga
    San Gil