Popayán Travel Guide

Popayán is a colonial gem in Colombia, with a rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Read on to learn more about the best places to visit, things to do, and more in our comprehensive Popayán travel guide.


Introduction to Popayán

Popayán, located in the southwestern region of Colombia, is a charming colonial city famous for its white-washed buildings and historic sites. Also known as the “City of the Holy Week,” Popayán is renowned for hosting one of the most impressive religious celebrations in the world during the Holy Week. Besides, the city boasts of a rich cultural heritage, eclectic gastronomy, and incredible natural beauty. This travel guide will help you explore the best of Popayán and make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Popayán

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Popayán for travelers:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Popayán Museum of Religious Art: It houses a collection of colonial religious artifacts.
  • National Museum Guillermo Valencia: It features the work of Guillermo Valencia a renowned poet and writer from Popayán.
  • Santo Domingo Church: One of the main landmarks of Popayán, this church is known for its impressive baroque architecture.
  • Puente del Humilladero: The bridge is a symbol of the city and offers splendid views of the Cauca River.

Natural Attractions of Popayán: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Puracé National Park: Home to the Purace volcano and thermal springs.
  • Coconuco Hot Springs: Located 45 km from Popayán, this is one of the famous tourist spots in the region.
  • Belén Waterfalls: These stunning waterfalls are located in the mountains that surround Popayán and offer picturesque views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Popayán

Popayán and its surroundings offer excellent opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. You can take the following routes:

  • Hiking in Puracé National Park. This trail takes you through the various ecosystems of the park, including the Andean forests, Paramo, and thermal springs.
  • Biking in the mountains around Popayán. These routes offer magnificent views of the city, its surroundings, and the Cauca River.

Best Things to Do in Popayán: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do and tours to take when in Popayán:

  • Visit the Silvia Indigenous Market: This market is held every Tuesday and is a great place to observe and buy authentic indigenous handicrafts.
  • Take a City Tour: Visit all the famous landmarks, museums, and churches in the city.
  • Horseback Riding: Ride horses through the scenic countryside and explore the nature around Popayán.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: Popayán is renowned for its delicious traditional dishes. Make sure to try empanadas, arepas, and tamales.

Week-Long Itinerary for Popayán

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Popayán:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Popayán and take a walking tour of the city.
2 Visit the Puracé National Park and hot springs.
3 Take a horseback riding tour in the countryside surrounding Popayán.
4 Explore the museums and historical sites of Popayán.
5 Visit the Silvia Indigenous Market.
6 Go on a biking trip in the mountains overlooking Popayán.
7 Explore the Belen waterfalls and swim in its pools.

Food and Drink Scene of Popayán

Popayán is famous for its gastronomical expertise. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Empanadas: Delicious fried or baked dough stuffed with meat, potatoes, and spices.
  • Arepas: Grilled corn patties stuffed with cheese and meat.
  • Tamales: Steamed corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A fermented corn beverage.
  • Aguardiente: A traditional anise-flavored alcoholic drink.

Where to Stay in Popayán: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Popayán offers several accommodation options that cater to every budget. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Hotel Dann Monasterio: A luxury hotel with colonial architecture located in the city center.
  • Hostal Caracolí: A budget-friendly hostel with a relaxed ambiance, located near the city center.
  • Hotel Los Balcones: A high-end hotel in the colonial part of Popayán.

What to Buy in Popayán: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some popular souvenirs and local products to buy from Popayán:

  • Handicrafts: Handmade ceramics, textiles, and woodwork.
  • Aguardiente: Take home a bottle of the famous local drink.
  • Coffee: Colombian coffee is world-famous, and Popayán has some of the best coffee farms in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Popayán

Popayán has a rich cultural heritage dating back to the colonial period. The city is known for its Holy Week celebrations, which attracts people from all over the world. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and it is customary to greet people with a warm smile and a handshake.

Best Time to Visit Popayán

The best time to visit Popayán is during the dry season, from December to March and from July to August. The weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are enjoyable during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Popayán

Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure you have a great time in Popayán:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Be respectful to the locals and their customs.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases.

Don’t:

  • Be too flashy with your belongings.
  • Leave your things unattended.
  • Go into unsafe areas at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Popayán

Popayán is generally a safe city, but like any other place in the world, it is advisable to take precautions. Avoid carrying too much cash and jewelry, especially in crowded areas. Stick to well-lit and busy streets at night.

Health in Popayán

Drink bottled water, and avoid street food that might cause stomach issues. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance and necessary vaccinations before your visit.

Getting to Popayán: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Popayán

The nearest airport to Popayán is Guillermo León Valencia airport, which is only a 45-minute drive from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Popayán

Popayán has several bus stations that connect it to several cities in the Andean region of Colombia.

Other Options

Travelers can also rent a car or book a private transfer to reach Popayán comfortably.

How to Get Around in Popayán

Popayán is a walkable city, but there are other transportation options available, like taxis and buses.

Where to Go Next from Popayán: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions you can take from Popayán:

  • San Agustín Archaeological Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its pre-Columbian statues.
  • Tierradentro Archaeological Park: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its pre-Columbian tombs and statues.
  • Cali: The salsa capital of Colombia.

Conclusion

Popayán is a charming colonial city that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. With plenty of attractions to explore and outdoor activities to enjoy, Popayán is a must-visit destination for any traveler who wants to experience Colombia’s rich culture and breathtaking nature.

Street scene with the Hermitage of Jesús Nazareno and the Church of Belen in the background Street scene with the Hermitage of Jesús Nazareno and the Church of Belen in the background View of the cathedral and the Torre del Reloj during Easter View of the cathedral and the Torre del Reloj during Easter Saint Francis of Assisi Church Saint Francis of Assisi Church Santo Domingo Church Santo Domingo Church The Guillermo Valencia Municipal Theater The Guillermo Valencia Municipal Theater The city in the evening The city in the evening The front facade of the Cathedral Basilica The front facade of the Cathedral Basilica