Ipiales Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Ipiales, Colombia – a charming city in the south of the country.


Introduction to Ipiales

Located in the Nariño region of Colombia, Ipiales is a city with a rich cultural history and breathtaking natural scenery. It’s most famous for its stunning cathedral, which is built into a mountain and draws visitors from all over the world. But there’s much more to see and do in Ipiales than just the cathedral. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or just want to soak up the local culture, Ipiales has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Ipiales

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Ipiales, then you won’t want to miss these museums and historical sites:

  • Museo del Carnaval: This museum is dedicated to the carnival traditions of Nariño and features colorful displays of costumes and masks.
  • Museo Arqueológico de Ipiales: This museum showcases artifacts from the pre-Columbian period, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  • San Juan Bautista Church: Founded in 1572, this church is one of the oldest in the city and features beautiful colonial architecture.

Natural Attractions of Ipiales: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ipiales is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in the surrounding area:

  • Las Lajas Sanctuary: This cathedral is built into a cliff and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Ipiales.
  • Laguna Verde: This high-altitude lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and offers excellent hiking opportunities.
  • Cascada de Juanambú: This waterfall is located just outside the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ipiales

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you won’t want to miss these hiking and biking routes in and around Ipiales:

  • El Cristo Rey: This popular trail takes you to a statue of Christ overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • La Toma: This trail takes you to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the city and is a great option for beginner hikers.
  • Parque Nacional Natural Puracé: This national park is a bit farther afield, but it offers some of the most spectacular hiking and biking opportunities in the region.

Best Things to Do in Ipiales: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, there are plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy in Ipiales:

  • Visit the Las Lajas Sanctuary: As mentioned earlier, this stunning cathedral is one of the top attractions in Ipiales.
  • Explore the local markets: Ipiales is known for its colorful, vibrant markets, which are the perfect place to pick up local handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Take a guided tour of the city: A local guide can show you the best spots in the city and help you learn more about the local culture and history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ipiales

If you’re planning to spend a week in Ipiales, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Visit the Las Lajas Sanctuary Day 2: Explore the Museo Arqueológico de Ipiales and San Juan Bautista Church Day 3: Hike El Cristo Rey and visit the local markets Day 4: Take a day trip to the Laguna Verde and Cascada de Juanambú Day 5: Take a guided tour of the city Day 6: Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene Day 7: Explore Parque Nacional Natural Puracé

Food and Drink Scene of Ipiales

Must-Try Dishes

Ipiales is known for its hearty, flavorful cuisine. Make sure to try these local specialties:

  • Cuy (guinea pig): This traditional dish is a must-try for adventurous eaters.
  • Ajiaco: This hearty soup is made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and spices.
  • Churrasco con Papas (steak with potatoes): This classic dish features tender, juicy steak served with crispy potatoes.

Local Beverages

Don’t miss these local beverages during your stay in Ipiales:

  • Canelazo: This spiced, warm alcoholic beverage is perfect for chilly evenings.
  • Guandolo: This sweet, cinnamon-flavored drink is made with boiled corn and milk.
  • Coffee: Colombia is known for its excellent coffee, so make sure to sample a cup or two while you’re in Ipiales.

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

There are plenty of accommodation options in Ipiales to suit every budget and style. Here are a few top picks:

  • Hotel San Juan: This centrally located hotel features comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.
  • Hostal El Mirador: This cozy hostel offers amazing views of the city and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
  • Posada de la Plaza: This guesthouse is located right on the main square and features beautifully decorated rooms and a charming courtyard.

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

Looking for the perfect souvenir or gift? Here are a few local products to consider:

  • Handmade textiles: Ipiales is known for its beautiful woven textiles, which make great gifts and souvenirs.
  • Local handicrafts: From carved wooden figurines to handmade pottery, there are plenty of unique crafts to be found in the local markets.
  • Coffee: Colombia is known for its excellent coffee, so why not bring home a bag of locally roasted beans?

Local Culture and Customs of Ipiales

Ipiales has a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. Here are a few customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Carnaval de Negros y Blancos: This colorful, lively celebration takes place in January and is a must-see for anyone visiting Ipiales.
  • Family values: Family is extremely important in Ipiales, and you’re likely to be invited into local homes for meals and celebrations.
  • Respect for religion: Ipiales is known for its strong Catholic traditions, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and observances.

Best Time to Visit Ipiales

The best time to visit Ipiales is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. However, even during the rainy season (October to May), there are plenty of things to see and do in the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ipiales

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Learn some Spanish

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in religious sites
  • Display public affection

Safety and Health

Safety in Ipiales

Ipiales is generally a safe city to visit, but as with any travel destination, it’s important to take basic precautions to stay safe:

  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Keep your valuables close to you
  • Be aware of your surroundings

Health in Ipiales

Ipiales is located at a high altitude (2969m/9744ft), so it’s important to take it easy for the first few days to avoid altitude sickness. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun at this altitude.

Getting to Ipiales: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ipiales

The closest airport to Ipiales is the San Luis Airport (IPI), which is located about 5 miles from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Ipiales

Ipiales has a main bus terminal, which is serviced by several bus companies. You can easily travel to other destinations in Colombia from here.

Other Options

Some visitors choose to drive or hire a private car to get to Ipiales. However, it’s worth noting that the roads in the area can be quite challenging, so it’s not necessarily the easiest way to get around.

How to Get Around in Ipiales

Ipiales is a fairly small city, so it’s easy to explore on foot. However, if you want to travel farther afield, there are several transportation options available:

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Ipiales and are a convenient way to get around.
  • Buses: Local buses are a cheap way to travel around the city and surrounding areas.
  • Private cars: You can hire a private car and driver for a more comfortable and personalized experience.

Where to Go Next from Ipiales: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your travels in Colombia, here are a few nearby destinations to consider:

  • Popayán: This charming colonial city is known for its white-washed buildings and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Pasto: Located just a few hours south of Ipiales, this bustling city has a lively nightlife and is a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
  • Cali: Colombia’s third-largest city is known for its salsa dancing and vibrant cultural scene.

Conclusion

Ipiales is a charming city with plenty to see and do for travelers of all interests and budgets. Whether you want to explore the local culture and history, experience the great outdoors, or just relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene, Ipiales has something for everyone. Plan your trip today to experience this unique and beautiful corner of Colombia for yourself.

Santuario de las Lajas by night Santuario de las Lajas by night Another gorgeous view of Las Lajas Another gorgeous view of Las Lajas