The small town of San Agustin and its archaeological park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

ANDEAN TOWN

Between Popayán and Neiva, 5 hours from these two major cities, San Agustin dominates the hills of the central Andes. This Andean municipality, founded in the middle of the 19th century, with a population of around 30,000 inhabitants, lives mainly from agriculture. The inhabitants rely on sugar cane and coffee production, but also on livestock breeding. However, the city is especially famous for its pre-Columbian archaeological heritage. This legacy consists of stelae, statues, petroglyphs, and burial chambers scattered here and there across the hills of the region. The sites of El Tablon, La Chaquira and La Pelota, for example, present various ancestral artefacts. But it is above all the famous San Agustin Archaeological Park that attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year.

THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK OF SAN AGUSTIN

Just outside the city, the main Archaeological Park of San Agustin has several sites spread over different levels. Four plateaus (Mesitas), an archaeological museum retracing the history of the excavations, and a wood filled with statues (Bosque de los Idolos), form the main archaeological area. The Archaeological Park of San Agustin also includes other sites located in a neighbouring town, Isnos. Indeed, the sites of Alto de los Idolos and Alto de las Piedras also part of the San Agustin Archaeological Park.

THE NATURE AROUND SAN AGUSTIN

In addition to the archaeological wonders that you can discover in these parks, the region also has exceptional natural sites. Make a stop to the famous Estrecho del Magdalena, where the river Magdalena flows through. Enjoy a breathtaking view over the Salto del Mortiño or Salto de Bordones waterfalls. You can also enjoy a horseback ride from site to site, or visit farms producing coffee, sugar cane, or cocoa.

 

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Une publication partagée par CAPOA Voyages/Travels Colombia (@capoacolombia)

CHARMING HOTELS IN SAN AGUSTIN

During your stay in San Agustin, your expectations are bound to play a role in the selection of your accommodation. For the comfort and convenience of an establishment close to the city, you can head to the Yalconia Hotel, for instance. For its proximity to the main tourist destination, the San Agustin Archaeological Park, opt for the Huaka-yo. But for an intimate and secluded ambience In this case, the Akawanka or  Finca El Cielo are among our favourites. In short, a wide choice of establishments to meet all expectations…

If you too would like to discover San Agustin and its Archaeological Park during your trip to Colombia, please do not hesitate to contact us: