Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Pasto, Nariño, Colombia
1. El Trompillo de Pasto
A unique thermal water park with mud pools known for their healing properties.
- Geothermal Activities: Offers geothermal mud baths and hot springs
- Healing Properties: Reputed for its therapeutic benefits for skin conditions
- Natural Experience: Set in a serene natural environment, perfect for relaxation
2. La Mesenia de Pasto
An ancient indigenous market where locals sell traditional handicrafts and food.
- Authentic Handicrafts: Shop for authentic, locally-made crafts like hats, bags, and jewelry
- Traditional Foods: Taste traditional dishes such as mote con queso or bunco Pastusino
- Cultural Exchange: Interact with local indigenous communities and learn about their customs
3. Parque Nacional de los Iguacuazos
A national park housing the unique Iguacuazo waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
- Iguacuazo Waterfalls: Features cascading turquoise waterfalls that are less crowded than other famous falls
- Biodiversity: Home to a variety of bird and orchid species, as well as spectacled bears
- Adventure Activities: Offers opportunities for trekking, bird watching, and photography
4. Catedral Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Rosario
An ornate Catholic church with a unique blend of Gothic and Baroque architectural styles.
- Architectural Style: Showcases a mix of Gothic and Baroque elements in its design
- Historical Significance: Constructed over a period of more than two centuries
- Stained Glass Windows: Features beautiful stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes
5. Zona Arqueológica de Piñango
An archaeological site showcasing the ancient Piñango culture and their pottery.
- Ancient Artifacts: Displays pottery, tools, and other artifacts from the Piñango culture
- Historical Insight: Provides insight into the lives of the ancient Piñango people
- Serene Environment: Located in a peaceful, natural setting perfect for relaxation
6. Cerro Tres Cruces
A mountain offering panoramic views of Pasto and the surrounding countryside.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning vistas of Pasto and the surrounding landscape
- Nature Trails: Features hiking trails for exploring the mountain's flora and fauna
- Cultural Significance: Holds cultural significance as a site used by indigenous tribes in ancient times
7. Museo de la Miel y el Abejorero
A honey museum showcasing the production process and variety of honeys.
- Honey Production: Provides insight into traditional honey-making techniques
- Variety of Honeys: Showcases different types of local honey from various flora
- Tasting Experience: Offers opportunities to taste various honeys and honey-based products
8. Parque Nacional Los Nevados
A national park featuring snow-capped volcanoes, glaciers, and diverse wildlife.
- Snow-Capped Volcanoes: Home to six active volcanoes, including Nevado del Ruiz
- Glaciers and Lakes: Boasts numerous glaciers and crystal-clear lakes
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot Andean condors, spectacled bears, and other wildlife
9. Casa de la Moneda
An old mint house turned museum showcasing the region's history.
- Historical Artifacts: Displays coins, currency, and other artifacts related to the mint
- Regional History: Provides insight into Pasto's history and the region's economic development
- Architectural Beauty: Features a beautiful, well-preserved Baroque architectural style
10. Museo de Arte Religioso Pastusino
A museum dedicated to religious art and the traditional folk-art of Pasto.
- Religious Art: Showcases a collection of religious paintings, sculptures, and artifacts
- Folk-Art of Pasto: Features traditional folk-art pieces like santos (saints) made from recycled materials
- Cultural Immersion: Provides a deeper understanding of the region's cultural heritage
11. Parque Arqueológico de Piñitagua
An archaeological site displaying the Pre-Columbian culture of the Piñitagüeña civilization.
- Ancient Artifacts: Displays pottery, tools, and other artifacts from the Piñitagüeña culture
- Historical Insight: Provides insight into the lives of the ancient Piñitagüeña people
- Serene Environment: Located in a peaceful, natural setting perfect for relaxation
12. Mirador del Río Pasto
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning vistas of Pasto and the surrounding landscape
- Nature Trails: Features hiking trails for exploring the area's flora and fauna
- Cultural Significance: Holds cultural significance as a site used by indigenous tribes in ancient times
13. El Parque Central de Pasto
A central park with unique sculptures and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Sculpture Gallery: Showcases several contemporary sculptures created by local artists
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Offers a lively, energetic environment with street performers and vendors
- Relaxation Spot: A peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city center
14. Museo de la Salsa Pastusina
A museum dedicated to salsa music and dance, showcasing its local evolution.
- Salsa History: Provides insight into the history and evolution of salsa in Pasto
- Dance Classes: Offers dance classes for visitors to learn traditional salsa steps
- Cultural Experience: Provides a deeper understanding of Pasto's cultural identity through music and dance
15. La Reserva Natural de la Cascada del Mortiño
A natural reserve with a stunning waterfall and diverse wildlife.
- Waterfall Wonder: Features a breathtaking, cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot Andean condors, spectacled bears, and other wildlife
- Nature Trails: Offers hiking trails for exploring the reserve's diverse flora and fauna