Overview
The area of southern Colombia leading off from the Cauca valley south of Cali and embracing the cultured city of Popayán and pre-Colombian archaeological sites was lamentably off limits for visitors during the recent era of guerrilla activity. Fortunately nowadays the security situation has improved and many of the highlights of this region of quiescent volcanoes, steep emerald green valleys, pastures, sugar plantations and attractive villages can be safely explored
The Spanish colonial university town Popayán is a delightful stop, its lanes resonating with both salsa and classical music, while the mountain village of Silvia is famous for the striking costumes worn by the friendly Guambiano Indians. The UNESCO-listed archaeological site at San Agustín is the must see of the region, with its remarkable ‘Bosque de las Estatuas’ consisting of a number of enigmatic statues dating from 3,300BC.
Prosperous Cali is the second largest city in Colombia after Bogotá and is famed for being the country’s party capital: salsa really rules the roost here. It’s a tropical city with a tropical vibe, surrounded by a fertile agricultural land with plantations and cattle.
Holidays San Agustin, Popayan and Cali
From expertly designed Private Journeys to trail-blazing Group Tours, browse our range of carefully crafted holidays.
Private Journeys
Colombia / The Amazon
Off the beaten track Colombia: San Agustin and the Amazon
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Group - Discovery
Colombia
Weaverbird: Spirit of Colombia
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Things to do
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Accommodation
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Where to go when - our guide to San Agustin, Popayan and Cali
The weather in San Agustin, Popayan and Cali is wide and varied
This region of volcanoes, luscious green valleys, sugar plantations and traditional villages is not to be missed. The tropical city of Cali is alive with salsa. Thanks to its location in the sweltering Cauca Valley it is hot and humid throughout the year, though it may rain at any time. At a higher elevation you’ll find the colonial university town of Popayán and also the archaeological gems of San Agustin. The temperature here feels a little cooler, the air a little drier, though you’ll still get warm sunshine.
Rain can fall at any time here which keeps the landscapes verdant, with the wettest months usually April- June. The region can become busy during holidays and cultural events; for incredible salsa dancing and live music head for the Cali Fair in December / January, or see traditional costumes and parades at Popayán’s Festival de los Negros y Blancos in January.
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