18 Things to Do in Popayan Colombia – Best Places & Activities

Would you like to visit a South American destination that blends colonial architecture and mesmerizing landscape? Best of all, you will never run out of things to do in Popayán Colombia. Pack your bags as you read this city guide.

Nestled in the southwest of Colombia, Popayán charms visitors with its quaint Spanish colonial charm and picturesque landscapes.

Renowned for its immaculate white architecture, historic center, and rich cultural heritage, Popayán beckons travelers to explore its vibrant streets and storied past.

From savoring local cuisine to witnessing Holy Week processions and embarking on day trips, Popayán promises a fulfilling experience for every traveler. With its growing popularity, now is the perfect time to discover this hidden gem and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

18 Best Things to Do in Popayán Colombia

1. Take a Free Walking Tour Around the City

One of the first things that most tourists like to opt for is to take a free walking tour around the city. If you are in Popayán for a short while and want to learn about the town’s history and significant sights, a walking tour is the best way to go about it. 

Your local guides will take you around the city, show you the historic sites, and provide useful information about the town. You will also get to taste the local food and meet other tourists.

2. Explore the Churches

A trip to Popayán, Colombia’s religious capital, is not possible without exploring its popular churches. One of the most famous cathedrals is the Iglesia de San Francisco. It is Popayán’s largest and most beautiful church, built in colonial times. 

Also, if you have time, do check out the oldest churches in Popayán–Iglesia La Ermita. These are Iglesia de Santo Domingo, Iglesia de Belen and Iglesia de San José.

3. Take a Dip in the Hot Springs

If you are in the mood for some relaxation, check out the natural hot springs at the Coconuco. You can take a dip in the relaxing natural hot springs for a small fee. 

There are many ways to get to the springs. You can take the bus, get a taxi, or ride a bike tour. One of the springs is the Aguas Tibias, which has a mud spring and a waterslide. Another is the Agua Hirviendo, which is slightly hotter and has a waterslide. There are also restaurants around, in case you get hungry.

4. Visit the Parque Caldas

The Parque Caldas is a popular tourist hangout next to the main cathedral and the clock tower. The park was built in 1537 and is a reflection of history from colonial times. 

On regular days, you will find the place bustling with locals strolling around or relaxing with street performers and street food vendors offering drinks and snacks. On some days, you may also find locals selling souvenirs or crafts under tents on the square’s outer edge. 

5. Explore the Parque Natural de Purace

If you want to spot the famous birds of prey, the Andean condor, the best place to be is the Parque Natural De Purace. The reservoir is home to three of the 600 birds living in the wild. 

You can opt for a guided tour to visit a condor feeding site and see these birds if you are lucky. 

6. Climb the Volcan Purace

From Parque Natural de Purace, you can go for a climb, if the weather allows, to the Volcan Purace. It is one of the most active volcanoes in Colombia, with a height of almost 4,700 meters. 

You can opt for a guided tour or go independently. You can also get other trekkers on board and split the cost of the guide. 

You will have to leave for the hike early in the morning, which can take around 7 hours. Also, remember to pack waterproof gear and warm clothes.

7. Visit the Tierradentro Tombs

The Tombs of Tierradentro is an archaeological site that was once a burial ground and holds around 150 underground tombs. The tombs are beautifully decorated with illustrations and human figurines. Some of the tombs are as wide as 12 meters. 

If you are fond of history, consider taking a day trip to the historical site.

8. Visit the Archdiocesan Museum of Religious Art

The Archdiocesan Museum of Religious Art features beautiful religious artwork from the 18th-century colonial era, including sculptures, paintings, silver and gold treasures, and furniture. Some of the relics displayed even date back to the 16th century.

Around Easter, the most sacred pieces are taken out of vaults and put on display. Whether or not you are interested in religious art, you will find this visit very interesting. 

9. Explore the Silvia Indigenous Market

Silvia is a small town famous for its indigenous market arranged by the Guambiano community. You can get to the town on the bus, and it will take around 1.5 hours to get there. Every Tuesday, the market features local foods, traditional foods, farm supplies, textiles, etc. 

The local sellers are dressed in traditional Andean attire with black hats and blue shawls. It is an experience to see the local community engaging in trade and moving their products around the market. You can get quick snacks like hot chocolate, fried dough, or cheese from the market.

10. Visit the Natural Museum of History

The Natural Museum of History belongs to the Universidad Del Cauca en Popayán and is close to the campus. The museum features an impressive display of different species, including butterflies, spiders, beetles, etc. You will also get to see a remarkable rock collection.

The museum is frequented by researchers from France and Germany and tourists from all over the world.

11. Visit the Puente del Humilladero

Next on our list is the famous bridge in Popayán, the Puente del Humilladero. The bridge was constructed in 1873 and was intended to facilitate the locals to get to the main square from the poor neighborhoods.

It is rumored that some superstitious items, including oxblood, were added to the cement used for constructing the bridge. It is believed that the blood of a strong animal like an ox will keep the bridge strong and resilient. 

You can stroll around the place, have a picnic, or get a glimpse of a cultural event happening when you are there.

12. Hike Around the Town

Popayán is beautiful, with exciting trails and scenic views. If you are a nature lover, you will enjoy hiking around the town while viewing the beautiful town and valleys. You can hike to the Hill of the Three Crosses, known as the Cerro de las Tres Cruces.

You can also climb the Morro de Tulcan, once home to an ancient pyramid. The site now has a statue of the city’s founder, Sebastian de Belalcazar. The place offers beautiful uninterrupted views of the sunset. The area is well monitored by the police, so you do not need to be concerned about returning at night from the place.

13. Explore the Pueblito Patojo

Want to see Popayán in miniature form? Before you go to the Morro de Tulcan, visit the Pueblito Patojo, a model of the town featuring all its historical and monumental sights in miniature form.

You can walk around the town, take pictures and sample the local food sold by vendors, including tamales and empanadas. You can also buy various handicrafts from the stalls in the vicinity. 

A coffee shop is nearby if you want to sit and relax.

14. Visit the Cathedral Nuestra Senora 

The main church of Popayán, the Cathedral Nuestra Senora, is located near the Parque Caldas, which you can add to the itinerary when visiting the park. The white church has a beautiful interior, reflecting the influence of French aesthetics. Its domed ceiling and airy ambiance provide a soothing effect.

The church has been around for a long time, standing the test of times. It was destroyed twice due to earthquakes in 1566 and 1983, respectively.

15. Torre del Reloj (The Clock Tower)

Next to the church on the main plaza is the Torre Del Reloj or the famous Clock Tower. 

The clock was built between 1673 and 1682. At first glance, you may see a basic whitewashed building, but if you look closer, you will discover something very intriguing about the tower; it has only one hand. 

Today it is one of the most iconic monuments in Popayán and a must-see for travelers in Colombia.

16. Sample the Local Cuisine

Sampling the local cuisine is a must when you are on a foreign trip. It becomes even more important if the place you go to has been chosen as the UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Yes! We are talking about Popayán. 

You may be surprised that Popayán has a lot to offer in this aspect. The current cuisines reflect a significant influence of native, African, and Spanish cultures.

If you are searching for the authentic Colombian experience, go to the Mercado Bolivar and try the local food, including seafood with Caldo and rice, empanadas, or tamales. 

If you want a more refined experience, go to the Mora Castilla and try the traditional cuisine on the menu.

17. Explore the Yambitara Hacienda

The Yambitara Hacienda is a beautiful colonial mansion located at the north end of Popayán. The place is surrounded by water and scenic gardens and is full of the local flora and fauna with many ancient trees. There is a waterfall that you can get to after a 40 min walk from the mansion. 

You can get accommodation at the Hacienda. Various tourist service providers offer activities like bird watching, trips to lakes and waterfalls, and hiking on ecological trails. Coffee farms are also nearby. It is a very peaceful and serene place, so if you want a quick getaway from the bustling town, check this out. 

18. Check Out the Holy Week Processions

If you are in Popayán during the Semana Santa, check out the religious processions held during the week. Since the 16th century, the event has been held every year, and a large number of people every year participate and see the models describing the history of Christ and crucifixion. 

The artwork and wooden carving are provided by local schools and carried around Popayán in a 2km long path shaped like a cross.

The event is held from Tuesday to Saturday during Easter week, and people stand in the streets with candles in their hands. It is one of the most famous events in Popayán, and if you are interested in attending, be sure to book accommodations in advance as the place gets crowded quickly.

How to Get to Popayán

If you want to get to Popayán by bus, you can get a bus from Cali. Numerous bus companies operate on the route, and the journey will take around two and a half hours. If you travel by bus from Medellin, the journey may take 12-14 hours.

Popayán also has a small airport; if you are flying from Bogota, you can catch any of the four daily flights.

Where To Stay in Popayán Colombia

Hotel Camino Real (Budget)

Hotel Camino Real in Popayán provides comfortable accommodations with amenities including flat-screen cable TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms; guests can also opt for rooms with balconies. Guests can savor French cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant during their stay.

Hotel Boutique Confort Suites (Mid-range)

Conveniently situated on a quiet street within Popayan’s historic center, Confort Suites presents refined rooms equipped with LCD cable TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. The establishment boasts additional amenities, including a restaurant, tour desk services, and complimentary parking.

Casa Loma Hotel Boutique & Terraza Gastro (Luxury)

Casa Loma Hotel Boutique boasts a garden, terrace, restaurant, and bar. This 5-star hotel provides free WiFi, room service, and a 24-hour front desk. Additionally, the hotel offers family rooms for guests’ convenience.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Travel Tips – Popayán Colombia

Here are a few helpful tips to consider when traveling to Popayán.

When to Visit

Popayán lies at an altitude of almost 5,577 feet (1700 meters) above sea level. The average temperature stays between 18 and 19 °C (64.4 and 66.2 °F) throughout the year. Therefore, if you want to visit the city, you can go anytime.

However, if rains are a concern, consider traveling between December and February, which are the dry months.

What to Bring

Keep an umbrella with you, and pack a jacket, in case it gets cold at night. Always bring a travel pouch at all times to keep your important belongings safe.

How To Stay Safe In Popayán, Colombia

Popayán is a very safe city; however, it is important to be always careful. Do not venture out alone, especially at night, and stick to the well-trodden paths as much as possible.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Things to Do in Popayán Colombia

Where Is Popayán in Colombia?

Popayán is located in the southwestern region of Colombia between the Central and Western Mountain Range.

Is Popayán Worth Visiting?

Popayán is a culturally rich city with beautiful colonial architecture. It is also a very peaceful city with religious sites and beautiful views. Moreover, Popayán is also chosen as the UNESCO City of Gastronomy, owing to its delightfully varied cuisines.

Why Is Popayán Called the White City?

Popayán has numerous white buildings, especially in the central area, constructed during colonial times. The predominantly white architecture is why Popayán is called the White City. 

Conclusion – Things to Do in Popayán Colombia

Popayán doesn’t only pride itself on its iconic colonial architecture and breathtaking landscape: visitors will always find interesting things to do and come out entranced from the memorable experiences. Make Popayán your next stop in your travel adventure.

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