DESTINATIONS IN THE REGION

The Pacific coast is also the ideal place for nature fanatics because of the variety of wildlife and the possibility on seeing dolphins and whales swimming on a stone’s throw distance from the beach

There is also good for nautical sports like diving and surfing, ecologic walks and relaxing at the beautiful virgin beaches along the coast.  

And off course take salsa classes in Cali.

Where to go........

There are many places to visit in these region, these are some of the highlights:

Cities and towns:

CALI

Cali’s cheerful nature is manifested in salsa, a Caribbean rhythm that is danced here among the sugarcane in its own unique way. In this city, nicknamed "Branch of Heaven,” the peaks of Cristo Rey, the hill of the Three Crosses, and the hills of San Antonio jut upwards from the plains that make up most of Valle del Cauca.   


WHAT TO DO IN CALI


Cali, founded in 1536, can be explored on foot: walk under the shade of trees along the riverbank, admire the architecture of churches and other national monuments, and visit the city’s many museums. In Cali, travelers can enjoy music festivals, learn about sugarcane farming, and take in the mountainous landscapes.  

POPAYÁN

A sense of peace envelops those who walk the streets of Popayán, with its elegant white churches and residences. Founded in 1537 by Sebastian de Belalcázar, the capital of Cauca is one of the most important religious centers in Colombia. From this city, known for its excellent cuisine, you can visit nearby mountains, valleys, and lakes.

WHAT TO DO IN POPAYÁN

Popayán’s historical and cultural richness is reflected in its buildings, especially during Holy Week when tradition plays an important role. The department is populated by the Nasa, Embera, and Guambia indigenous communities, among others, and offers visitors spas with relaxing hot springs.

CHOCÓ

The richness of Chocó’s landscape, undisturbed by humans, can be overwhelming. This is the only department of Colombia that is lapped by the waves of two oceans: the Pacific and the Caribbean. Rivers abound here, as do National Parks: Utría, Los Katíos, and Tatamá are all located here. Chocó, founded in 1947, is known for its dark sand beaches.


WHAT TO DO IN CHOCÓ


The jungle is the unique backdrop of many experiences in Chocó; it entirely surrounds the beach and seems to want to extend into the ocean. Visitors should make time for bird watching, seeing humpback whales from Antarctica frolic in the water, walking on the beach, and swimming in waterfalls near the waves.

NARIÑO 

The department of Nariño, where the Nudo de los Pastos (Knot of the Pastos) divides the Andes in three parts in Southern Colombia, is filled with hundreds of small plots cultivated with different produce, creating a dazzling green landscape. From Pasto, the capital, you can travel to lagoons, volcanoes, moors, warm valleys, and tropical beaches.

WHAT TO DO IN PASTO


The department of Nariño’s natural wealth is huge. It contains every thermal zone, and ranges in altitude from 6.5 feet to 3 miles above sea level. Visitors can walk through cloud forests, rivers, and waterfalls, and enjoy nature reserves and National Parks. You will also find unique crafts and have the opportunity to experience a festival that celebrates diversity by uniting people of different races.

Natural Parks:

Utria National Park

Gorgona Island Natural Park

Malpelo Natural park

Isla de la Corota in the Laguna de Cocha

Purace National Park.

Beaches:

Nuquí and Bahía Solano

When to go.........

Any time of the year is good to visit this region. However, if you want to see the humpback whales the right time is from July to September.

If you also want to learn more about the traditions and culture of this region a good opportunity is during some of their most popular carnivals, like:

January: The Blacks and Whites Carnival, held in Pasto. It is a great festival where people get painted of black and white. It was originated during the Spanish rule, when the slaves were allowed to celebrate and their masters joined in the festivities by painting their faces black.

December: The Cali Fair. This is a cultural festival where food, music, dancing and other cultural activities are shown.