What to do in and around San Agustin - Huila?

Nestled in the Andean foothills of the Huila department, San Agustín is one of Colombia’s most captivating destinations, renowned for its rich history and natural beauty. The small town is best known for its UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park of San Agustín, which features the largest collection of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America. However, this region offers much more than just ancient mysteries. From picturesque landscapes to cultural experiences, San Agustín is a perfect base for those seeking to dive deeper into Colombia's heritage and stunning nature. Here’s a guide on what to do around San Agustín, blending history, culture, and eco-tourism.

1. Visit the San Agustín Archaeological Park

The highlight of any visit to San Agustín, Colombia, is undoubtedly the San Agustín Archaeological Park. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is home to hundreds of stone statues, burial mounds, and religious symbols dating back to pre-Columbian civilizations that inhabited the region more than 2000 years ago. These sculptures, which range from small carvings to towering figures over 7 meters tall, depict a range of human and animal forms, offering a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and artistic talents of ancient peoples.

Exploring the park can take a few hours, and visitors can follow well-marked trails through the different zones. Highlights include Mesita A, Mesita B, and Mesita C, each featuring clusters of statues, ceremonial tombs, and stone sarcophagi. Don’t miss La Fuente de Lavapatas, a sacred water site carved directly into bedrock. For those passionate about archaeology, the park’s museum is a great place to dive deeper into the history of these ancient civilizations

2. Explore the Isnos Archaeological Park

Just a short drive from San Agustín lies Isnos, another archaeological site that’s often overlooked by visitors. The Alto de los Ídolos and Alto de las Piedras parks feature similar stone statues and burial mounds but are less crowded, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter experience. The statues here are even taller than those found in San Agustín, with some measuring up to 7 meters in height. Visiting Isnos gives you a deeper understanding of the ancient cultures that once thrived in the region.

3. Wander through the town and market of San Agustín.

San Agustín itself is a charming town that offers a glimpse into daily life in rural Colombia. Start your day by visiting the vibrant San Agustín Market, where you can sample fresh, local produce like exotic fruits, cheese, traditional snacks, or a full lunch. The market's lively atmosphere and colorful displays make it a great spot to immerse yourself in the local culture. After this culinary experience, the small-town charm of San Agustin is not to be missed. You can wander the streets and admire the whitewashed walls, red-tiled roofs, wooden balconies adorned with bright flowers, creating a picturesque backdrop against the lush green hills that surround the town. The walls of the town are adorned with vibrant murals that depict local life, indigenous heritage, and the stunning landscapes of the region. San Agustín is also home to a thriving artisan community, and visitors can find a variety of hand-made crafts in the town’s small shops and markets. Let us know if you need a guide and translator through San Agustin.

4. Visit the Guaitipán Experience for a Relaxing Day by the Lake

If you're looking to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature, the Guaitipán Experience is an ideal choice. Located just a short distance from San Agustín, this peaceful retreat invites visitors to take a leisurely walk around the serene lake while learning about pre-Columbian myths from local guides. The experience includes a traditional Colombian lunch served on a terrace overlooking the lake, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and gastronomy. It’s a great way to unwind and experience the cultural richness of the region at a slower pace.

5. Discover Coffee Culture on a Coffee Farm Tour

No visit to Huila would be complete without exploring its renowned coffee farms. San Agustín is surrounded by small, family-run farms producing some of Colombia’s best specialty coffee. On a coffee farm tour, you’ll have the chance to learn about the coffee-making process from seed to cup. From planting and harvesting to drying and roasting, this hands-on experience provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind Colombia’s famous coffee.

Don’t leave until you have participated in a coffee tasting experience, where coffee professionals will guide you to savor different varieties and learn how altitude, climate, and processing methods influence the flavor of the coffee.

6. Take a Nature Walk to the Magdalena River

San Agustín is not only rich in history but also boasts incredible natural beauty. The Magdalena River, Colombia’s longest and most important river, originates near San Agustín in the Colombian Massif. A short drive from the town takes you to the Estrecho del Magdalena, a narrow gorge where the river squeezes through a rocky passage less than 3 meters wide.

Taking a nature walk along the river is a must for anyone who enjoys scenic landscapes. The area is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers stunning views of the Andean foothills. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy nature and reflect on the importance of this river, which has shaped Colombia’s history and culture for centuries.

7. Visit a Chiva Workshop

A unique cultural experience near San Agustín is visiting a workshop where artisans handcraft chivas, traditional, brightly colored buses that are emblematic of rural Colombia. These artisans create mini replicas of the iconic chivas, a craft passed down through generations. During the workshop visit, you can see the meticulous process of crafting these mini chivas and learn about their cultural significance in Colombian history.

This is an excellent opportunity to make your own personalized chiva, an authentic souvenir that captures the essence of rural Colombian life and supports local artisans.

8. Learn about panela

Discover the traditional process of panela-making at local workshops near San Agustín. This immersive experience takes you into the heart of rural life, where you’ll witness how sugarcane is harvested and transformed into panela, an unrefined whole cane sugar essential in Colombian cuisine. During your visit, you'll learn about the cultural importance of panela production, passed down through generations, and even have the opportunity to taste fresh panela at different stages of its production. Ideal for eco-tourism enthusiasts and food lovers, this tour offers a deep dive into Colombia’s agricultural traditions and the beautiful Huila region.

In a nutshell

San Agustín is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering visitors a unique combination of ancient wonders and modern-day charm. From exploring the Archaeological Park of San Agustín to immersing yourself in local traditions like coffee farming and craft-making, there are plenty of activities to enrich your experience in this hidden gem of Colombia. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or cultural explorer, San Agustín has something to offer every traveler.

Plan your visit to San Agustín and discover one of Colombia’s most fascinating destinations.