Popayan, Colombia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Known as Colombia’s “White City” for its pristine colonial architecture, Popayan holds a remarkable distinction: it hosts Latin America’s oldest continuously celebrated Holy Week procession, dating back to 1556 and recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. This enchanting city in Colombia’s southwest combines historical significance with culinary excellence as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, making it one of the country’s most underrated destinations waiting to be discovered.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Reaching Popayan is part of the adventure when exploring Colombia’s diverse landscapes. The city is well-connected to major Colombian destinations, though some routes require patience due to mountainous terrain.

By Air

Popayan has a small airport (Antonio Nariño Airport) with limited direct flights from Bogotá operated by Avianca. For international travelers, flying into Bogotá or Cali and continuing to Popayan is often the most practical option.

By Bus

Overland travel to Popayan is common and affordable:

• From Cali: 2-3 hour journey, buses depart every 10-15 minutes (15,000-25,000 COP)
• From San Agustín: 6-7 hour scenic but bumpy journey through Puracé National Park
• From Pasto/Ecuador border: 4-5 hour journey, making Popayan a convenient stop when traveling between Colombia and Ecuador

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Popayan enjoys a mild climate year-round thanks to its elevation of 1,760 meters (5,770 feet) above sea level. The average temperature hovers around 18-19°C (64-66°F), making it comfortable to visit in any season.

Seasonal Considerations

• Dry Season (December-February): Ideal time with less rainfall and pleasant temperatures
• Holy Week (Semana Santa): The city’s most significant cultural event, usually in March or April. Book accommodations months in advance if visiting during this period
• Rainy Season (October-December): Expect afternoon showers, but mornings are typically clear

Getting Around Locally

Popayan’s historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking the best way to explore the colonial architecture and main attractions.

Transportation Options

• Walking: Most attractions in the historic center are within a 15-minute walk of each other
• Taxis: Affordable and readily available for longer distances or day trips
• Local Buses: Connect the center with outer neighborhoods, though rarely needed by visitors
• Rental Cars: Useful for exploring the surrounding region, including Puracé National Park

Where to Stay in Popayan

Staying in or near Popayan’s historic center puts you within walking distance of the main attractions and restaurants. The city offers accommodations for every budget, from backpacker hostels to boutique hotels in restored colonial buildings.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Popayan holds the prestigious UNESCO designation as a Creative City of Gastronomy, making culinary exploration an essential part of your visit. The city is known for its unique regional dishes that blend indigenous, Spanish, and African influences.

Must-Try Local Specialties

• Empanadas de Pipián: Small empanadas made with colorada potatoes and peanuts, a signature Popayan dish
• Salpicón Payanés: A refreshing fruit drink made with blackberry, lulo, and guanabana
• Aplanchados: Traditional shortbread cookies that are part of the city’s gastronomic heritage
• Tamales de Pipián: Corn dough filled with a potato and peanut mixture, wrapped in banana leaves

Recommended Restaurants

• Mora Castilla: Famous for authentic local cuisine, especially empanadas de pipián
• La Casa de Té: Charming courtyard setting offering excellent teas and pastries
• Carmina: Delicious Italian and Mediterranean dishes in a cozy atmosphere
• Canoa y Mar: Specializes in Pacific coast seafood with beautiful décor
• Tiuspa Café: Social enterprise supporting victims of armed conflict, serving excellent coffee

Attractions, Sightseeing & Popayan Colombia Things to Do

Popayan’s historic center is a living museum of colonial architecture, with its pristine white buildings earning it the nickname “La Ciudad Blanca” (The White City). Most attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore in a day or two.

Historic Center Highlights

• Parque Caldas: The main square and heart of the city, surrounded by important buildings and shaded by tall trees
• Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower): Built in the 17th century with a curious clock face where the number 4 is written as IIII instead of IV
• Cathedral Basilica: The city’s main church, rebuilt after the 1983 earthquake
• Puente del Humilladero: A 240-meter bridge built in 1873 that spans the Molino River
• San Francisco Church: One of the few non-white buildings in the city, with a mysterious history involving mummies discovered after the 1983 earthquake
• La Ermita: One of the oldest churches in Popayan, dating from 1546
• Iglesia de Belén: Located on a hill above the city, offering panoramic views

Viewpoints

For the best views of Popayan’s white cityscape, head to these elevated spots:

• Morro de Tulcán: An ancient indigenous ceremonial site offering 360-degree views of the city. It’s a 15-minute walk from Parque Caldas
• Iglesia de Belén: The church’s hilltop location provides excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunset

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Popayan’s rich history is preserved in several museums that showcase the city’s cultural heritage and important historical figures.

Museums Worth Visiting

• Museo Guillermo Valencia: Housed in an 18th-century palace, this museum is dedicated to the poet and politician who served as Colombia’s president. Free admission
• Casa Museo Mosquera: Explore the life of General Tómas Cipriano de Mosquera, a four-time president of Colombia, in this beautiful 18th-century building
• Museum of Natural History: Located in the University of Cauca, featuring collections of minerals, archaeological objects, and natural specimens
• Museum of Religious Art: Houses an impressive collection of religious artifacts and colonial-era art
• MIAMP and Casa Museo Negret: Contemporary art museum featuring works by Colombian artist Édgar Negret and other modern pieces

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

Popayan’s most important cultural event is its Holy Week celebration, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Dating back to 1556, these processions feature elaborately decorated religious statues carried through the streets by participants in traditional attire.

If you visit during Holy Week (usually in March or April), expect:

• Nightly processions through the historic center
• Religious music and ceremonies
• Special culinary events showcasing local gastronomy
• Large crowds – book accommodations months in advance

Learn More

Day Trips & Outdoor Experiences

While Popayan itself deserves at least a full day of exploration, the surrounding region offers several worthwhile excursions that showcase Colombia’s cultural and natural diversity.

Puracé National Natural Park

Located about 1.5 hours from Popayan, this national park features the active Puracé volcano (4,646m), thermal springs, waterfalls, and unique páramo ecosystems. It’s home to endangered Andean condors and spectacular mountain scenery.

Activities include:

• Guided hikes to the volcano crater (requires a local guide)
• Bathing in natural hot springs
• Wildlife watching
• Photography of unique high-altitude vegetation like frailejones

Silvia Tuesday Market

Every Tuesday, the nearby town of Silvia hosts a vibrant indigenous market where Guambiano people in traditional blue and purple clothing sell their produce and crafts. It’s a colorful, authentic cultural experience just 1 hour from Popayan.

Other Nearby Attractions

• Coconuco Hot Springs: Natural thermal baths about 45 minutes from Popayan
• Tierradentro Archaeological Park: Ancient underground tombs with impressive paintings (3 hours from Popayan)
• Coffee Farms: Visit local coffee producers to learn about Colombia’s famous export

Learn More

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Popayan is generally safe for tourists, especially within the historic center where most visitors spend their time. However, as with any destination, it’s important to exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings.

Safety Tips

• Stick to well-traveled areas, especially after dark
• Use official taxis or transportation services for longer journeys
• Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items
• Check current safety conditions before hiking to viewpoints like Morro de Tulcán
• The Cauca region has historically experienced conflict, so research current conditions before venturing to remote areas

Local Customs & Etiquette

• Greeting people with a friendly “Buenos días” (good morning) or “Buenas tardes” (good afternoon) is appreciated
• Dress modestly when visiting churches, especially during Holy Week
• Ask permission before photographing indigenous people, particularly at markets
• Tipping 10% in restaurants is customary if service isn’t included
• Colombians are proud of their country’s transformation – avoid focusing conversations on past negative stereotypes

Practical Travel Tips

These final tips will help you make the most of your visit to Popayan and navigate any practical challenges.

Money & Banking

• The currency is the Colombian Peso (COP)
• ATMs are readily available in the center, but withdraw cash during daylight hours
• Major credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants
• Small businesses and market vendors often accept cash only

Communication

• Spanish is the primary language – learning basic phrases will enhance your experience
• English is limited outside of tourist establishments
• Local SIM cards are inexpensive and provide good coverage in the city
• Most hotels and many cafés offer free Wi-Fi

Health & Altitude

• Popayan sits at 1,760 meters (5,770 feet), which rarely causes altitude issues
• Stay hydrated, especially when visiting higher-altitude attractions like Puracé
• Use sunscreen – the equatorial sun is strong despite mild temperatures
• Tap water is generally safe in the city, but bottled water is recommended for sensitive stomachs

Photography Tips

• The white buildings look most striking against blue skies – morning light is ideal
• Sunset from Iglesia de Belén offers golden light on the white city
• The historic center is beautifully illuminated at night
• Holy Week processions provide unique photographic opportunities

Why Popayan Deserves Your Visit

Popayan may not be on every traveler’s Colombia itinerary, but those who venture to this pristine colonial gem are rewarded with authentic cultural experiences, architectural beauty, and fewer crowds than more famous destinations. Whether you’re breaking your journey between Ecuador and Colombia’s coffee region, or specifically seeking out the country’s historical treasures, Popayan offers a perfect blend of accessibility and off-the-beaten-path charm.

From wandering the immaculate white streets to savoring UNESCO-recognized cuisine, from witnessing centuries-old religious traditions to exploring volcanic landscapes, Popayan provides a multifaceted Colombian experience that will leave you with lasting memories of this remarkable White City.