Tour the best of Narino 3 days with accommodation

Exploring Nariño in Three Days: A Balanced Blend of Culture, Nature, and Local Charm

Traveling through Nariño with this three-day tour, you’ll visit well-loved sites like Pasto, the Laguna de la Cocha, and the breathtaking Las Lajas Sanctuary. For $375 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded experience, including comfortable accommodations, breakfast, and lunch on each day. Guides like Nino and others are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and attention to detail. With just a group of up to nine travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized touch that larger tours often lack.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the flexibility of the itinerary—you can modify the schedule based on your interests—and the value for money, given the inclusion of numerous entrance fees, meals, and accommodations. A minor consideration might be that dinners are not included, so you’ll need to budget separately if you want to dine out in the evenings.

This tour suits travelers who love culture, natural beauty, and authentic local experiences. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with friends and family, you’ll find this trip rewarding—especially if you value guided insights and comfort during your journey.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary that can be tailored to your preferences and available days.
• Excellent guides, praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and patience.
• All-inclusive pricing covers accommodations, entrance fees, and meals, offering good value.
• Stunning sights like Laguna de la Cocha and Las Lajas Sanctuary make this a visually memorable trip.
• Small group size (max 9 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic local experiences, from tasting regional cuisine to exploring vibrant towns and natural wonders.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Starting Point: Pasto

Your journey begins in Pasto, a city bursting with character and colorful streets. The 4-hour tour of Pasto is a highlight, combining walking through traditional neighborhoods, visiting museums, and temples. Guides share stories that bring the city’s history and culture alive. The reviews echo this sentiment: travelers rave about the informative guides and the delicious regional cuisine they got to sample, making the city a perfect first taste of Nariño.

Day Two: Natural Beauty at Laguna de la Cocha and El Encano

The second day begins with a visit to Laguna de la Cocha, Colombia’s second-largest lagoon. The 3-hour tour includes an included admission fee, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views without worrying about extra costs. Expect to see vibrant birdlife, unique aquatic landscapes, and perhaps even some local fishermen. The lake’s tranquil atmosphere makes it a favorite among visitors, and reviews mention the “spectacular natural scenery” and “beautiful surroundings.”

Afterward, a short trip to El Encano takes you to the so-called “Venice of America,” a charming town with colorful chalet-style houses and picturesque canals. The 1-hour visit is free of charge, giving you time for photos and soaking in the village’s charming ambiance.

Day Three: Cultural and Architectural Marvels

On the third day, the tour takes a more contemplative turn with visits to the Cementerio de Tulcán, famous for its vivid, intricate topiary gardens, and the Las Lajas Sanctuary—arguably Colombia’s most stunning church. The 4-hour visit to Las Lajas includes a walk along trails that offer breathtaking views of the canyon and the sanctuary, giving you a sense of awe at both the architectural feat and natural setting.

Multiple reviews mention this as a must-see: “The most beautiful church in the world,” one traveler calls it. The guides excel at explaining the history and significance, making this stop more than just a pretty picture.

The Final Day: Nighttime Magic in Pasto

Since the last day involves staying in Pasto until night to see the lighting of the sanctuary, it’s best to plan your trip accordingly. The 6-hour visit allows you to appreciate the sanctuary’s evening glow, a truly special moment. You can expect this part of the tour to be free of charge but requires scheduling your travel dates carefully.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of nine travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The start point is at Casona Hotel in Pasto, with pickups scheduled for 12:00 am, giving plenty of time to begin exploring early. The duration of about four days is perfect for travelers wanting an immersive yet manageable experience—covering key sites without feeling rushed.

Accommodation is included, and reviews repeatedly mention the quality of lodging and meals. Breakfasts are provided each morning, giving you a good foundation for the day ahead. Lunches are also covered, allowing you to enjoy local flavors without worrying about planning meals.

The tour features group discounts and the convenience of a mobile ticket—ideal if you’re traveling light or prefer digital documentation. The price of $375 per person is competitive considering the inclusions, especially given the positive reviews about value for money and comprehensive experience.

Considerations

While the tour is quite inclusive, dinners are not included, so you might want to budget for some evening meals or explore local restaurants. Also, since the tour operates with small groups, it’s advisable to book well in advance (averaging 43 days ahead) to secure your spot.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The company states that service animals are allowed and that most travelers can participate, which is a plus for those with special needs. The flexibility to modify the itinerary based on your interests is another strong point, allowing you to emphasize natural spots, cultural visits, or relaxation.

Authentic Highlights from Travelers’ Reviews

The glowing feedback from previous guests underlines many core strengths of this tour. Travelers consistently mention knowledgeable guides—“Fabián, Nino, and others”—who explain everything in detail and make the experience fun and informative. Many describe their guides as friendly, patient, and attentive, which creates a comfortable environment for exploring.

Several reviews highlight the stunning landscapes and beautiful towns, with phrases like “spectacular places” and “exuberant landscapes.” The food also receives praise, with travelers enjoying the regional delicacies and tapas, adding an extra layer of authenticity.

People appreciate the good value, noting that the tour exceeds expectations given the cost, particularly because it includes entrance fees, accommodations, and meals. The small group size is also frequently praised for making the experience more personal and less hurried.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for curious travelers eager to explore Nariño’s cultural richness and natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially suited for those who value guided insights and local hospitality, as the reviews emphasize. If you enjoy delivering your camera for stunning photos, and want a comfortable, well-organized trip focusing on authentic sites, this is a solid choice.

While it’s ideal for independent travelers and small groups, families and solo adventurers alike have found it memorable. Just keep in mind that you will need to arrange your own dinners, and book early to secure your spot.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers who felt welcomed and enjoyed the company of the small group.

What is included in the price?
The price covers accommodation for three nights, all entrance fees, breakfasts and lunches, and guided tours.

Are there any additional costs?
Dinners are not included, so you’ll need to budget separately for evening meals.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 43 days ahead; early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

Is transportation provided between sites?
While not explicitly detailed, the tour’s structure suggests organized transport between stops, ensuring smooth transitions.

Can I modify the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible, and guides can help you organize the itinerary based on your available days and interests.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 9 travelers, offering an intimate experience and personalized attention.

How accessible is the tour?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, making it accessible for many.

What is the start point and time?
The tour begins at Casona Hotel in Pasto at 12:00 am.

What do previous travelers say about the guides?
They praise guides like Nino and Fabian for their knowledge, friendly attitude, and responsiveness.

To sum it up, this three-day tour of Nariño offers a perfect blend of cultural insight, natural beauty, and comfortable organization. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic experience with local guides, stunning sights, and a manageable schedule. With a small group setting, inclusive pricing, and positive reviews, it stands out as a strong choice for travelers wanting to see the very best of this unique Colombian region.