How to get to Pasto

Nestled in a picturesque valley of the Andes in southwestern Colombia, the historic city of San Juan de Pasto attracts travellers with its colonial architecture and unique cultural flair. This administrative centre of the Nariño department, often called the "Surprise City," is famous for its vibrant traditions and welcoming atmosphere.

If you are planning a journey to this region, it is worth studying logistics in advance. The city is well connected to the rest of the country by various transport routes, allowing tourists to arrive comfortably and enjoy exploring local attractions.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by Antonio Nariño Airport (PSO), which receives regular flights from Bogota and other major cities. The air hub is located in the municipality of Chachagüí, approximately 30 kilometres from the centre, offering breathtaking views of the Andes.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to the neighbouring city of Ipiales, located near the border with Ecuador. Although this option requires a subsequent ground transfer to Pasto, it may be convenient for those wishing to create a more flexible itinerary for travelling through the south of the country.

Reaching Pasto by train is currently impossible: the city lacks a railway station, and passenger services in this part of Colombia are not developed. The complex mountainous terrain of the Andes makes track construction difficult, so trains are not used by tourists for trips to this region.

Nearby settlements, such as Ipiales, Villagarzón, and Puerto Asís, also do not have access to the railway network. Travellers preferring ground transport are advised to use intercity buses or rent a car to navigate the scenic mountain roads.

Bus services connect the city with many key points in the region, and one of the most popular routes leads from the border town of Ipiales. Buses cover the distance of approximately 85 kilometres in an average of 2–3 hours, moving along the scenic winding roads of the Pan-American Highway. This is the most convenient option for those coming from Ecuador who wish to enjoy views of majestic Andean canyons on the way to the capital of the Nariño department.

For travellers departing from the Putumayo region, regular services are available from Villagarzón and Puerto Asís. The trip from the latter, covering about 200 kilometres, can take from 6 to 8 hours due to the difficult mountain terrain and winding roads. Despite the duration of the journey, this route attracts adventure seekers with the opportunity to see a dramatic change in landscapes from humid tropical rainforests to cool high-altitude valleys.

Travelling by car provides access to the most picturesque corners of the Andes, allowing you to enjoy freedom of movement. The most popular and comfortable route runs along the Pan-American Highway from the border city of Ipiales: a journey of about 82 km will take just 1.5 hours. The road here features good surfacing, and views of green valleys make this short drive unforgettable.

If you are heading from the Amazon side, the path will be more winding and adventurous due to the complex mountain terrain. The road from Villagarzón, spanning 146 km, will take nearly 5 hours, while a transfer from the city of Puerto Asís (216 km) will require about 6.5 hours. For such trips, you can hire a taxi or private transfer, but it is better to agree on the cost in advance, considering the nature of the winding roads.

A trip to Pasto requires a little preparation, as this city is located high in the Andes and possesses its own unique microclimate. To ensure your journey to the south of Colombia is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have compiled several important recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Pasto is often called the "Surprise City," and this applies to the weather. It is quite cool here (average temperature around 13°C), so be sure to bring a warm jacket, a jumper, and long trousers. Dress in layers, as it can be hot in the sun during the day, while temperatures drop sharply in the evening. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the cobbled streets.
2. Transport: The most convenient way to move around the city is by taxi. They are inexpensive and plentiful here. It is recommended to use official yellow taxis and ask the driver to switch on the taximeter (taxímetro) or agree on the price in advance if you are travelling outside the centre.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Major supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants accept cards, but you will need cash for purchasing souvenirs, street food, or paying for transport in small shops. ATMs are common in the city centre and shopping malls.
4. Health and Well-being: The city is located at an altitude of over 2,500 metres above sea level, so mild altitude sickness is possible in the first few days. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals, and do not overexert yourself immediately upon arrival. Also, do not forget sunscreen: due to the high altitude, the sun here is very strong, even if it feels cool outside.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Spanish. English is not widely spoken, mostly only by staff in major hotels. It is recommended to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or download an offline translator on your smartphone to communicate more easily with locals.
6. Local Etiquette: The residents of Pasto are known for their politeness and friendliness. It is customary to greet people when entering a shop or lift ("Buenos días" or "Buenas tardes"). Locals appreciate respectful address, so using polite forms (for example, addressing someone as "Usted" — formal "You") will be received very positively.
7. Safety Precautions: Although the city is considered relatively safe, do not display expensive gadgets and jewellery in crowded places or walk alone in remote areas at night. Also, try to avoid drinking tap water; it is safer to purchase bottled water.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to try the local ice cream "helado de paila," which is prepared by hand in copper pans — this is a hallmark of local gastronomy. If your visit falls at the beginning of January, you will witness the famous Blacks and Whites Carnival, one of the most vibrant events in the country.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the rich culture and stunning nature of this Andean region. Pasto is a welcoming city that opens up to those who are ready to respect its traditions and rhythm of life.