Túquerres - Hiking Pasto - Colombia

On the road to Tumaco, 72 kilometers (45 mi) from Pasto, is Túquerres. Founded in 1541 by Miguel de Muñoz at an altitude of 3,051 meters (10,010 ft), this village enjoys a cool climate. On Thursday mornings, Túquerres bustles with its weekly market. If you’re looking for a ruana (poncho), this is the place to be. Traditionally, paila bowls and other copperware were forged here; but due to the high cost, this craft has all but disappeared.



Overshadowing the village is Volcán Azufral (3,400 m/11,155 ft). Within its crater are three lagunas: La Negra, La Barrosa and the moon-shaped La Verde. Ten fauna species and 476 floral are found in the area. Guides can be hired in Pasto, Popayán or Túquerres to take you up the two-hour trail that begins from San Roque neighborhood.








Túquerres has basic hotels and restaurants, if you want to spend the night here.

Location:
Near Pasto, Pasto, Colombia

Hiking Types:
Hike, Day trip

Getting There

Túquerres can be reached from either Pasto; just take any bus heading to Tumaco and alight at this town. Some companies also have several runs per day specifically to Túquerres ($2.80, 2 hours). Transportation is also available from Ipiales.

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: intermediate/somewhat difficult.

Currencies accepted
Colombian Peso

About this Page

By Lorraine Caputo

Upon re-declaring her independence at age 29, Lorraine Caputo packed her trusty Rocinante (so her knapsack's called) and began...

Updated: 26 Sep 2011