Túquerres

Location:
Near Pasto, Pasto, Colombia

Hiking

By Lorraine Caputo

On the road to Tumaco, 72 kilometers from Pasto, is Túquerres. Founded in 1541 by Miguel de Muñoz at an altitude of 3051 meters, 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 bows and other copperware were forged here; but due to the high cost, this craft has all but disappeared.

Overshadowing the village is Volcán Azufral (3400 m). 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.

Getting There
Túquerres can be reached from either Pasto or Ipiales; just take any bus heading to Tumaco and alight at this town. Some companies also have several runs per day specifically to Túquerres ($2.60, 2 hours).

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: intermediate/somewhat difficult.