Things to Do in Popayán

Strolling through the streets of Popayán from park to park and over its historic bridges, Puente de Humilladero and Puente Chiquito, is a great way to enjoy the sunshine. Spend rainy afternoons in the Ciudad Blanca's fine collection of churches and museums. Homes of some of Popayán's illustrious citizens have been turned into museums. Especially noteworthy are the Casa Negret and its Museo Iberoamericano de Arte Moderno, as well as the Museo de Arte Religioso and the excellent Museo de Historia Natural. 

Popayán's Semana Santa commemorations are famous. Every night until Viernes Santo (Good Friday), candlelit processions wend the narrow streets. The following week are the children's processions. In this season, the Religious Art Museum exhibits the most precious artworks of the city's churches. Due to the University presence, Popayán also has a thriving theater and art-movie scene. The beginning of October is the annual Festival de Teatro and Encuentro de Cuenteros, and international meeting of theater and storytelling. During the rest of the year, you can catch theatrical productions and films at the Centro Cultural Bolívar.

Near Popayán are a number of interesting villages, like Silvia and its weekly indigenous market. Several circuitos, or tour routes, allow you to visit these pueblos on horseback or hiking. To the east is Parque Nacional Puracé with good trekking and climbing. Coconuco, on the south edge of the park, has two hot springs--which can be made as a day trip from Popayán.

Along the same road is Paletará which has a trout fishing tournement every October. And don't forget the kite-flying and paragliding festivals in the windy month of August!