Colombia Information
2013/06/04 03:57
Archaeological park at San Agustin
Jan 28, 2013, 2:10 PM
If you're interested, here is my report on my trip: …blogspot.com/2012/09/day-
6-part-i-san-agust…
There are some parts of the Colombian Amazonian jungle (and some areas
near the Venezuelan border) that are very risky. But no tourist would ever have
any reason to travel through these parts of Colombia. The majority of the
country is quite safe by Latin American standards. The people are incredibly
friendly. The food is awesome. The scenery is fantastic. If you have any
concerns about security, hire a guide to keep you on the safe paths. Hire a
guide anyway for the Archaeological Park, as you will get more out of the trip.
When you go, I would highly recommend the Anacaona guest house. And in
San Agustin, eat at the Donde Richard.
A Las Vegas lawyer blog on San Augustin
What is the specific risk? What is the problem with the road from San Agustín
to Popayán that causes the FCO to suggest people do not use this route? The
road passes through El Páramo de Puracé, another hugely popular nature
reserve and a magnet for international tourists. San Agustín's archeological site
itself is yet another destination that draws thousands of tourists each year.
“If entering or leaving from or to Ecuador via the Pan-American Highway, you
are advised not to stop en route between the border and Pasto, the route
between Cali and the border with Ecuador is considered to be volatile.”
Not to stop for example somewhere like Las Lajas in Ipiales? Colombia's most
famous church and a destination for international pilgrims, another site visited
by literally thousands of national and international tourists every single year
and without incident. Of course as a Brit, I shouldn't be in Pasto anyway
because of that volcano that erupted in 2010.
3) I have always used Columbus Direct for travel to South America, previously
Chile and they were the only travel insurance company that would state in no
uncertain terms that I would be covered in Colombia. I subsequently made a
dental claim and they paid up. I would recommend them.
Here’s a shortcut to the Company’s San Agustin tour option;
thecolombianway.com/en/…san-agustin.html
While we’re on the subject of another UNESCO credited archaeological zone,
you could also pencil in Tierradentro ; here’s a brief description on their tour
information.
http://www.thecolombianway.com/en/our-trips/package/san-agustin.html
http://www.thecolombianway.com/en/our-trips/package/tierradentro.html
Yup, need more details. If you're looking for information try the following sites:
2013/06/03 06:26
Colombian Consulate Quito
• ADDRESS EDIFICIO ARISTA 7o PISO
• AV. COLON No.1133 Y AMAZONAS
• Quito
• Ecuador
• PHONE LOCAL: (02) 222.2486
• INTERNATIONAL: +593.2.222.2486
• FAX LOCAL: (02) 256.7766
• INTERNATIONAL: +593.2.256.7766
• EMAIL equito@cancilleria.gov.co
—-
589,500.00 COP = 309.899 USD
required for pensionado is three (3) times monthly minimum of $309 - around
$900 x month
January 9, 2013
On 28 December 2012, the Government issued Decrees 2738 and 2739, the
first one by which the monthly minimum salary is increased to COP589,500
(previously, COP566,700), and the second one by which the commuting
allowance was set at COP70,500.
The new minimum salary and commuting allowance are effective as of 1
January 2013.
from Ernst & Young
Minimu legal salary in Ecuador
Dec 22 (Reuters) - Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa on Saturday announced
a 9 percent increase in the minimum wage for private-sector workers for 2013,
a move that may help consolidate his February re-election bid that polls
broadly show him favored to win.
The leftist Correa, who has won strong popular support for a range of measures
including expanding access to health care and improving roads and highways,
hiked the minimum wage to $318 per month from $292 per month. —
Travel to Colombia
From Northern Station Carcelen
Av. Eloy Alfaro and Av. Galo Plaza Lasso
Taking buses from the Carcelén Terminal
The northern bus terminal at Carcelén is smaller and more grimy than the
southern terminal. Buses here head north from Quito, the main reason to come
here is to get to Otavalo or Mitad del Mundo. To get to this bus terminal via
public transit you'll need to take the Metrobus and transfer at Estación Ofelia,
which will take approximately one hour. From here you will have to take the
“feeder buses” to get there. To get to the terminal via taxi will cost
approximately $8 from La Mariscal, more during busier periods. The
journey will take just 20 minutes or so with no traffic, longer during rush hour
periods.
At this bus terminal you will find baggage storage, food stalls and telephone
and Internet. There are 16 booths from which to buy a ticket. All have their
destinations listed on the wall above each individual booth. Sometimes you can
pick up a bus outside the terminal that is already leaving and just get on there,
paying the driver instead of the company representative at the booth. Bus
companies and destinations from Carcelén:
TransEsmeraldas leaves to Atacames and Esmeraldas from booth 2 at 4:00
a.m., 10:30 a.m., 2:10 p.m., 3:50 p.m., and 11:15 p.m.
Unión de Nor-Occidente leaves to Los Bancos, Puerto Quito, Santo Domingo,
Mindo, Perovicente from booth 3 every 30 minutes from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00
p.m.
San Cristobal leaves to Tulcán from booth 6 every hour from 2:00 a.m. to
12:00 a.m.
Expreso Tulcán leaves to Tulcán from booth 7 every hour from 1:00 a.m. to
12:00 a.m.
San Gabriel leaves to San Gabriel from booth 10 every 30 minutes from 5:30
a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Espejo leaves to Masquerida, Mira, San Isidro, El Angél, Otavalo, Ibarra and
Tabacundo from booth 11 every hour from 4:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Flota Imbabura leaves to Atuntaqui, Otavalo, Ibarra, and Tulcán frequently
from booth 12.
Taca Andina leaves to Ibarra and Santo Domingo every 20 minutes from 5 a.m.
to 10 p.m. from booth 13.
Crossing to Pasto
Yes, you can cross into Ecuador and return to Colombia a week later. About a
year and a half ago my sixty day visa was set to expire. I crossed the border
into to Ecuador and spent about four nights in Otovalo before returning to
Colombia; had no problems on re-entry. You should be fine.
So are you asking about the bus trip from Bogota to Quito or from Pasto to
Quito? I know there are buses that go direct between Bogota and Quito. You
should expect about a thirty hour trip each way.
The trip from Pasto should take about 8 hours to reach Quito (maybe more
depending or road and border delays). You will have to take a van from the
Pasto terminal to Ipiales (20,000). From Ipiales to the border you will have to
take a taxi or collectivo (1,500 collectivo). Do your business at the border and
take a taxi or collective to the terminal in Tulcan (1-2$ taxi). A bus to Quito
should cost around 6 dollars.
agree with #1. Only that the taxi from the border to Tulcan (Ecuadorian border
town) costs 3 dollars, but if you take a van it's like 0,80 or you can share a taxi
with others. The bus from Tulcan to Quito costs $ 4,80 and takes 5 hours.
Careful with the money changers at the border, there are some crooks. You
may want to stop in Otavalo to visit the town/market. There are some nice
places to visit around Otavalo like the Laguna Cuicocha, the walk around the
lake is very nice and takes about 6 hours. You get there from Cotacachi,
another nice town to visit. Otavalo is about half way between the border and
Quito.
From QUITO you can travel to :
1 - border Tulcán - Ipiales, then take transportation to Pasto and from Pasto
you can go to Mocoa or going up direction Popayán Cali (travel at daytime) 2-
border Lago Agrio - San Miguel, then take transportation to Mocoa. From Mocoa
you can go up north to San-Agustín etc… (border crossing only at daytime)
If you are interested to get a touch of the amazons, see beautifull nature
escenery, take a look at Mocoa http://www.casadelriomocoa.com
We arrived at about 7 pm and I jumped straight in a taxi for $4000 to the Koala
Inn hostel in central Pasto. I’d hoped to meet other travellers there, but it was
quite deserted. I didn’t care. At $18,000 COP, with WiFi, a private room with
double bed and TV, and a hot shower, this was a bargain. It was just a shame I
had to get up so early again the next day.
If you do stay here and you need some dinner, turn right when you leave the
hostel and take the first right to find a couple of restaurants serving food until 9
pm. One is cheap with local almuerzo dishes, and the other is a pizzeria with a
massive menu.
Day Two:
The next morning, I left at 6 am and caught a cab from the corner. The bus
terminal had plenty of companies with shuttle buses to Ipiales. I chose
SuperTaxis for $7000. You have to wait for the shuttle to fill up with passengers
before it sets off, so I was sitting around for 30 minutes. Pulling out of the
station, we were met by a glorious sunrise.
Try to avoid the back seats as they have less space and you will end up
squished into a corner with no headrest, clinging on to the ceiling as the driver
swerves like a maniac round all the bends.
The journey to Ipiales takes roughly 1 hour 30 mins. I arrived at 8 am and
decided I had enough time to detour to the nearby Las Lajas cathedral. It’s a
stunning building that spans a massive gorge and it’s well worth stopping at for
an hour or so if you have time.
I got back to Ipiales at 10 am and hopped in another cab to the border for
$7000 COP. I was there by 10:30 am.
You have to get an exit stamp before walking across the bridge and then
queueing to get your entry stamp for Ecuador. It would be easy to miss one or
both because no one would actually check if you strolled straight over and got
in a cab. Make sure you don’t have any food or drink with you. They didn’t
check me, but it’s better to be safe than detained.
I was in the queue for 1 hour 30 mins. Keep a book or iPod handy. Check they
stamp you in and that it has enough days for your planned trip, then hop in yet
another cab to Tulcan for about $3.50. I shared with a bunch of Colombians
who’d also just passed through immigration.
My bus to Quito left Tulcan just after I arrived there at 12:30. It cost $4.80 and
took just over 5 hours. From the bus terminal, it’s one final cab to the city
centre.
I wasn’t sure whether to stay in the new town, where the Mariscal district has
many hostels, tourism agencies, and bars and clubs, or the old town, which is
prettier and a better base for sightseeing. Having heard that robberies are
quite common in the more touristy areas, I chose a sociable-looking hostel
called Secret Garden. It has fantastic views of the city and they offer plenty of
travel advice – both local and further afield. They also serve meals and drinks
and have WiFi.
Arianwen Morris says: December 10, 2012 at 1:21 am I was in the same
situation. I’m pretty sure a bus ticket is sufficient as proof of onward travel, but
it’s annoying having to decide a date to leave the country and risking losing
money if you don’t end up catching that bus. Another option, which a lot of
people do, but sounds quite dodgy, is to pretend you have a flight out of the
country. If you go through the booking process with Copa Airlines (ie, book a
flight from Bogota to Quito), you get sent a confirmation email before you’ve
paid. You can then edit the email in Photoshop so it no longer says you still
have to pay. This way, if they ask for proof and they check the flight number
you can be sure it exists and you should be ok. They didn’t check any proof
when I flew there from the UK via the US. I don’t think they enforce it as
strongly as a lot of countries, but it’s good to have a backup plan. Good luck!
From Tulcan to Pasto
Once in Tulcan you have the option of getting to the border crossing,
Rumichaca, by way of taxi for $3.50 or colectivo for $0.75. The taxi is obviously
the most unencumbered method.
…. Once in Colombia, the border control was a snap. I waited in line for five
minutes, answered some easy questions and the immigration officer stamped
my passport with 90 days. I was especially please about the 90 day bit because
I had heard and read that the standard for Colombia was 60 days and you had
to beg if you wanted 90. I didn’t even intend to use 60, but it still felt like a
victory. After getting checked in, I split a taxi to the bus terminal in Ipiales,
Colombia’s main border town, with my new friend for 7,000 pesos.
The second option is to get a lower rate, I got 1707 pesos to the dollar instead
of 1775 (not much of a bank breaker), with the official money exchange place
in a building across the street from immigration. I was happy enough going
here since I was only exchanging enough to get me to the terminal where I
would withdraw more money at a better rate at an ATM.
2013/06/05 20:13
1 US Dollar equals 1901.77 Colombian Peso
visiting Pasto
South western Colombia Pasto is known as the city's surprise Colombia. This
beautiful land, invited and expected to own and others to receive recognition
each year to the Carnival of Blacks and Whites.
City is also called “Surprise”, a name that comes because people who visit for
the first time southern Colombia, was stunned by the warmth of its people, the
infrastructure of the city, the temples that stand on every corner, labeled as
architectural gems world-class cuisine of the region, the rumba and the many
ways that welcome tourists and identify it as a more Pasto.
San Juan de Pasto is located on Atriz Valley 795 miles south west of the capital
of the República.Su height above sea level is 2559 meters, the average
temperature is 14 degrees Celsius, its area is of 1,181 square kilometers and
its average annual rainfall is 700 mm.
Founded by the Spanish explorer and conquistador Lorenzo de Aldana in 1539
under the name of Villaviciosa de la Concepcion, now officially known as San
Juan de Pasto originated in the name of the indigenous community grazing
areas inhabited the region to the arrival of the conquistadors Spanish.
Administrative, cultural and religious heritage of the region since colonial
times.
The most important sites of this beautiful city are:
Plaza de Nariño. Also known as the Plaza of the Constitution. This square is the
most central and important part of Pasto, in the middle of the square stands a
statue of Antonio Nariño, which is a point of reference for those who pass by on
the star known as “The Sun of the Grassland” .
Plaza del Carnaval. This square is relatively new, so you should know. It was
created in 2003 to celebrate the Carnival of Blacks and Whites. This is the
official site where parade floats. At the entrance you can itemize the Carnival
Pasto allusive sculptures.
Plazuela Rumipamba. This square is opposite the church of San Andres and is
steeped in history, if you want to know, feel free to ask any of the inhabitants
of the area, you will surely enjoy a chat history.
Pandiaco Cultural Center-Museum of Carnival. It contains all the figures
referring to the Carnival of Blacks and Whites in the wall you will understand
the activities taking place at the event.
Corpocarnaval Museum. Taminango House Museum. If you want to know about
arts and culture Narino, this is the place, declared a national monument for its
impressive architecture.
The University of Nariño, Academy of History. Here you can read books and
documents that comprise the history of San Juan de Pasto.
Museum Maria Goretti School. 3350 pieces make up the bulk of the collection
covers various fields, Founded in 1973, is a reference point for research and
education in the capital of Nariño.
Museum of the History of Nariño. There you can enjoy in-depth knowledge of
Narino culture, their traditions and customs.
Museo del Oro Nariño. In it you will know all about pre-Columbian cultures that
inhabited the territory Surcolombiana. Has 460 pieces of cultural Capulí, Piartal
and Tirza. It is part of Centro Cultural Leopoldo López Álvarez.
Lorenzo Lucero Juan Historical Museum. Created by Jaime Alvarez's father, this
museum is named after the most famous former Pasto seventeenth
century.The museum displays evidence of the historical and cultural heritage of
the region as well, you can see a complete collection of religious art, sculptures
from different times, memories and relics of characters in public life, both
political and religious and artistic. The museum includes a large library of
Nariño authors, books, magazines and brochures author of the department.
During the visit, you may recall the ancient customs of the inhabitants of
Nariño, their idiosyncrasies and their chores.
People around Pasto. About Pasto concentrated near picturesque 20
populations representing the folklore and traditions of Nariño, so if you are in
San Juan de Pasto no longer go through Calambuco, Tescual, Raccoon,
Jongovito, charm, and genius Canchal some of these peoples. Taminango
Museum. It recognizes the arts and popular traditions of Nariño, not only for its
collection of articles and photographs of the crafts of grass:varnish, wood
carving and textiles, but also by the Taminango mansion, declared a National
Monument in 1971 by his great historical and architectural value.
the Cathedral. Imposing and majestic in the center of town, renowned for its
architectural beauty lighting and interior design.
San Juan Bautista Church. Which is regarded as a living example of baroque
architecture, as reproduced in stone facade designed by Michelangelo. This
Church is recognized as one of the oldest in the city, there lie the remains of
the first settlers of the city distinguished.
Church of Christ the King. Which is located near the College Javeriana, where
you can see the statue of San Francisco and the splendor of its windows.
The Temple Our Lady of Mercy. Is the patroness of the city, La Virgen de la
Merced, which suffered severe damage in the earthquake of 1935, but was
skillfully restored.
The church of San Sebastian. The windows are unique, so it is a tour you must
do, Pasto as recognized by the Church of the Bakery, is very visible pink color
of its façade.
Laguna de la Cocha or Lake Guamuez, Which is the second largest lake in
South America with 90 meters deep, yes, go well abrigadito. For
accommodation in the lake area perfectly suited operate two hotels.
Environmental Center “CHIMAYOY.” Which is located 4 km from Pasto, where
you will learn: Research and Environmental Education, Conservation, ecological
and rural tourism.
Paragliding. In any Nariño, expeditions doing takeoffs from different places in
the geography of this beautiful apartment.
Colombia Information
2013/06/04 03:57
Archaeological park at San Agustin
Jan 28, 2013, 2:10 PM
If you're interested, here is my report on my trip: …blogspot.com/2012/09/day-
6-part-i-san-agust…
There are some parts of the Colombian Amazonian jungle (and some areas
near the Venezuelan border) that are very risky. But no tourist would ever have
any reason to travel through these parts of Colombia. The majority of the
country is quite safe by Latin American standards. The people are incredibly
friendly. The food is awesome. The scenery is fantastic. If you have any
concerns about security, hire a guide to keep you on the safe paths. Hire a
guide anyway for the Archaeological Park, as you will get more out of the trip.
When you go, I would highly recommend the Anacaona guest house. And in
San Agustin, eat at the Donde Richard.
A Las Vegas lawyer blog on San Augustin
What is the specific risk? What is the problem with the road from San Agustín
to Popayán that causes the FCO to suggest people do not use this route? The
road passes through El Páramo de Puracé, another hugely popular nature
reserve and a magnet for international tourists. San Agustín's archeological site
itself is yet another destination that draws thousands of tourists each year.
“If entering or leaving from or to Ecuador via the Pan-American Highway, you
are advised not to stop en route between the border and Pasto, the route
between Cali and the border with Ecuador is considered to be volatile.”
Not to stop for example somewhere like Las Lajas in Ipiales? Colombia's most
famous church and a destination for international pilgrims, another site visited
by literally thousands of national and international tourists every single year
and without incident. Of course as a Brit, I shouldn't be in Pasto anyway
because of that volcano that erupted in 2010.
3) I have always used Columbus Direct for travel to South America, previously
Chile and they were the only travel insurance company that would state in no
uncertain terms that I would be covered in Colombia. I subsequently made a
dental claim and they paid up. I would recommend them.
Here’s a shortcut to the Company’s San Agustin tour option;
thecolombianway.com/en/…san-agustin.html
While we’re on the subject of another UNESCO credited archaeological zone,
you could also pencil in Tierradentro ; here’s a brief description on their tour
information.
http://www.thecolombianway.com/en/our-trips/package/san-agustin.html
http://www.thecolombianway.com/en/our-trips/package/tierradentro.html
Yup, need more details. If you're looking for information try the following sites:
2013/06/03 06:26
Colombian Consulate Quito
• ADDRESS EDIFICIO ARISTA 7o PISO
• AV. COLON No.1133 Y AMAZONAS
• Quito
• Ecuador
• PHONE LOCAL: (02) 222.2486
• INTERNATIONAL: +593.2.222.2486
• FAX LOCAL: (02) 256.7766
• INTERNATIONAL: +593.2.256.7766
• EMAIL equito@cancilleria.gov.co
—-
589,500.00 COP = 309.899 USD
required for pensionado is three (3) times monthly minimum of $309 - around
$900 x month
January 9, 2013
On 28 December 2012, the Government issued Decrees 2738 and 2739, the
first one by which the monthly minimum salary is increased to COP589,500
(previously, COP566,700), and the second one by which the commuting
allowance was set at COP70,500.
The new minimum salary and commuting allowance are effective as of 1
January 2013.
from Ernst & Young
Minimu legal salary in Ecuador
Dec 22 (Reuters) - Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa on Saturday announced
a 9 percent increase in the minimum wage for private-sector workers for 2013,
a move that may help consolidate his February re-election bid that polls
broadly show him favored to win.
The leftist Correa, who has won strong popular support for a range of measures
including expanding access to health care and improving roads and highways,
hiked the minimum wage to $318 per month from $292 per month. —
Travel to Colombia
From Northern Station Carcelen
Av. Eloy Alfaro and Av. Galo Plaza Lasso
Taking buses from the Carcelén Terminal
The northern bus terminal at Carcelén is smaller and more grimy than the
southern terminal. Buses here head north from Quito, the main reason to come
here is to get to Otavalo or Mitad del Mundo. To get to this bus terminal via
public transit you'll need to take the Metrobus and transfer at Estación Ofelia,
which will take approximately one hour. From here you will have to take the
“feeder buses” to get there. To get to the terminal via taxi will cost
approximately $8 from La Mariscal, more during busier periods. The
journey will take just 20 minutes or so with no traffic, longer during rush hour
periods.
At this bus terminal you will find baggage storage, food stalls and telephone
and Internet. There are 16 booths from which to buy a ticket. All have their
destinations listed on the wall above each individual booth. Sometimes you can
pick up a bus outside the terminal that is already leaving and just get on there,
paying the driver instead of the company representative at the booth. Bus
companies and destinations from Carcelén:
TransEsmeraldas leaves to Atacames and Esmeraldas from booth 2 at 4:00
a.m., 10:30 a.m., 2:10 p.m., 3:50 p.m., and 11:15 p.m.
Unión de Nor-Occidente leaves to Los Bancos, Puerto Quito, Santo Domingo,
Mindo, Perovicente from booth 3 every 30 minutes from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00
p.m.
San Cristobal leaves to Tulcán from booth 6 every hour from 2:00 a.m. to
12:00 a.m.
Expreso Tulcán leaves to Tulcán from booth 7 every hour from 1:00 a.m. to
12:00 a.m.
San Gabriel leaves to San Gabriel from booth 10 every 30 minutes from 5:30
a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Espejo leaves to Masquerida, Mira, San Isidro, El Angél, Otavalo, Ibarra and
Tabacundo from booth 11 every hour from 4:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Flota Imbabura leaves to Atuntaqui, Otavalo, Ibarra, and Tulcán frequently
from booth 12.
Taca Andina leaves to Ibarra and Santo Domingo every 20 minutes from 5 a.m.
to 10 p.m. from booth 13.
Crossing to Pasto
Yes, you can cross into Ecuador and return to Colombia a week later. About a
year and a half ago my sixty day visa was set to expire. I crossed the border
into to Ecuador and spent about four nights in Otovalo before returning to
Colombia; had no problems on re-entry. You should be fine.
So are you asking about the bus trip from Bogota to Quito or from Pasto to
Quito? I know there are buses that go direct between Bogota and Quito. You
should expect about a thirty hour trip each way.
The trip from Pasto should take about 8 hours to reach Quito (maybe more
depending or road and border delays). You will have to take a van from the
Pasto terminal to Ipiales (20,000). From Ipiales to the border you will have to
take a taxi or collectivo (1,500 collectivo). Do your business at the border and
take a taxi or collective to the terminal in Tulcan (1-2$ taxi). A bus to Quito
should cost around 6 dollars.
agree with #1. Only that the taxi from the border to Tulcan (Ecuadorian border
town) costs 3 dollars, but if you take a van it's like 0,80 or you can share a taxi
with others. The bus from Tulcan to Quito costs $ 4,80 and takes 5 hours.
Careful with the money changers at the border, there are some crooks. You
may want to stop in Otavalo to visit the town/market. There are some nice
places to visit around Otavalo like the Laguna Cuicocha, the walk around the
lake is very nice and takes about 6 hours. You get there from Cotacachi,
another nice town to visit. Otavalo is about half way between the border and
Quito.
From QUITO you can travel to :
1 - border Tulcán - Ipiales, then take transportation to Pasto and from Pasto
you can go to Mocoa or going up direction Popayán Cali (travel at daytime) 2-
border Lago Agrio - San Miguel, then take transportation to Mocoa. From Mocoa
you can go up north to San-Agustín etc… (border crossing only at daytime)
If you are interested to get a touch of the amazons, see beautifull nature
escenery, take a look at Mocoa http://www.casadelriomocoa.com
We arrived at about 7 pm and I jumped straight in a taxi for $4000 to the Koala
Inn hostel in central Pasto. I’d hoped to meet other travellers there, but it was
quite deserted. I didn’t care. At $18,000 COP, with WiFi, a private room with
double bed and TV, and a hot shower, this was a bargain. It was just a shame I
had to get up so early again the next day.
If you do stay here and you need some dinner, turn right when you leave the
hostel and take the first right to find a couple of restaurants serving food until 9
pm. One is cheap with local almuerzo dishes, and the other is a pizzeria with a
massive menu.
Day Two:
The next morning, I left at 6 am and caught a cab from the corner. The bus
terminal had plenty of companies with shuttle buses to Ipiales. I chose
SuperTaxis for $7000. You have to wait for the shuttle to fill up with passengers
before it sets off, so I was sitting around for 30 minutes. Pulling out of the
station, we were met by a glorious sunrise.
Try to avoid the back seats as they have less space and you will end up
squished into a corner with no headrest, clinging on to the ceiling as the driver
swerves like a maniac round all the bends.
The journey to Ipiales takes roughly 1 hour 30 mins. I arrived at 8 am and
decided I had enough time to detour to the nearby Las Lajas cathedral. It’s a
stunning building that spans a massive gorge and it’s well worth stopping at for
an hour or so if you have time.
I got back to Ipiales at 10 am and hopped in another cab to the border for
$7000 COP. I was there by 10:30 am.
You have to get an exit stamp before walking across the bridge and then
queueing to get your entry stamp for Ecuador. It would be easy to miss one or
both because no one would actually check if you strolled straight over and got
in a cab. Make sure you don’t have any food or drink with you. They didn’t
check me, but it’s better to be safe than detained.
I was in the queue for 1 hour 30 mins. Keep a book or iPod handy. Check they
stamp you in and that it has enough days for your planned trip, then hop in yet
another cab to Tulcan for about $3.50. I shared with a bunch of Colombians
who’d also just passed through immigration.
My bus to Quito left Tulcan just after I arrived there at 12:30. It cost $4.80 and
took just over 5 hours. From the bus terminal, it’s one final cab to the city
centre.
I wasn’t sure whether to stay in the new town, where the Mariscal district has
many hostels, tourism agencies, and bars and clubs, or the old town, which is
prettier and a better base for sightseeing. Having heard that robberies are
quite common in the more touristy areas, I chose a sociable-looking hostel
called Secret Garden. It has fantastic views of the city and they offer plenty of
travel advice – both local and further afield. They also serve meals and drinks
and have WiFi.
Arianwen Morris says: December 10, 2012 at 1:21 am I was in the same
situation. I’m pretty sure a bus ticket is sufficient as proof of onward travel, but
it’s annoying having to decide a date to leave the country and risking losing
money if you don’t end up catching that bus. Another option, which a lot of
people do, but sounds quite dodgy, is to pretend you have a flight out of the
country. If you go through the booking process with Copa Airlines (ie, book a
flight from Bogota to Quito), you get sent a confirmation email before you’ve
paid. You can then edit the email in Photoshop so it no longer says you still
have to pay. This way, if they ask for proof and they check the flight number
you can be sure it exists and you should be ok. They didn’t check any proof
when I flew there from the UK via the US. I don’t think they enforce it as
strongly as a lot of countries, but it’s good to have a backup plan. Good luck!
From Tulcan to Pasto
Once in Tulcan you have the option of getting to the border crossing,
Rumichaca, by way of taxi for $3.50 or colectivo for $0.75. The taxi is obviously
the most unencumbered method.
…. Once in Colombia, the border control was a snap. I waited in line for five
minutes, answered some easy questions and the immigration officer stamped
my passport with 90 days. I was especially please about the 90 day bit because
I had heard and read that the standard for Colombia was 60 days and you had
to beg if you wanted 90. I didn’t even intend to use 60, but it still felt like a
victory. After getting checked in, I split a taxi to the bus terminal in Ipiales,
Colombia’s main border town, with my new friend for 7,000 pesos.
The second option is to get a lower rate, I got 1707 pesos to the dollar instead
of 1775 (not much of a bank breaker), with the official money exchange place
in a building across the street from immigration. I was happy enough going
here since I was only exchanging enough to get me to the terminal where I
would withdraw more money at a better rate at an ATM.
2013/06/05 20:13
1 US Dollar equals 1901.77 Colombian Peso
visiting Pasto
South western Colombia Pasto is known as the city's surprise Colombia. This
beautiful land, invited and expected to own and others to receive recognition
each year to the Carnival of Blacks and Whites.
City is also called “Surprise”, a name that comes because people who visit for
the first time southern Colombia, was stunned by the warmth of its people, the
infrastructure of the city, the temples that stand on every corner, labeled as
architectural gems world-class cuisine of the region, the rumba and the many
ways that welcome tourists and identify it as a more Pasto.
San Juan de Pasto is located on Atriz Valley 795 miles south west of the capital
of the República.Su height above sea level is 2559 meters, the average
temperature is 14 degrees Celsius, its area is of 1,181 square kilometers and
its average annual rainfall is 700 mm.
Founded by the Spanish explorer and conquistador Lorenzo de Aldana in 1539
under the name of Villaviciosa de la Concepcion, now officially known as San
Juan de Pasto originated in the name of the indigenous community grazing
areas inhabited the region to the arrival of the conquistadors Spanish.
Administrative, cultural and religious heritage of the region since colonial
times.
The most important sites of this beautiful city are:
Plaza de Nariño. Also known as the Plaza of the Constitution. This square is the
most central and important part of Pasto, in the middle of the square stands a
statue of Antonio Nariño, which is a point of reference for those who pass by on
the star known as “The Sun of the Grassland” .
Plaza del Carnaval. This square is relatively new, so you should know. It was
created in 2003 to celebrate the Carnival of Blacks and Whites. This is the
official site where parade floats. At the entrance you can itemize the Carnival
Pasto allusive sculptures.
Plazuela Rumipamba. This square is opposite the church of San Andres and is
steeped in history, if you want to know, feel free to ask any of the inhabitants
of the area, you will surely enjoy a chat history.
Pandiaco Cultural Center-Museum of Carnival. It contains all the figures
referring to the Carnival of Blacks and Whites in the wall you will understand
the activities taking place at the event.
Corpocarnaval Museum. Taminango House Museum. If you want to know about
arts and culture Narino, this is the place, declared a national monument for its
impressive architecture.
The University of Nariño, Academy of History. Here you can read books and
documents that comprise the history of San Juan de Pasto.
Museum Maria Goretti School. 3350 pieces make up the bulk of the collection
covers various fields, Founded in 1973, is a reference point for research and
education in the capital of Nariño.
Museum of the History of Nariño. There you can enjoy in-depth knowledge of
Narino culture, their traditions and customs.
Museo del Oro Nariño. In it you will know all about pre-Columbian cultures that
inhabited the territory Surcolombiana. Has 460 pieces of cultural Capulí, Piartal
and Tirza. It is part of Centro Cultural Leopoldo López Álvarez.
Lorenzo Lucero Juan Historical Museum. Created by Jaime Alvarez's father, this
museum is named after the most famous former Pasto seventeenth
century.The museum displays evidence of the historical and cultural heritage of
the region as well, you can see a complete collection of religious art, sculptures
from different times, memories and relics of characters in public life, both
political and religious and artistic. The museum includes a large library of
Nariño authors, books, magazines and brochures author of the department.
During the visit, you may recall the ancient customs of the inhabitants of
Nariño, their idiosyncrasies and their chores.
People around Pasto. About Pasto concentrated near picturesque 20
populations representing the folklore and traditions of Nariño, so if you are in
San Juan de Pasto no longer go through Calambuco, Tescual, Raccoon,
Jongovito, charm, and genius Canchal some of these peoples. Taminango
Museum. It recognizes the arts and popular traditions of Nariño, not only for its
collection of articles and photographs of the crafts of grass:varnish, wood
carving and textiles, but also by the Taminango mansion, declared a National
Monument in 1971 by his great historical and architectural value.
the Cathedral. Imposing and majestic in the center of town, renowned for its
architectural beauty lighting and interior design.
San Juan Bautista Church. Which is regarded as a living example of baroque
architecture, as reproduced in stone facade designed by Michelangelo. This
Church is recognized as one of the oldest in the city, there lie the remains of
the first settlers of the city distinguished.
Church of Christ the King. Which is located near the College Javeriana, where
you can see the statue of San Francisco and the splendor of its windows.
The Temple Our Lady of Mercy. Is the patroness of the city, La Virgen de la
Merced, which suffered severe damage in the earthquake of 1935, but was
skillfully restored.
The church of San Sebastian. The windows are unique, so it is a tour you must
do, Pasto as recognized by the Church of the Bakery, is very visible pink color
of its façade.
Laguna de la Cocha or Lake Guamuez, Which is the second largest lake in
South America with 90 meters deep, yes, go well abrigadito. For
accommodation in the lake area perfectly suited operate two hotels.
Environmental Center “CHIMAYOY.” Which is located 4 km from Pasto, where
you will learn: Research and Environmental Education, Conservation, ecological
and rural tourism.
Paragliding. In any Nariño, expeditions doing takeoffs from different places in
the geography of this beautiful apartment.
I started out from Hacienda Anacaona San Agustin at 7:00 AM after one of the lady helpers in the kitchen made some scrambles eggs and coffee; and one of the young parrots landed on my right shoulder waiting to share in the feast. The hacienda had arranged for a taxi to take me to downtown to pick up a camionetta ( a pickup with shell used in short hauls that buses do not serve) that would take me to Pitalito the nearest major town with a bus station. A good thing about bus travel here is that no matter when you get to a bus station you will find a connection to your destination within 15 minutes. Competition is high and they actually come looking for you to get on their bus. So my hope was to make it all the way to Chigago Hostal in Quito at least before 10:00 PM when the service desk closes. I essentially hopped from cab to bus and on to another bus. Still did not make it until 12:30 AM the next morning. I feared that it would be necessary to go to another hostal where the service desk is opened 24 hours. But I chanced it and rang the bell. The owner of the hostal responded within minutes. He soon remembered that I had stayed in unit 11- probably because I did a lot of loud singing of Italian songs while there. One morning I heard him singing the aria “Nessun Dorma” from the opera Turandot. So I guess we had something in common and I got the same room for my one night stay. The next day with a flight to Cuenca scheduled at 5:45 PM , the Hostal stored my luggage, that I would pick up around 3:00PM and I headed for Colonial Quito, the old part of town, which I believe was one of the first to be declared a heritage of humanity by the UN.
Daily Notes - Private
2013/05/31 20:33
Moving around Quito
http://www.vivatravelguides.com/south-america/ecuador/quito/quito-
overview/getting-around/
http://www.ecuadorexplorer.com/html/about_ecuador/getting-
around/buses.html
Quito is very easy to get around, and orientation is always easy because the
massive 15,000 foot Pichincha Volcanos is always to the West of the city.
How the street numbering system works:
All streets north of the colonial center are lettered “N” and numbered in
sequence. Streets running south of this divide are lettered “S”. The systems
east-west axis is La Avenida 10 de Agosto. Streets running east of the axis are
lettered “E” and streets running west are lettered “O” (for oeste). Street
numbers are followed by a dash and then the house or building number, e.g.,
N17-31 or E22-77.
Transportation
Once you know where you are going, Quito’s tremendous transportation
system makes the city easy to navigate. Buses and taxis are abundant, and the
recent addition of the pedestrian and environment friendly Trolebús, Metrobús
and EcoVia, the transportation system has been even further improved. Buses
and taxis can take you just about anywhere, while the Trolebús and EcoVia run
north-south and serve the west and east sides of Quito respectively. The
Trolebús has its northern terminus station located at La “Y” (where 10 de
Agosto and America unite), and southern terminus station located at Quitumbe
(where the new inter-provincial bus terminal is located and has buses
departing to several different areas around country) passing by the El Recreo
shopping mall along the way.
The EcoVia stretches north-south on Avenida 6 de Diciembre, with it’s northern
terminus station being Rio Coca and southern terminus station being La Marin
in the Old Town. Some of the EcoVia buses head past the La Marin terminal and
go all the way to the Quitumbe bus terminal, passing El Recreo along the way
like the Trolebús.
The Metrobúus moves down América, which to the north of La “Y” becomes La
Prensa and then – passing the Del Maestro stop – becomes Diego Vásquez de
Cepeda Ave. and takes you all the way to the northern terminus station known
as La Ofelia. From here, it’s possible to take any one of several feeder buses
that shuttle you to the northern Inter-provincial bus terminal in Carcelén. Once
there, you can take any one of several buses that head to the northern areas of
the country.
Buses
Quito’s buses are almost always jammed packed and commonly spew black
diesel smoke that leaks into the cabin. Furthermore, watch your stuff when
riding popular buses, wandering hands frequently probe your belongings. That
said, you can get to just about anywhere in Quito cheaply (USD 0.25) via a bus.
The blue buses of Quito crisscross the city in every conceivable direction and,
like other forms of public transportation, cost $0.25 cents (non-transferable).
Easiest to navigate are the Trolebus, Ecovia and Metrobus, each of which run
from north to south (and vice versa) across Quito on a dedicated pair of lanes
that are sandwiched between the major avenues: 10 de Agosto, 6 de
Diciembre, and La Prensa. Each trip costs $0.25 like the blue buses, regardless
of the length of the journey. These three tend to be much more crowded than
the blue buses due to their popularity.
Blue Bus
To figure out where a particular blue bus is headed, you’ll have to quickly read
the long, multi-colored destination list that’s posted on the front window (as
the bus is barreling toward you). If the bus is the one you want, simply wave it
down and jump aboard. If you’re not able to read the sign in time, or catch the
tout’s (the driver’s partner who shouts out destinations and collects money)
attention, don’t worry - another bus will come along shortly.
Some buses have cashiers (behind a wooden desk to the left of the door) or
touts who will take your 25 cents as you get on. Should you need a little more
time to gather your payment, all operators will accept the fare as you leave or
come to collect them during the trip. Make sure you have small change when
you take the bus. Most operators are unable or unwilling to give change for
currency larger than $5.
To get off the bus, stand up, walk to the front and indicate to the tout that you
want to disembark. The bus should pause long enough for you to step off
quickly to the curb.
Bus routes are so numerous and so varied that not all of them can be detailed
here. but it's safe to say: if there's a part of the city you’d like to get to, then
there's probably a bus that will take you there. Ask a local (most quiteños are
very helpful) what bus you need to take to get to where you want to go.
Intercity buses typically stop operating shortly after 8.
Trolebus [VIEW TRANSIT MAP]
The Trole system runs down 6 de Agosto from the southern Terminal Quitumbe
station to the northern Estación La “Y” (Tel: 593-2-243-4975). Along its
trajectory, and worth noting, are three stops: Colón (outskirts of La Mariscal
neighborhood), Plaza del Teatro and Plaza Santo Domingo (in the Old Town).
Troles have dedicated lanes and green, glass booths as their stops. Like the
Metrobus and Ecovia, the ride to any point along the Trole route costs $0.25
cents in exact change. If need be, you can get change for small bills or coins at
the attendant’s kiosk at any stop. Troles are handicap accessible, but the doors
usually open and close quickly, so be prepared. Also, watch your valuables
carefully, particularly if the popular Trole buses are jammed with people. If any
one Trole seems too full, just wait for the next one.
Serving the city everyday is the Trole that runs from the northern terminal La
“Y” to the southern station El Recreo. The schedule for getting from these two
places, and vice-versa is:
Monday-Friday: 5 a.m.-Midnight (every 8-15 minutes) Weekends & Holidays: 6
a.m -10 p.m. (every 10-15 minutes)
Note:
every
every
every
every
After midnight on any day of week, the buses still continue to run once
thirty minutes; however, they do so with limited service, stopping only at
other (second or third) stop along the line. Starting at two, they run once
hour. On weekends the same applies after 10 p.m, but only running once
hour.
To see a street map of each station, click here.
For a more detailed look at times and farther destinations, click here.
At three of the following main stations, the Trole splits off into a number of
supplemental bus routes.
• At Marán Valverde you can continue on along Camal Metropolitano, Cdla.
Ejército, Guamaní and San Martin de Porras.
• El Recreo serves Solanda, Chillogallo, Lucha de los Pobres, Oriente Quiteño
(ending at Vilcabamba) and Ferroviaria.
• La “Y” connects to Cotocollao, Rumiñahui, Carapungo, Kennedy, Comité del
Publo (ending in Jiménez) and Los Laureles (to Rio Coca and Eloy Alfaro).
If need be, many Trole stations have route maps posted to help you find your
destination. If you're still unsure, ask at one of the main stations for directions
and a “mapa de rutas y paradas del Trole” (map of Trole routes and stops).
Ecovia [VIEW TRANSIT MAP]
The Ecovías are a series of very popular, articulated buses that operate along
Av. 6 de Diciembre. The Ecovía is one part of Quito’s North-South public
transportation triumvirate, and runs between Rio Coca to the north, and La
Marin to the south. Like the Trolebús and Metrobus, the Ecovías have dedicated
lanes, covered stops and always cost 25 cents (no matter your destination).
Conductors usually call out the next point along the line, but each Ecovía
parada (or stop) is also indicated by a large, brown marker and pictographic
signs. To use the Ecovía, walk into any of the stops along 6 de Deciembre. Each
stop is a glass, rectangular booth. You will need to insert correct change into a
machine to pass through the turnstile. If you don’t have 25 cents, the booth
attendants can convert coins and small bills for you. (Just don’t ask them to
change anything larger than $5.) Ecovias pass by very regularly during their
operating hours of 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 6 a.m. to
9:30 p.m. weekends and holidays. Outside of those hours (midnight-dawn), the
Ecovía runs hourly Monday-Friday, and half-hourly Friday-Saturday.
Be sure to get on quickly, as the doors don’t stay open for long. If you are
confronted with an Ecovía that appears extremely full (which happens often),
wait for the next one. Once you're on, make sure you grab one or two of the
many handholds, since Ecovías stop abruptly. Food and uncovered drinks are
not allowed on the Ecovias. Keep an eye and hand on your valuables at all
times; if you're using a backpack or large bag, shift it to your front when you
get on. Pickpockets have been known to target Ecovía passengers, particularly
on crowded buses.
Metrobus [VIEW TRANSIT MAP]
Of all three lines (Trole and Ecovia being the other two), Quito’s Metrobus line
is the one that reaches farthest north. Barreling down America & La Prensa, the
metrobus makes several stops within walking distance of several areas such
as: Mañosca St., La Gasca, Iñaquito Alto, Urb. Granda Centeno, Quito Tennis, El
Bosque, Pinar Bajo, Pinar Alto, and La Concepción. Terminus station to the
south is Estacion Varela, and to the north is Estacion La Ofelia. The cost is
$0.25.
In addition to taking you farther north, the Metrobus is actually your first step
in getting from Quito all the way to Mitad del Mundo via public transit. Transfer
at the final stop up north in Estación La Ofelia, making sure to check (by
asking) which buses are leaving to Mitad del Mundo from there.
The Trole, Ecovia and Metrobus offices are located at Av. Vicente Maldonado y
Miguel Carrión sector El Recreo in Quito. To reach the main line, call: 593-2-
266-5023; fax: 593-2 266-5019; email: info@trolebus.gov.ec; or visit
Getting Around Quito by Taxi
If you are looking for a relatively inexpensive, safe and convenient way to
travel, tapping into Quito's extensive taxi network is a good way to get around
the city.
During the day, taxi drivers are required to use a taximetro (or meter) when
they drive you around. When you climb in, the initial rate should be 35 cents.
Always ask for the taximetro, which is typically located just in front of the
emergency brake, between the driver and front passenger seats. You should
always be able to easily see the meter and should check the amount as you
arrive at your destination (before the taxista turns it off).
Some drivers have been known to tell passengers that their meter is broken or
that they don't have one, particularly around large hubs such as Terminal
Terrestre. Taxis are plentiful enough that, if your driver won't use his meter (or
has a meter that seems to be going extraordinarily fast), tell him to stop, get
out and hail a more honest cabbie.
Most daytime trips around the city cost between $1.50 and $3. Given the
distance, trips to the airport cost a lot more. The price of taxis to the airport are
calculated by a fixed price chart (not a taximetro) which is based on the
neighborhood you are departing to/from. For the most part, a trip to the airport
will cost around $25-30 from most places in Quito (and vice versa). To consult
the chart of fixed taxi rates, divided by neighborhood, click here. At night,
within the city itself, rates increase by $1 (since few other public transportation
services are available) and taxi drivers do not use their meters. Make sure to
negotiate a price before you get into a cab. If the price is too steep, ask for a
more reasonable rate or hail a different taxi. Drivers charge per ride, not per
person. Make sure when you're taking a taxi that you have roughly the correct
fare in small change. Most cab drivers won't have much money on hand and
will not be able to handle large bills. Tips are also accepted but usually not
expected
—-
Visiting Otavalo - Cotacachi - Ibarra
120 KM about 2 hours away