Ipiale is a city located in the Department of Nariño, near the border with Ecuador. The spaniards founded the city in 1585, in an area previously occupied by “The Nation of the Pastos”. Ipiale was one of the first cities that declared its independence, and its residents fought bravely in the Battle of the Tarabita de México, one of the first skirmishes of the independence campaign.Ipiales forms an urban conurbation with Tulcán, an ecuadorian city. It has very different touristic attractions, the most famous being the Las Lajas Cathedral, an impressive architectonic work located in the middle of a cliff.
About Ipiales route
The route to Ipiales, a city in southwestern Colombia near the border with Ecuador, is a picturesque and culturally enriching journey. Starting from the city of Pasto, the capital of the Nariño department, the approximately 80-kilometer trip traverses spectacular mountainous landscapes, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Andes. Along the way, travelers can appreciate the lush Andean vegetation and rural traditions reflected in small towns and local markets. Ipiales is known for its iconic Las Lajas Sanctuary, an impressive basilica built in a canyon over the Guáitara River, attracting both religious pilgrims and tourists interested in its Neo-Gothic architecture and history. The route is not just a passage to a destination, but an experience that captures the essence of the Colombian Andean region.
Weather in Ipiales
The climate in Ipiales is cold and temperate due to its altitude of approximately 2,900 meters above sea level. The average annual temperature is around 12°C, with minimal variations throughout the year. Mornings and nights are usually cool, while afternoons can be slightly warmer. The city experiences frequent rainfall, especially between October and May, contributing to its lush green landscape. In summary, Ipiales enjoys a cool and humid climate, characteristic of the Andean mountainous areas.
Hotels in Ipiales
Hotel Santa Isabel 2
- Carrera 7 # 14 - 27 Carrera 7 # 14 - 27, 005721 Ipiales
- Services: In the hotel, all rooms come with a wardrobe. Rooms at this accommodation feature free WiFi and a private bathroom equipped with a shower and free toiletries. Some rooms have a balcony. At Hotel Santa Isabel 2, rooms include a desk and a flat-screen TV.
Hotel Avanty
- Carrera 11 # 15-19, 111111 Ipiales
- Services: The rooms in this accommodation are equipped with a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The rooms at the accommodation have a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries, and they also offer city views. At the hotel, each room includes bed linen and towels. Includes breakfast.
Hotel Royal Class
- Cartera 4a Carrera 4a numero 12a -08 SanFelipe, 524060 Ipiales
- Services: The rooms in this accommodation are equipped with a flat-screen TV. All units include a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. The reception staff is always willing to provide information. Includes breakfast.
Restaurants and Bars in Ipiales
Felix Restaurant Lounge
- Calle 25 #6b-44 Opposite cc gran plaza parking, Ipiales
- Services: International, Mediterranean, South American, Colombian cuisine.
DaVinci Ristorante
- Carrera 6b 25 85, Ipiales
- Services: Italian, Pizzeria, Healthy Food. Suitable for vegetarians.
Tourist Attractions in Ipiales
- Las Lajas Sanctuary: This impressive Neo-Gothic temple, clinging to both sides of a rocky gorge, is considered Colombia's most spectacular church. Built on the site of a miraculous apparition of the Virgin Mary, it attracts both devotees and architecture enthusiasts. Accessed by a walkway lined with souvenir stalls, and the stone bridge in front of the church offers spectacular panoramic views.
- Cumbal Volcano: With an altitude of 4764 meters, it is the highest volcano in the Colombian massif and remains active, emitting clouds of gases from its fumaroles. It is ideal for experienced climbers, with a challenging trail that crosses pristine páramo landscapes to the twin craters. The ascent requires good physical condition and a professional guide, available in the La Ortiga community.
- Laguna de la Bolsa (Laguna Cumbal): Located behind the Cumbal volcano, this lagoon is a less visited natural destination than the popular Laguna de la Cocha. It offers a tranquil environment for boat rides and bird watching, providing a serene and underexploited experience for visitors.
Important Dates in Ipiales
- October 22 and 23 - International Trio Festival: An annual festival of trio music, held since 2008, which brings together both local and international trios in Ipiales.
- December - Christmas and New Year Festivities: Christmas celebrations include city lighting, Christmas novena, "pase del Niño," and bidding farewell to the old year with parades and humorous testaments.
How to Get Around Ipiales?
To get around Ipiales, there are various transportation options that adapt to the needs and preferences of travelers:
- Public Transport: The city has a public transportation system that includes buses and collective taxis that travel different routes within Ipiales and its surroundings. It's an economical and accessible option for getting around the city.
- Taxis: Taxis are a convenient option for getting around quickly and directly to any destination within Ipiales. They can be easily found on main streets and busy areas like the bus terminal and downtown.
How to Get to Ipiales?
To get to Ipiales, you can take a flight to San Luis International Airport and then use ground transportation options such as buses, taxis, or car rentals to reach the city center.
Gastronomy in Ipiales:
- Roasted guinea pig
- "Arrancadas" soup and "sopa chorriada": made from small pieces of wheat flour and potato dough
- "Chara": barley grits soup
- "Lapingachos" (or stuffed potato cakes): potato tortillas filled with cheese, fried in pork fat
- "Carne de los Chilcos" (grilled lamb meat)
- "Poleada": zarazo corn or corn cream
Things to Buy in Ipiales:
- Local handicrafts
- Leather products
- Wool products
- Coffee products
- Typical sweets
- Souvenirs from Las Lajas Sanctuary
- Regional products
Ipiales Data
Ipiales, a picturesque city located in southwestern Colombia near the border with Ecuador, is home to the impressive Las Lajas Sanctuary, an architectural gem built in a rocky gorge. This sanctuary, which seems to defy gravity with its imposing Neo-Gothic structure, stands where it is said that the Virgin Mary appeared in the 18th century. In addition to its famous sanctuary, Ipiales is known for its International Trio Festival, which celebrates the music of local and international trios. The city is also an important center of trade and culture in the region, offering a rich diversity of handicrafts, especially textiles and leather products. With its mountainous landscape and deep connection to faith and tradition, Ipiales captivates visitors with its unique charm and fascinating history.
Bus Operators on the Medellín to Ipiales Route:
- Lineas Pereiranas
- Cootranar
In Conclusion
Traveling to Ipiales is immersing oneself in a world of natural and cultural wonders. From its iconic Las Lajas Sanctuary to its vibrant International Trio Festival, the city offers a unique experience full of history, art, and tradition. With its impressive mountainous landscape and rich religious heritage, Ipiales invites travelers to explore its charms, discover its cultural diversity, and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Colombian Andes region.