Cauca can be explored through two very different highlights: the island trails of Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona and the archaeological heritage of Tierradentro. Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona is located in the Department of Cauca on Colombia’s Pacific coast, 89.5 nautical miles from the port of Buenaventura; it comprises the islands of Gorgona and Gorgonilla. Tierradentro is known for its underground tombs carved into the rock and its stone sculptures. Together, nature trails and archaeological sites showcase two distinctly different aspects of Cauca.
Gorgona: Trails Through Forest and History
The Ruta Playa Palmeras runs for 600 meters in the south of the island and takes about 25 minutes. It leads through tropical rainforest to the fine-sand beach of Playa Palmeras, where the surf is strong. Along the way, there are views of Gorgonilla and rock formations. The trail thus combines forest, coastal views, and beach. Conditions may affect access to the Ruta Playa Palmeras; check the current situation before your visit.
The Sendero Yundigua offers a different experience: the hike is 2.4 kilometers long and takes two hours. It passes through regenerating forests rich in birdlife and endemic species. Compared with the Ruta Playa Palmeras, it is a much longer time commitment: about two hours versus about 25 minutes. Trail conditions on Yundigua may vary. When choosing between the two routes, consider both the time required and the landscape each one offers.
El Penal leads to the ruins of the former prison, now covered by recovering forest. This historic trail is 395 meters long and takes about one hour. In terms of time, it falls between the other two trails described here: shorter than the hike on Yundigua, but longer than the Ruta Playa Palmeras. The ruins of the former prison give this trail its distinctive historical focus.
Tierradentro: Underground Tombs and Sculptures
Parque Arqueológico de Tierradentro in the Department of Cauca is home to one of the largest concentrations of underground tombs carved into the rock, as well as stone sculptures. The stone sculptures were created by a society that lived in the region more than 1,400 years ago. Both the rock-cut burial chambers and the sculptural works take center stage here. The included access is also relevant for planning your visit: the stated admission price covers Alto de El Aguacate, Alto de Segovia, Alto de San Andrés, Alto del Duende, and El Tablón. Check the current conditions before your trip.
Popayán in the Wider Colombia Travel Region
Popayán, the capital of the Department of Cauca, adds its own urban cultural sites to Colombia’s travel offerings. The Semana Santa processions pass through 22 blocks of the historic center in five nighttime parades; the dates vary with Easter. The Semana celebrations are said to have begun in 1556. In 1939, the Junta Permanente Pro Semana Santa was founded to continue the traditional religious processions. The route through the city center and the celebrations’ history are thus distinctive parts of the city’s character.
El Morro de Tulcán offers another glimpse into the city’s history: this pre-Hispanic truncated pyramid is Popayán’s most important archaeological site. It offers a perspective on the capital’s pre-Hispanic past, alongside the religious celebrations that shape the city during Semana Santa.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Popayán, Paez, Boca Grande, Totoro, Aguablanca, Portachuelo, El Jazmin, Suarez, Camarones, YARUMALES, El Crucero, Santander de Quilichao, Palo Blanco, El Medio, La Balsa, Silvia, Yaquiva, Guasimo.
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