The archeological site of Tierradentro is one of Colombia's true hidden gems. Tucked away in a remote corner of the spectacular Cauca region, those who make the effort to venture out here are rewarded with some of the country's most fascinating sites!

A series of over 40 excavated burial tombs have been found, tunneled into the ground on several of the areas most beautiful hilltops. Painted and decorated with geometric designs in red, white and black dye and entered through spiral passageways, some up to 8 metres below the surface, these unique attractions have had archeologists puzzled for decades.

Little is known about the tribal groups who once inhabited these areas and their culture and belief is mainly left to myth and legend for lack of solid fact. The mystery surrounding the tombs and statues dotted throughout the area adds a certain appeal and who can deny that trekking through magnificent scenery to discover secret underground, cave-like tombs isn't a bit of an adventure!

Perhaps just as attractive as the sites themselves is the fairytale village of San Andres de Pisimbala, by which the park is located. Seemingly unaware of the treasures on their doorstep, this is a typical Caucan village where horses are still used in day to day work and coffee is left out in the street or backyard to dry in the sunshine. Centred around a picturesque thatched chapel and encircled by rolling green hills, San Andres makes a great, relaxed base for exploring the area.
Hostels...
Hotel Los Lagos
San Andres de Pisimbala
To the right of the church
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Hospedaje Lucerna
To the right of the museum
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Hospedaje La Portada
San Andres de Pisimbala
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Tours...
Guides may approach you offering tours of the archeological sites but most of what you will need to know can be found in the informative museum at the park entrance. A popular way to visit the attractions as some are quite far, is on horseback. Horses can be hired for around 5,000 Pesos per hour.
You might need...
Tourist Information - There doesn't seem to be an official tourist office at the moment although plans are being made to offer better, more detailed information on the area through the museum
Banks - Important! There are no ATM's or banks in Tierradentro or San Andres. You may be able to find somewhere offering cash advances on Visa in Inza, 30 mins away but if you can, its best to take what you'll need from Popayan.
Internet - There is no internet access in the area although calls can be mae quite easily as many of the houses will allow you to use their phone for a charge.
Restaurants - Midweek and off season, it's quite difficult to find a restaurant open in the evening unless you book in advance. There will always be someone willing to sell you a meal though! There are a couple of stores by the museum which sell excellent juices and which may also stretch to breakfast on request!
How 2 get there...
Buses which go right into the village of San Andres de Pisimbala leave the terminal in Popayan at 10.30am daily with the company Sotracauca. There are very few buses which enter the town, most drop passengers at the road end which means around a 45 minute walk uphill. Avoid doing this after dark as there are no street lights and it can be difficult to find your way. Fares should be no more than 17,000 Pesos and the journey takes around 5 hours on rough roads.

One bus a day leaves the village of San Andres at 6 am however there are several others which can be caught at the road end or La Cruce up until 4pm.

A circular trip can be made by the route which goes through San Agustin although the area is prone to mudslides and so transport can be irregular.






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Don't miss...
Parque Arqueologico Tierradentro - About 3km before the village of San Andres you'll find the park entrance with it's two museums. The park is open between 8am and 4pm and the ticket is valid for 3 days. Park entry allows visitors access to the main sites, Segovia, El Duende, El Tablon, Alto de San Andres and El Aguacate Each site is different and well worth visiting. Visitors should have no problems navigating their way between the sites as there is a fairly clear path and most sites can be seen from the previous one. entry 15,000 Pesos
La Iglesia de San Andres - This quaint, Colonial, Missionary church provides the centre point for the village of San Andres. With its stunning backdrop of green hills, this little, thatched chapel fits perfectly into it's fairytale setting.
Horseback Trails - Undoubtedly the most romantic way to see the surrounding countryside! As horse is still the principle mode of rural transport here, there's no better way to experience the authentic, untouched feel of the nearby communities.