population: 0.39 million

extension: 1179 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Pasto and interested in visiting museums, I recommend visiting the "Museo del Oro" (Gold Museum) which has a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts made from gold. Another museum you can check out is the "Museo Taminango," which displays traditional indigenous crafts and art. For similar types of museums nearby, you may also want to consider visiting the "Museo Arqueológico Rumipamba" in Ipiales or the "Museo de Arte Contemporáneo" in Popayán.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Pasto according to local people are:

1. Cuy Asado: Roasted guinea pig, a traditional dish in the region.
2. Fanesca: A soup made from grains, beans, and fish served during Holy Week.
3. Carnes Encendidas: Grilled beef and pork marinated in spices and served with potatoes and corn.
4. Tortilla de maíz: Corn tortillas made with panela, cheese, and butter.
5. Churrasco: Grilled beef steak served with rice, avocado, and salad.
6. Arroz Atollado: Rice cooked with chicken, pork, and vegetables, served with avocado and plantains.

These dishes reflect the strong Andean influence in the region's cuisine and use local ingredients such as corn, potatoes, and various meats.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Pasto include:

1. Visiting the La Laguna de la Cocha lagoon, located about an hour from Pasto, which offers activities such as boat rides, fishing, and hiking.
2. Exploring the historic city center of Pasto, which features landmarks such as the Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of Mercy and the Juan XXIII Cultural Center.
3. Attending cultural events such as the Black and White Carnival (Carnaval de Negros y Blancos) held every January, which celebrates the city's Afro-Colombian and Indigenous heritage.
4. Trying traditional food such as cuy (guinea pig), fanesca (a soup made with beans and corn), and empanadas de pipían (empanadas filled with pumpkin seed sauce).
5. Enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking in nearby natural areas like the Galeras Volcano Natural Park or the Chiles Mountain Range.