Introduction
The search for the mystery of the Augustinian culture begins on the roads of the southern Province of Huila emerging from the town of Neiva, and going on the opposite way to the Magdalena River (the longest Colombian river), after searching of its source. Its features are small trees on the edge of the route, all in a row leaned line, resembling a particular shadow on the road, in a shape of a natural tunnel of trees.
Attractives
The Province of Huila is a comprehensive summary of the full contents of the Colombian territory. There are extensive crops and plains which are raising and turning into mountains, a lot of rivers, historic villages and preservation of traditions. These are the characteristics of the lush landscapes surrounding the way from Neiva to San Augustine. A four hours trip when driving without stopping, but time is endless when meeting each relevant appeal of the track.
Pitalito
It is situated on a large plain, the town of Pitalito has growth dramatically in recent years, becoming the second city of the Province of Huila, with a density of population over one hundred thousand residents. Its streets are a major commercial hub of the south and around fertile land for growing coffee, cocoa or chocolate, banana, cassava and pasture for livestock.
SAN AGUSTÍN AND ITS ATTRACTIONS
San Agustín became the first touristic destination in the Province and one of the most visited in Colombia, San Agustín is also the epicenter of an ancient culture, a refuge for outsiders in love with cobblestone streets and abundance of natural resources. There are a lot of foreigners finding the most compelling reasons to remain forever, the same reasons traveler will discovered once he / she shows up through the main street or sixth street.
ATTRACTIONS IN THE ROAD TO SAN AGUSTÍN
As a complement of the impressive archaeological treasure of San Agustín in the route from Neiva a number of villages and striking elements together with the beautiful scenery and permanent company of the Magdalena river enrich the unforgettable journey through the southern Huila.
GIGANTE
Also named the cocoa capital of Huila, this town is important in addition to cocoa by farming coffee, cassava, banana and mixed fruit. Residents say the towns name may be due to the huge human figure that appears to be shaped by Matamba hill in rural areas, additionally from the huge ceiba whose famous and largest of its trunk diameter reaches 12 meters (40 feet), the natural heritage of Giant consists of a number of forests, rivers and streams.
GARZÓN
A town with a significant commercial activity characterized by commercial hatcheries of mojarra in their villages, and various churches built by, for instance, Our Lady of the Rosary and Saint Michael Archangel Cathedral.
ALTAMIRA
This town is known because of its stillness, the architectural frame of the streets and the strong tradition of many patisseries that work at home. Baked biscuits achira are permanently on the table, and other snacks tambourines, biscuits and corn others are the gastronomic delights of the village. Draws attention to the system used by clay ovens heated by burning large grass.
TIMANÁ
Located between the central and eastern chain mountain. It pays tribute to the memory of the indigenous female chief Gaitana, emulated in a sculpture that adorns the central park, also a large ceiba. On one side of central park is the main church with a large atrium, a central tower and two domes.
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RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TOURISTS
- Lodging
The capacity of accommodation is not very large, so it is imperative to contact the innkeepers prior to the trip in order to reserve space, especially in San Agustín because there is a great request. - Health
In order to travel to the area is not required any special vaccinations, but a good physical fitness because there is a long way to walk. Do not forget to include some analgesics, first aid items and insect repellent. - what to bring
Tennis, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, camera and enough cash, however, in this town visitor will find an ATM. - Schedules
Archaeological parks of San Agustín and Isnos open daily between 8:00 A.M. 4:30 P.M, devote a full day to visit each of them. When hiring a cavalcade note that it should start in the early hours of the day to fully admire the landscape and also to return before sunset. - Conservation
Do not forget that it is prohibited by law looting and archaeological damage. Help maintain the heritage of humanity by denouncing those who attack them. - Transportation
Several companies provide ground transportation services to reach San Agustín from Bogota and some other major cities. There are various airlines arriving at the airport Benito Salas of Neiva. The road between Bogota and San Agustín is paved in full and in a very good condition. - keep in mind
Count on the support of a specialized guide who knows the region, especially when undertaken by walking and riding the rural areas of San Agustín. - Important
Maintain an adequate behavior in the archaeological reserves and be very attentive to the information provided by the guides and park officials.
