Historical Introduction
Pasto, known as the Surprise City of Colombia, is famous for its rich artisanal tradition dating back to pre-Columbian times. Two techniques stand out particularly: wood carving and Pasto varnish. The former arrived with the Spanish in the 16th century and merged with indigenous techniques, while Pasto varnish is a unique technique in the world, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Nation since 2019.
What to Do
Wood Carving Workshops
In the La Calderonera neighborhood, you'll find several family workshops where master carvers work mainly with black cedar and laurel. The Ortega family workshop, with over 3 generations of experience, offers guided tours where you can see the complete process, from design to the final finish.
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Pasto Varnish Tour
Pasto varnish uses the resin of the mopa-mopa, an endemic tree from Putumayo. At the Artesanías de Colombia workshop in the historic center, artisans demonstrate how this resin is transformed into multicolored sheets that are then applied to wooden objects. It's common to see them working on tables, tea boxes, and jewelry boxes.
San Juan Artisan Market
Every Saturday in Plaza de Nariño, this market is set up where you'll find everything from small carved figures to complete furniture. Prices range from $20,000 COP for small pieces to several million for artisanal furniture (reference prices from April 2026).
Where to Eat or Drink
El Fogón Pastuso Restaurant
Located near Plaza de Nariño, this restaurant offers traditional dishes like roasted cuy and the famous pastel de choclo. Prices range between $25,000 and $45,000 COP for a main course.
Café Quillacinga
This café in the historic center is perfect for a break between workshop visits. It offers organic coffee grown in the Nariño mountains and local desserts. An Americano coffee costs $4,500 COP.
Chichería Doña Juana
To try the traditional corn chicha, visit this chichería near Parque de la Madre. The drink is served in totumas (gourds) and pairs well with pipián empanadas.
How to Get There and Transportation
Pasto is connected by Antonio Nariño Airport, 35 km from the city. From there, you can take a taxi for approximately $60,000 COP or an intercity bus for $10,000 COP. Within the city, the public transportation system consists of urban buses that cost $2,500 COP per trip.
Local Tips
- Visit the workshops in the mornings, when natural light is best for appreciating the details of the pieces.
- If you buy large handicrafts, ask about shipping services. Many workshops offer this service nationwide.
- Carry cash, especially for purchases at the artisan market. Not all stalls accept cards.
- If you plan to buy Pasto varnish, consider small pieces like tea boxes or coasters. They are easier to transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to take wood carving or Pasto varnish classes?
Yes, some workshops offer short classes for tourists. The Ortega family workshop, for example, has 3-hour workshops where you can learn basic techniques. It is recommended to book in advance.
How fragile are pieces with Pasto varnish?
Well-crafted pieces are quite resistant, but it is recommended to avoid direct sun exposure and sudden temperature changes. To clean them, use only a dry cloth.
What is the best time of year to visit the workshops?
Any time of year is good, but if you want to see the complete Pasto varnish process, visit between January and March, which is when the mopa-mopa resin is harvested.
