El Encano: The Venice of Colombia
Discover El Encano, the 'Venice of Colombia': A blend of stunning Andean landscapes, Swiss-inspired architecture, and rich Nariñense culture on Laguna de la Cocha.
El Encano, nestled in the Andes of Nariño, is a charming village on the shores of Laguna de la Cocha, Colombia's second-largest lake. Known as the 'Venice of Colombia' for its colorful, chalet-style houses and canals, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
A brief summary to El Encano, Nariño
- Laguna de la Cocha-Santiago #2-98, El Encano, Pasto, Narino, 520018, CO
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best views of the lake and to enjoy the tranquility.
- Try the local trout dishes at nearby restaurants for an authentic taste of Nariño.
- Take a boat tour to explore the small islands in the lake, each with its own unique charm.
- Bring warm and waterproof clothing due to the low temperatures and humidity.
- Engage with local artisans to learn about traditional crafts and support the community.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Pasto bus terminal, take a bus marked 'Laguna de la Cocha' or 'El Encano'. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs around 6,000 COP. Inform the driver to drop you off at El Encano. From there, the lagoon is a short walk away.
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Taxi
A taxi from Pasto to El Encano takes about 40 minutes and costs approximately 50,000 to 70,000 COP, depending on negotiation and time of day. Agree on the fare before starting the trip. The taxi will drop you off near the lagoon.
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Driving
From Pasto, head south on Avenida Colombia, which becomes the Pan-American Highway (Ruta 25). After about 30 kilometers, exit toward El Encano. Follow the signs to Laguna de la Cocha, continuing for another 10 kilometers until you reach El Encano. Parking is available near the lagoon. Parking costs may vary, estimate around 3,000 COP per hour.
Discover more about El Encano, Nariño
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Detección Metálica Pasto Jhon descubriendo historia
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Monumento Antonio Nariño
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Urcunina Adventures
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Catedral Pasto
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Monumento. Sa Juan de Pasto
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Fuente de la Transparencia - Pasto
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La Pastusidad
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Capilla San Antonio de Padua (Juanoy)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Santuario de Flora Isla de La Corota
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Laguna de la Cocha
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Paramo de los Frailejones Cabrera Nariño
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Chapalito Park
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Plaza del Carnaval
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Museo del Oro
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Plaza de Nariño
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el colorado
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Santiago Park
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Museo Étnico de Los Andes
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Museo Taminango
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Templo de San Felipe
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Pandiaco cultural center The Carnaval Museum
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Galeras Nature Sanctuary
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Essential places to dine
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coffee restaurante-parrilla
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Parrilla Chipichape
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Bendito Sancocho restaurante parrilla
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Restaurante La Merced
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masitasdelgaleras
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Shalom Restaurante
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Bendita Birra
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Afromar Restaurante
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Nómada Komby
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Restaurante Yazmin
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Maya's Restaurante
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Restaurante Rancho Galeras
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Vino & Cafe
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unico Outlet Mall
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Local 104
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El Templo De La Ropa
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Cafe Bar Maria Mulata
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Vudú Café Bar
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Bendita Barra Club
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LiverPub
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El cantinazo Bar Pasto
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Ga-león Café bar
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