3-Days Tatacoa Desert and Villavieja Tour

Neiva , Colombia

3-Days Tatacoa Desert and Villavieja Tour

Active

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you want to know how diverse Colombia is, we invite you to explore a place that seems to be from another planet. On this 3-day trip, you can venture through the most important places in this region of Huila and appreciate its culture, traditions, heritage, customs, and much more. Visit the exotic landscapes of the Tataoca Desert, both its red and gray desert. Participate in a talk at the astronomical observatory and an observation experience. Also, visit the Paleontological Museum and the Totumo Museum. And finally, enjoy a canoe ride on the Magdalena River, the most important in the country. A whole adventure not to be missed!

Available options

Pick-up in Neiva

From Neiva<br/>Pickup included

Pick-up in Villavieja

From Villavieja<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Experiences included in the itinerary

Breakfast

Private local guide

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in private transportation

All risk insurance

Two nights' accommodation in 3-star hotels in Villavieja

What's not included

Breakfast on the first day

Lunches and dinners

Extra purchases

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Take into account that most of the experiences and tours of this trip are done by foot

You can choose from where to start the tour: Neiva or Villavieja

If any of the rides (arrival or departure) takes place in Neiva, please choose Neiva as the option.

Tour in alliance with local operator

About Neiva

Neiva, the capital of the Huila department, is known for its warm climate, vibrant culture, and as the gateway to Colombia's coffee region. The city is famous for its traditional festivities, such as the Festival Folclórico, and its natural attractions, including hot springs and beautiful landscapes.

Top Attractions

Plaza de Mercado Alpujarra

A bustling market offering a variety of local produce, crafts, and traditional food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and flavors.

Market 1-2 hours Free entry, costs vary for purchases

Parque Lineal del Río Otún

A beautiful linear park along the Otún River, perfect for walking, jogging, and enjoying nature within the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Museo de Historia Natural de Neiva

A museum showcasing the natural history of the region, including fossils, minerals, and information about local flora and fauna.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (around 5,000 COP)

Termales de Santa Helena

Natural hot springs located about 30 minutes from Neiva, offering a relaxing experience in a scenic setting.

Nature Half day Moderate to expensive (around 30,000-50,000 COP)

Catedral de Neiva

A beautiful cathedral located in the heart of Neiva, showcasing stunning architecture and religious artifacts.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pandebono

A traditional cheese bread made with cassava flour and cheese, often served with coffee.

Snack Contains cheese and gluten

Arepas

Corn cakes that can be stuffed with various fillings such as cheese, meat, or beans.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Lechona

A traditional dish made with seasoned pork stuffed with rice, peas, and spices, baked to perfection.

Main course Contains pork

Canelazo

A warm, spiced drink made with aguardiente, panela, and cinnamon, perfect for cold evenings.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in Parque Nacional Natural Cumbres del Oriente Exploring Termales de Santa Helena Visiting Termales de Santa Helena Strolling along Parque Lineal del Río Otún Exploring Catedral de Neiva Shopping at Plaza de Mercado Alpujarra Swimming in Termales de Santa Helena Experiencing the Festival Folclórico de Colombia

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Limited

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Neiva is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to stay alert and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious with ATMs and avoid using them at night

Getting there

By air

Benito Salas Airport • 10 km from city center

By bus

Terminal de Transportes de Neiva

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Neiva. It is affordable and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Tappx, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Alto Campestre Riverside Areas

Day trips

Santa Helena Hot Springs

30 km • Half day

Natural hot springs located about 30 minutes from Neiva, offering a relaxing experience in a scenic setting.

Parque Nacional Natural Cumbres del Oriente

50 km • Full day

A national park offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and a variety of wildlife.

Garzon

60 km • Full day

A charming town known for its colonial architecture, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes.

Festivals

Festival Folclórico de Colombia • June Feria de las Flores • September Carnaval de Neiva • December

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Try local dishes like pandebono, arepas, and lechona for an authentic taste of Neiva.
Visit during the Festival Folclórico de Colombia in June for a vibrant cultural experience.
Explore the Plaza de Mercado Alpujarra for local crafts, produce, and traditional food.
Take a day trip to Termales de Santa Helena for a relaxing experience in natural hot springs.