Pure Archaeology Tierradentro San Agustin: A Detailed 4D/3N Review

If you are looking to uncover ancient mysteries and experience two of Colombia’s most significant archaeological sites, the ‘Pure Archaeology Tierradentro San Agustin 4D3N’ package could be something for you. Is it a whirlwind adventure, so packing it all in: think dramatic landscapes, mysterious underground tombs, too monumental statues. In a way, it gives you a very intense introduction to the pre-Columbian history that is hidden in the mountains of Colombia. Let’s have a look at the nuts and bolts and, frankly, see if this trip will give you enough bang for your buck.

First Impressions and Booking

As I was saying, booking the tour could be quite easy. Several agencies both local and international sell very similar versions. I guess that what really sets them apart is their attention to detail when communicating with you, the customer and also, obviously, the kind of guides they actually use. Actually, look for places with flexible cancellation policies, too, just in case your plans are not firm.

The thing to remember about Tierradentro and San Agustin is that, although they might seem very close on a map, getting there is a little bit of a thing. Usually, tour packages get around this by using overnight buses, which, very frankly, are not everybody’s cup of tea, so flying could be an idea that suits you, as long as you are OK with smaller planes and a little bit of planning.

Day 1: Arrival in San Agustin and Archaeological Park

The day starts when you arrive in San Agustin, which can be a lengthy process of bus rides. After that you get settled into your accommodation. In a way, that can set the tone for the trip, too: San Agustin has everything from very budget hostels all the way to some pretty sophisticated hotels. You may want to book something in the middle of the range, maybe.

When that’s sorted, it’s almost time to get going to the San Agustin Archaeological Park. Usually, the park has hundreds of mysterious statues that show off the skills and artistic sensibilities of the culture that used to be here, but that we don’t know an awful lot about, yet. Frankly, walking through the park, looking at these big stone figures with the green hills all around, does make you feel like you have stepped back into the past, just a little bit.

First, a little exploring, so you are heading out to see the statues at the main park, which is what everyone sees on their first visit. Typically, you might have a guide with you, but just wondering around on your own could also be really something. The ‘Fuente de Lavapatas’ is something very interesting and something a little bit different. Is that a collection of pools and channels that have been skillfully carved into the rock by the people of that time.

Day 2: San Agustin – Alto de los Idolos and Alto de las Piedras

Alto de los Idolos, arguably is up next and might be an amazing site that shows the skills in creating ancient monuments of the area’s past people. As a matter of fact, these are really interesting because you have the chance to see it without huge crowds, at least sometimes. Frankly, that allows for a slightly more intimate feel.

The other, typically similar destination is Alto de las Piedras. This site also features a number of pretty impressive statues, too, but in a rather different setting, like a mountaintop. Typically, these are two sites you want to put a little bit of planning in for, so you can arrange good transportation in advance. Usually you need a jeep or a 4×4, and make sure they will pick you up later!

Day 3: Travel to Tierradentro

OK, so this can be a difficult travel day between San Agustin and Tierradentro. Frankly, it will involve hours on buses that are winding around mountain roads. Be prepared! A little ginger could actually go a long way. It seems that the scenery is amazing, just a little hard to appreciate if you are struggling with motion sickness.

When you actually get there, In a way, In Tierradentro it is pretty different compared to San Agustin. So, the thing to know is that this town is smaller and tends to have fewer tourists. The reason people visit Tierradentro is the underground tombs, yet, or ‘hypogea’. That is something very, very different and cool. Frankly, a little creepy but historically very interesting, in a way.

Day 4: Exploring Tierradentro’s Hypogea and Return

Tierradentro is all about those underground tombs. In a way, this is a fascinating look into pre-Columbian burial traditions. You might explore various sites like Segovia, El Duende, and Alto del Aguacate. As a matter of fact, it needs to be said that visiting these sites includes climbing a bit, but there are some impressive views to make up for it.

The artwork and the architecture of the tombs is what it is all about. Honestly, that gives some interesting perspectives on the beliefs and ways of life of the cultures. In general, expect to spend the morning walking around and maybe descending into a few of the tombs, then heading back for an afternoon departure, maybe back to San Agustin or onwards.

Accommodation and Food

Accommodation tends to be OK with this kind of deal. In San Agustin, that could mean something in the middle of the range: comfy without being high end. Tierradentro’s lodgings, though, tend to be a bit more simple, as is the location. The food can vary wildly. Sometimes some tour packages might actually include meals, so maybe shop around for that! The other places have restaurants with pretty basic fare like ‘bandeja paisa’ and grilled meats.

What to Bring

Pack light, it seems, but actually thoughtfully: layers for changing climates. Really good walking boots for the sites should be something to look for, as should be strong insect repellent and sunscreen. Also, a headlamp for exploring tombs. Don’t forget that. Maybe. The essentials should include a camera, really, and a power bank because, as I was saying, there will be some long travel days with limited possibilities to charge it, you know. Actually, bring some cash. Places out there tend not to love credit cards, and ATMs can sometimes be few and far between, so that’s how it is.

Things To Watch Out For

Mountain roads might be dangerous sometimes. Take travel insurance, just in case! Petty theft can sometimes happen. Be very careful with your valuables. Actually, make sure that you only book with respectable tour operators that have all the permits. In fact, weather changes quickly. In some respects, it might go from sun to rain real fast! Always pack rain gear.

Is This Trip Right for You?

So, ‘Pure Archaeology Tierradentro San Agustin 4D3N’ actually could be amazing for anyone really keen to see some Colombian archaeological locations. So, bear in mind that getting there and around will involve some hard traveling on old buses and sometimes rough roads. If you have mobility problems this one could also be tough: the sites all need some walking and stair climbing. On the other hand, if you love archaeology and seeing ancient sites then frankly the travel might be worth it.

Key Takeaways

• Archaeological Focus: Experience two major Colombian archaeological parks.
• Physical Activity: Be prepared for extensive walking and climbing.
• Travel Days: Expect long hours on buses over challenging roads.
• Accommodation: Accommodation varies from comfortable to basic.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage with the pre-Columbian history and culture of Colombia.