Fodor's Expert Review Parque Arqueológico Alto de los Idolos

San Agustín Ruins Fodor's Choice

The Alto de los Idolos park, a few miles southwest of the town of Isnos, could be viewed as an extension of the San Agustín park, with a single ticket valid for both sites. The tombs and sculptures here—they're also courtesy of the unknown people the Spaniards called "the San Agustín culture"—are fewer in number but better preserved than in the larger park. The 23 anthropomorphic and zoomorphic monoliths are carved from volcanic stones set in a U-shaped grassy expanse, the largest standing nearly 15 feet tall. There are also a number of raised tombs and sarcophagi to examine. Although there is information in English as well as Spanish, the experience is infinitely richer with a guide. Make the outing a day trip to allow time to soak up the atmosphere and the stunning views from the park, and allow time to head to the smaller Alto de las Piedras park, north of Isnos. Here there are a few burial sites and statues, some preserving traces of the original coloring work.

Ruins Fodor's Choice Family

Quick Facts

San Agustín, Huila  418068, Colombia

1-444–0544-in Bogotá

www.icanh.gov.co

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: 20,000 pesos, Daily 8–4:30

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