Huila is a region where nature, history, and traditions come together to tell the story of its identity. “Between the River, the Legend, and the Traditions of Huila” is an experience designed to discover this richness in an authentic and personal way, through a journey along the Magdalena River, the history of its Indigenous peoples, and one of the department’s most representative culinary traditions. This tour connects travelers with the essence of Neiva and Fortalecillas, combining nature, culture, history, and gastronomy in an experience lasting approximately three to three and a half hours, accompanied throughout by a local guide. A Journey That Begins Along the Magdalena River The experience begins at the iconic Magdalena River waterfront in Neiva, where the guide welcomes the group and provides an introduction to the region and its rich history. One of the first stops is the Monument to Cacica Gaitana, an important figure of Indigenous resistance and a fundamental part of Huila’s historical memory. The legend of La Gaitana tells the story of an Indigenous woman’s resistance against the Spanish conquistadors. According to tradition, La Gaitana was an Indigenous chief whose son was captured and killed by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Añasco. Devastated by the death of her son, La Gaitana decided to take revenge. She united several Indigenous communities and led a rebellion against the Spanish. Eventually, she managed to capture Pedro de Añasco and, according to legend, subjected him to punishment in revenge for the death of her son. As a result, La Gaitana became a symbol of Indigenous resistance, courage, and struggle in Huila. During this part of the experience, travelers learn about the history of La Gaitana and the Indigenous peoples who inhabited this territory, gaining an understanding of the cultural context surrounding the journey before setting out on the river. Navigating the Magdalena River After the historical introduction, travelers board a traditional canoe for an approximately one-hour journey along the Magdalena River. The journey offers the opportunity to appreciate the landscapes surrounding the river, observe some of the local birdlife, and enjoy a different perspective of Huila. The boat ride becomes a moment to connect with nature and with one of Colombia’s most important rivers. Fortalecillas: Tradition and the Flavors of Huila The journey continues to Fortalecillas, a rural district of Neiva renowned for its tradition of making the typical bizcocho de achira. This community represents an important part of Huila’s culinary heritage and gives visitors the opportunity to meet the people who continue to keep this tradition alive. Discovering the Traditional Process of Making Bizcochos de Achira At a local artisanal bakery, travelers discover firsthand how traditional bizcochos de achira are made. During approximately one and a half to two hours, local artisans explain each stage of the process, from preparing the dough with achira starch and fresh cuajada cheese to shaping and baking the biscuits. This experience offers an insight into the value of a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and today forms an important part of Huila’s culinary identity. A Tasting of Traditional Flavors The experience concludes with a tasting of some of the region’s most representative products, including: Freshly baked bizcochos de achira Fresh local quesillo cheese Gaseosa Cóndor, a traditional soft drink from the region Coffee from Huila It is an opportunity to discover Huila through its flavors and to learn about products that form part of the everyday life and traditions of its communities. An Experience to Discover the Essence of Huila More than just a sightseeing tour, this experience offers a closer connection with the identity of the region. Navigating the Magdalena River, learning about the story of Cacica Gaitana, and discovering a local culinary tradition allow travelers to understand different aspects of Huila’s culture in a single journey. “Between the River, the Legend, and the Traditions of Huila” is an invitation to discover Huila through its landscapes, stories, traditions, and people. Experience Information Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes Starting point: Magdalena River waterfront, Neiva Schedule: Subject to availability and advance reservation Capacity: 1 to 30 people Included Boat transfer from Neiva to Fortalecillas Local guide throughout the experience Visit to an artisanal bizcocho de achira bakery Hands-on introduction to the traditional production process Bizcocho de achira tasting Quesillo Gaseosa Cóndor Huila coffee Come, discover, learn, and enjoy. Turn your journey into an experience filled with stories, culture, and unforgettable moments.

There are places you visit, and others you truly experience. Paicol, in the department of Huila, belongs to the second category: a destination where landscapes, culture, and tranquility come together to offer an authentic experience, far from large crowds and the fast pace of the cities. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and lush green landscapes, Paicol preserves the special character of Huila's small towns, where time seems to move a little more slowly. Here, every journey brings you closer not only to nature, but also to the stories, traditions, and people that make this region such a special place. A Culture That Lives in Its Streets Getting to know Paicol also means discovering the culture of Huila. Its traditions, cuisine, celebrations, and the everyday lives of its residents are all part of an identity that has been shaped over generations. In its streets, you can feel the tranquility that characterizes small towns, while also experiencing the daily life of a community that continues to keep its customs alive. Every encounter, every conversation, and every shared story reveals a different side of Paicol: one that is found not only in its landscapes, but also in the way its people live and feel connected to their land. Adventure and Nature Paicol is a destination that invites you to explore and enjoy nature in many different ways. One of its main attractions is Cascada La Serpiente, a waterfall approximately 40 meters high located along the La Motilona stream. Hiking and swimming in its natural pools offer the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful setting surrounded by tropical dry forest. The Quebrada La Motilona is another place not to be missed, with crystal-clear waters, waterfalls, natural pools, and caves that can be discovered along its trails. For those looking for a little more adventure, Paicol offers rafting on the Páez River, as well as canyoning and rappelling at its waterfalls. You can also explore Caja de Agua, a cave approximately 600 meters long, where the route follows the course of the Santa Inés stream through natural pools, waterfalls, and rock galleries. All of this makes Paicol an ideal place to combine adventure, hiking, nature observation, and relaxation, always accompanied by local guides and with respect for the ecosystems that make this region so unique. A Destination for Traveling Without Rushing Paicol is for those who want to travel differently. For those who prefer quiet trails over crowds, authentic experiences over rushed itineraries, and a closer connection with the region over conventional tourism. It is a place where you can walk without rushing, take in the landscape, discover a tradition, spend time with the local community, and let yourself be surprised by the simple beauty of a town surrounded by nature. And perhaps that is precisely where its charm lies: Paicol does not need to rush to surprise you. Would you like to discover Paicol and southern Colombia for yourself? At Chaska Tours, we would be happy to create a personalized journey combining nature, adventure, and authentic local encounters in Huila. Contact us and start planning your trip to Paicol.

What Happened and What Matters Most to Us Updated:: 12. August 2026 On the morning of August 10, 2026, Colombia was struck by a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake. The epicenter was located near San José del Palmar in the department of Chocó, at a depth of approximately 103 kilometers. The Colombian Geological Service has classified it as the strongest earthquake recorded in Colombia in the 21st century. Aftershocks remain possible. Chocó and parts of Risaralda, Quindío, Caldas, and Valle del Cauca have been particularly affected. For us at Chaska Tours, there is one personal update we want to share first: thankfully, our team, our travelers, our families, and our loved ones are all safe. At the same time, our thoughts are with everyone who has lost loved ones, suffered injuries, or had their homes damaged or destroyed by the earthquake. Rescue operations and structural inspections are still underway in several affected areas. In Cali in particular, emergency services continue to work at several critical locations, and authorities are asking people to stay well clear of these areas. For many travelers planning to visit Colombia in the coming days or weeks, there is understandably another important question: "Can I still travel to Colombia?" Our current assessment is: Yes, generally you can. Based on the situation as it stands today, we do not believe there is a need to cancel a trip to Colombia altogether. The effects of the earthquake vary considerably from one region to another. While some areas in western Colombia have suffered significant damage, much of the country's established travel routes have not been affected to the same extent. The important question is therefore not whether Colombia as a whole can still be visited, but rather which regions are included in your particular itinerary and what the current situation is in those places. Is It Still Possible to Travel in Colombia After the Earthquake? Yes. Travel to and within Colombia remains possible. However, in the areas directly affected by the earthquake, we would currently avoid traveling according to a rigid itinerary. This applies particularly to Cali and Valle del Cauca, as well as parts of the Coffee Region in Risaralda, Caldas, and Quindío. Chocó, where the epicenter was located, has also been significantly affected. Regional airports and roads in these departments may be temporarily closed or operating with restrictions. There is an important distinction that can easily get lost in the headlines: an affected department is not automatically completely closed to travelers. At the same time, an open airport does not necessarily mean that everyday tourism at the destination has already returned to normal. Air travel, for example, has already stabilized considerably. Colombia's national airspace is operational, and most airports affected by the earthquake have resumed commercial operations, in some cases under special operating conditions. For Travelers, These Differences Are Particularly Important: Cali: Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport has fully resumed regular commercial operations as of today. Rescue operations, however, are still underway at several locations in Cali itself. We therefore would not assume from the airport's status alone that every hotel, activity, or route within the city is operating without disruption. Armenia and Quindío: El Edén International Airport has resumed commercial operations. At the same time, conditions vary considerably within Quindío. In the popular tourist destination of Salento, for example, damage to traditional buildings and parts of the historic center has been reported. A planned trip to the region does not necessarily need to be canceled, but accommodations, activities, and road access should be individually confirmed beforehand. Manizales and Caldas: Commercial flights have resumed at La Nubia Airport, although special operating conditions are currently in place while damage to the control tower is being repaired. Here too, we recommend confirming individual travel services before arrival. Pereira and Risaralda: This is currently where travelers following traditional Coffee Region itineraries should expect the most significant disruption. Regular commercial operations at Matecaña International Airport remain suspended for the time being due to damage. At present, operations are mainly limited to government, medical, rescue, and humanitarian flights. For anyone traveling through Colombia's Coffee Region, this does not mean that "the Coffee Region is closed." Instead, it means that an itinerary originally planned through Pereira, Salento, Armenia, and Manizales should currently be reviewed carefully and adjusted where necessary. This Is Exactly Where Flexibility Matters More Than Canceling an Entire Trip Other classic Colombia travel routes are outside the areas currently identified as the main focus of earthquake damage. These include itineraries through Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena and the Caribbean coast, Santa Marta, the Amazon, and Huila with San Agustín. Based on the current situation, these regions are not experiencing a comparable concentration of earthquake-related disruptions. Of course, the usual regional considerations, such as road conditions, weather, and the local security situation, should always be assessed individually regardless of the earthquake. Our current assessment is based on the areas where the most significant impacts have been reported, as well as the stable operation of Colombia's national airspace. For us, this is an important point: Colombia is an enormous and geographically diverse country. A major event affecting several regions in western Colombia does not automatically mean that travel along the Caribbean coast, in Bogotá, Antioquia, Huila, or the Amazon is affected in the same way. What Travelers Should Keep in Mind Right Now If you have already booked a trip to Colombia or are arriving soon, there is no need to panic. However, taking a few additional precautions over the coming days makes sense. Check your flights again shortly before departure. This is particularly important for flights to or within Cali and the Coffee Region. Travelers should confirm their flight status directly with the airline. Colombia's aviation authorities have specifically recommended that passengers with potentially affected connections verify their latest flight information through official channels. Reconfirm accommodations and activities in affected destinations. A hotel may be open while a nearby road remains closed. A coffee finca may be operating normally even though buildings are being inspected elsewhere in the same department. Particularly in Cali, Salento, Pereira, and Manizales, we would currently look at each individual stage of a trip rather than making general assumptions about an entire region. Stay away from rescue operations and damaged areas. Damaged buildings and restricted areas are not tourist attractions. In Cali, authorities have explicitly asked people to stay away from active rescue zones so emergency services can work without obstruction. For us, showing this respect toward local communities is just as much a part of responsible travel as looking after your own safety. Allow additional flexibility for overland travel. Roads in the most affected departments may be subject to local restrictions. A route that remains technically accessible may therefore take longer than usual or need to be changed at short notice. Particularly for a journey through the Coffee Region, we would currently avoid unnecessarily tight connections. Be prepared for aftershocks without letting them cause unnecessary anxiety. The Servicio Geológico Colombiano considers further aftershocks likely following an earthquake of this magnitude. Travelers should take local guidance seriously, avoid entering damaged buildings, and follow instructions from their accommodation, tour guides, and local authorities if another earthquake occurs. For our own trips, the current situation means one thing above all: safety comes before the itinerary. If a particular stage of a journey cannot be operated safely or responsibly, we adjust it. Fortunately, Colombia offers an extraordinary number of alternatives. Instead of using a connection through Pereira that may currently be difficult, for example, an itinerary can be redesigned through other parts of the Coffee Region or place greater emphasis on Antioquia, Bogotá, Huila, the Caribbean, or another suitable region. And just as importantly, we do not want to downplay an event of this magnitude, nor do we want to create the impression that all of Colombia has suddenly become a crisis zone. Neither would reflect the reality on the ground. The earthquake in Colombia was severe, and its consequences have been tragic for many families. For travelers, however, the appropriate response is not automatically to avoid the entire country. It means traveling informed, treating directly affected communities and destinations with respect, and remaining flexible wherever the situation requires it. Based on the current situation, this remains entirely possible for a large proportion of trips throughout Colombia. FAQ Can I still travel to Colombia after the earthquake? Yes. Based on the current situation, there is no need to cancel a trip to Colombia altogether. The most significant impacts are concentrated in Chocó, Risaralda, Quindío, Caldas, and Valle del Cauca. Travel in other parts of the country has not been disrupted to a comparable extent by the earthquake. For itineraries passing through affected regions, however, the latest local conditions should be checked before each stage of the journey. Which tourist regions in Colombia have been most affected by the earthquake? For travelers, the areas currently most relevant are Cali and Valle del Cauca, as well as parts of the Coffee Region in Risaralda, Quindío, and Caldas. Chocó is also among the departments most affected by the earthquake. Conditions within these regions can vary significantly from one destination to another. Are the airports in Cali and the Coffee Region open? As of August 12, 2026, Cali Airport is operating normally again. Armenia has also resumed commercial operations, while commercial flights are possible in Manizales under special operating conditions. Regular commercial flights at Pereira Airport remain suspended for the time being. Colombia's national airspace is operating normally. Nevertheless, air travelers should confirm their specific flight with the airline shortly before departure. Should I cancel my trip to Colombia's Coffee Region after the earthquake? Not automatically. Conditions differ significantly between Pereira, Armenia, Salento, Manizales, and the surrounding rural areas. For travel in the coming days, we would review the itinerary individually and, where necessary, postpone, replace, or reroute particular stages. From our perspective, making flexible adjustments is much more sensible than canceling an entire trip to Colombia. Planning to travel to Colombia in the coming days or weeks and unsure what the earthquake means for your itinerary? Feel free to contact us at any time. We don't simply look at a headline or make assumptions about an entire department. We look at your actual journey: your flights, transfers, road connections, accommodations, and planned activities. Thanks to our local network, we can adjust individual stages flexibly whenever the situation requires it. The safety of our travelers will always be our highest priority. At the same time, we do not want to discourage you from traveling to Colombia when your journey can be carried out responsibly with only minor adjustments, or no changes at all. For those who would like to help people affected by the earthquake, one option we recommend is supporting the Cruz Roja Colombiana (Colombian Red Cross), an established humanitarian organization providing assistance to affected communities on the ground and a trusted point of contact for donations.

Experience the magic of Colombia in the company of like-minded individuals. Discover our exciting group tours that seamlessly blend adventure, culture, and nature. Join a vibrant travel community and explore Colombia together with Chaska Tours. Group travel Discover Colombia and meet people who share your interests and ideas about the trip. A comfortable way to travel that allows to keep costs lower without sacrificing comfort and enjoying a personalized service. Coffee, Culture & Caribbean 2026 Bogotá – San Agustín – Popayan – Silvia – Cali – Santa Marta – Tayrona National Park – Cartagena information German: English: Spanish: 2-12 participants 14 days English, German or Spanish Fixed Departure Dates: German English Spanish 03.10.2026 – 16.10.2026 17.10.2026 – 30.10.2026 19.09.2026 – 02.10.2026 26.09.2026 – 09.10.2026 10.10.2026 – 23.10.2026 24.10.2026 – 06.11.2026 07.11.2026 – 20.11.2026 21.11.2026 – 04.12.2026 05.12.2026 – 11.12.2026 Contact +57 318 3931897 info@chaskatours.co Contact Form Price from 2.100 USD per Person (single supplement) Spanish Bilingual Colombia Compact & Active 2027 Bogotá – San Agustín – Tatacoa Desert – Salento – Cocora-Valley – Santa Marta – Tayrona National Park – Cartagena information German: English: 2-12 participants 12 days / 11 nights English or German Fixed Departure Dates: German English 30.01.2027 - 10.02.2027 06.03.2027 - 17.03.2027 03.04.2027 - 14.04.2027 17.04.2027 - 28.04.2027 29.05.2027 - 09.06.2027 12.06.2027 - 23.06.2027 26.06.2027 - 07.07.2027 17.07.2027 - 28.07.2027 28.08.2027 - 08.09.2027 18.09.2027 - 29.09.2027 02.10.2027 - 13.10.2027 20.11.2027 - 01.12.2027 16.01.2027 - 27.01.2027 20.02.2027 - 03.03.2027 01.05.2027 - 12.05.2027 (PROMO!) 15.05.2027 - 26.05.2027 10.07.2027 - 21.07.2027 24.07.2027 - 04.08.2027 07.08.2027 - 18.08.2027 21.08.2027 - 01.09.2027 16.10.2027 - 27.10.2027 (PROMO!) Contact +57 318 3931897 info@chaskatours.co Contact Form Price from 2.930 USD per Person (single supplement) Book Now Colombia Group Tour 2027 – Experience Culture, Coffee & the Caribbean Actively Discover Colombia in 2027 on a 12-day small group adventure from Bogotá to Cartagena. Explore the Coffee Region, Tatacoa Desert, Tayrona National Park, and vibrant colonial cities while experiencing authentic culture, nature, and local encounters. Michael Gold May 25 5 min read Trekking Expedition to Laguna Magdalena (January 11–14, 2027) | Limited Spots Explore the source of the Magdalena River on a unique trekking expedition through Páramo Las Papas. Four days of adventure across páramos, cloud forests, and rural communities in one of Colombia’s most remote and authentic regions. Michael Gold May 6 3 min read

Travel agency and tour operator in San Agustín, Huila, specializing in trips throughout the country with bilingual guides. Committed to sustainable tourism. Colombia: Where magic meets reality. Tailored and individual trips with Chaska Tours Colombia. COLOMBIA: WHERE MAGIC MEETS REALITY. Authentic travel experiences in Colombia with Chaska Tours. Book now Request Tailor-Made Trip THIS IS CHASKA TOURS Since 2005, we have been accompanying countless enthusiastic travelers as they explore Colombia. Our headquarter is located in the picturesque town of San Agustín , one of the archaeological capitals of Latin America. Our aim is to promote sustainable tourism in the country by supporting local communities, respecting natural resources and providing authentic and responsible travel experiences. About Us Responsibility towards cultural heritage Responsibility towards flora and fauna. Responsibility towards society and minors. Continue reading CUSTOMIZED TRAVEL EXPERIENCES Our travel experiences are unique and tailored to the needs of our customers. We offer different types of tours including adventure tours, cultural tours and ecotourism all over the country. Contact us to plan your next trip. Request a tailor-made trip More than 15 days Quick View Individual trip Untamed Colombia: Nature and Adventure Without Limits (18 Days) Quick View Individual trip Iconic Treks Across Colombia (17 Days) Quick View Individual trip Birds and Biodiversity in Colombia’s Landscapes: The Andes and Caribbean (16 Days) Quick View Individual trip Wild Colombia: Encounters with Nature's Biodiversity (18 Days) Shop THATS WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY “I had the best trip of my life with Chaska Tours Colombia. The experience was simply unforgettable!” Maria 6-Star Review Sandy R. (USA), May 2024 We were three experienced couples who chose Chaska Tours from San Agustín for our 12-day trip to Colombia in April 2024. It was our first time visiting the country. When comparing travel agencies, Chaska’s communication, expertise, honesty, and efficiency stood out immediately. It proved to be an excellent choice. From planning to execution to real-time support during the trip, our trip planner was—by far—the best travel partner we have had in three decades of extensive travel. During the planning phase, he offered the best value for money among all the agencies we contacted, stayed fully within budget, and provided excellent itinerary recommendations. His honesty, cost awareness, and ability to tailor the trip to our needs were so impressive that after our first conversations, I felt completely comfortable letting him design the full package—knowing he clearly had our best interests at heart. His depth of knowledge and advice became even more evident once we were actually on the journey. We do not speak Spanish. Whether it was organizing all domestic flights and seat assignments, providing boarding passes in real time, handling luggage variations, maintaining daily communication with our group and guides, dealing with changes or emergencies, or ensuring suitable accommodations through direct coordination with each hotel’s front desk—our agent was always available, responsive, and in good spirits. His attention to detail was remarkable and exceeded every expectation. The experiences, guides, and schedules he arranged were outstanding. Even our guides mentioned that what our travel planner organized for us went far beyond the standard offerings usually provided by larger agencies. They consistently and sincerely praised the trip planning—truly the highest compliment coming from them. Whether it was the guide in Medellín, the experiences in Salento and the Cocora Valley, the visit to Cartagena, or the exceptional activities in Bogotá (especially the private tasting menu and the fruit market tour, both led by a dedicated two-person team that exceeded all expectations)—he truly made this journey unforgettable. There is no shortage of agencies offering trips to Colombia, some of them quite large. My advice: don’t waste time, energy, or money. Skip the comparison lists and the micromanagement—Chaska Tours is an outstanding choice. You will not be disappointed. From three grateful couples (Chicago, Sacramento, USA / Chennai, India) CURRENT NEWS Continue reading Neiva and Fortalecillas: A Journey Through History, Flavors, and the Magdalena River From Neiva along the Magdalena River to Fortalecillas, this unique experience combines the story of Cacica Gaitana with river landscapes and the traditional production of bizcochos de achira. An authentic encounter with the culture, people, and flavors of Huila. Yesica Jojoa 18 hours ago Paicol (Huila): Where Nature, Culture, and Adventure Come Together Discover Paicol in Huila, an authentic destination surrounded by mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. Experience local culture, hiking, rafting, caves, and the peaceful atmosphere of rural Colombia. Karen Lopez Aug 20 Colombia Earthquake 2026: What Travelers Need to Know Now Following the August 2026 earthquake in Colombia, many travelers are wondering whether it is still safe to visit. Here is what you need to know about affected regions, airports, the Coffee Region, and traveling responsibly in Colombia right now. Michael Gold Aug 12 Laguna Guaitipán: A Place of Nature, History, and Legends in Huila Discover Laguna Guaitipán near Pitalito, where impressive natural landscapes meet Indigenous history and centuries-old legends. Explore walking trails, birdlife, water activities, regional culture, and one of southern Huila's lesser-known destinations. Yudi Maca Aug 12 My Internship Experience at Chaska Tours in Colombia What is it like to spend four months interning in Colombia without speaking Spanish? For Business Psychology student Renda Sevilgen, her internship at Chaska Tours became much more than just professional experience. From working on exciting digital and social media projects to living surrounded by nature at Finca El Maco and becoming part of the local team, her time in San Agustín was filled with new experiences, personal growth, and unforgettable memories. Renda Sevilgen Aug 10 OUR PARTNERS

Learn more about our company. Our imprint page provides legal information and contact details for Chaska Tours. Find out who we are and how to get in touch with us. IMPRINT Chaska Tours S.A.S. San Agustín, Huila, Colombia +57 318 393 1897 info@chaskatours.co www.chaskatours.co Managing Director: René Suter Registration Number: RNT 13120 This is the imprint of Chaska Tours Colombia, a travel agency in San Agustín, Huila Colombia. The imprint contains the legally required information such as the company name, address, contact details, registration number and other relevant information. Please note that the legal notice information may vary depending on the type of company. We therefore recommend that you seek legal advice to ensure that all required information is provided correctly.