Nicknamed the “Musical Capital of Colombia”, Ibagué was established by the Spanish in 1550 in the Colombian Andes. It’s home to one of the most prestigious conservatories of music in Colombia and hosts an annual folk festival, while it also serves as a gateway to the stratovolcano of Nevado del Tolima.
Things to do in Ibagué
In the heart of Ibagué is Parque Simon Bolívar, a bustling square lined by some of the city’s most important government buildings. It’s watched over by the magnificent Inmaculada Concepcion Cathedral, a Spanish colonial landmark that features a Swiss tower clock and three French bells. Take note of the elegant marble chancel and the statue of Pope John Paul II that decorates the facade.
Ibagué is also home to the Tolima Museum of Art, which showcases an impressive collection of Colombian and Latin American works. Ricardo Acevedo, Leonora Carrington and Fernando Botero are all represented in its gallery spaces and the museum hosts educational and cultural programs throughout the year.
A short drive north-west of Ibagué is Combeima Canyon, a forested region that provides habitat for spectacled bears. Stretch your legs along one of the walking trails while breathing in the fresh mountain air and listening to the sound of the Combeima River. Further north lies Los Nevados National Park, which is famed for its snow-capped volcanoes, emerald lakes and towering wax palms.
Getting around Ibagué
Perales Airport is a 20-minute drive from the centre of Ibagué and has flights to destinations across Colombia. Long-distance buses connect from Bogota, Cali and Medellin to Ibagué while mini-buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Ibagué can easily be explored on foot while renting a car is the most convenient way of accessing Tolima’s natural attractions.