A STUNNING CHURCH LIVES ON THE BORDER OF ECUADOR & COLOMBIA

and it's pretty crazy to see in real life. las lajas was built between 1916 and 1949, but it has a much longer history. they say it was inspired by a miracle said to have taken place in this canyon hundreds of years earlier, in 1754 [you can read more about that here]. we found out about this place by chance [i think browsing adam combs instagram], and had planned to take the bus from quito to cali, with a quick stop here after we crossed the border. 

PLANNING TO MAKE THE TRIP? HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO KNOW:

• while this church is stunning and equally as cool in person as it looks in pictures, it is really the only main attraction to see in this area – something to be aware of (las lajas is 20 minutes from the border town of ipiales which isn't worth seeing. we slept at a small little hotel in pasto)  
• the bus ride is long – so if you're in a hurry to cross the border, i wouldn't recommend this path as you'll likely have to sleep in a little town along the way 
• the taxi prices are negotiable, and drivers will likely start with a price that is much higher than you really should end up paying