In San Juan de Pasto, Colombia, the local drinks reflect the city’s Andean heritage and unique cultural identity. Here’s a guide to what to drink when visiting Pasto:

1. Canelazo This traditional hot drink is perfect for Pasto’s cool Andean climate. Made with **aguardiente**, panela (unrefined cane sugar), cinnamon, and water, **canelazo** is often served during festivals and chilly evenings. It’s a comforting blend of warmth and spice.

2. Champús A refreshing and unique beverage, **champús** is made from corn, panela, naranjilla (a tangy fruit), and spices like cinnamon and cloves. Served cold, it has a slightly thick texture and a sweet-tangy flavor that’s beloved in the Andean region.

3. Hervido A specialty in Nariño, **hervido** is a warm cocktail made with fruit pulp (such as lulo or mora), aguardiente, and panela. The mixture is heated to create a rich and flavorful drink, popular during gatherings and celebrations.

4. Coffee Pasto is part of Colombia’s coffee culture, and you can find excellent cups of locally sourced coffee here. Whether you prefer it **tinto** (black) or with milk, the coffee in Pasto is aromatic and a staple for locals and visitors alike.

5. Chicha de Maíz Rooted in indigenous traditions, **chicha de maíz** is a fermented corn drink that has been enjoyed in the Andean region for centuries. It has a slightly sour taste and is often served during traditional festivals or community events.

6. Fresh Fruit Juices Pasto’s markets are filled with tropical and Andean fruits, and fresh juices are a popular choice. Look for juices made from **lulo**, **guanábana**, **mora** (blackberry), or **tomate de árbol** (tree tomato), which are both refreshing and unique to the region.

7. Aguardiente Nariñense The local version of Colombia’s iconic anise-flavored liquor, **aguardiente nariñense**, is a must-try. It’s often consumed straight or as part of cocktails like hervido, and it’s a central part of social and celebratory traditions in Pasto.

8. Mistela This traditional liqueur is made by infusing fruits like berries or citrus in alcohol with added sugar. **Mistela** is often served as a digestif or during festive occasions, offering a sweet and flavorful end to a meal.

Where to Drink You can enjoy these drinks in traditional cafes, local markets, and during the famous **Carnaval de Negros y Blancos**, where beverages like hervido and canelazo are staples. Whether warming up with a hot drink or sipping a refreshing juice, Pasto’s drink offerings showcase its Andean roots and cultural vibrancy.