Hey guys, let me tell you about a hidden gem in Colombia - the Las Lajas Sanctuary! This stunning sanctuary is perched on a hillside overlooking a river, and it's truly like nothing else you've ever seen.

The sanctuary is a beautiful neo-gothic cathedral that spans across the river canyon and looks like it's almost suspended in mid-air. The story goes that in the 18th century, a woman and her deaf-mute daughter were traveling through the jungle when they were caught in a storm. They sought refuge in a cave where they saw the Virgin Mary, who healed the daughter. When the daughter spoke, she kept saying "the mestiza is calling you", which led to the construction of the sanctuary.

Visiting the sanctuary is a must if you happen to be in the area, and it's a great day trip from the nearby city of Ipiales. The location is serene and peaceful, with views that are simply breathtaking. It's also a popular pilgrimage site for many Colombians and Catholics from around the world.

You can expect to see beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and a peaceful atmosphere that will leave you in awe. Plus, one thing is for sure - the Las Lajas Sanctuary is a spot that you won't ever forget!

The nearest airport to Las Lajas Sanctuary is the Pasto Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to the sanctuary. It is approximately a 2-hour drive from the airport. If you are coming from the nearest city, which is Ipiales, you can take a taxi or public transportation to the sanctuary. It is only a 10-minute drive from the city center.

The best time to visit Las Lajas Sanctuary in Colombia is from December to March, which is considered the dry season. However, please note that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds.

The weather at Las Lajas Sanctuary in Colombia is typically mild and tropical throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 60-80°F (16-27°C). The rainy season lasts from April to June and from October to December, with heavy downpours and thunderstorms. The dry season occurs from January to March and from July to September, with warm, sunny weather and occasional breezes. Overall, the climate is suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing year-round.

Food:
1. Set lunch menu at a local restaurant - 10,000 COP ($2.70 USD)
2. A la carte dinner at a mid-range restaurant - 30,000 COP ($8.10 USD)
3. Street food such as arepas or empanadas - 4,000 COP ($1.10 USD)

Accommodation:
1. Hostel or guesthouse - 35,000-50,000 COP ($9.50-13.50 USD) per night
2. Mid-range hotel - 100,000-150,000 COP ($27-40 USD) per night
3. Luxury hotel - 350,000-500,000 COP ($95-135 USD) per night

The Las Lajas Sanctuary in Colombia is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. While Colombia has had a history of high crime rates, the government has made efforts to improve security and reduce crime in recent years, especially in tourist areas.

In terms of safety for women, Colombia has made strides in promoting gender equality and preventing violence against women. However, it is still important for women to exercise caution and take necessary safety measures when traveling alone or at night.

Colombia has made progress in promoting racial and LGBTQ tolerance, but discrimination and violence against these communities still exist in some parts of the country. It is important for LGBTQ individuals and people of color to research the specific area they plan to visit and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

Overall, while there are still safety concerns to consider, the Las Lajas Sanctuary and Colombia in general are considered safe destinations for tourists.

Las Lajas Sanctuary is located in the department of Nariño, Colombia and has a population that is predominantly Hispanic with a small minority of indigenous and Afro-Colombian groups. The official language is Spanish, and the gender breakdown is roughly equal between men and women. As a predominantly Catholic pilgrimage site, the population is likely to be predominantly Christian, although there may be some diversity in religious practices among tourists and visitors. There is no reliable data available on racial breakdown statistics for visitors to Las Lajas Sanctuary.

Some of the activities which are common for tourists at Las Lajas Sanctuary, Colombia include:

1. Visiting the Basilica: The main attraction of Las Lajas Sanctuary is the basilica which is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Tourists can spend their time exploring the basilica, admiring its intricate design and learning about its history.

2. Religious activities: Las Lajas Sanctuary is a popular destination for religious tourism. Tourists can participate in mass and other religious activities that take place regularly at the basilica.

3. Exploring the surroundings: The sanctuary is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes such as the Guaitara River and the Andes Mountains. Tourists can wander around and explore the natural beauty of the region.

4. Shopping: Las Lajas Sanctuary is a famous shopping destination. Tourists can purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, and other local products from the marketplaces around the sanctuary.

5. Dining: Las Lajas Sanctuary has several restaurants and cafes offering local cuisine. Tourists can try out traditional Colombian dishes and enjoy the local culture and food.