Huila

Huila, officially the Department of Huila, is a department of Colombia located in the southwestern part of the country. It forms part of the Andean region and encompasses a range of landscapes from highland forests and valleys to plains used for agriculture. The capital and largest city is Neiva. The department takes its name from the Huila River, a regional watercourse that traverses the area.

Geography and notable features: Huila includes portions of the Andean highlands and fertile river valleys that support diverse ecosystems and productive agriculture. A prominent geographical feature is the Nevado del Huila, the highest active volcano in Colombia, reaching more than 5,000 meters in elevation and having a significant influence on the climate and periglacial landscapes of the region. The department’s southern and eastern areas also contain volcanic and geothermal zones that contribute to its natural heritage.

History and culture: The region has a long Indigenous and post-contact history. It is home to important archaeological and cultural sites, including the San Agustín Archaeological Park, which preserves a large collection of stone sculptures associated with ancient civilizations. San Agustín is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the area’s archaeological significance.

Economy and demographics: The economy is predominantly agricultural, with crops such as coffee, sugarcane, maize, and rice, along with livestock farming in the plains. Tourism related to natural landscapes and cultural heritage also plays a role. The department includes Neiva as its capital and major urban center, along with other municipalities such as Pitalito, Garzón, and Campoalegre, reflecting a mix of urban and rural communities.