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The Top 10 Things to See and Do in Santander, Colombia

Santander department is one of Colombia’s most beautiful and popular regions for tourists to visit. With stunning natural scenery, great food, lovely little towns and villages, and plenty of fun activities to enjoy, there’s so much to see and do on a trip to Santander. Here’s our top 10.

Visit the chicamocha canyon.

Colombia’s biggest canyon is a truly majestic sight, and probably the most iconic natural spectacle you can enjoy on a trip to Santander. It’s a huge place, but the best way to experience it is to visit the Chicamocha Canyon National Park , where you can enjoy ziplining, a trip across the canyon by cable-car, and stunning panoramic views.

Rock-climbing in Mesa de Los Santos

Paragliding.

Santander is Colombia’s extreme sports region, and there are so many excellent activities you can enjoy during a visit to the department. A standout activity, though, is paragliding : there are fantastic paragliding activities available in the regional capital of Bucaramanga and also from extreme sports capital San Gil. The best of the best, however, is to take a flight over the majestic Chicahmocha Canyon.

Explore Colombia’s prettiest town

The delightful little town of Barichara is often called Colombia’s prettiest town, and there’s definitely some truth in that statement: the cobbled streets, red-tiled roofs, and whitewashed walls of Barichara are like a Hollywood filmmaker’s dream, and spending a few days wandering the streets of the town is the perfect way to relax on a trip to Colombia.

Extreme sports in San Gil

This could easily just be a list of 10 amazing extreme sports in San Gil , such is the diversity of the activities on offer in the small Santander town. In just a few days here you can go bungee jumping, white-water rafting, caving, canyoning, rappelling, zip lining, and much more. It’s like an adventure playground for adrenaline junkies, and one of Santander’s must-visit spots.

Sample big-bottomed ants!

Santander’s most well-known culinary product are the famous hormigas culonas – or big-bottomed ants – which are either delicious or terrifying, depending on your position on eating creepy-crawlies! You can find them for sale in most towns and cities in the region, and it’s just not a trip to Santander without at least nibbling on a few ants!

Quebrada Las Gachas in Guadalupe

Santander’s newest hot tourist attraction is the beautiful red river of Las Gachas just outside the little town of Guadalupe. The clear waters of the river flow over red rocks, making the water appear bright red. There are also deep holes eroded in the bedrock, forming little ‘jacuzzis’ that you can sit in, enjoying the warm Santander sun and cool water.

Visit the caves of Florian

The little town of Florian has been nicknamed “the town of open windows” due to it’s most famous feature: a giant cave overlooking the town with a huge waterfall tumbling out of the open cave mouth. You can admire the cave and waterfall from Florian, or take a trip into the cave system to admire the view out over the town and distant mountains.

Take a coffee tour

Mesa de Los Santos is a large coffee producing region, and it’s just not a trip to Colombia without a coffee tour! A coffee tour of the beautiful Hacienda El Roble, which produces Cafe Mesa de Los Santos, one of Colombia’s finest coffees, is the perfect way to learn about Colombia’s finest product in a lovely, peaceful setting.

Wander the colonial streets of Giron

Giron isn’t as well-known as Barichara, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a lovely little town (in fact, it is one of Colombia’s 17 ‘Heritage Towns’). Located right alongside the departmental capital of Bucaramanga, Giron’s colonial architecture and cobbled streets are the perfect escape from the city, and can easily be visited on a day-trip.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Santander, Colombia

Hola! We are Liz & Cris – a Colombian entrepreneurial couple who love travel, photography, nature and landscapes. We enjoy traveling paths that lead to incredible destinations, hidden gems and corners full of colors, flavors and cultures. Liz was born in San Gil, the tourist capital of Santander, while Chris is from a little town called Chima which is also in Santander.

If you have never visited Colombia before, it needs to be at the top of your bucket list! It’s full of magic, happy people, beautiful landscapes and delicious gastronomy. We are very proud to be Colombians – and it’s our pleasure to discover the different roads and mountains of our homeland.

We have been lucky enough to visit cities/towns such as Cali, Santa Cruz de Mompox and Villa de Leyva, the snow-capped peaks of Sierra Nevada del Cocuy and Santa Isabel, the spectacular national park of Tayrona, and the Fonce and Guejar rivers. We still have many places to visit in Colombia like La Guajira , the Amazon, the Tatacoa Desert , Cartagena, Nevado del Huila, Guaviare and Cerros de Mavecure. As you can see, our list is long!

But one area of the country we know well is Santander. So far, we have visited 38 of its 87 municipalities and each one is stunning! We enjoy exploring every corner of this department, which is why we stop in every little town we reach. Santander is wonderful and there is a lot to see.

There is Barichara (the most charming town in Colombia), the Chicamocha Canyon (boasting ancient paths that you can trek), the Santurban Paramo which is a giant water reserve, and the Ventanas de Tisquizoque with its waterfall of over 300 meters that emerges from a mountain. But by no means are these the only places to visit in Santander. Below we outline 10 of the best spots to tick off on your travels through Santander.

10 Best Places to Visit in Santander

1. chicamocha canyon.

The Chicamocha Canyon is a hiker’s paradise, beckoning adventurers from around Colombia. This natural wonder – often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Colombia” – presents an enticing landscape for exploration. Its rugged terrain features dramatic cliffs, verdant vegetation and the meandering Chicamocha River – creating a visually appealing backdrop.

Numerous well-maintained trails wind through the canyon, providing hikers with an array of options – from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. As you traverse the canyon, you will be rewarded with panoramic vistas that showcase the region’s awe-inspiring beauty. The Chicamocha Canyon is, without a doubt, an unmissable destination while visiting Santander!

San Gil, nestled in the heart of Santander, is a true gem for travelers. This picturesque town boasts a vibrant cultural scene, charming colonial architecture and a friendly atmosphere that makes it a fantastic place to spend a couple of days. Yet, what sets San Gil apart is its reputation as the “Adventure Capital of Santander”. Adrenaline junkies flock here for an array of extreme sports including white-water rafting, paragliding and caving.

3. Barichara

Barichara stands as one of the most enchanting towns in Colombia! This well-preserved colonial jewel exudes an undeniable charm with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings and red-tiled roofs. The town’s historic center is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, drawing visitors into a bygone era with its meticulously preserved structures.

In addition to its architecture, Barichara boasts gorgeous surroundings. The town is perched on a headland overlooking the Suarez River, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for horse riding. The countryside, with its rolling hills and dramatic landscapes, only adds to its attractiveness.

Furthermore, Barichara’s tranquil ambiance and warm-hearted residents make it an ideal retreat from modern life. It’s a place where time seems to slow down – inviting travelers to wander its streets, appreciate its art galleries and savor the local cuisine. Barichara is a testament to Colombia’s rich history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit town in Santander.

4. Santurban Paramo

The Santurban Paramo demands exploration on any trip to Santander. This high-altitude ecosystem, often referred to as a “water factory”, is a crucial source of freshwater for the country. Its otherworldly landscape features expanses of rolling moorlands, glacial lakes, and unique flora and fauna. Visitors can revel in its pristine beauty and hike along scenic trails while gaining an appreciation for the paramo’s ecological significance.

5. Ventanas de Tisquizoque

One of Colombia’s hidden gems , Ventanas de Tisquizoque is a place of unparalleled beauty that captivates all who visit! Its name, which translates to “Tisquizoque’s Windows,” hints at the unique rock formations that resemble windows carved into the mountainsides. These natural arches frame extraordinary vistas of the surrounding landscapes, making Ventanas de Tisquizoque a must-see destination for its sheer aesthetic appeal.

Moreover, the site features a magnificent waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs. Visitors can partake in a variety of activities including hiking, photography, and enjoying the sight and sound of the waterfall. The site is also ideal for picnics, offering a serene setting for relaxation. Additionally, birdwatching and stargazing are popular pastimes here.

6. Cascada de los Caballeros

Cascada de los Caballeros is an exciting addition to any Santander itinerary. This waterfall is surrounded by a pristine rainforest. Hiking to the waterfall provides an adventure in itself and once you arrive, the ambiance and the chance for a refreshing dip make it a must-visit attraction in Colombia.

Another heritage town worth checking out is Giron. It features well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets and a delightful atmosphere to immerse yourself in. The town’s plaza, surrounded by beautiful buildings, is a hub of culture. Giron also boasts great cuisine and craft shops. Its proximity to Bucaramanga makes it an ideal base for exploring the region!

8. Embalse de Topocoro

Embalse de Topocoro is an idyllic nature preserve set amid lush green hills and rugged terrain. Its calm waters provide opportunities for boating and relaxation. The surrounding area is popular for hiking as well, with trails offering jaw-dropping views of the reservoir and its verdant surroundings.

Curiti is a culturally rich town that offers an enticing blend of natural beauty and local traditions. Its cobbled streets and colonial architecture exude a quaint charm, making it a perfect place for leisurely strolls. The town is also a hub for adventure seekers serving as a gateway to nearby attractions like the Chicamocha Canyon, and adventure sports like paragliding and caving.

10. Bosque de Pandora

Bosque de Pandora presents adventurous travelers with a wide range of exhilarating experiences. This natural reserve is a haven for hiking enthusiasts, with well-maintained trails leading through lush forests – unveiling the region’s rich biodiversity. Visitors can explore caves, observe wildlife, have campfires and even discover underground waterfalls!

Final Thoughts on Santander

We Santandereans are very good people – temperamental but cordial. We like to be kind to visitors and make them feel right at home! Like all Colombians, we are happy and thoroughly enjoy life. Travelers will surely fall in love with the customs, landscapes and food of this department. As the saying goes: “He who steps on Santander land becomes Santander”.

You can visit these lands at any time – whether it be during the dry or cloudy season. Each season will take your breath away! And know that the best way to get around is to rent a car. This way you can explore more places and make the most of your trip. You won’t regret visiting Santander, even just for a short period of time, as most visitors return a second time!

BY LIZ & CRIS IG: @UN_VIAJE_JUNTOS

Author:  Liz & Cris

Liz and Cris are two passionate travelers from Santander, Colombia. They love travel, photography, nature and landscapes.

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Santander practical Guide: All you need to know to visit Santander in Colombia

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The department of Santander is a great region to visit. We really enjoyed our short week there, and wanted to come back when we left.

Santander is one of those Colombian departments that offers a wide variety of possibilities and will delight both heritage lovers and nature enthusiasts!

We were fed up with paying fees abroad

So for several years now, we’ve been using a free bank debit card specially designed for travelers, and we don’t pay any more fees abroad – no more!

Santander General information

Santander travel guide in colombia.

Santander is Colombia’s fourth most developed department in terms of population and economy. Bucaramanga, one of Colombia’s largest cities, with a population of 600.000, is no small part of this.

• Founded : November 27, 1795
• Capital : Bucaramanga
• People : Santandereanos
• Natural region : Andes
• Population : 2.2 million
• Average altitude : 1.230 m
• General climate : tropical semi-arid to temperate
• Average minimum temperature : 28 °C
• Average maximum temperature : 20°C
• Dry season : December to February and June to August
• Rainy season : March to May and September to November
• When to go : all year round

Local travel agency to visit the Santander region

Santander travel guide, best things to do in santander.

When it comes to heritage, there’s plenty to choose from: Barichara is certainly THE jewel of the region, a magnificent village perched on a mountainside. Other heritage villages are well worth a visit (Zapatoca, Socorro, Giron, etc.)

As for nature, Santander is a mid-mountain region, where the weather is warm and there are plenty of rivers and magnificent waterfalls to swim in. San Gil is the self-proclaimed adventure sports capital of Colombia. Its location is ideal for rafting, paragliding and trekking around the Chicamocha Canyon .

Las Gachas , near the village of Guadalupe, is a unique natural site that we absolutely loved! There are plenty of other sites to discover, but we’ll have to go back!

We also decided to add a bit of the Norte Santander department here, with the heritage village of Playa de Belen , where we also made a stopover. Los Estoraques is a particularly beautiful rock formation.

Best places to visit in Santander

• Chicamocha Canyon
• Juan Curi waterfall
• Las Gachas and Guadalupe
• San Vicente de Chucuri
• La Playa de Belen
• Los Estoraques
• Ventanas de Tizquisoque

All our posts about Santander region

Visit juan curi travel guide: the most beautiful waterfall in santander, private tours in barichara, with local english-speaking guide, local english-speaking agency to visit santander in colombia, visit la playa de belen travel guide: an heritage village off the beaten path, top 5 most beautiful villages in santander, colombia, visit giron travel guide: heritage town near bucaramanga, visit barichara travel guide: the most beautiful village in colombia , paragliding in san gil travel guide: flying above chicamocha canyon, our chicamocha canyon travel guide: one of the natural wonders of colombia, casa oniri hotel where to stay in barichara, where to stay in the santander region, barichara, the best hotels.

Casa Canela

Double room : $150.000 to $200.000 COP

A lovely hotel in a great location near Barichara’s main square. Guests appreciate the service, cleanliness and welcome. Their swimming pool is undoubtedly a plus!

San Gil, the best hotels

Meraki Boutique Hotel

Double room : $100.000 to $150.000 COP

The Meraki boutique hotel is located 5 minutes from the town center, a little way up in San Gil, offering a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. It’s a beautiful colonial house, beautifully decorated and full of color! You’ll feel right at home here, thanks in no small part to the warm welcome from Felipe and his family.

La Provincia Lodging House

Dormitory : $0 to $25.000 / Double room : $0 to $100.000 COP

La Provincia in San Gil is one of the least expensive hostels. Nevertheless, many budget travelers will find it to their liking: well located in the center of San Gil in a beautiful, bright house, with friendly staff… Although the rooms are basic and the decor classic, it’s still excellent value for money.

Traveler Hostel

Dormitory : $25.000 to $50.000 / Double room : $0 to $100.000 COP

The Traveler hosterl in San Gil has been recommended to us by blog readers. But we’ve noticed that it’s also been recommended by the Traveler community! Large rooms, a great atmosphere, and a beautiful terrace overlooking the city, all located right in the center of San Gil.

For those looking for peace and quiet, just outside the village of Barichara but relatively close to the center. Artepolis offers a really pretty setting at a very affordable price!

Giron, the best hotels

Chill Out Hotel

During our stay in Giron, we stayed at the Chill out hotel. Superbly located in the historic center of Giron, the hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms in the colonial style.

Oniri House

Double room : $250.000 to $300.000 COP

Hotel Casa Oniri is where we stayed during our visit to Barichara. It’s a superb boutique hotel located in the heart of the city, just a stone’s throw from Barichara’s main square. The little extra: a rooftop with a view of the cathedral!

Guadalupe, the best hotels

Finca La colina de los azulejos

A finca located just 10 minutes’ walk from the village, but with some very nice little houses in the middle of nature.

Atrapasuenos Hostal

Double room : $0 to $100.000 COP

A clean, functional hostal, also a little outside the village but within 5 minutes’ walk of the center. The owners have a bakery where you can have breakfast. A mirador near the hostal offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area.

Camping , Hostal

Portal de Don Luis Hotel

El Portal de Don Luis is a finca ideally located just a stone’s throw from Guadalupe’s central square, yet right in the middle of nature. The view over the valley is sublime and Rafael, the owner, is a darling! The facilities are simple, everything is very clean and it was perfect for us! You can pitch your own tent or rent one.

How to get to the Santander region

Bucaramanga, the capital of Santander, is one of Colombia’s largest cities. It has an airport serving the whole country and road connections from Medellín, Santa Marta and Bogota.

Getting to Bucaramanga by bus

Bucaramanga bus terminal

• Address: Tv. Metropolitana #73, Bucaramanga
• Tel: 57 (7) 637 1000
• Mail: [email protected]
• Website: terminalbucaramanga.com

BUS | Cartagena – Bucaramanga

• Duration: approx. 11h
• Fare: approx. $80.000 COP
• Companies: Expreso Brasilia, Berlinas

BUS | Santa Marta – Bucaramanga

• Duration: approx. 10h
• Fare: approximately $70.000 COP
• Companies: Copetran, Expreso Brasilia, Berlinas

BUS | Bogota – Bucaramanga

• Fare: approx. $70.000 COP
• Companies: Omega, Copetran, Berlinas, Concorde

BUS | Medellín – Bucaramanga

BUS | San Gil – Bucaramanga

• Duration: approx. 3h
• Fare: about $20.000 COP
• Companies: Copetran, Cotrasangil, Cotrasaravita, Trasander

BUS | Tunja – Bucaramanga

• Duration: approx. 7h
• Company: Copetran, Concorde

Getting to Bucaramanga by plane

Bucaramanga airport

• Name : Palo Negro
• Address: Km 25 vía Lebrija
• Tel: 57 (7) 691 0140
• Mail : contact form
• Website: bga.aerooriente.com.co

Airport transfer to/from Bucaramanga

• Duration: approx. 30 min
• Bus fare: $3.000 COP
• Yellow cab fare: $34.500 COP

PLANE | Bogota – Bucaramanga

• Duration: 1h30
• Fare: from $130.000 COP
• Companies : Avianca , Latam

PLANE | Medellin – Bucaramanga

• Airlines : Latam, Avianca

Plane | Cali – Bucaramanga

• Duration: 3h (with stopover)
• Fare: from $ 160.000

FLIGHT | Pereira – Bucaramanga

• Duration: 3h20 (with stopover)
• Fare: from $230.000 COP

PLANE | Cartagena – Bucaramanga

• Fare: from $150.000 COP
• Companies: Clicair

Getting to Bucaramanga by car

• To Bogotá: 425 km and approx. 8h30 travel time
• To Tunja: 280 km and approx. 6h travel time
• To Mompox: 350 km and approx. 7h travel time
• To Santa Marta: 540 km and approx. 8h30 travel time
• To San Gil: 100 km and approx. 2h30 travel time
• To Medellin: 400 km and approx. 8h travel time

Rent a car In Colombia

To rent a car, we advise you to use the Rental Cars comparator , which gives you a complete overview of the different rental companies in Colombia.

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Explore Santander Colombia – Hidden Gem & Adventure Sports Capital

Posted by Anna Vichnevetskaia | Jun 6, 2020 | South America

Colombia has been steadily rising on the tourism radar over the past decade, and it's for good reason. The country offers something for every type of traveller, has become significantly safer, and is easy on your budget. I first visited Colombia 10 years ago, just before it became a big tourist draw. While the country has changed a lot between then and now, it has mainly been for the better. Sure, there are quite a few tourists, but it's not overrun by tourism quite yet – so go before it is! Here is how to explore Santander Colombia.

Now, the destinations that you'll hear the most about are the likes of Cartagena on the Caribbean coast, Medellin and the coffee region, and Bogota – the country's capital. But there is much more to explore – and Santander is one of these world-class destinations that are often not on a typical Colombian itinerary. It's best known as Colombia 's adventure sports capital, but there are plenty of other attractions – tiny colonial towns, lovely hiking trails, and the stunning Chicamocha canyon. Here are just a few things you can do in Santander.

Get Adventurous in San Gil

As I mentioned before, Santander is usually referred to as the adventure capital of Colombia . And truly, this is a paradise for adrenaline junkies! In fact, one of the top attractions here is paragliding which comes highly recommended. You can also go bungee jumping, white water rafting, repelling, caving, climbing, mountain biking, and trekking. As always, it's best to go with a trustworthy company for any of these activities – the good ones offer insurance, have all the proper gear and well-trained staff to guide you through the activities.

Having said this, if you don't enjoy adventure sports, there are plenty of other, more laid-back things to do. In the city itself, there is the wonderful Parque El Gallineral, which runs along the Fonce River. San Gil also makes for a great base to explore the surrounding area. Pozo Azul and Pescaderito are lovely areas for swimming in natural river pools. The Chicamocha Canyon is nearby, and there are plenty of picturesque hikes around the city.

Climb the Chicamocha Canyon

The absolute top attraction in the area is the Chicamocha Canyon . First of all, it's simply a stunning place, about 2000 meters deep and offering beautiful landscape views. But in Santander, you can really experience the canyon in many ways. First of all, it offers really good climbing tracks and many companies offer both beginner and more advanced climbing excursions.

There is even a hostel on the side of the canyon that specifically caters to climbers called Refugio de la Roca . Please keep in mind that I would only recommend it for climbers – I stayed here for 1 night and it wasn't ideal unless your only goal is to climb. It has a lot of potentials, but there doesn't seem to be proper management, so I'd look elsewhere for rooms with stunning views!

Other Ways to Experience the Canyon

Of course, like me, you might not be a climber or have an interest in spending your budget on gear and lessons. Not to worry – there are other ways to experience the canyon. You can head to Parque Nacional de Chicamocha instead. It's sort of like an amusement park but built right on the edge of the canyon.

Try to go during the week and when students are in school, then you are likely to have the park basically to yourself. It was such a weird but great experience! There is a water park overlooking the canyon, which was absolutely stunning. Inside, you will also find a really cool monument, and some fun attractions like repelling, a giant swing over the canyon, go-karts, etc.

Now, one thing that should not be missed is the Chicamocha Canyon cable car. It's one of the longest in the world – 6.3 kilometres and the ride lasts about 20-30 minutes, with breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon. The cable car runs from the amusement park, takes you down to the bottom of the canyon and climbs back up to the opposite side of the canyon, dropping you off in Mesa de Los Santos.

Here, you'll find some shops and cafes, and you can go back to the park to get transportation back to San Gil or Bucaramanga. We actually took some time to walk around Mesa de Los Santos, and it's a lovely way to see the rural way of life in the area.

Relax in Barichara

My favourite town in Santander was definitely Barichara. It's a beautiful, very well-maintained colonial town, with small cobbled streets, artisan shops and tasty restaurants. It offers beautiful views over the surrounding countryside, stunning sunrises and a really laid-back atmosphere. Barichara is the perfect place to relax after all of the excitement of San Gil and the Chicamocha Canyon. Additionally, you can do some really easy and scenic hikes, such as the walk from Barichara to Guane or Cabrera. If you have a little extra money to spend, then I highly recommend staying at the Casa Barichara Boutique .

We stumbled upon it after not loving our first accommodation, and it is the perfect boutique hotel experience. They only have a few rooms, a lovely pool with a view over the surrounding mountains, delicious home-made breakfasts, and impeccable service – the perfect place to relax.

Explore Bucaramanga

You will likely have to go through Bucaramanga at some point on your trip to Santander since it is the department's capital. And if you have the time to spend a couple of nights here or more, then it's definitely a good idea. The town is surprisingly lovely, clean, and well-organized. It has an eternal spring climate and offers a few attractions of its own.

Bucaramanga

Just 10km outside the city centre, you'll find the charming town of Giron. It's nice to walk around the cobbled streets, see the handicraft shops and sample some of the area's popular cuisine. You should also visit the eco-park called Cerro del Santisimo. You can either walk up or take the cable car up to the top, where you'll see a giant Jesus statue. The views over the city from here are beautiful, but if you visit at night, there is also a pretty cool fountain lights show, depicting the history of Santander.

Getting There and Around

Santander sounds great – but how do you get there? Well, it's actually pretty easy. The most convenient way is of course to fly, there are multiple flights daily from Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena and other destinations in Colombia . There is also a daily flight to Panama City . For a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of buses serving Bucaramanga from all directions. It's about 10 hours to Bogota and 15 hours to the Caribbean coast.

You can also take a bus from Bogota directly to San Gil, which only takes about 8 hours. Once in the area, there are plenty of buses that travel between all of the main destinations, and minivans that go to the smaller villages and areas of interest.

A little word of caution: the budget airline – VivaColombia flies here and tickets can be very cheap. If you do choose to go with them, be warned that flights get cancelled regularly! We had no issues getting in from Bogota , but on the way back our flight was cancelled. They gave us the option to fly out the next day or to refund the fare. Because we had a flight out of Bogota the next day, we took the refund and paid way more for a different airline. The point is, book with them at your own risk and make sure you don't have any connections with a different airline on the same day!

About The Author

Anna Vichnevetskaia

Travel is my passion. Not only because it's fun (which it is), but because there is something new to learn in every single place, someone new to meet and a different or unknown to embrace.

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Things to do in Santander

Barichara and the department of Santander in video : Santander is a region privileged by nature. Its landscapes range from fertile plains to mountains and valleys, passing through caves and rivers. Santander is a paradise for lovers of adventure and extreme sports, but also for lovers of history, with villages such as Barichara or Girón,…

Barichara and the department of Santander in video :

Santander is a region privileged by nature . Its landscapes range from fertile plains to mountains and valleys, passing through caves and rivers. Santander is a paradise for lovers of adventure and extreme sports , but also for lovers of history, with villages such as Barichara or Girón, living witnesses of the colonial era.

Things to do in Santander?

We have put together our favorites, our best activities and our professional advice so that you can prepare your stay in Barichara and Santander as well as possible.

The most beautiful village in Colombia… the ideal place to stroll through the cobbled streets in a peaceful village atmosphere. Barichara has been a national heritage site since 1975 , its heritage and stone architecture, its churches and cemetery, make it an original and unique village .

For us, this is a favourite village, a must if you are doing a tour to the north from Bogota via Villa de Leyva.  

Did you know? Perched on the top of the Suarez River canyon, Barichara offers a privileged view of the region and an almost perfect climate. The town has remained completely intact since its foundation in 1705.

Our expert advice: We invite you to discover on a walking tour the craftsmen’s workshops for which the town is famous, particularly the stone cutters, the fig work or the handmade cigar factories. You can also stop off at the Suarez viewpoint to admire the view of the river of the same name flowing at the bottom of the canyon.

You can also stop off at the Suarez viewpoint to admire the view of the river of the same name flowing through the canyon.

The Royal Colonization Trail will take you from Barichara to the small colonial village of Guane. It is a 9km paved path that you can walk in about two hours. Once in Guane, a visit to the archaeological and paleontological museum is a must, to admire fossils and vestiges of the indigenous civilisation.

Good to know: Other trails can also be walked on old Indian paths, from the village of Cabrera or the Chicamocha canyon.

After a stay in Barichara, it is the ideal stopover for lovers of extreme sports and thrills in breathtaking landscapes!

This city, bordered by the Fonce River, is the main starting point for excursions . Its surroundings offer many activities: Gallineral Park , which is located along the Fonce, is the most emblematic site of the city where you can do many sports activities, see exotic animals, enjoy restaurants and various paths that allow you to take full advantage of its coolness and idyllic setting.

What else to do around San Gil?

You can also go paragliding in the Chicamocha Canyon, where the conditions are ideal and the view is magnificent.

Canyoning, abseiling and caving are other activities you can do in the many caves and waterfalls in the area (Cueva de la Vaca, near Curiti; Cueva del Indio near Paramo; la Antigua).

It is also possible to go rafting , on the Fonce or Suarez rivers, or even on the Chicamocha.

Chicamocha Canyon

Close to Barichara, the Chicamocha Canyon is for us an unmissable visual spectacle.

Here you will find the Chicamocha National Park , which offers many sporting activities in the heart of the wilderness.

Note: you can also cross the canyon from end to end by cable car. Opened in 2009, it is 6.3 km long. This will take you to the Mesa de los Santos, a high plateau with a view of magnificent landscapes, which is well worth a visit.

Did you know that? The river of the same name flows through it as a result of geological movement. At about 2 km deep, it is deeper than the Colorado Canyon and is about 22.7 km long.

Bucaramanga and Girón 

You will probably pass through Bucaramanga after your stay in Barichara and San Gil, in order to reach other Colombian cities by plane. 

Bucaramanga is one of the most important metropolitan centres in the country, and t he capital of Santander. An active commercial centre, the city is also an important university centre with a festive nightlife (many restaurants, bars and clubs).

Our advice : If you stop here long enough, we recommend a visit to the colonial village of Girón, for a pleasant day in the Santander countryside.

What to do in Santander? Activities Adventure Colombia

Canyons, pictograms, rafting, paragliding, hiking … discover the best activities to do in Barichara and Santander! Contact Aventure Colombia ( [email protected] )

Guane Canyons and Pictograms

This excursion to discover the remains of the Guane civilization will take you through beautiful landscapes at the crossroads of the Suarez and Chicamocha canyons. This is community-based tourism in very little-visited sites, accompanied by a local guide. 

This is an extraordinary experience where you will have the opportunity to walk through the Andean dry forests and discover pictograms left by the ancient Guane communities. Along the way you will encounter many cultures and experience the influence of the Sogomoso River on the climate. Get ready for spectacular views of the canyons on this Guane civilization tour.

VTT Rio Suarez

From San Gil, this mountain bike tour near Barichara is an amazing mix of adrenaline and downhill riding. Above Barichara, at an altitude of 2,000 metres, prepare for a 25km descent to the majestic Suarez Canyon, deep in agricultural landscapes. You will then visit Barichara by bike along its carved stone streets. 

A little bonus ! This day trip mixes adventure, exceptional natural landscapes and cultural discovery, with a beer at the end of this unforgettable day!

Rafting for all levels

Rafting on the rio Fonce : on the 11km course of the rio Fonce, you will encounter type I, II and III rapids. Are you a family? There are courses for children to share this adventure together!

Rafting on the Rio Suarez : the trip lasts 2 hours and the rapids are of type III to V. It is during this adventure that you will find world-famous rapids, watch out!

Rafting on the Rio Chicamocha : this is a 2 hour trip over 11 km where you will cross rapids of types I to III. This excursion is proposed for those 16 years and older.

Please note ! It is recommended to be in good health to do this course.

Paragliding

Paragliding over the Chicamocha Canyon: This unforgettable experience will offer you a breathtaking view of the Canyon, in the heart of the Chicamocha National Park, only 50 minutes from San Gil.

Good to know: The outings take place early in the morning and the flight lasts between 20 and 30 minutes. The level of difficulty is intermediate.

Paragliding Curiti : This is an easier excursion, suitable for all ages, where the flight lasts between 8 and 15 minutes, all accompanied by an instructor and a certified guide. It is an ideal family outing, a pleasant and peaceful experience.

Rando Zapatoca : Culture, History

Zapatoca was founded in 1743. In addition to offering a rich cultural panorama, Zapatoca has diverse landscapes ranging from desert to rainforest, from intensive farming to paramo. This 5 hour walk in Santander is characterized by a route through streets, churches, cemeteries and observation of rock formations. You can also enjoy a SPA experience in the Casa del Vapor and a moment of relaxation in a Jacuzzi with medicinal herbs. A little comfort after great adventures!

Hiking in the region of Barichara, Chicamocha, San Gil

Hiking in Alto del Viento: This beautiful 5-6 hour hike will take you along the Rio suarez, in the heart of the Yariguies National Park wilderness, through the forest and up to a beautiful finca where you will discover the agricultural crops and crafts of the region.

You will be accompanied by a local guide who will take you to the most beautiful and little-known corners of the region.

Real a Cabrera hike : From Barichara, this 5-6 hour hike will take you into the interior of the Canyon. You will pass tectonic plates, waterfalls of over 90m and a beautiful desert landscape where the climate and altitude will vary throughout the walk.

Please note! This is an intermediate-level excursion, which requires an adequate physical condition.

Nature Excursion, The Canyons of Santander : This 3 hour hike will take you up the mountainside through eucalyptus and pine forests. You will climb up to the extraordinary Mirador de los Guanes with a breathtaking view of the Chicamocha, Suarez and Sogamoso rivers. The tour also includes a SPA with Jacuzzi for a relaxing moment!

Barichara : Restaurants

IGUA NAUNO Very good quality, light food in a friendly setting. Address: carrera 7 con calle 1, Barichara Opening days and times: Wed – Mon: 5pm – 11pm Prices: dishes between 5 000$ and 15 000$.

SHAMBALA Vegetarian restaurant that knows how to make people appreciate preparations with incredible aromas and flavours, delicious. Address : Carrera 7 n°6-20, Barichara Opening days and times: Thu – Tue: 12pm – 10pm Prices: Dishes between $8,000 and $22,000

SHANTI RECETAS PARA EL ALMA Slow food restaurant with organic products. Address : Carrera 7 # 6/22, Barichara Opening days and times: Mon – Sun: 12pm – 9:30pm Prices: dishes between $22,000 and $35,000

RESTAURANTES LAS CRUCES This establishment, created by the Fundación Escuela Taller de Barichira, offers traditional Colombian cuisine based on regional products and prepared by students in cooking and gastronomy. Address: Carrera 5 4-26, Barichara Opening days and times : Mon – Fri: 12pm – 3pm, Fri: 7pm – 9:30pm, Sat/Sun: 12pm – 4pm, 7pm – 9:30pm Prices: dishes between $15,000 and $42,000

Barichara : Handicrafts

NATURART Handicraft shop made from natural materials. Address: Calle 6 #95, Barichara

TIENDA TALLER BARICHARA Design handicraft shop, offering beautiful wooden jewellery. Address: Calle. 6 #11-10, Barichara

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Colombiafrank’s Santander Colombia Travel Guide

Updated on 04/11/2024

Dear readers My name is Frank and I run a tour operator in Bogota, specializing in custom-made and Colombia luxury travel . At the end of this guide you will find a list of many other helpful travel guides for Colombia.

Introduction

The residents of this area, the Santandereanos, pride themselves on the fact that several Colombian heroes and heroines emerged from this area and even the name of the department alludes to Francisco de Paula Santander, one of the heroes of Colombian independence.

Santander has 87 parishes, including three listed cities and other villages of inestimable architectural and cultural value. In addition, there are unique places like the Chicamocha moat.

The capital of the department, Bucaramanga

The capital of Santander has earned the nickname “City of Parks” because it has more than 200 of these green spaces. Bucaramanga was founded in 1622. Technically, however, this city was never founded. During the Spanish colonial period, the cities were founded with the permission of the Spanish king. However, this never happened to Bucaramanga. The “officially” established cities were Vélez, Pamplona and Girón.

For years the entire area was indigenous territory, and it was only with the creation of the first Colombian constitution in 1876 that these areas were renamed Bucaramanga and became the capital of the department.

Things to do and see in Bucaramanga

Catedral de la sagrada familia.

After the establishment of the political constitution in 1876, Bucaramanga gradually grew in both population and territory. For this reason, in 1886, it was decided to build a new church that would become an icon of the city, namely the La Sagrada Familia cathedral.

The cathedral impresses with its symmetrical design with the white facade, the two impressive towers and the statues of Jesus, Mary and Joseph on the roof of the church above the entrance.

The interior of the church is also very beautiful, with several stained glass windows and religious paintings. Regardless of whether you are a believer or not, this church should be visited as it has an impressive design.

La Casa del Libro Total

Founded in 2005, the museum is located in a colonial house and aims to collect, store and distribute various books in order to preserve human heritage. Inside there are various paintings and works of art. In addition, cultural events are often held here.

Parque San Pío

Probably the most emblematic park of Bucaramanga is the San Pío, a very large square that invites you to relax. The park has play areas for children, several green paths, and lots of street vendors. Nonetheless, the most striking feature of San Pío is the sculpture by Fernando Botero (one of the most famous artists in the country) entitled Muchacha de pie desnuda (Naked Standing Girl), popularly known as “la gorda” (the fat one).

Museo de Arte Moderno de Bucaramanga

The museum usually offers new exhibitions over and over again. Currently (2021) entry is free and there are several restaurants near the museum.

El museo Casa de Bolívar

The Casa de Bolívar Museum, restored in 2019, is an ideal place for anyone who wants to learn a little more about the history of Colombia and Santander.

The museum is almost entirely dedicated to Simón Bolívar (who is considered the liberator of various parts of Latin America). Here you can find out more about Bolivar, his life and time in Santander.

In addition to Simón Bolívar, the museum shows several objects from the Spanish colonial era and a room with pre-Columbian objects from the now extinct indigenous Guane culture.

Parque del Agua

Another emblematic park in Bucaramanga is Parque del Agua. This 3.6 hectare area is ideal for a day of relaxation.

Managed by the municipal aqueduct, this park, while small, offers several attractions. It has several fountains, small waterfalls and there are lots of colorful fish and turtles to see. This also gives you the opportunity to buy food for the beautiful fish within the facility.

How to get to Bucaramanga

Bucaramanga has an airport and is very easy to get to from Bogota.

• Cúcuta (Norte de Santander) is 121 miles (195 km) from Bucaramanga.
• Medellín (Antioquia) is 243.5 miles (392 km) from Bucaramanga.
• Bogotá is 308 miles (496 km) from Bucaramanga.

Where to stay in Bucaramanga

Discover the vibrant city of Bucaramanga and find the perfect accommodation for your stay. Explore our selection of hotels in Bucaramanga and get ready to live a unique experience in this fascinating Colombian city.

Where to eat in Bucaramanga

La Zona Rosa

The Zona Rosa on Calle 31 in Bucaramanga is the ideal place to have fun, drink and eat. Here you will find a wide variety of restaurants, nightclubs and bars. If you love hamburgers, I recommend a visit to the Filo restaurant. On my last visit, I ate one of the best hamburgers there in years.

El Centro Comercial Cacique

It is considered the most iconic shopping center in the department. Inside is a food court with several fast food and traditional Colombian restaurants.

Historic cities in Santander

The historic cities in Colombia are symbols of the history and culture of this country. These cities are characterized by their colonial architecture, with cobblestone streets, white houses with tall balconies, and buildings like churches that have stood here for several centuries.

If interested, I recommend my guide about the Colombian cities of culture.

Barichara is undoubtedly the most famous historical village in Santander. Thanks to the cobblestone streets, the colorful houses and the beautiful view, this place is known as the most beautiful village in Colombia.

The history of this place goes back to the beginning of the 18th century when a farmer found a stone with a carved image of the Virgin Mary in the area that later became Barichara. The interest in it led to the construction of the first church and little by little the village grew.

Because Barichara managed to maintain its colonial appearance over so many centuries, it was recognized as a national monument in 1975.

Things to do and see in Barichara

Catedral de la inmaculada concepción.

This building is undoubtedly Barichara’s most famous church, both for its history and for its beautiful architecture, made entirely of stone. It is said that a peasant found a stone with the virgin’s face carved on it. In honor of this sacred apparition, they built the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, which was inaugurated in 1838.

What is remarkable about this church is the beautiful facade, which is bright yellow in the morning and ocher in the afternoon. The interior is very beautiful, with huge pillars and an altar covered with gold leaf.

La Casa Natal de Aquileo Parra

One of the most important personalities born in Barichara was Aquileo Parra, who became President of Colombia between 1876 and 1878 and is therefore honored with this museum.

This house-museum was the original residence of the former president. During a visit, you will learn about the history of Aquileo Parra and some of the items associated with it.

Cementerio de Barichara

I know that it is rare to recommend a cemetery as a travel destination, but the one in Barichara is an exception, as this resting place for the deceased is made entirely of stone (the tombs), creating a unique design of great beauty.

La Casa de la Cultura Emilio Pradilla González

As in other communities in Colombia, there is also a house of culture in Barichara, which is characterized by its colonial architecture. If you want to learn about the history of this city, you can do so through the photographs, colonial objects and typical costumes that you will find on display there.

 Mirador Salto del Mico

At this viewpoint there are some rocks where the tourists can sit and enjoy the nature and the sunsets. It is also THE Instagram meeting point.

Caution is advised, however, because unfortunately there are people who have died in a fall into the abyss.

Camino Real Barichara – Guane

In Barichara you have the opportunity to wander one of the royal roads of Colombia, which were built during the Spanish colony and were intended to connect with the major cities.

In this town is the Camino Real that leads from Barichara to the village of Guane.

How to get to Barichara

From Bucaramanga it is around 75 miles (121 km) and the journey takes around 3.5 hours. The distance from Bogotá is approx. 200 miles (321 km) with a journey time of around 7 hours.

Where to stay in Barichara

Barichara, known for its colonial charm and tranquility, is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway. While exploring its cobblestone streets, you’ll find that the historic downtown area is ideal for lodging, as it boasts a large number of accommodations and is close to major cultural attractions, the best nightlife, and restaurants. If you’re planning your visit, don’t hesitate to check out hotels in Barichara to ensure a memorable stay in this beautiful city.

Where to eat in Barichara

Barichara is a touristic city that has a wide variety of restaurants serving typical Colombian or foreign cuisine. Some excellent options are:

Gringo Mike’s Barichara

This restaurant offers delicious international dishes, a wide range of hamburgers and salads. If you like Mexican food they offer that type of food too.

Al Fogolar Barichara

This restaurant is known for its delicious Colombian and Italian dishes. Be sure to try the lasagna and the delicious pork ribs.

If you like Spanish food this restaurant is the place for you. There is Mediterranean cuisine, a large selection of burgers and sandwiches, and vegan dishes.

It was in this city that Colombian independence heroes such as Manuela Beltrán were born, and it was in Socorro that the Comuneros revolt, which is considered to be one of the preludes that years later would become the symbol of the struggle for independence, originated.

El Socorro was founded in 1681 and thanks to its colonial architecture and historical importance, the city was declared a National Monument in 1963.

Things to do and see in Socorro

Parque de la independencia.

There are few places in Colombia that contain as much history as this park. This place is known because the famous Comuneros set off from here. Other special events also took place here, such as the execution of Antonia Santos, a Colombian heroine and invaluable ally of Simón Bolívar.

There are several memorial plaques and statues in the park that commemorate Colombian heroes.

Basílica Concatedral de Nuestra Señora del Socorro

The basilica, inaugurated in 1873, is considered the largest stone building in Colombia. This religious building is ideal for anyone who venerates the Virgin Mary. The interior of the basilica is very beautiful, with marble floors, several oratories and altars.

Quinta Fominaya

About 800 m from the center of Socorro is the Quinta Fominaya, one of the most curious buildings in the village. This building with Moorish architecture was once the home of Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Fominaya.

Fominaya was the leader of the Spanish armed forces under the command of the dreaded Pablo Morillo, known as a peacemaker and one of the protagonists of the Spanish reconquest.

These personalities were influential at the time of the terror regime, in which many Creoles (descendants of Europeans, deliberately differentiated from the Spanish from the motherland) and people who had opposed the Spanish Empire were executed.

Casa De La Cultura Horacio Rodríguez Plata

El Socorro also has its own cultural center. In this museum with its colonial architecture, you can see various historical items, colonial costumes, etc.

Casa de Berbeo

Another famous person who lived in El Socorro was Juan Francisco Berbeo, the general commander of the Comuneros. He lived in the historic village all his life.

Because of this, a museum known as the Casa de Berbeo has been set up in his former home (which is located in the historic center of Socorro). Here, homage is paid to the Colombian hero and you can learn a little more about the national history.

How to get to El Socorro

From Bucaramanga the distance is about 75 miles (120 km) and the journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

San Juan de Girón

Girón was founded in 1631 and welcomes its visitors with a beautiful colonial architecture, which is characterized by cobbled streets and beautiful houses with white facades and adobe roofs.

This historic city is known as “the White City of Santander”. Due to the good preservation of the colonial architecture, Girón was declared a national monument in 1963.

Things to do and see in San Juan de Girón

Basílica menor san juan bautista.

Girón is an ideal place for religious tourism. One of the buildings not to be missed is the Señor de Los Milagros Basilica, which is located in the town square and is a place of pilgrimage for both locals and foreigners.

The basilica is characterized by a symmetrical design and its facade is painted completely white. When entering the church, one finds the image of the “Señor de los Milagros” (Lord of Miracles), one of the greatest icons of the religious culture of Colombia. This figure is the reason why many locals and tourists visit this city as it is attributed with miraculous powers.

Pilgrims ask for favors on health issues and have also prayed for the release of people kidnapped in the violence in Colombia.

Capilla Nuestra Señora de las Nieves

It is one of the most beautiful and traditional churches in Santander, construction of which began in 1595. This building impresses with its colonial architecture and its white and brown facade.

Casa Parroquial- Museo de Arte Religioso

On one side of the main park of Girón is the Museum of Religious Art, which is a must-see when visiting this city. Housed in a beautiful colonial house, this museum is home to many interesting objects including 18th century paintings, priest costumes, silver and gold items, and antique items that were used at masses.

Casa Consistorial y de Gobierno

Just minutes from the city’s main square is the Casa Consistorial y de Gobierno, a colonial house from 1631 (although it has been rebuilt several times due to fires and other events) that once housed the Girón government.

Today it can be visited and inside you can learn about the history and the most important events that took place in Girón.

Casa Museo La Mansión del Frayle

It is one of the most representative houses in Girón. It is characterized by its colonial architecture with three courtyards and balconies as well as by its beautiful wooden floors.

In addition to being a beautiful colonial house, La Mansión del Frayle has a delicious restaurant, so it is well worth coming here and trying new dishes.

How to get to Girón

It takes around 20 minutes to get there from Bucaramanga.

Where to eat in Girón

This is a traditional Colombian restaurant with a wide variety of meat and fish.

Fogón Gironés

This restaurant also specializes in traditional Colombian cuisine and offers a wide range of dishes and meats.

Other cities and places of interest in Santander

One of the places that has gained tourist interest in the department is undoubtedly the municipality of San Gil, known as the tourist capital of Santander. This is due to the variety of activities that are offered there, including various extreme sports.

Things to do and see in San Gil

One of the most popular sports to do in San Gil is rafting. Near the town is the Fonce River (about 25 minutes away), where you can go rafting at levels 1, 2 and 3, which is recommended for both beginners and advanced riders.

Then things get down to business on the Suarez River and level IV-V is found. I was there and it was a lot of fun!

Bungee Jumping

Also on the river Fonce is the largest bungee jumping tower in Colombia with a height of 70 m. The organizer who offers this activity is Colombia Bungee Jumping. In 2021, the fun will cost around 80,000 pesos for a jump.

Horseback riding in San Gil

For less adrenaline-charged people, you can take a leisurely horse ride through the grounds of the Santa Bárbara Hacienda, which is 15 minutes from the center of San Gil.

Speleology in the Caverna del Indio cave

About 30 minutes from San Gil is the Caverna del Indio, a cave with various geological formations that can be visited during a tour of about 90 minutes.

It is noteworthy that there is an underground stream at the bottom of the cave and you have to swim out of the cave.

Parque Ecológico Cascadas de Juan Curí

Less than an hour from San Gil is the Ecological Park Cascadas de Juan Curí, where you can connect with nature and of course do extreme sports.

In the park there is the Juan Curí waterfall, where you can practice running in a torrent. There are two approved descents: one 80m and the other 130m, and the activity lasts about two hours.

How to get to San Gil

The journey from Bucaramanga takes around three hours.

Where to stay in San Gil

If you’re planning an adventure in San Gil, finding the perfect accommodation is essential to fully enjoy your stay. The historic downtown area is ideal for lodging, as it combines colonial charm with the convenience of being close to major attractions such as La Libertad Park and the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. Additionally, you’ll be within walking distance of the Gallineral River Park, a nature oasis perfect for relaxing after a day filled with extreme sports and exploration. Discover more about hotels in San Gil and secure a comfortable, centrally located place for your next adventure.

Where to eat in San Gil

El Mesón del Arriero

A restaurant that offers typical Colombian food, its specialty is the bandeja paisa (paisa tray) and there are also vegan options.

Gringo Mike’s

This restaurant, which we also mentioned in Barichara, has a branch in San Gil. There are delicious international dishes, a large selection of hamburgers and salads. If you like Mexican food, this is the kind of food you can enjoy here too.

Bella Italia Ristorante Trattoria Familiare

If you like Italian food this is an excellent choice. They offer a wide variety of pasta and lasagna.

Another representative city in Santander is Zapatoca, which was founded in 1743. A small German colony formed here in the 19th century.

Around 1852 the businessman Geo von Lengerke arrived in Zapatoca with 100 Germans. These people drove progress in industry and trade throughout the department.

After the death of Geo von Lengerke (who was known as an incorrigible womanizer), his descendants continued to live in Zapatoca (and other parts of Santander), so the city is now known as the home of German Santander citizens.

Interestingly, many of these descendants do not speak German, but only retain certain physical characteristics and the surname.

Things to do and see in Zapatoca

Cueva del nitro.

Just 10 minutes from Zapatoca is the Nitro Cave, which was once a refuge for the now extinct Guane indigenous culture. Today, visiting this cave is one of the main tourist attractions of Zapatoca. The hike takes about three hours and is easy.

Mirador Los Guanes

The viewpoint is located about 20 minutes from Zapatoca. From here you can overlook the natural beauties of Santander and some of its communities.

Pozo Del Ahogado

About 10 minutes from Zapatoca is the beach town of Pozo del Ahogado. Here you can enjoy a wonderful bath with water from the Zapatoca stream.

According to legend, the name of this place came about because two farmers bet on which of them can survive underwater the longest without breathing. Both died!

Casa del Quijote

One of the most curious museums in Colombia is probably the Casa del Quijote, which houses more than 60 sculptures that pay homage to the figure created by Miguel de Cervantes.

The peculiarity of this museum is that it not only recreates the most iconic moments of Don Quixote de la Mancha, but also transfers it to the present day, which is why we find, for example, sculptures of Don Quixote and the Beatles.

Cascada La Lajita

About 20 minutes from Zapatoca is the beautiful La Lajita waterfall. This waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and nature and also has a fountain where you can take a relaxing bath.

How to get to Zapatoca

The journey from Bucaramanga takes around two hours. It takes around 4 hours from Barichara and San Gil.

Where to stay in Zapatoca

Here are some of the best hotels in Zapatoca:

Hotel Abadias de Zapatoca

Carrera 10 No 18 – 28

CLICK HERE TO GET THE BEST RATES FOR HOTEL ABADIAS DE ZAPATOCA

The Hotel Abadias de Zapatoca is a cozy and elegant hotel located in the center of Zapatoca, a charming colonial town in Santander. It offers a garden, a shared lounge, a restaurant and a bar. There is a sun terrace, free WiFi and free private parking. The rooms include a flat-screen TV. The rooms have a private bathroom. Some have a balcony and others offer mountain views. All rooms at Hotel Abadias de Zapatoca are equipped with bed linen and towels. The property serves a buffet or continental breakfast. The Hotel Abadias de Zapatoca has a ping pong table. The staff at the 24-hour front desk can provide tips to discover the area. The nearest airport is Palonegro International Airport, located 65 km from Hotel Abadias de Zapatoca.

Hotel Casa Palosanto

Carrera 9 a media cuadra del parque principal

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The Hotel Casa Palosanto is an adult-only hotel located in Zapatoca, in a beautiful colonial house with cane and clay roofs, lovely rooms decorated with local crafts and antique pieces. It offers a garden, a craft shop, free WiFi and an American breakfast. The main square is a 3-minute walk away. The rooms at Hotel Casa Palosanto have a quiet atmosphere and feature a minibar, private bathroom, TV and fan. Hotel Casa Palosanto is 8 km from Bucaramanga and 15 minutes by car from Palonegro International Airport. There is free private parking nearby.

Hotel Casa Oasis

Cr 9 N 18-16

CLICK HERE TO GET THE BEST RATES FOR HOTEL CASA OASIS

The Hotel Casa Oasis is a small family-run hotel located in the center of Zapatoca, 180 meters from the town’s central park and 67 km from Bucaramanga. All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV. All rooms have a private bathroom with shower and WiFi. The property has a shared lounge. The Hotel Casa Oasis is 33 km from San Gil and 31 km from Piedecuesta. The nearest airport is Palonegro Airport, located 36 km from Hostal Casa Oasis.

Where to eat in Zapatoca

Circo Burger & Steak

Offers a wide variety of hamburgers and meats, as well as craft beer.

Ambrozia Cafe Arte Restaurante

This restaurant prepares typical dishes from Santander. There are meat, fish, and even vegetarian options.

Restaurante La Puerta

Offers Italian food. The pasta and lasagna are delicious and there are also vegetarian options.

Floridablanca

Floridablanca, like other communities in Santander, was originally inhabited by the Guane indigenous community. After the Spanish conquest, cities were founded much later in many areas in what is now Santander.

It was not until 1817 that Floridablanca received the right to officially become a city. Today this community is characterized by its modernity, its diverse buildings and its delicious Obleas (a traditional Colombian sweet dish).

Things to do and see in Floridablanca

Jardín botánico eloy valenzuela.

Established in 1982, the Eloy Valenzuela Botanical Garden is known for being the only facility of its kind in all of eastern Colombia. On an area of ​​7.5 hectares and with more than 400 plant species, you have the opportunity to get to know the plant biodiversity of the northeast of Santander.

Parque de Las Mojarras

Another landmark of the municipality is the Parque de Las Mojarras, which was created in 2015. The aim was to give the community a new face and to create a space in which people can relax and connect with nature.

The park has several hiking trails, a beautiful stream, and play areas for children.

Parque Acualago

Another attraction in Floridablanca is the Acualago water park. This facility has 15 attractions, including multiple slides, an artificial river, and a pool with artificial waves.

 Ecoparque Cerro del Santísimo

Who has not heard of the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, which, with its 38 meters height, is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world?

The Ecoparque Cerro del Santísimo is about 30 minutes from Floridablanca. There is a huge 37 m high statue of Jesus of Nazareth there. At the back of the Christ statue is a huge, 40 m high structure, which can be reached via a staircase and from which one can enjoy a wonderful view of the municipalities of Girón, Piedecuesta, Floridablanca and Bucaramanga.

The Ecoparque Cerro del Santísimo can be reached by cable car.

Paragliding and Voladero Las Águilas

San Gil isn’t the only community where extreme sports can be enjoyed. Just 10 minutes from Floridablanca is the Voladero Las Águilas, where you can go paragliding.

The flights last up to 45 minutes and the price for this activity is currently (2021) 120,000 pesos. The payment also includes an insurance policy.

How to get to Floridablanca

From Bucaramanga one is in 10 minutes in Floridablanca.

Where to stay in Floridablanca

Here are the best hotels in Floridablanca:

Hotel Don Juan Colonial

Calle 32 # 26-38

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The Hotel Don Juan Colonial is a hotel located in Floridablanca, 1 km from the Acualago water park and 11 km from the CENFER convention center. It offers rooms with air conditioning and private bathroom. It also has a garden, a shared lounge, a restaurant and a terrace. It provides concierge service, room service, 24-hour front desk and free WiFi throughout the property. The rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The rooms at Hotel Don Juan Colonial include bed linen and towels. The property serves a continental or American breakfast. Hotel Don Juan Colonial is 5.3 km from the Neomundo convention center and 19 km from Palonegro International Airport.

Ruitoque Hills

Transversal 25 # 1-92

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The Ruitoque Hills is an apartment located in Floridablanca, 4.4 km from the Acualago water park and 15 km from the CENFER convention center. It offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a fitness center and a shared lounge. It has a restaurant, room service, 24-hour front desk and free WiFi throughout the property. The apartment has a terrace, city views, 3 bedrooms, living room, flat-screen TV, equipped kitchen with fridge and 2 bathrooms with shower. Towels and bed linen are provided. The apartment has a sauna. The Ruitoque Hills offers car rental service. The Neomundo convention center is 5.1 km from the accommodation, while the Chicamocha National Park is 48 km away.

Posada Casa España

Cra 22 # 153e – 16

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The Posada Casa España is an inn located in Floridablanca, 1.9 km from the Acualago water park and 11 km from the CENFER convention center. It offers rooms with air conditioning and private bathroom. The property is around 5.1 km from the Neomundo convention center, 6.9 km from the Consulate of Spain in Bucaramanga and 40 km from Mesa de Los Santos. There is a shared kitchen and free WiFi throughout the property. The rooms include a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Posada Casa España is 46 km from the Chicamocha cable car. The nearest airport is Palonegro International Airport, 18 km from the inn.

Where to eat in Floridablanca

Centro Comercial Caracolí

If you are in Floridablanca for the day, you can visit the Centro Comercial Caracolí, which has a food court with fast food and traditional restaurants.

If you visit Barichara, you should definitely make a detour to Guane. With the mototaxi you can get there in 30 minutes. You can also walk there via the Camino Real. The village is characterized by its beautiful architecture and history.

Some members of the now extinct Guane Indians lived in this village. During the Spanish conquest, the Europeans expelled the members of this community from Moncora (the previous name of today’s Barichara) and forced them to live in the area that was later called Guane.

Guane is not particularly big, but there are some tourist attractions that make a visit to this Corregimiento special.

Things to do and see in Guane

Museo arqueológico y paleontológico de guane.

The village’s greatest attraction is undoubtedly the museum, which houses a collection of more than 10,000 items, including a variety of animal fossils and items that belonged to the Guanes, including pottery, spears, clothing and necklaces.

A special feature in this museum is the mummy of a Guane woman in fetal position. If you want to know the history of the Guane, this place is a must to visit.

Cementerio de Guane

Like the Barichara Cemetery, the Guane Cemetery is also characterized by its incredible beauty. This posthumous resting place also has a stone architecture of great beauty.

In addition to the architecture, it is above all the view that attracts visitors, because the location offers a wonderful mountain panorama.

Mirador de Guane

Just 5 minutes from the main square of Guane you will find this viewpoint, from which you can also enjoy a beautiful mountain panorama.

 Mirador del Cañón de Suárez

Another beautiful vantage point is also just 5 minutes from the main square of Guane (two blocks). From there you can see the beautiful Cañón de Suárez.

How to get to Guane

From Barichara you can get there in 30 minutes.

Where to stay in Guane

Here are the best hotels in Guane:

Ojalá Guane Barichara

Carera 8 #6-30

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The hotel is a green oasis with a cozy atmosphere, just half a block from the main square of Guane (15 minutes from Barichara). Minka and Elke, the owners, will make you feel at home and offer delicious and creative vegetarian food and drinks. You can choose to stay in a deluxe queen room, a king room with mountain views, or a deluxe suite with a hot tub.

La Patagonia de Guane

Calle 8 #7-12

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The hotel is a charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of Guane, a small village with a rich history and culture. You can enjoy the views of the mountains and the canyon from the terrace or relax in the outdoor bath. The hotel offers a continental breakfast and a restaurant with local cuisine. You can choose from a triple room, a double room, or a bed in a dormitory.

Where to eat in Guane?

In Guane there are several shops and restaurants that offer typical dishes. In this village, it is common to eat goat cheese and various types of fish such as trout. Sabajón, a very sweet alcoholic drink, is also very common.

Another historic town in Santander is Vélez, which was founded in 1539 and can look back on a long history. It was once inhabited by the Chibchas, an indigenous culture.

After the arrival of the Spaniards, the city became a resting place for European soldiers and a handicraft market. Today, Vélez is known for its famous Veleño snack, which is made from guava and is one of the typical sweets of Colombia.

Things to do and see in Velez

Catedral nuestra señora de las nieves.

The most iconic building in the municipality is surely the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves. This religious building was inaugurated in 1560 and is the architectural heritage of Vélez.

This cathedral is known as the crossed church because its entrance is on one side (there is only one other church in the world that has this property), and hence the famous saying “more crossed than the church of Vélez” .

The church is located opposite the main park of Vélez, where the delicious Velez snacks are sold, so you can accompany your visit with one of these delicacies.

Cueva de los Indios

Just a few minutes from the main square of Vélez is the Cueva de los Indios, another attraction of the municipality. It is said that during the Spanish conquest, some Indians visited this cave to hide from the Europeans.

Inside there are underground waterfalls, in one part you can see a multitude of stalactites and the mummy of the Cacique Agatá is expected.

Museo Real De Vélez

This is the only museum in Velez. It’s relatively small, but the objects tell you about the history of the community and some facts about Colombia.

Colegio Nacional Universitario

One block from the Museo Real De Velez is the Colegio Nacional Universitario, one of the most famous buildings in the city. This house was built in 1549, has colonial architecture and a white facade. Originally it served as a monastery for the Franciscan order.

It was declared an educational institution in 1824 and a national monument in 1973. It is currently used as a school, but can be visited.

How do you get to Vélez?

From Bucaramanga the journey takes around 5 hours.

Where to eat in Vélez

El Fogón Veleño

This is a traditional barbecue area with a wide variety of meat, chicken, and fish. They also offer breakfast.

San Angel Gourmet

It is a place with different types of lunches and offers a wide variety of meat and pasta.

Florián

Although Florián is not a municipality with a centuries-old history (it was founded in 1915), it has become an interesting tourist destination thanks to the iconic windows of Tisquizoque (which we will talk about later).

In the area of ​​today’s Florián there were several indigenous communities, but after the Spanish conquest they fought in vain against the Europeans, so that the indigenous population became less.

In the 19th century, the entire area was acquired by Ezequiel Florián and his son-in-law Belisario Tellez founded the city in 1915.

Things to do and see in Florián

Las ventanas de tisquizoque.

Hands down the most iconic place in the community and the reason the city is called “The City of Open Windows”. Legend has it that at the time of the Spanish conquest, European soldiers cornered a cacique (native leader) named Tisquizoque.

The cacike, who was a proud man and would rather die than fall into the hands of the enemy, fled through a cave. At the end of it there is a huge 86 m high waterfall and it jumped without hesitation. This gave rise to the name Las ventanas de Tisquizoque (The Windows of Tisquizoque).

Las ventanas de Tisquizoque is a huge, 90 m long cave. This is full of stalactites and you can walk through it. At the other end, as mentioned, there is a huge opening that houses the first waterfall (there are three of them) where the Kazike Tisquizoque allegedly committed suicide.

In the opening of the cave you can admire an incredible landscape. That is why the waterfall is considered to be one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Santander. To get to the waterfall, a walk of around 30 minutes is necessary.

Charco Paila

Another natural tourist attraction is found on the way to the windows of Tisquizoque. The Charco Paila is a natural pool. It is lapped by a small waterfall and is a place of relaxation.

Charco Azul

About 5 minutes by car from Florian is the Charco Azul, a large natural pool where you can swim and relax. In the distance you can also see the last waterfall of Las ventanas de Tisquizoque.

Caverna de Brazuelos

The Brazuelos Cave is a gigantic cave, which, unlike the windows of the Tisquizoque, is very difficult to access.

To get to Brazuelos Cave, one has to undertake a strenuous hike that takes about three hours.

How do you get to Florian?

Florian is located in the south of the Santander department, around 275 kilometers from the capital Bucaramanga. The journey takes around 7 hours.

Where can you eat in Florian?

Super Broaster Florianense

Calle 3 # 1B- 186

It’s not a fancy restaurant, but it’s great for a quick and tasty lunch. They base their kitchen offer on a serving of chicken breast.

Charalá

El Socorro isn’t the only town in Santandereano that prides itself on its contribution to Colombian independence. Another place that gained merit during this period was Charalá. This village is also known as the cradle of America’s freedom.

Colombian heroes like José Antonio Galán, who was one of the leaders of the Comuneros and was executed by the Spaniards, were born in Charalá. Later this was also cut into pieces. His limbs were placed in different parts of the country to prevent others from identifying themselves as like-minded people and visiting his grave.

Another important event was the Battle of Pienta in 1819 during the Colombian War of Independence, when peasants faced Spanish soldiers.

Things to do and see in Charalá

Parque principal de charalá.

There are statues in the park commemorating José Antonio Galán, and the biggest attraction is of course the Samán tree. The Saman tree is gigantic and stands in the middle of the park. It was planted in 1919 to commemorate the centenary of Colombia’s independence. Today it is a symbol of the community and a place where tourists can be photographed.

Museo del Algodón y Lienzo de la Tierra

Like many Colombian cities, Charalá has a long tradition of cotton crafting. For this reason, it was decided in 2013 to create this museum, which in its different rooms tells the story of cotton in Santander.

Museo Jaime Guevara

In this museum you can learn more about the importance of Charalá for Colombian independence and its illustrious personalities. The museum was founded by the artist Jaime Guevara. Therefore there is also a room where you can see your paintings.

Here is the Juan Curí waterfall, where you can practice torrentismo (canyoning). This place is only 20 minutes away from Charalá.

How do you get to Charalá?

Charala is about a three-hour drive from Bucaramanga.

Where to stay in Charalá

Some excellent ways to stay in Charalá are:

Hotel Cacique Chalalá

Calle 23 # 15 – 29

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The hotel is a colonial-style building with colorful gardens, located in the historical center of Charalá. It is close to the main park, the church, and several museums. The hotel offers 20 spacious and comfortable rooms with private bathroom, hot water, wi-fi and cable TV. You can also enjoy the restaurant with typical dishes of the region, the parking lot and the solar panels that provide sustainable energy12

Casa El Cedro

Km 7 Vía Charalá -Encino

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The house is a cozy and peaceful place surrounded by nature and mountains. It is located 7 km from Charalá and 45 km from San Gil. The house offers views of the Pienta river and serves a continental breakfast. You can choose from a deluxe room with a king-size bed, a deluxe room with a double bed, or a studio with a balcony and two beds. The house also has a terrace, a garden, a shared lounge and a games room.

Hotel La Hacienda del Pienta

Carrera 18 con 19 esquina

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The hotel is a modern and elegant establishment situated in Charalá. It has a restaurant, a bar, a garden and a sun terrace. Some rooms have a balcony with mountain views. The hotel serves an American or à la carte breakfast. You can also enjoy the free wi-fi, private parking and pet-friendly policy. The hotel is close to the airport and some natural attractions.

Where to eat in Charalá

This restaurant offers typical dishes from Santander and they offer a wide variety of meats and hamburgers.

Restaurante La Palma

Here they offer typical Colombian food. This restaurant recommends the pork loin and ora meat.

Cañón de Chicamocha

Colombia is synonymous with nature and has a multitude of natural wonders to offer. One of them is undoubtedly the imposing Chicamocha Canyon, a 1.2 miles (2 km) deep and 141 miles (227 km) long geographic fault.

There are many viewpoints along the canyon from which to admire the beauty of this natural wonder, but you can also visit Chicamocha National Park.

Chicamocha (Panachi) National Park was established in 2006. Because of this, we find architectural elements that are characteristic of the region, such as arched windows, wide columns and porticoes from Tapia Pisada. There is also the famous Monumento a la Santandereanidad, which contains 36 sculptures in memory of the “Comuneros” and is oriented towards Socorro, the birthplace of this revolutionary group.

For more information I refer to our Chicamocha travel guide.

Cultural agenda

In contrast to other departments, such as B. Boyacá, Santander is not characterized by such iconic festivals. However, some of the most popular are:

Día de la santandereanidad

Every year on May 17th, the Día de la Santandereanidad is celebrated, which commemorates the creation of the sovereign state of Santander in 1857, which lasted until the constitution of 1876 when it became a department.

On this day, dances, demonstrations and offers of traditional dishes of the department take place in different parts of the department.

Festival Iberoamericano de Cuenteros Abrapalabra

The festival takes place in Bucaramanga in September or October. During this festival, various storytellers come to please the audience with their stories.

Feria Bonita en Bucaramanga

It is the most important festival in Bucaramanga and takes place for 10 days in September. During the festival there are concerts, craft fairs, shows, etc.

Festival Nacional de la Guabina y el Tiple

Velez is known not only for its delicious Veleño snack, but also for the iconic National Festival of the Guabina and the Tiple, which aims to bring out the musical traditions of the indigenous people.

This festival serves to preserve the culture and presents choreographies and instruments that are native to the region.

Festival de Cine Verde de Barichara

Barichara also has its own film festival called Festiver, which is all about the environment. It is a competition in which national and international directors present their short or feature films. This festival takes place in September.

Night life in Santander

Bucaramanga is a larger city and therefore offers many opportunities to go out. The rest of the communities in the department are rather cozy.

Best time to visit Santander

Santander has such a rich historical, architectural and natural heritage that it can be visited at any time. However, places like Barichara or the Chicamocha Gorge are very popular with tourists. It can therefore get very crowded during the high season (December to mid-January, June, July, Easter and the holiday weekends).

The falls generally carry more water during the rainy season (April, May and September and October).

Transport in Santander

To get around in Santander, there are several options available depending on the destination, budget, and preferences of each traveler. Some of the most common options are:

The bus is an economical and accessible option for getting around in Santander, as there are several transportation companies that cover routes between municipalities in the department and other regions of the country. The Bucaramanga Bus Terminal is the main departure and arrival point for intermunicipal and interdepartmental buses. The San Gil Bus Terminal also offers bus services to other tourist destinations such as Barichara, Guane, Curití, and Socorro.

The taxi is a practical and safe option for getting around within cities or between nearby places. Taxis in Santander have meters that indicate the fare based on the distance traveled. Taxis can also be requested by phone or through mobile applications. The cost of the service varies depending on the city, time, and traffic.

Private or rented car

Another option for getting around in Santander is to drive a private or rented car. This option provides greater freedom and independence to explore different places in the department at your own pace. However, it’s important to consider that some roads may be in poor condition or have tolls. Additionally, you need to have a valid driver’s license and mandatory insurance.

The bicycle is an eco-friendly and healthy option for getting around in Santander, especially in rural or natural areas. The bicycle allows you to enjoy the scenery, climate, and local culture in a different way. Additionally, it’s an ideal choice for exercising or engaging in eco-tourism.

What I like and don’t about Santander

Santander is an excellent tourist destination. There are plenty of outdoor activities and the high altitude makes the temperature perfect. Culturally, you will also find some of the most beautiful villages in Colombia in the department. The residents are super friendly and I always felt very welcome on my visits.

With the Chicamocha Graben, the department also has a unique attraction. I think this department will increasingly attract international tourism in the future.

What I don’t like is that I think you can find some of the most miserable road users in Santander. General driving skills are underground and 25% of road users should be sent back to driving school.

Colombia Travel Guides

Here you will find travel guides for the most popular regions in Colombia, which we have put together during our extensive travels around the country.

• Colombia Travel Guide
• Bogota Colombia Travel Guide
• Medellin Colombia Travel Guide
• Cartagena Colombia Travel Guide
• Santa Marta Colombia Travel Guide
• Cali Colombia Travel Guide
• Coffee Triangle Colombia Travel Guide
• Barranquilla Colombia Travel Guide
• La Guajira Colombia Travel Guide
• Tayrona Park Colombia Travel Guide
• Palomino Colombia Travel Guide
• San Andres Island Colombia Travel Guide
• Providencia Island Colombia Travel Guide
• Casanare Llanos Colombia Travel Guide
• Amazonas Colombia Travel Guide
• Chocó Colombia Travel Guide
• Santander Colombia Travel Guide
• Boyaca Colombia Travel Guide

Travel Guides to Colombia’s Small Towns

Here you will find travel guides for less popular destinations in Colombia. Some of these destinations are even real insider tips and not even known to the Colombians as travel destinations.

• Aguachica Colombia Travel Guide
• Arauca Colombia Travel Guide
• Armenia Colombia Travel Guide
• Barrancabermeja Colombia Travel Guide
• Bucaramanga Colombia Travel Guide
• Buenaventura Colombia Travel Guide
• Canyon Chicamocha Colombia Travel Guide
• El Carmen de Bolivar Colombia Travel Guide
• Caucasia Colombia Travel Guide
• Cucuta Colombia Travel Guide
• Florencia Colombia Travel Guide
• Ibagué Colombia Travel Guide
• Inirida Colombia Travel Guide
• Ipiales Colombia Travel Guide
• Magangue Colombia Travel Guide
• Manizales Colombia Travel Guide
• Mitu Colombia Travel Guide
• Mocoa Colombia Travel Guide
• Monteria Colombia Travel Guide
• Neiva Colombia Travel Guide
• Palmira Colombia Travel Guide
• Pasto Colombia Travel Guide
• Pereira Colombia Travel Guide
• Popayan Colombia Travel Guide
• Puerto Asis Colombia Travel Guide
• Puerto Carreno Colombia Travel Guide
• Quibdo Colombia Travel Guide
• Riohacha Colombia Travel Guide
• San José del Guaviare Colombia Travel Guide
• Sincelejo Colombia Travel Guide
• Sogamoso Colombia Travel Guide
• Tulua Colombia Travel Guide
• Tumaco Colombia Travel Guide
• Tunja Colombia Travel Guide
• Turbo Colombia Travel Guide
• Valledupar Colombia Travel Guide
• Villa de Leyva Colombia Travel Guide
• Villavicencio Colombia Travel Guide
• Yopal Colombia Travel Guide

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Discover the Hidden Gems of Santander Colombia

Section 1: Explore the Breathtaking Natural Beauty Santander Colombia is a paradise for nature lovers, with its diverse landscapes and stunning natural beauty. One of the must-visit sites in Santander is Chicamocha National Park. This park is home to the breathtaking Chicamocha Canyon, known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Colombia.’ Take a cable car ride to enjoy mesmerizing views of the canyon and engage in various outdoor activities like hiking, paragliding, and zip-lining. Another hidden Leer más…

Santander, Colombia is a destination filled with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. From picturesque landscapes to vibrant cultural experiences, this region offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a history buff, Santander has it all. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top sites and experiences that will make your trips to Santander a definite success. Explore the Chicamocha Canyon One of the most breathtaking Leer más…

Exploring the Hidden Gems of Santander, Colombia

Discover the Best Experiences in Santander Santander, Colombia, is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored. From stunning natural wonders to historical sites, this vibrant region offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a history buff, Santander has it all. One of the top attractions in Santander is the Chicamocha National Park. This breathtaking park is home to the second-largest canyon in the world, offering awe-inspiring views and endless opportunities for Leer más…

Off the beaten path Santander, a Colombian department, is rarely visited. Santander is on the east side of Colombia between two mountain ranges one of which borders Venezuela. It’s a region with green mountains that go from tropical valleys to high plains, tumbling rivers, deep gorges, sleepy Spanish colonial villages and bustling medium sized cities.

NORTH SANTANDER

Not many people know much about Santander because it’s not on the road to any significant stop in Colombia. It’s a 15 hour – 450 mile bus ride from Cartagena to the north and 250 miles and another 10 hour mountainous bus ride to Bogota to the south. Why bother? It’s one of the cheapest areas in the country offering bargain adventure, colonial lodgings, a great climate and country food.

Bucaramanga – the main city you arrive at is the capital. It’s a modern industrial city of about 500,000 and the capital of the department of Santander.  It’s out of the way but a good place to stop, relax and enjoy another side of Colombia.  It’s especially appreciated after traveling the coast with its the crushing heat.

Not too many people have ever visited this town. Everyone has heard of it, but few have gone  – which is maybe why I liked it.  I didn’t see one foreigner the whole time I was there. The city of Bucaramanga is a tad congested and  not the most walkable city in Colombia. Called ‘the city of parks’ but all of the vegetation in the parks has been drying up and dying due to global warming so don’t expect to see all that much greenery.

My favorite parks are Jardin Botanico Valezuelo , also known as ‘ El Paraguitas’ – a large park in Floridablanca up the mountain.  The Rio Frio runs through it and it’s an oasis, a quiet, shaded park where  turtles, birds and sloths roam freely.

In the center of town Parque Garcia Roviera (Calle 36 Cra. 20), near the government buildings and courthouses, has a lot of palm trees, empty benches and pigeons.

Located near the park is the Casa Cultural (Calle 37 #12-40a). It’s dedicated to Simon Bolivar and the fight for independence. But it is even more memorable for it’s nice display of well preserved mummies.

Calle 35 (between Parque Santander and Parque Garcia Roviera) is a very interesting street. It is closed to traffic, full of shops and little malls and street vendors.

And just off this avenue is the central market of Bucaramanga .  A large,  four story structure. It is  very clean with hundreds of stalls selling everything from food to clothes. There are also restaurants and a row of jugo or fruit juice stands on the third floor.

Just up from Plaza Bolivar is the Museum of Modern Art (Calle 37 Cra. 26) Entrance is free.

There plenty of restaurants and hotels in all different price points and thousands of taxis that will take you anywhere for a dollar or two.  I stayed at the Hotel Hormiga Cra. 17c No. 55-56  in the center by the new market. It had an outdoor pool, private room with private bath, air, t.v., desk and a window for just $20 a night.

Hormiga means ants and in Santander they eat ants – Hormigas Culonas or ants with big butts.  They are sold as boxed novelties, a conversation piece found  all over the place. Like the early American settlers in America  would eat grub which  was whatever they found crawling around under a rock – squashed and heated up in a tin cup.   A cheap sort of protein. No one actually east grub anymore  but we call catching a bite,  ‘getting some grub’. You get the idea. The ants are roasted and are crunchy like coffee beans.

Around Bucaramanga – there are places to visit –  enough to fill up 2-3 days with plenty of time to relax.

Ecoparque Cerro del Santisimo is a new structure built a few years ago. You take the cable car up into to a mountain  offering a ‘mirador’ or lookout over the city. Here there is a huge Christ statue, one of the largest in South America and you can take an elevator up into the head of the statue for a better view.  Below there are food stalls and a nice horse shoe plaza offering exhibits and performances.

Also outside the city is another park called Mesa de las Santas y Panachi . It has another cable car that will take you across a huge gorge  to an amusement park – all rather expensive.

Piedecuesta Like Giron and Floridablanca, Piedecuesta is a village about a 30 minutes drive outside of Bucaramanga. But  it refuses to be a suburb and demands to be considered a town in its own right.

Giron is outside of the city of Bucaramanga there’s the delightful gem of a colonial town – Giron which only the locals seem to know about.  It reminded me of Mompox. It’s a nice town for a stroll. There’s a nice Church in the main plaza and a market off to the side. And down by the river there are more market stalls, tejo courts and an old bridge going over the river.

Foreigners, mostly senior citizens from Europe, are seeking out these colonial towns to come and winter in – a week here – a week there – biding their time till spring when they return home. The villages are quiet, quaint, the locals are friendly and the prices of food and lodging – practically a steal.

San Vicente de Chucuri is a torturous 3 hour ride north of Bucaramanga on gravel roads through green mountains and farms. San Vincente, not so long ago a stronghold of the FARC. The town is famous for its avocadoes, coffee and cocoa beans used for making chocolate. They even make a delicious coffee and cocoa breads here.

Berlin – an interesting day trip from Buca is to take a bus up into the mountains of the Eastern Cordillera , a two hour trip ($6)  to the town of Berlin which is located at 4,350 meters above sea level. Here the air is thin and cool. Berlin is high  in the mountain plains of the Cordillera Oriental and reminds one of  the Scottish Highlands.

Pamplona — C0ntinueing on down the road you arrive at the quaint little colonial village of Pomplona. This village is a 4.5 hour bus trip from Bucaramanga. Pamplona is a university town and 40% of the inhabitants are students.  At 6,600 feet above sea level, it’s warm during the day and cold at night.  But like most college towns in Colombia (Popayan being the most famous) they are lively, laid back and extremely friendly and open. The main square, center of town, is Parque Ayueda Gallando where everyone gathers. There are lots of little museums in town but unfortunately most of them don’t open till 3.

Cucuta – further down the mountain from Pamplona lies the city of Cucuta. It is a hot, humid town on the Colombian/Venezuelan border.  Probably the most important border crossing between the two countries, it has also been called the contraband capital of Colombia.  It’s a town in crisis, overrun by desperate refugees who sleep in the parks and beg on the streets.  More than 1.5 million Venezuelan refuges are now in Colombia. Thousands more are entering everyday.  The U.N. says more than 3 million Venezuelans have left their country making this the largest displacement of people in Latin America history.

SOUTH SANTANDER

Chicamocha Canyon and the Chicamocha National Park

The Chicamocha Canyon is one of the national treasures of Colombia. Located just 34 miles (54 km) south of Bucaramanga on the road to San Gil. The canyon was formed by 45 billion years ago and is 6,600 feet (2,000 meters) deep and 141 miles long (227 km.) making it the second largest canyon in the world and deeper than the Grand Canyon.

There is a park right off the road, The Chicamocha National Park, established in 2007. This park is a must see if just for the views. There are plenty of activities in the park including a waterpark, ziplining, paragliding and an aerial cable car that crosses from one side of the canyon to the other – the second longest cable car ride in the world. The entrance to the park is 25,000 COP ($8) and another 25,000 COP with the cable car ride. The park is open Wednesday – Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the weekends.

There are also guided tours from Barichara to the bottom of the canyon and the Chicamocha River and the village of Jordan where the three rivers the Suarez, Chicamocha and Sogamoso converge.

Barichara – a   few hours travel south of Bucaramanga there’s the town of  Barichara founded in 1741 which means in the native Guane language “ place of rest with flowering trees”. Barichara is less expensive than neighboring Villa de Leyva . The streets are made of cobblestones and the whitewashed colonial houses have been kept original. They filmed many Colombian movies here. Inside the houses remind me of Tuscany with wooden beams, terra-cotta tile floors and terra-cotta roof tiles. The town has been named the most beautiful village in Colombia. I stayed at the ‘Mansion of Virginia’ in town. A nice little colonial style hotel with only a few rooms. It has a tasteful courtyard and breakfast is included in the deal.

Guane   – is next to Barichara it is the smaller village of Guane a 30 minute bus ride away. The houses in town were all whitewashed colonial style like in Barichra and there was a nice church in town. Though the town wasn’t as clean or as well maintained as Barichara so a morning or afternoon day trip is sufficient. Neither village is even remotely being crushed by tourism like Villa de Leyva and the towns are not as pricey. Here they specialize in a drink called Sabajon -crème liquer -Baileys kind of drink mixed with alcohol and infused with coffee or whisky.

Magotes – t he hour bus ride over the mountains from San Gil, through the coffee and sugar cane fields, is worth the trip alone.  Mogotes is a small farming town where the village streets turn into dirt paths on the outskirts of town leading up into farming country.  Here men with machetes and straw hats ride through the town on magnificient horses.

Socorro – is a   town outside of San Gil where the scream of the cicadas in the trees on the main square is so loud it fills the adjacent dome of the Basilica with a surreal undulating high pitched screech. There a nice museum just up the street from the main square called ‘ Casa della Cultura ‘ and the ladies working there give a very nice tour.

Curiti – is a   little gem of a pueblo just 30 minutes bus ride outside of San Gil. It was hands down my favorite and one to which I will be returning soon. There’s a nice colonial hotel right on the main plaza called Hotel Colonial Vizcaya where the rooms are only $20 a night. There are a few food restaurants offering local fare. But the town is mainly known for its arts and crafts using the local ‘fique ‘ fiber. There’s a cooperative factory called Ecofibras, right in town that offers free tours of the fique weaving process. This craft dates back a thousand years to the Guane tribes who extracted the fibers from agave type cactuses and weaved them into clothing.  The locals have taken this ancient art and marketed it as an ecological alternative to plastic.

After stripping the cactus of its fibers, the threads are manually combed to extract the impurities then died with 70 different naturally extracted colors.  Then the fibers are weaved into a course cloth used to make fabrics, bags, rugs, shoes, wall hangings and numerous other products.  The weave can be of pure fique fibers, which tend to be  somewhat course, or mixed with cotton producing a softer material.

The town markets their material as an eco-fiber. For household use they make shopping/tote bags. And for commercial use  gunny sacks for Colombia’s coffee shipments and large fique fiber rugs for export – a hot item in Switzerland they tell me.

Excellent swimming holes are located just a 30 minute walk downhill outside of Curiti. Tuk Tuks can take you down for cheap and an occasional bus comes by every couple hours to take you back up the hill into town. The place is called Pozzo Azul , or the blue pool. The locals call it El Balneario de Pescaderito. Just take the path going up river and there is one deep swimming hole after another. There is a restaurant/bar on the road by the river.

For more on the arts and crafts of Curiti see the article: Arts and Crafts Tourism in Colombia

Las Gachas, Guadalupe

Las Gachas,  are a series of plunge pools or swimming holes along a shallow river in Colombia’s mountainous province of Santander. This destination is yet another Colombian gem. The algae covering the river bed adds  a beautiful red/purple hue to the river. Las Gachas are called the  Cano Cristales  of Santander. But unlike Cano Cristales they are free, relatively easy to get to and remain red all year long.

The reason people come to  Quebradas Las Gachas  are for the hundreds of natural swim holes carved into the rock of the river bed.  Some pools are shallow and some are deep. The deeper pools are clear and cool while the shallower pools are warmer due to the heat from the sun and rocks.  Whole families can fit in the larger pools while the smaller pools are just right for one or two people. People say the flow of the river and the circulation in the pools gently massages them like a natural jacuzzi. Visiting Las Gachas one also discovers the villages of Oiba and Guadalupe. (See article: Las Gachas – Plunge Pools in Santander )

San Gil – in juxtaposition to these laid back villages, just a 30 minute trip from Barichara, a 3 hour trip from Bucaramanga,  is the town of San Gil – nicknamed the extreme sports adventure capital of Colombia. Located between two rivers the town is larger town than  expected but laid back. Here there are plenty of hotels and restaurants. The town’s main park is Parque Liberdad a nice place to sit and soak in the energy of the town.

Down by the river along the malecon there is  Parque Gallineral, a 20 acre park on the edge of town down by the Foce river .  It has  huge Chiminago trees covered with long silvery tendrils of Spanish moss called barba del Viejo (the old man’s beard). A great place to find a bench and relax.  They also have a very nice pool in the park next to the bar, which is hardly used during the weekdays. The entrance fee wristband is only $2, with use of the pool, and you can come and go all day.

San Gil – Capital of Adventure Sports –   This is this only place in Santander adventure seeking young travelers will visit, putting up with a 14 hour all night bus trip just to get here. If you’re an adrenaline junkie and have adventure sports on your bucket list, this is your Colombian destination. Just check them off one by one at a small fraction of what it would cost you back home. San Gil is even a lot cheaper than other South American adventure destinations like Banos in Ecuador.

The sports take place on and around the Rio Fonce , which doesn’t go through San Gil, as I had expected, but is short trip down into a  valley gorge, the deepest gorge in Colombia after the Colorado River.

Adventures For Hire: 

Here one can go paragliding through the deepest gorge in Colombia for 30 minutes with transportation, lunch, tandem guide, sails, equipment – just $60 River Rafting down the Rio Fonce rapids – the #2-#3 stage for 1.5 hours always with transportation, lunch, guide, equipment – $13 River Rafting at the fourth level for 24 km. down and insanely fast stretch of the Rio Fonce river just – $48 – you know you want it.

Abseiling , known as rappelling in Colombia, up 180’ through a three-tier waterfall – $20. Caving or Speleology through caves half filled with water leading to bat filled rooms and saloons with waterfalls – $10 Bungee jumping from 210 feet up over a river – $25 An all-day bicycle tour with a guide, breakfast, lunch, bikes 75 km. – $90 Horseback riding with lunch and guide – $35.

The agencies in town will organize everything. They’ll even do combo packages where you can squeeze as many activities as you can possibly endure into 1-3 days. Then there’s kayaking, swimming and hiking activities you can pretty much do on your own.

Another quiet village to visit just a short bus ride outside of San Gil is the little visited village of Pinchote . It has a nice town square and a nice restaurant on the edge of town overlooking the hills.

Velez and Barbosa

Two popular destinations in the south of Santander near Boyaca are Velez and Barbosa. Barbosa is a big noisy town with lots of traffic, hotels, restaurants and a big town square. It’s not a particularly interesting town, but the town of Valez is well worth a visit.

Velez is a 30 minute bus ride up the mountain from Barbosa and 231 km. from Bucaramanga. Velez is a quiet, safe, quaint pueblo. At an altitude 2,150 meters it has a cool mountain climate. It is a nice village for a relaxing stay for a couple of days. The main square, next to the cathedral of Velez, is very big, like the town squares in Boyaca.

The town is known for its folkloristic festivals and is famous for it’s high quality Bocadillo Veleno which is a sweet, popular in Colombia, a delicacy made from the guayaba fruit, arequipe and sugar. There are factories and direct sales shops all around town. While most bocadillos in Colombia are made with sweet coarse sugar, the bocadillos from Velez are refined candies resembling a fine marmalade.

To get there:  I traveled there from Urbino in the Guaijara Penninsula.  Stopped for one night in Valledupar – a four hour trip from Urbino.  The next day got a bus to Bucaramanga which is an 8 hour trip about 420 miles from Bogota. The city has an airport and you can fly in from Panama City or any major city in Colombia.  Most people going to San Gil come from Bogota or the Atlantic coast. From the Bucaramanga bus terminal it is a six hour trip through the mountains to Barichara. To get to San Gil it’s a four hour bus ride from Barichara to Tunja ($2). It’s an 8 hour bus trip from Medellin.

For more on colonial villages in Colombia see:

The Beautiful Colonial Villages of Boyaca

Exploring Colombia’s Alternative Coffee Region

Please leave your comments, personal experiences or any questions you may have in the comment box below and we will get back to you. 

Jon McInnes

Wild Water Adventure Tours in the Canyons of Mesetas

Nuqui – A Remote Paradise on the Rugged Pacific Coast of Colombia

Sex Tourism in Colombia – Government Crack Down on Exploitation and Violence in Medellin

About this site.

This is a blog with over 85 articles with photos on Colombian destinations. For a traveler, Colombia is the best kept secret of the continent. It’s affordable and relatively undiscovered.

It is a country with so much to offer: history, beautiful scenery, mountains, coastlines, beaches, rainforests, abundant greenery, raging rivers, caves, sleepy colonial towns, hip, hot metropolitan cities, friendly and sophisticated people, archeological sites, excellent coffee and a wide array of fruits and vegetables to discover.

Hopefully the information provided herein will help convince more travelers to  visit Colombia.

– Jon McInnes

Design by Maria Parada - Text and photos by Jon McInnes

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COLOMBIA'S PACIFIC COAST ACTIVITIES

Where to go.

• Coffee Region
• Pacific Region
• Boyaca & Santander
• Caribbean Region

Best places to visit in Boyaca and Santander

Villa de Leyva: Located about 3 hours by car from Bogota, Villa de Leyva is a Spanish colonial town surrounded by stunning hills and terrain. This city is well known for its whitewashed colonial houses, cobbled streets and terracotta roofs remarkably well-preserved. Wander the colonial streets, go horseback riding outside the city or visit the Terracotta House, an impressive architectural gem made from terracotta.

Tunja: Tunja is the first destination to visit when arriving in Boyacá. It is the capital of the district, founded in 1539 and being the capital center, offers architectural sites that are of great interest. Religious tourism also becomes important with buildings such as the Santa Clara de la Real Convent or the baroque-style church Iglesia de Santo Domingo, where murals dating from the sixteenth century are exhibited.

San Gil: If you love extreme sports, you must visit this town located about 25 km from Barichara. The list of things to do in San Gil includes parasailing, white-water rafting, hiking to the Curití Waterfall and riding rented bikes. San Gil isn’t a small town but still conserves a colonial town atmosphere.

Pueblito Boyacence:  The town of Duitama is famous for its local neighbourhood called "Pueblito Boyacence" (little Boyaca village). This neighbourhood was built to represent seven of the most beautiful towns of the Boyaca Department: Villa de Leyva, Tibasosa, Tenza, El Cocuy, Sachica, Monguí and Raquira. When short on time, visit Pueblito Boyacence to get an understanding of this Colombian region in one afternoon.

Paipa:  A spa town built near Lake Sochagota, Paipa allows visitors to enjoy hot springs, aquatic sports and charming hotels. Visit one of the most essential Colombian monuments, the Vargas Swamp Battle memorial, about 5 km outside of Paipa. It commemorates one of the most decisive battles for Colombia's independence, fought on July 25th 1819.

Raquira:  This picturesque town has always been a place where artisans produce pieces of pottery and wool. Its name means "city of pots" in the Native American Chibcha language. The houses, streets and central square are splashed with colour and adorned with an infinite variety of clay pieces. Spend an afternoon appreciating the exquisite handicrafts in this little town.

Barichara:  Deemed the “prettiest town in Colombia,” Barichara is located about 2.5 hours outside the Santanderian city of Bucaramanga. It offers a unique charming, colonial, and romantic atmosphere – complete with cobblestone streets and historic churches. Visit local artisan shops and try regional specialty hormigas culonas, giant edible ants.

San Juan de Girón:  Recognized as ‘National Monument of Colombia’ thanks to the colonial architecture that is identified in its houses with white facades, cobbled streets and Alicanto bridges. This municipality is located 9 kilometers from Bucaramanga and is known for pilgrimages during Holy Week and the gypsies of the Main Park, who practice the art of chiromancy.

Boyaca & Santander Tours

Villa de Leyva and Beyond Tour

Best of Colombia Tour

Colombia Colonial Towns Tour

Top things to do in boyaca & santander.

• Visit the Iguaque Sanctuary:  Located near Villa de Leyva the sanctuary is famous for its sacred lake. According to the Muisca Mythology, a pilgrimage here cleanses the soul and purifies the spirit. At worth, you will walk through amazing ecosystems of moors, wetlands, high Andean forest, and oak.
• Hike in the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy:  The Sierra Nevada del Cocuy is formed by a chain of more than 25 snow-capped peaks, in an area of thirty kilometres. Also known as Guican and Chita, it is one of the most important glacial masses in Colombia, which can be walked on foot. This mountain range is part of the El Cocuy National Natural Park, in which there are Andean forests and basal jungle. The perfect location to spot a large amount of fauna such as danta, morrocoy, maiceros and araguato.
• Look for the monster of the Lake Tota : The legends say that the "devil whale" is the Colombian version of the Loch Ness Monster and can be found in the Lake Tota. If you're not scared (especially by the cold) you can take a dip in this icy cold lake and then relax on the white sandy beach. This place is so peaceful and is perfect if you like water, sports and fishing.
• Walk on the Camino Real:  This 10 km trail hike connects Barichara and Guane. The path is mostly downhill, perfect for novice hikers. Enjoy sprawling green farmland and mountain views while walking along Camino Real. And if you're too tired to walk back, you can always take cheap public buses back to your starting point in Barichara.
• Connect with the nature in The Chicamocha national park : Established in 2006, this national park is home to the Chicamocha River, which flows through the majestic Chicamocha Canyon. Take in the incredible panoramic beauty of this natural wonder by riding a cable car or zip-lining across the canyon. Visitors can also enjoy views from a giant swing or by riding in a dune buggy.
• Contemplate the landscapes from the Cerro del Santísimo Ecopark:  Located on the ‘El Helechales’ sidewalk, Floridablanca is the Cerro del Santísimo Ecopark, one of Santander's main tourist destinations. You can contemplate the landscapes, the nature that surrounds the Bucaramanga and its metropolitan area while enjoying the weather. In ‘El Santísimo’ stands a sculpture of Jesus of Nazareth that measures 33 m high, making it a pilgrimage site during Holy Week.
• Be amazed by the Santurbán:  The Santurbán Páramo Complex is located in the northwest of the Andes Mountains, integrating Santander and North Santander territories. Within its area, the following stand out: the Santurbán Regional Natural Park and the lagoon complex, which includes a high richness in flora, fauna and microbiota. This sanctuary is perfect for ecological walks.
• Climb The Mesa de los Santos:  The perfect place for climbers, lovers of nautical activities and walkers. Usually visited as an alternative to live experiences with the natural wealth of Santander. From this place you can see the imposing Chicamocha Canyon.

Surroundings of

Boyaca & santander.

Zapatoca: Known as ‘The Silk Climate City’, Zapatoca is 60 kilometers from Bucaramanga and is famous for its colonial architecture from the 19th century. In addition to this, tourists can enjoy natural wonders like La Cueva del Nitro. Las Gachas: : If you're looking for a small piece of paradise off the beaten path, Las Gachas is the perfect place for you. With its clear water and red rocks, this red river looks like the famous Caño Cristales without the crowd of tourists. Chiquinquirá: Religious tourism is done in Chiquinquirá, a town where the Virgin of the Rosary is worshiped in all its expression. Tinjacá: Tinjacá, in the indigenous word means "royal mansion of a sovereign." It is the ideal destination if you want to get out of the dynamics that cities offer and take a moment to receive energy from nature and be calm.

Boyaca & Santander Travel Information

When is the best time to visit boyaca and santander.

The temperatures, which range between 14 ° C and 18 ° C in the central region of Boyaca, force the use of well-protected garments that mitigate the effects of the cold. But there are also warmer territories, which demand the use of sunscreen and dark glasses.

In Santander are all thermal floors, from the warm to the moor. In the Magdalena Valley, for example, the average climate is 29 ° C; in the Chicamocha canyon, the temperature reaches 32 ° C; and in the moors, on the contrary, the temperature can drop to 7 ° C. The majority of urban settlements are located in warm thermal floors, with temperatures around 24 ° C.

• The Astronomy Festival (February): If you're a nerdy space lover, this festival is perfect for you. Every February in Villa de Leyva, thousands of international space enthusiasts congregate to admire the Colombian sky with telescopes and participate in different conferences, games and exhibitions. During the event, they turn off the lights of the city to give you the best show possible.
• Holy Week in Boyacá  (March): One of the most traditional in the country, along with those of Mompox, Popayán or Pamplona, ​​originated ten years after the city was founded. Locals and visitors follow in procession the figures that commemorate the passion and death of Jesus Christ. Penitents, villagers who carry these pieces, wear dark suits and masks that cover their faces. The tour is accompanied by solemn music bands and people wearing Roman Guard costumes.
• The International Culture Festival (August): Presents nearly 3,000 artists, gathered in more than 300 events, which bring together expressions such as theater, music, cinema, and photography, painting and sculpture exhibitions. This festival, attended by artists of various nationalities, annually chooses a country and a department as guests of honor.
• The Wind and Kite Festival (August): During this month, the wind is very strong, so for three days, hundreds of people are filling the sky with their coloured kites. You can have fun and watch professionals but also participate in one of the different kite-flying competitions.
• The Aguinaldo Boyacense (December): This “Fiesta Grande, from Boyacá for Colombia,” as it has been called by its inhabitants, presents cultural exhibitions and nightly musical events that celebrate the December holidays for seven days.
• The Festival of Lights (December): In Villa de Leyva, residents decorate their balconies, houses and businesses with lights and candles to celebrate the Immaculate Conception. You can expect fireworks, concerts and activities for kids during this festive time.
• Fiestas and Carnivals of San Jerónimo (January): from January 2 to 6, the streets of Malaga become the epicenter of rumba and fun. Parade of floats, comparsas, pelayeros groups, gastronomic exhibitions and bullfighting runs encourage the local celebration.
• Festival of the Guabina and the Tiple (August): Created in 1940, it brings together interpreters of the guabina and the whirlwind, among other typical rhythms of the region. Annually, every August 7, floats, the flower parade and musical concerts are taken by the municipality of Vélez, in the south of the department.
• Cattle Fair of Bucaramanga (September):    It's the most recognized livestock exhibition in the capital of Santander. Music, party, species of zebu, dairy, sheep and goats are combined in this local holiday.
• Feast of the Lord of Miracles (September): the feast that, according to historians, dates from 1870, date on which Pope Pius IX granted indulgence for the celebration, congregates thousands of faithful, among settlers and members of the national Catholic community. It takes place in Girón on September 14.
• National Song Contest Unpublished ‘José A. Morales ’ (September): This event, which is celebrated in honor of the ‘Cantor de la Patria’, brings together performers and composers of the traditional music of the Andean Region. It takes place in the town of Socorro.
• Luis A. Calvo Festival : it takes place in Bucaramanga during October and November. Exponents of the traditional rhythms of this region participate in it, including the whirlwind, the guabina and the bambuco.

What are the best transports in Boyaca and Santander?

How do I travel to Boyaca and Santander?

• By plane :  To reach the municipalities of Boyacá, users have three main airports: Gustavo Rojas Pinilla Airport in the town of Tunja, the capital of the district Alberto Lleras Camargo Airport, in the town of Sogamoso and Juan José Rondón Airport, In the town of Paipa

 The airports are enabled only for charter flights.

• By boat : The district, because of the amount of rivers it has, also has river transport, the most important being the one that develops around the Port of Boyacá.
• By land :  By the south, Tunja communicates with the Colombian capital through the Pan-American Highway. The double-lane route covers a distance of 137 km and can take, on average, 1 hour and 45 minutes. To the north, the section that covers the road to Bucaramanga is 290 km and takes approximately four hours. Towards the northeast, the North highway and the Cusiana road connect the capital of Boyacense with Yopal, on a route of 297 km and four hours long.

Santander has a road network that allows the connection of its populations with the capital of the Republic, and from there, with the rest of the national territory.

• By air:  It has the Palonegro International Airport, 20 km from Bucaramanga. It receives national flights, coming from Bogotá, Cúcuta, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Cali and Medellín. The airlines that provide passenger transport are: Avianca, Aires, Copa Airlines Colombia, Easy Fly and Satena. Flights last approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
• By land:  Two routes, from the center of the country, allow access to Santander territory: one, via the Zipaquirá route, crossing Chiquinquirá until reaching Barbosa, the gateway to the south of the department. The second option, from the Colombian capital, is through Tunja, through Arcabuco and with a final destination in Barbosa.

How do I move around?

The roads that communicate to the municipalities of Boyaca are paved and in good condition. The double road that leaves from Bogotá and crosses the towns of Tunja, Paipa, Duitama and Sogamoso is the backbone of the department in interconnection. From this route other road arteries communicate to the municipalities of the center and the towns of the north end of Boyacá, among them the snowy mountain range of El Cocuy, Güicán or Chita. Additionally, the tourist rings have roads in good condition, which facilitate the tour of local towns and attractions. Daily, the transport companies depart from Tunja towards the other locations of the department and some neighboring capitals. Comfort, security and 24-hour service are the elements that identify the Boyacense offer in terms of intermunicipal mobilization.

The roads that connect the provinces and municipalities of the department of Santander  are in good condition. Although some roads are not paved, traffic is guaranteed smoothly through the routes of Santander. The provinces of Guanentá, Soto and Mares have paved roads. On the other hand, if the destination is the municipalities that make up the Province of García Rovira, among them, Malaga or Capitanejo, the use of double traction trucks or camperos is recommended. If the option is to get to Bucaramanga, Socorro, San Gil, Barichara, Curití, Barrancabermeja, Barbosa or Vélez, you can do it by car.

Is it safe to travel to Boyaca and Santander?

Many people are worried about safety in Colombia because of the country’s dark past. There is no denying Colombia used to be one of the most dangerous countries in the world because of drug trafficking, kidnappings and an internal conflict that raged for more than 50 years. Fortunately, the safety situation has improved drastically in Colombia over the past decade, resulting in more international visitors discovering the beauty of Colombia that has been hidden from the world for so long. People no longer have to be afraid to visit Colombia and can enjoy everything this fascinating country has to offer in peace.

These are some simple tips that should keep you out of trouble:

•     Don’t flash large amounts of money in public
•     Look out for pickpockets on public transportation
•     Call or use a smartphone app to arrange for a taxi instead of hailing it on the street
•     Be aware of your surroundings
•     Keep your phones and cameras out of sight
•     Don’t wear flashy jewellery
•     Avoid taking cards or passports out with you

Traditional

Santander and Boyaca are both well known for their rich and highly traditional cuisine. With all their cultivated lands and farms they never run out of fresh produce to introduce to their recipes. Their knowledge is a perfect blend between Hispanic, Indian and African cultures and is passed down from one generation to the next.

Oreada Meat : It's a thinly sliced beef steak marinated in spices and herbs, then sun-dried. The texture is unusual and quite similar to beef jerky. It's usually served with rice and boiled yuccas with an almond-based cream sauce.

Petitoria : Santandereana cuisine is not aimed at vegetarians, as this other traditional dish of Santander cuisine is made with the viscera and blood of the goat as the main ingredient. It is an omelet-shaped mixture, which also has egg, cheese, breadcrumbs, rice and other spices and is usually used to accompany the main dishes; in other regions of Colombia there is a similar dish prepared with Lamb, called chanfaina, both of Spanish origin.

Mute : This soup is one of the most traditional dishes of the Andean Region. It's a mixture of pork, beef, vegetables, corn and spices. In some restaurants, they still make it in the woodstove. It's the perfect comfort food for cool evenings.

Culonas ants : Hormigas Culonas are big ants that are popular in the departments of Santander and North Santander. They are crispy and salty and rumoured to strengthen virility and vitality. These giant ants have been cultivated and eaten since pre-Columbian times.

Little Mazamorra : This dish is made with cooked cornmeal that is mixed with onion, peas, potatoes, peas, coriander, garlic, beans and beef. It is a soup of indigenous origin, since the Muisca natives who lived in this region consumed a similar thick soup that they spiced with an herb called guasca, to give it the spicy flavor.

Puchero : It is considered as the main course of this region. In this, several types of meat are mixed delicately with vegetables and other foods produced in the Colombian highlands. The ingredients of the stew are chicken meat and pork loin, with green banana and corn cob.

Cuchuco de trigo con espinazo : This is the typical dish of Runta, one of the rural paths located on the outskirts of the city of Tunja. Cuchuco is a very cheap and popular soup made with peeled wheat, which gives it a very thick consistency.

Boyacense stew : It is another main dish of Boyacense cuisine that is served as lunch. It is made with ingredients such as turnips, beans, cubes, hibias and tender green peas cooked together with chicken, pork and beef ribs. It is accompanied with coriander and pennyroyal.

Corn Patties or Regañonas : Santander is known for its grilled corn patties made with cornmeal, cassava and pork. Crispy outside and soft inside these arepas are completely different from the ones you may have tried before and are perfect as a snack.

Bocadillo veleño : This sweet jam or paste is made from guava pulp and panela mixed together and shaped into red squares. They are often wrapped in bijou leaves and accompanied with a piece of cottage cheese. They make a delightful treat for any time of the day. 

More Travel Tips to Visit Boyaca & Santander

Places to Visit in Santander, Colombia

There are so many great places to visit in Santander, Colombia. While Santander, a department in the northeast part of Colombia and close to the Venezuelan border, is known as "the land of adventure" in Colombia, and does offer a wide array of adventure activities and excursions, it's also a department full of history, and beautiful natural landscapes.

Traditional Food in Santander, Colombia You Have to Try

Today, we want to tell you about a few of the most typical and traditional dishes you will find in this Colombian department.

Destinations for Adventure Sports in Colombia

People's immediate thoughts of Colombia are definitely not adventure sports, but Colombia is rapidly becoming a top adventure sports tourist destination: new companies and destinations are being discovered every day.

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Soaring Andean summits, unspoiled Caribbean coast, enigmatic Amazon jungle and cryptic archaeological ruins. Colombia boasts all of South America's allure and more.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo del Oro

Bogotá's most famous museum and one of the most fascinating in South America, the Gold Museum contains more than 55,000 pieces of gold and other materials…

Piedra del Peñol

Also known as El Peñon de Guatapé, thanks to the fierce rivalry between the towns it straddles, this 200m-high granite monolith rises from near the edge…

Parque Arqueológico

Cauca & Huila

This 78-hectare archaeological park is 2.5km west of the town of San Agustín. There are over 130 statues in the park in total, either found in situ or…

Cartagena's old city is its principal attraction, particularly the inner walled town, consisting of the historical districts of El Centro and San Diego…

Museo Casa de la Memoria

This harrowing museum dedicated to the urban conflict in Medellín is a must-visit for travelers wanting to fully understand the city (and Colombia). There…

Parque Nacional Natural El Cocuy

One of Colombia's most spectacular national parks, PNN El Cocuy is mostly made up of a diverse ecosystem known as the páramo. This glacially formed,…

La Comuna 13

Once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Medellín, the Comuna 13, which clings to the mountainside above the San Javier metro station, has…

Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

The greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards in any of their colonies, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas still dominates an entire section of…

Top picks from our travel experts

14 best experiences in colombia in 2024.

Desierto de Tatacoa

Technically not a desert but a landscape of red and gray rock, sculpted by ancient waterways, the Desierto de Tatacoa is one of Colombia's most unique…

Cabo San Juan del Guía

Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Cabo San Juan del Guía is a beautiful cape with a knockout beach. It's also by far the most crowded area of the park, although lack of road access deters…

Museo Botero

Even if you've never heard of Fernando Botero, you'll probably recognize some of his highly distinctive paintings of oversized (read: chubby) characters,…

Hacienda Venecia

Zona Cafetera

This hacienda has won numerous awards for its coffee. It offers a tour in English that includes an informative presentation about Colombian coffee, an…

Topa Tolondra

Popular with locals and travelers alike, this large salsa bar near Loma de la Cruz is always buzzing. The tables are pushed right up against the walls,…

Museo del Oro Zenú

This museum is like a miniature version of Bogotá's world-class gold museum, the Museo del Oro. Though small, it offers a fascinating collection of the…

Parque Nacional Natural (PNN) Los Nevados

One of Colombia's most awe-inspiring national parks, PNN Los Nevados encompasses 583 sq km of rugged terrain in the heart of the Colombian Andes. Its…

El Cerro de Moravia

The densely populated neighborhood of Moravia was once Medellín's municipal rubbish dump with an open-air mountain of trash surrounded by a large shanty…

Observatorio Astronómico Astrosur

Former Tatacoa Observatory resident astronomer Javier Rua Restrepo now runs his own observatory around 1km further away from town. He is a dynamic teacher…

Hacienda Guayabal

This slow-paced working coffee farm near Chinchiná is a great place to come and unwind while surrounded by cafetero culture. It runs an excellent tour…

Cañaveral is as far as you can go in the park by road. From the car park a trail leads west to Arrecifes and Cabo San Juan del Guía. The beaches in…

Parque Nacional Natural (PNN) Old Providence McBean Lagoon

Providencia

To protect the unique marine life here, a 10-sq-km nature reserve in the island's northeast was established in 1995. About 10% of the park's area covers a…

Scattered across the hills around the little town of San Andrés de Pisimbalá, Tierradentro's Parque Arqueológico includes four tomb sites, an above-ground…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Colombia attracts record numbers of visitors with its incredible landscapes, vibrant cities and warm welcome. These are the top 14 things to do in 2024.

Things to Know

Have an unforgettable trip to Colombia with these planning tips on everything from transport to health, safety and etiquette.

Transportation

Colombia's landscape is stunning and impressive but those features can be hard to navigate on the ground. Here's how to get around Colombia.

Visa Requirements

With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and jaw-dropping national parks and beaches, Colombia is a joy to visit, Here's what you need to know about visas.

Money and Costs

Colombia is one of the best-value destinations in South America. Stretch your cash even further with our top tips on how to visit on a budget.

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Discover the family-friendly side of Colombia with these age-appropriate destinations and activities for unforgettable vacations with kids.

Best Road Trips

From incredible mountainous landscapes to stunning uncrowded beaches, Colombia has some once-in-a-lifetime road trips. Here are 5 of the best.

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Colombia and beyond

Visit Girón: the white colonial city in Santander, Colombia

San Juan de Girón, or Girón, is the white town of Santander . Also called peublito Monumento Nacional de Colombia , Girón is a true open-air museum . Although the town is easy to visit, few foreign tourists come here. Girón, however, is a true paradise for lovers of white towns, architecture and history . I visited Girón on a four-day trip in which I visited a Colombian friend and her family, who have lived there for many years. Read all about Girón here.

Girón: an architectural paradise in Colombia

The town of Girón is located about 9 kilometers from Bucaramanga , the capital of Santander, and is part of its metropolitan area.

Girón was founded in the year 1631 in the Spanish colonial style. The town is characterized by this distinctive architecture and white houses preserved in their original state. Therefore, this destination is very interesting if you like colonial villages and cities.

Girón has a population of about 171,000 and that’s noticeable: especially the area around the colonial center is large and at certain times it is quite crowded.

Wander the white streets of Girón

Wandering around the old streets of Girón is a real delight. I am amazed about how this place is built and how white everything is. Unlike really touristy white villages, such as Villa de Leyva, there is quite little focus on tourism here and the people just live in those beautiful white houses with the beautiful rustic front doors.

The town is also known for its many little bridges and green-grown “canals” . As one of the most religious destinations in Colombia , you will also find a number of churches that are well-known to Colombians. A special place…

Sightseeing in Girón

There is plenty to see in Girón. Here is a list of some of the main attractions.

Parque Peralta The most popular place in Girón to get married. Not surprisingly, because in this romantic place the beautiful church and lovely houses are preserved in their original state and with the original materials.

Parque las Nieves A small square in the style of the Spanish colonial era. As in Parque Peralta, this is also a place where many couples say ‘I do’, in the Capilla Nuestra Señora de las Nieves.

Parque Principal The central square is the heart of Girón. Here are the Roma established who predict the future by reading hand lines. This is also the place to try the delicacy raspados (pictured below): ice cream with fruit, cream and lots of sweetness. Really incredibly delicious! On the Parque Principal you will also find the beautiful Basílica Menor de San Juan Bautista . In colonial times, this square was the busiest place in Girón, and I think it still is….

Puentes (bridges) de Calicanto Girón is known for its many bridges. These bridges give access to several plazas, including the Parque Principal.

Casa de la Cultura At the cultural center, residents gather for various cultural activities and courses, such as music, dance and handicrafts. Sometimes there are also exhibitions of paintings or other works of art.

Museo de Arte Religioso y Casa Pastoral This museum focuses on crafts and paintings from the 18th century and you will also find religious elements from the colonial era.

Casa de Gobierno After several reconstructions since its construction in 1631, this house today functions as a town hall.

Casa Museo La Mansión del Frayle Contemporary a restaurant with dishes from the region and a museum with objects from the 18th century. In 1810, the Declaration of Independence of Colombia was signed here.

Girón in pictures: how beautiful it is here!

It’s not always so quiet there….

If you stroll through Girón during the week, the town is wonderfully quiet, but if you visit during festivities or on Sundays, you can expect big crowds . People everywhere, traffic jams and lots of noise. If you love that, of course, it’s no problem, but if you prefer things a little quieter avoid the vacations, holidays and weekends .

What to do around Girón?

There is plenty to do in the Girón area. You can visit Bucaramanga or drive to the second most earthquake-prone place on earth: La Mesa de Los Santos . There is also a viewpoint from where you have a view of Girón, Bucaramanga and the surrounding mountains, among others. It is called Cerro del Santísimo and is located in Floridablanca. Not everybody likes this, because this is another typical example of the Colombian love for Disneyland-like destinations. No second visit for me in any case, but if you are looking for a nice view and are willing to pay a lot of money for it, this might be your place.

Practical information

Is girón a must-see.

Girón is a perfect stopover if you are in transit from Bogotá to Santa Marta or vice versa. Also, if you are coming from Santa Marta and want to go to San Gil or Barichara , Girón is a perfect destination to visit. Also, if you are going to fly to or from Bucaramanga, Girón is a good option for a day trip. And are you staying somewhere nearby? Even then it is a fun day trip. It is a very beautiful, interesting and historic city, but to make a whole detour for it when you have little time… that might not be necessary. However, if you are in the area Girón is definitely worth a visit!

How to get to Girón?

From Bogotá, the bus to Bucaramanga stops in Girón. This drive took about 10.5 hours for me, but if there are no traffic jams, it can also be done in 9 hours. On the way back to Bogotá, we went by car and took “only” 8 hours. You can also easily get to Girón from Bucaramanga in half an hour. From San Gil it is about 2.5 to 3 hours by bus. Close to Girón is the Bucaramanga airport, from where you can easily get to the town by bus or cab.

How much time do you need?

Girón is a somewhat larger town, but you can see the interesting white center fairly quickly. If you are passing through, an afternoon or day is enough to get a good idea. If you want to see more of the area, stick an extra day.

Lodging in Girón: Hotel Las Nieves

Girón is not a big tourist hotspot , so there are only five hotels. I myself stayed at Hotel Las Nieves. Located directly on the central square, this hotel is situated in a white historic building. It is also a restaurant and once you step inside you enter an authentically decorated space where the colonial atmosphere comes out nicely.

On the second floor you will find the rooms and several areas where you can sit and relax. Some of them with a nice view of the Parque Principal and the church. The service is good, the food delicious and the bed sleeps wonderfully. I chose a cheaper room without hot water and air conditioning. There was a fan and that was more than enough, but the cold water was quite cold despite the heat outside. Also, the wifi did not always work well, but I was still able to work there quite good.

The room was completely clean and I had a wonderful stay there. By the way, the location is perfect: right in the middle of town within walking distance of everything. Also the breakfast was delicious and the people friendly. Book your stay at Hotel Las Nieves here.

Do you love white towns and villages? Then you’ve come to the right place in Colombia. Popayan is probably the most famous white city, but you also have Villa de Leyva , Guatavita , Santa Fe de Antioquia , Guane and of course the most beautiful village in Colombia: Barichara . And so Girón. Enjoy!

Find here more inspiration for in Santander!

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At the end of 2014, I (Sabine; 1985) decided to emigrate from the Netherlands to Colombia. After living in Bogotá for almost 3 years, I moved to the nice village of Sopó, Cundinamarca. To move back to Bogotá in early 2022, where I still live. From there I will passionately take you on a journey into beautiful Colombia and share all kinds of useful tips & itineraries. As a local, I know the best spots and provide up-to-date information. I also share everything about sustainable travel off the beaten track worldwide.

La Mesa de Los Santos | Visit the site of most earthquakes in Colombia

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Santander - The most diverse region in Colombia!

Do you want to see something new? You do not like places that are overcrowded with tourists? Do you want to see amazing landscapes and experience the true hospitality of the Colombian people?

As an English-speaking tour operator in Santander, Colombia - with the experience of having received tourists from more than 50 different countries all over the world - Wolf Tours Colombia offers safe and well-organized trips to experience the REAL Colombia. Choose one of our  Private Tours , Private Day Trips or set up your individual private tour package with our help. You only need your flight to Bucaramanga’s Palonegro Airport and we will take care of the rest.

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do." Mark Twain

14 Days Santander

We created the 14-Day Tour in Santander in order to show the combination of our highlights. Reading this tour you get an idea how you can set up your personalized tour. Read the tour carefully and let us know which of the destinations you would like to visit and for how many days you would like to travel. We will help you to plan your ideal customized tour in Santander. 

from   953 USD

Culture - Nature Tour

If you love colonial towns and want to experience the incredible Colombian nature, the Culture - Nature Tour is the perfect tour for you. You will see the difference of the life in small towns and big cities, learn about the colonial architecture in National Heritage Towns such as Barichara and Girón, and visit stunning viewpoints of unique landscapes.

From  272 USD

Cultivation - Nature Tour

Colombia´s most exclusive coffee, the largest cacao producer in Colombia, hidden waterfalls, amazing canyon landscapes – Santander is known for its advanced cultivation processes and for its incomparable nature. You will even have the chance to interact with local farmers who will be happy to meet you.

from  303 USD

Nature - Adventure Tour

Santander is known as the ideal Colombian destination for adventure. You will visit several virgin natural places far away from the typical tourist routes and we will guarantee you a save experience. Be one of the first travelers to get to know these destinations!

from  303 USD

Canyon Adventure Tour

The Chicamocha Canyon in Santander is officially deeper than the Grand Canyon in the USA and offers a great variety of extreme sports. If you are a nature and adventure lover, we highly recommend this tour to you! Rock climbing, river rafting, paragliding and even bungee jumping can be done.

from  431 USD  

3 Days: San Gil / Barichara

The 3-day tour to San Gil, Barichara and surrounding offers the perfect opportunity to get to know diverse destinations in the region. You can decide whether you want to visit Barichara , El Socorro , the Juan Curí Waterfalls , do the San Gil Extreme Sports or go to all of the 4 aforementioned destinations. For more information check out the day trips of the 4 destinations. 

3 Days: San Gil / Barichara / Guadalupe

The 3-day tour to San Gil, its surroundings, Barichara and Guadalupe is a combination of adventure, nature and culture. You can decide whether you want to visit Barichara , El Socorro , the Juan Curí Waterfalls , do the San Gil Extreme Sports or combine all of the aforementioned destinations on the first two days. For more information check out the day trips of the 4 destinations and the day trip Guadalupe , which will be done on the third day.

3 Days: Guadalupe

Since Guadalupe is about 4 to 5 hours away from Bucaramanga and there are several nature miracles to see where you could spend hours to enjoy, we recommend visiting Guadalupe in 3 days. Being in Guadalupe for 3 days you will do a whole-day mountainbiking tour to the 100-meter high waterfalls Cascadas de los Caballeros and you will get to know the swimming spots La Gloria and El Salitre additionally to the breathtaking red-colored swimming holes Las Gachas. You will have the opportunity to go up to the top of the waterfall which provides you with an unforgettable view of the green landscape. 

3 Days: San Vicente de Chucurí

A 3-day tour in San Vicente de Chucurí and surroundings is the most complete experience for a traveler since you get to know so many different sites in just one region. You will do a cacao tour in Colombia´s largest and most important cacao producing area, you will get to know the history of one of the safest towns in Colombia that once used to be controlled by terrorist groups and you will do several adventurous activities in an amazing natural setting. For more information and pictures, check out the day trips San Vicente de Chucurí , Cacao Tour , Airplane Cave and Natural Bird Reserve Proaves .

Other 3-Day or Multiple-Day Tours

There are a lot of other 3-Day Tours and Multiple-Day Tours we can offer. If you are not sure which of the listed 3-Day Tours is the best for you, it will be up to you to combine 3 or more of the different Day Trips . We will also send an offer of the accommodation we recommend you to stay in. Just contact us!

2 Days: San Gil / Barichara

The 2-day tour to San Gil, Barichara and surroundings offers the perfect opportunity to get to know diverse destinations in the regions. You can decide whether you want to visit Barichara , El Socorro , the Juan Curí Waterfalls , do the San Gil Extreme Sports or go to all of the 4 aforementioned destinations. For more information check out the day trips of the 4 destinations.

2 Days: San Gil / Guadalupe

The 2-day tour to San Gil, its surroundings, Barichara and Guadalupe is a combination of adventure, nature and possibly culture. You can decide whether you want to visit Barichara , El Socorro , the Juan Curí Waterfalls , do the San Gil Extreme Sports or combine 2 of the aforementioned destinations on the first day. 

2 Days: Guadalupe

Since Guadalupe is about 4 to 5 hours away from Bucaramanga we really recommend visiting it in 2 days. Being in Guadalupe for 2 days you will also get to know the swimming spots La Gloria and El Salitre additionally to the breathtaking red-colored swimming holes Las Gachas. For more information check out the day trip Guadalupe Swimming Holes .

2 Days: Zapatoca

Zapatoca is a town far away from popular tourist trails and it is known for its pleasant climate. We really recommend doing the 2-day tour to Zapatoca since there will not be any rush as visiting it in one day and you will be able to enjoy the quietness of the place. For more information check out the day trip Zapatoca . 

2 Days: San Vicente de Chucurí

San Vicente de Chucurí is a municipality of Santander not known by a lot of tourists but has an incredible high potential be a touristic hotspot because of the diverse places to visit. For more information about the town and the municipality check out the day trip San Vicente de Chucurí . To make the best decision which of the 3 things to do close to town you would like to choose, check out the day trips Cacao Tour , Airplane Cave and Natural Bird Reserve Proaves . 

2 days: Chicamocha Canyon Trekking

Due to its panoramic views, the Chicamocha Canyon makes hiking a captivating experience. During the hike across the canyon you will learn about tobacco cultivations and you will also visit an old and isolated colonial village with its historic hanging bridge in the heart of the Chicamocha Canyon.

Other 2-Day Tours

There are a lot of other 2-Day Tours we can offer. If you are not sure which of the listed 2-Day Tours is the best for you, it will be up to you to combine any of the different Day Trips . We will also send an offer of the accommodation we recommend you to stay in. Just contact us!

Why Wolf Tours?

Amazing places WITHOUT mass tourism

Flexibility due to private tours

A young team with international experience

Well-organized tours in Colombia´s most diverse region

Fair prices without hidden costs

Most recent publications.

World Bank: Bucaramanga One of the Six Most Competitive Cities in the World

Colombia has a better healthcare system than the U.S. and Canada

My favorite place in Colombia is Bucaramanga

The Economist: Our country of the year

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Update April 12, 2024

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Colombia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 2, 2024, colombia - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with updates to the country summary.

Reconsider travel due to  crime  and  terrorism . Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest  and  kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

• Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments due to crime and terrorism.
• The Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping, and risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela from Colombia.  

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas.

Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.

Demonstrations occur regularly throughout the country and can be about a variety of political or economic issues. They can shutdown roads and highways, often without prior notice or estimated reopening timelines. Demonstrations and road closures may significantly reduce access to public transportation and may disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can become violent and can result in fatalities and injuries.

U.S. direct-hire government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• They are not permitted to travel by road between most cities.
• Colombia’s land border areas are off-limits to U.S. government personnel unless specifically authorized.
• They may not use motorcycles.
• They may not hail street taxis or use public buses.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Colombia.

If you decide to travel to Colombia:

• Avoid protest areas and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Colombia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Arauca, Cauca, and Norte de Santander Departments – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, is widespread. Terrorist groups are active in some parts.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to these areas is severely restricted due to security concerns.

Colombia - Venezuela Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the border of Colombia and Venezuela. U.S. citizens are at risk of detention when crossing into Venezuela.

The Colombia-Venezuela border is not clearly marked, and U.S. citizens should not go near the border due to the risk of crossing into Venezuela accidentally.

U.S. citizens attempting to enter Venezuela without a visa have been charged with terrorism and other serious crimes and detained for long periods. For more information, see the Venezuela Travel Advisory.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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San Gil Santander: Your Guide to Colombia’s Adventure Capital

For a city with so much to do, particularly for adventure seekers, it’s surprising that so few international tourists visit San Gil Santander.

The popular Colombia backpacking route between the north coast and Bogotá via Medellin and Salento doesn’t include San Gil. But this city certainly pulls its weight with things to do, see and experience.

As Colombia’s adventure capital, you can experience the thrill of paragliding, bungee jumping, white water rafting and more, all at budget-friendly prices.

Or, enjoy a slower pace of life by visiting quiet colonial towns, hiking trails or waterfalls. Plus, the world’s second-largest canyon is right on San Gil’s doorstep and isn’t to be missed.

So, to put San Gil Colombia firmly on the map, this complete travel guide has everything you need to know to plan and enjoy your stay. The must-do activities, best restaurants, top-rated hostels and hotels and much more…

Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a qualifying purchase.

Where is San Gil Santander?

San Gil (pronounced with an H in place of the G ) is located in the Colombian department of Santander. The region is located fairly centrally within the country , with Bogotá to the south and Medellin to the west.

Bucaramanga – the capital of Santander – is located 63 km to the north of San Gil.

Other nearby towns include Guadalupe , Barichara and Jordan, which are all within 50 km. Additionally, Villa de Leyva and Tunja are around 110 km to the south.

Is San Gil worth visiting?

You’ll love San Gil if you love the outdoors. Sure, it’s known for its adventure activities but there’s also waterfalls, hikes, viewpoints and typical town centre plazas.

If there’s any other popular Colombian city similar to San Gil, it’d probably be Salento . Although San Gil is hotter, less well-known and has more adrenaline-inducing activities.

I can’t recommend paragliding in San Gil more – it really was one of the best things I’ve ever done. And, if I go again, I’ll definitely be doing water rafting in San Gil.

So, if any of that sounds like your cup of tea, then keep reading to learn more about this little-known city.

How to get to San Gil Colombia

With the nearest airport over 60 km away in Bucaramanga, getting to San Gil will require at least some overland travel .

The city is well served by bus connections from nearby towns and cities. And for destinations further away, you can connect through Bucaramanga to San Gil.

The city has two bus stations , one for local buses that drive around the city ( Terminalito ) and the other for bigger buses going further afield ( Terminal de Transporte De San Gil ).

The latter of these is the main terminal and is located about a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from the central square. You can take a taxi to your final destination in the city for around 5,000 to 10,000 COP depending on your negotiation skills.

Bogotá to San Gil

Bogotá is the cheap international flight capital of Colombia – and maybe even South America too. As a result, many international tourists choose Bogotá as their first destination in the country.

Getting from Bogotá to San Gil by bus is cheap and easy . Tickets cost around 50,000 COP one way and the journey takes around 8 hours in practicality.

Although, advertised times may be lower. But, once you experience Bogotá traffic, you’ll know exactly what I mean!

Buses leave from both Terminal Salitre (entrance 3) and Terminal Norte throughout the day. Booking in advance isn’t usually necessary unless you’re travelling around national holidays.

But it is worth checking the departure times and aiming to get yourself on one of the larger, more comfortable coaches. You can normally tell this on booking sites by whether they have a toilet on board or not.

If you prefer to book your tickets in advance rather than leaving it until you’re in the bus station, Busbud is a popular bus comparison site in Colombia. On its easy-to-use website you can compare the prices, facilities and departure/arrival times of multiple operators. Use Busbud to book your tickets from Bogotá to San Gil.

Villa de Leyva to San Gil

With no direct connections between Villa de Leyva and San Gil , you’ll need to travel via the nearby city of Tunja .

Buses from Villa de Leyva to Tunja run approximately every 15 minutes from the town’s only bus terminal. Tickets cost 10,000 COP and the journey to Tunja takes around 1 hour .

Once you’ve arrived at Tunja’s super fancy bus terminal, purchase a ticket from one of the offices on Floor 2 to San Gil. Tickets cost 60,000 COP and again you want to try and get on a larger, more comfortable coach-style bus.

Alternatively, smaller 16-seater minibuses run along this route too. Once you have your ticket, head down to Floor 1 (ground floor) to find your bus.

The journey from Tunja to San Gil takes around 4 to 4.5 hours . So, the total journey from Villa de Leyva takes about 5.5 to 6 hours , but possibly more if there’s a long transfer time.

Definitely grab yourself a couple of snacks and a drink before you get on the bus. Although, the buses do tend to stop for a break at a roadside cafe in Vado Real, around halfway through the journey.

Guadalupe to San Gil

Just 2 hours or so from San Gil, Guadalupe is one of Colombia’s best hidden gems . This small mountain town is home to the natural phenomenon of natural plunge pools along a stream: Quebrada Las Gachas .

If it’s not already on your must-visit list, you should really add it now!

Starting in the main square of Guadalupe you’ll need to take a small bus or 4×4 to the town of Oiba . This costs 8,000 COP per person and takes around 30 to 45 minutes.

At Oiba, purchase a ticket from the small ticket office in the bus station. Tickets from Oiba to San Gil cost 15,000 COP and the journey takes just over 1 hour .

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Guadalupe’s plaza to Socorro and from there take a second bus to San Gil. The total cost and journey time will be similar to travelling via Oiba.

Bucaramanga to San Gil

Located in the north of the Santander region, Bucaramanga is the gateway between the cities on Colombia’s northern coast and central highlands. Long-distance buses run between Bucaramanga and Santa Marta (10 to 12 hours) and Cartagena (12 to 14 hours).

Buses from Bucaramanga to San Gil run throughout the day taking around 2.5 hours and costing 20,000 COP .

Medellin to San Gil

There’s no direct connection from Medellin to San Gil.

Instead, you’ll need to make the 8 -hour journey from Medellin to Bucaramanga (cost 65,000 COP). And then, take the bus from Bucaramanga to San Gil for 20,000 COP.

Things to do in San Gil Colombia

San Gil is the outdoor adventure activity capital of Colombia. And, with a full offering of adrenaline-inducing activities for thrill seekers, you won’t be getting bored quickly.

But if you’re just travelling with an adrenaline junkie or looking for activities with your feet firmly planted on the ground, do not fear. In and around the city, there is still plenty on offer: hiking trails, waterfalls, pretty towns and more.

Visit the Chicamocha Canyon

This stunning natural beauty was nominated for the 7 New Wonders of the World contest back in 2009.

Although it didn’t make the final cut, this can only be a good thing for present-day visitors. Because the Chicamocha Canyon is nowhere near as popular or well-known as Machu Picchu or the Great Wall of China.

To go alongside the stunning natural views of this rugged landscape, there’s also a theme park and waterpark built at the top of the canyon. And yet somehow, it doesn’t feel over-commercialised.

The activities are good fun and the entry fees provide great value for money. You’ll want to make sure you take a ride on the 6.3 km cable car across the canyon for the best views of the world’s second-largest canyon .

The Chicamocha Canyon can be reached by taking a bus from San Gil’s Terminalito bus station towards Panachi . A one-way fare costs 12,000 COP and the journey time is just under 2 hours along quite windy roads.

Entrance to the park, cable car and waterpark costs 79,000 COP per adult, although a range of different ticket packages are available.

For more information, check out this dedicated guide to visiting the Chicamocha Canyon!

Paragliding in San Gil

Paragliding is one of the most popular things to do in San Gil . And, for good reason. The prices are low and the landscapes you fly over are stunning.

These tandem flights – where you’re attached to an experienced and qualified pilot – require very little from the passenger. So, you can sit back and enjoy the views during the 20- to 40-minute flight .

In San Gil Santander, you won’t be able to walk more than a block without finding a tour operator offering paragliding. However, the prices are almost entirely the same across the companies. But, different packages are available so make sure you know what you’re signing yourself up to.

You’ll have two options of location. Firstly, you can paraglide over the incredible Chicamocha Canyon , which has a maximum depth of 2,000 metres!

Or, you can opt for a shorter flight at Curití . Honestly, paragliding over the Chicamocha Canyon was a highlight of my life – you won’t regret it.

Paragliding at the Chicamocha Canyon

Packages booked in San Gil generally include transport from the city to the take-off and landing spot at the canyon.

However, it’s also possible to book paragliding here through the Chicamocha National Park. But do note that this will take a substantial chunk away from your time in the park if you were hoping to combine the two.

Prices start at around 200,000 COP (50 USD) for the basic package of return transport, 20-minute flight (unofficially up to 40 minutes depending on conditions and the number of people flying that day), water and insurance. Additional extras include doing tricks in the air, piloting yourself for a short time and extending flight time.

I couldn’t think of a better use of time and money than to fly like a bird over a stunning landscape ! Unlike other air-based activities such as sky diving, you don’t just fall when paragliding.

In fact, the pilots can use the wind and thermal currents to gain height from take-off. As a result, it’s not an intense adrenaline-inducing activity. Instead, you’ll calmly glide across the sky able to see for miles and miles.

Paragliding at Curití

If your budget just won’t stretch to taking a flight at the Chicamocha Canyon, then you’ll be pleased to know that paragliding at Curití is a cheaper alternative .

The views aren’t as impressive and the flight time isn’t as long. But, you’ll still get the paragliding, bird-like experience.

Prices start at around 100,000 COP per person (25 USD) for a 10- to 12-minute flight, insurance and round-trip transport.

Bungee Jumping

You’d have to pay me a lot of money to even think about bungee jumping. And even then, I’m not sure I would be physically able to leap off a ledge connected only by an elasticated rope!

But, for those braver and bolder than me, bungee jumping is hugely popular here .

Jumps of up to 140 metres are available over the Fonce River. Tickets can be booked from one of the many tour operators in San Gil and return transport is usually included.

Paired jumps are also available at some locations. Minimum and maximum participant weights vary by site too.

Pack your GoPro and make sure your shoes are tied tightly. And then you’re ready for a few seconds of freefall! Still, rather you than me…

This fun and fast-paced activity involves making your way along a river by abseiling, swimming, sliding, climbing and jumping through the water and over rocks , generally inside a narrow canyon. If you can’t swim well or don’t like being in water, this isn’t the activity for you.

Guides, equipment, safety briefings and transport are all included and tickets can be booked in San Gil. Ask your hostel for recommendations or head to one of the many tour operator offices in the city.

Another activity not for the faint-hearted! Caving involves navigating through often small caves, narrow openings, swimming through flooded caves, vertical climbs and jumping or sliding into the next cave .

All in near darkness. If you’re claustrophobic or not a confident swimmer, you’ll probably want to give this a miss.

Cueva de La Vaca and Cueva del Indio are the two most popular cave networks near San Gil Santander to enjoy this activity. Book in the city for the best price.

Water Rafting in San Gil

White water rafting is available at 2 locations in San Gil. The first, and more extreme , is on the Suarez River to the west of the city. The second option is on the central Fonce River in the city itself , with far less intense rapids.

The rapids on the Rio Suarez are the highest grade possible – 5 out of 5. These are intense and age restrictions do apply.

The ability to swim, good physical fitness and signing a complete disclaimer are also required. But, with great risk, comes great reward. Prepare to battle your way through the water over turbulent rapids where falling in is a real possibility!

On the other hand, rapids on the Rio Fonce are only graded at 2 and 3 out of 5 . Making this a more suitable activity for children and older adults, as well as those less confident on the water.

Mountain Biking

Full-day mountain biking tours are pretty popular here. The most popular tour is to the Chicamocha Canyon , which includes over 50 km of downhill riding .

And, you’ll also visit Jordan and Curití. Two meals, snacks, full suspension bikes, guides and insurance are all included in the cost.

Other available tours include cycling to Barichara, to the Rio Suarez Canyon and to Cascada Juan Curi. Whichever you fancy, book in San Gil for the best price.

Also known as rappelling, abseiling is another of the top-rated things to do in San Gil . Plus, there’s also torrenting – a specific type of abseiling down the face of a waterfall.

Juan Curi Waterfall to the city’s south is a popular torrenting spot, tours can be booked in the city or directly onsite. While at the Chicamocha Canyon, you can pick from abseiling or torrenting on the artificial waterfall at the top of the canyon.

Visit the city’s viewpoints

As much as I tried to avoid walking the steep streets, I have to admit the view was worth it. The city has two points , Cerro de la Cruz on the southwestern side of the river and La Gruta in the northeast.

Temperatures in San Gil Colombia don’t vary much from month to month and across the day. So no matter when you go, you’re in for a sweaty walk!

I wouldn’t recommend visiting after dark as the climb to La Gruta was certainly a little sketchy in places.

Take a Stroll in Parque Natural El Gallineral

Located on the southeastern edge of the city, Parque Gallineral is a nice place for a short walk and an explore . The entrance fee is cheap at 6,000 COP (or 12,000 COP if you want to use the pool), but you don’t get much for your money.

An hour is all that’s really needed for a visit unless you want to swim. But, during that time, you can walk the tree-lined trails, see a group of horny tortoises, visit the coffee shop and browse the souvenir store.

Best enjoyed with a group of friends (or strangers), Tejo is a game where metal discs are thrown at envelopes of gunpowder in the hope of getting an explosion!

Despite how it sounds, it’s actually a very safe game. In your teams, take turns throwing your discs towards the clay pit.

Maximum points are awarded if the disc lands inside the ring of gunpowder envelopes (like a bullseye), followed by getting an explosion and then just who’s the closest to the middle.

Most of the hostels run Tejo nights as a social activity. For example, at Sam’s VIP Hostel, it’s Tejo Tuesdays.

Alternatively, you can just make your own way to Comite Municipal De Tejo, Zona de Participación Vecinal: Santander and join in. Beers are cheap and the staff are friendly. You can’t really go wrong.

Visit Barichara

As one of Colombia’s prettiest towns, it’s not surprising that Barichara was one of a few spots used as inspiration for the Disney film Encanto . So, here’s your chance to walk in the footsteps of Lin-Manuel Miranda and explore the best of Colombia.

With cobbled streets, colonial architecture, white buildings and a beautiful central square , you could easily stay in Barichara for a while. But, with its small size, it’s perfect for a day trip or a one-night stay.

Enjoy a beer in the square, wander the streets, head to the viewpoints or take a hike along the Camino Real from Barichara to Guane . Life is slow and laidback in Barichara, so take your time.

The first bus from San Gil’s Terminalito to Barichara leaves at 6.15 am and the last return bus is at 7.10 pm.

Two to three buses run each hour, so you shouldn’t be waiting long for the next. Tickets cost 6,000 COP each way and the journey takes around 45 minutes.

Visit Curití

Caving and paragliding are popular activities in Curití , often run as tours from San Gil. However, you can also take the bus from Terminalito to Curiti to explore the town and visit the natural pools along the river .

The town of Curití is small and you won’t need much time to explore the artisanal shops and narrow streets. The natural pools are a 45-minute, 3.5 km walk east of the town, which luckily cool you off at the end!

Cascada Juan Curi

This beautiful waterfall is located approximately 30 minutes south of San Gil by bus . From Terminalito, take the bus towards Charala and ask to get off at the waterfall. Entrance to the waterfall costs 12,000 COP.

You can either enjoy a relaxing day at the waterfall, swimming in the pools and walking along the trails. Or, you can also experience torrenting – abseiling 130 metres down the waterfall for an additional cost!

Travel Insurance

Most bloggers will use this section to get you to buy insurance through their affiliate link. But, I’m not going to do that.

I’m just here to make sure you’ve checked that your insurance covers any activities you’re going to do in San Gil Santander.

Few policies will include cover for high-risk adventure activities as standard. For many, you’ll need to add on their adventure sports package at a higher premium.

And, if your insurance doesn’t cover an activity, make sure you check whether a separate insurance policy is included in the cost of the package – plus what it covers.

In addition to what an insurance policy covers, you should also check the excess, repatriation coverage and whether you’ll be covered to continue your treatment at home.

Where to Stay in San Gil Colombia

The city has no shortage of accommodation options whatever your budget – hostels, hotels and Airbnbs. While you won’t find any international hotel brands here, there are still boujee apartments and hotels for the more luxury-seeking travellers.

When booking accommodation, it’s important to check how central in the city you are. Unless you want a long walk or taxi ride each day, you want to be as close to the main square as possible.

• Macondo Hostel. This hostel is consistently rated as one of the best in Colombia . With its small pool, spacious rooms and comfortable communal spaces, it’s no wonder that travellers continue to flock to Macondo Hostel.

If you like to stay in the most popular hoste l in town and enjoy a social atmosphere , this is the place to book.

Book on Hostelworld | Book on Booking.com

• Sam’s VIP Hostel. Located in the main square itself, you can’t get more central than Sam’s VIP Hostel. Plus, with a rooftop pool and sauna as well as two kitchens, good communal areas and helpful reception staff, this is a budget-friendly and good value option.

This hostel is perfect for those that like a chilled but social atmosphere , with a choice of activities throughout the week.

• Hermoso Apartamento . Travelling as a group? Then this 3-bedroom apartment with an additional sofa bed in the living room can sleep 6 people . With two bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen, this place has everything you could need for a short-term stay.

Check availability, prices and book today with Booking.com

• Hotel Campestre Santa Catalina. If you don’t mind staying a little out of town, then this spacious property with a garden, pool, hot tub and shared outdoor lounge is a great pick. Rooms sleep up to 4 adults and the breakfast here comes highly rated!

Find out whether your dates are available and book with Booking.com

• Hotel Boutique El Campanario . Centrally located by the city’s Cathedral, this 4-star hotel is a more boujee and upmarket option compared with the many hostels around. With its stunning decoration , this is the place to unwind and relax after adventurous days out.

Check availability and book with Booking.com

It really depends on how many activities and day trips you want to do, but I’d recommend at least 3 full days here .

You can really stay for as long as you want or need.

Just want to go paragliding? Then, book two nights – paraglide in the morning and explore the city in the afternoon and be on your way the next day.

Want to enjoy a more leisurely pace? Then stay for a week, chuck in a few activities and day trips as well as time chilling by a hostel pool in the not-too-hot temperatures of Santander.

Plus, you won’t feel like you’re missing out unless you’re a massive adrenaline junky who wants to do all the activities. I could tell you paragliding is a must-do, but if you hate heights, then you won’t agree.

Here, you can travel at your own pace and enjoy activities up your street.

Personally, given the remote location relative to the other popular Colombian spots you’ll likely be travelling to next, I’d recommend staying for at least 3 full days.

But as a relatively slow traveller who loves having days to just relax and enjoy being somewhere, I stayed for 7 nights and there’s plenty I still didn’t get around to doing.

Best Time to Visit Colombia’s Adventure Capital

The temperatures in San Gil are around 30 Celsius/86 Fahrenheit all year round , but some months have more rain than others.

The rainiest months are May and October , but April, September and November also see relatively high levels of rainfall. December to February are the driest months and make for an ideal time to visit.

Best Places to Eat & Drink

The streets of central San Gil are lined with restaurants, bars and cafes. Is there a huge variety? No, definitely don’t expect a full selection of different international cuisines.

But, there’s choice, the restaurants are generally well priced and the food is good. Here are my favourites…

The number one recommendation spot has to go to the small cafe a couple of doors along to the right of Sam’s VIP Hostel .

Unfortunately, I don’t know the name of this amazing bakery but the croissants were incredible ! Top picks include the ham and cheese croissant and the Nutella croissant. Both are so filling and so cheap.

Restaurant-wise, I loved both La Rueda Pizza y Pasta and Penelope Pizzeria . The second of those has a mashed potato pizza, what’s not to love?! Gringo Mike’s is another popular restaurant often recommended online, but to be honest each of the 3 times (yes, I know) I ate there, I was always slightly disappointed.

A Philly Cheese sandwich that was nothing like what it should be, a dry quesadilla and a meh burger, I shouldn’t have kept going back. But, the portions were huuuuge and while slightly more expensive than other options available, still budget-friendly.

I love eating my way around the world but eating out for 1 or 2 meals a day quickly eats into your budget (no pun intended). Making my own breakfast and lunch in the hostel kitchen not only saved money but also time spent searching for restaurants and waiting for food.

Supermercado Multihogar was my go-to supermarket just a couple of blocks from the square, it’s got everything you need. Additionally, Casa de Mercado market is great for fresh food, cheap eats and more.

Is San Gil Safe?

Overall, yes. Are there areas I’d be less keen to visit at night? Also, yes. But being uncomfortable doesn’t mean you’re unsafe.

Around the square and surrounding blocks, you’re unlikely to get into any issues day or night. The further from the centre you go, the more you need to keep your wits about you – as with any city.

I’d avoid visiting the city’s viewpoints after dark as the route is not well-lit and groups do hang around.

Where to Visit after San Gil

Despite being a small city in a fairly remote location there are good transport links to the rest of Colombia .

There are long-distance buses from nearby Bucaramanga to the coastal cities of Santa Marta and Cartagena. From Santa Marta, you can visit the popular beach town of Palomino , visit the Lost City on a 3-night trek or visit the stunning Tayrona National Park.

Cartagena boasts a skyline of skyscrapers as well as being the place to go to for island hopping or even sailing to Panama’s San Blas islands.

To the south of the city, you’ll have easy transport options to Guadalupe for Quebrada Las Gachas or Villa de Leyva for its cafe culture and the stunning Pozos Azules . And Bogota has lots to offer, including Colombia’s highest waterfall !

Nearer to San Gil, you can reach the small towns of Barichara and Villanueva in the Santander countryside.

Both are popular with hikers, in Barichara you can complete the short downhill trek to Guane . Or, in Villanueva, take the 15 km trail to Jordan for stunning views.

Do you have any questions or want any more information? If so, drop a comment below and I’ll get back to you!

Information and prices are correct as of May 2023 but are subject to change in future.

More Colombia Travel Inspiration…

SANTANDER: Quebrada Las Gachas Guadalupe: Colombia’s Best Hidden Gem

SANTANDER: Chicamocha Canyon Complete Guide | Truly Spectacular!

MEDELLIN: Comuna 13 Medellín (Guide & Recommendations For This Must-Do)

CARIBBEAN COAST: Palomino Beach (Colombia’s Caribbean Coast Paradise): Ultimate Guide

CARIBBEAN COAST: Tubing in Palomino: Complete Guide to a Must-Do Activity

VILLA DE LEYVA: Pozos Azules Villa de Leyva (Complete Guide to the Blue Wells)

CARIBBEAN COAST: Playa Taganga (Is This Santa Marta’s Dirtiest Beach?)

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