Barichara and San Gil, ColombiaMaurypicoto
Santander, Colombia

Barichara and San Gil

Barichara is one of the best-preserved towns in Colombia, built entirely in sandstone. San Gil, 40 minutes away, is the capital of adventure sports.

3Suggested daysSantander
$40.000 – $500.000Lodging per nightIndicative, COP
When to go

Year-round, with stable weather around 24 °C.

Must-see

What to see and do

  • Camino Real from Barichara to Guane, 6 km on foot
  • Rafting on the Fonce River
  • Paragliding over the Chicamocha Canyon
  • Juan Curí waterfalls
Local food

What to eat

  • Hormiga culona (big-bottomed ants), in season
  • Goat with pepitoria
  • Mute santandereano soup

How to get there

Fly to Bucaramanga (BGA) and take a 2.5-hour bus, or an overnight bus from Bogotá.

FromModeTimeIndicative cost
Bogotábus to San Gil7 h$60.000 – $95.000
Bucaramangabus2 h 30$25.000 – $40.000

Where to stay

San Gil has the cheap hostels; Barichara, the charming inns.

Safety

Book adventure sports only with operators listed in the National Tourism Registry.

Plan and book

Book your trip to Barichara and San Gil

Links to platforms we use to compare prices. If you book through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How it works.

FAQ

Quick answers

What is Barichara and San Gil known for?

Barichara is one of the best-preserved towns in Colombia, built entirely in sandstone. San Gil, 40 minutes away, is the capital of adventure sports.

How do you get to Barichara and San Gil?

Fly to Bucaramanga (BGA) and take a 2.5-hour bus, or an overnight bus from Bogotá.

When is the best time to visit Barichara and San Gil?

Year-round, with stable weather around 24 °C.

How many days do you need in Barichara and San Gil?

Plan for about 3 days to see the essentials without rushing.

Is Barichara and San Gil safe to visit?

Book adventure sports only with operators listed in the National Tourism Registry.

Prices are indicative, in Colombian pesos, checked in November 2026. Practical information: visas, money, health and safety →