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Barichara, Colombia - Things to Do in Barichara

Things to Do in Barichara

Barichara, Colombia - Complete Travel Guide

Barichara, often called Colombia's most beautiful colonial town, is a perfectly preserved 18th-century gem nestled in the Santander department. This UNESCO World Heritage candidate captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings with terracotta roofs, and stunning views of the Suarez River canyon. The town's architecture remains remarkably intact, with strict preservation laws ensuring that every building maintains its colonial charm. Beyond its architectural beauty, Barichara serves as a gateway to adventure and cultural experiences. The town is famous for the Camino Real, an ancient stone path connecting it to the nearby village of Guane, and offers excellent opportunities for paragliding, rock climbing, and exploring traditional crafts. With a population of just 7,000 people, Barichara maintains an authentic small-town atmosphere while providing quality accommodations and dining options that attract discerning travelers seeking tranquility and colonial splendor.

Top Things to Do in Barichara

Walk the Camino Real to Guane

This historic 9-kilometer stone pathway, built in the colonial era, connects Barichara to the tiny village of Guane through stunning countryside. The well-preserved trail takes 2-3 hours to complete and offers spectacular views of the canyon and traditional rural life. Guane features a small museum, a beautiful church, and local artisans selling crafts.

Booking Tip: No booking required - it's a free self-guided walk. Start early morning (7-8 AM) to avoid heat and bring plenty of water. Wear good walking shoes as stones can be slippery. You can take a bus back from Guane for 3,000 COP or walk back.

Colonial Architecture Walking Tour

Explore Barichara's perfectly preserved colonial center, including the main plaza, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, and Chapel of Santa Barbara. The town's architecture showcases traditional Santanderian style with white walls, clay tile roofs, and wooden balconies. Many buildings date back to the 18th century and house artisan workshops, galleries, and boutique shops.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free using maps from the tourist office. Guided tours cost 20,000-30,000 COP per person and can be arranged through your hotel or the main plaza. Best times are early morning or late afternoon for photography and comfortable temperatures.

Paragliding Over the Canyon

Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Suarez River canyon and surrounding mountains through tandem paragliding flights. Professional instructors take you on 15-30 minute flights depending on weather conditions, offering unique perspectives of Barichara's landscape and colonial architecture from above. The experience requires no prior experience and is suitable for most fitness levels.

Booking Tip: Flights cost 180,000-250,000 COP per person depending on duration. Book through established operators like Parapente Colombia or ask at your hotel. Weather dependent - best conditions are typically mid-morning. Weight restrictions apply (usually 20-100 kg).

Traditional Craft Workshops

Learn traditional Santanderian crafts including paper-making from fique plant fibers, pottery, and weaving. Local artisans offer hands-on workshops where you can create your own souvenirs while learning about techniques passed down through generations. The Casa de la Cultura and various workshops around town offer different craft experiences.

Booking Tip: Workshop prices range from 25,000-50,000 COP per person for 2-3 hour sessions. Book directly with artisans or through the Casa de la Cultura. Some workshops require advance notice, especially for groups. Materials are typically included in the price.

Sunset Views from Mirador

Visit the town's scenic viewpoints, particularly the Mirador along Carrera 10, for spectacular sunset views over the Suarez River canyon. The golden hour light creates magical illumination of the colonial architecture and surrounding landscape. These spots are perfect for photography and romantic moments, with the town's church bells often ringing as the sun sets.

Booking Tip: Free activity - simply walk to the viewpoints around 5:30-6:00 PM for best light. The main mirador is easily accessible on foot from the town center. Bring a camera and perhaps a bottle of wine from a local shop. Some nearby cafes offer sunset viewing with drinks.

Getting There

The most common route to Barichara is flying into Bucaramanga's Palonegro International Airport, then taking a 2.5-hour bus or taxi ride through scenic mountain roads. Direct buses from Bucaramanga cost around 15,000 COP and run several times daily through companies like Copetran and Berlinas. From Bogotá, you can take an overnight bus (8-10 hours) or fly to Bucaramanga and continue overland. Some visitors also arrive via San Gil (45 minutes away), which has more frequent bus connections and adventure tour operators.

Getting Around

Barichara is perfectly walkable, with most attractions within a few blocks of the main plaza. The historic center covers just a few square kilometers of cobblestone streets that are easily explored on foot. For trips to Guane, local buses run every hour for 3,000 COP, or you can hire a taxi for around 25,000 COP. Motorcycle taxis are available for short trips within town for 2,000-5,000 COP. Many visitors enjoy the slow pace and choose to walk everywhere, as the town's compact size makes cars unnecessary.

Where to Stay

Historic Center (near main plaza)
Carrera 7 (main commercial street)
Barrio La Chacra (residential area with views)
Near the Cathedral
Camino Real area (towards Guane)
Mirador zone (scenic viewpoints)

Food & Dining

Barichara's dining scene focuses on traditional Santanderian cuisine with modern touches, featuring specialties like mute (hearty soup), cabrito (roasted goat), and hormiga culona (big-bottomed ants) during season. The town offers everything from casual local eateries around the main plaza serving comida corriente for 8,000-12,000 COP to upscale restaurants with gourmet takes on regional dishes. Many restaurants occupy beautifully restored colonial buildings with courtyards and terraces. Don't miss trying local sweets like cocadas and arequipe, and the town has several excellent coffee shops serving beans from nearby farms.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Colombia

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When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Barichara is during the dry season from December to March and July to August, when you'll enjoy sunny days perfect for walking and outdoor activities. The town sits at 1,300 meters elevation, providing a pleasant climate year-round with temperatures ranging from 18-28°C (64-82°F). The rainy season (April-June, September-November) brings afternoon showers but also lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. Avoid major Colombian holidays like Easter week and Christmas when accommodations fill up and prices increase significantly.

Insider Tips

Visit during weekdays to avoid Colombian weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience with better photo opportunities
Buy handmade paper products and crafts directly from artisan workshops for authentic souvenirs at better prices than tourist shops
The town's strict architectural preservation laws mean ATMs are limited - bring cash from San Gil or Bucaramanga for smaller establishments

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