Barichara, Colombia’s most beautiful town, is a hidden treasure in the Andean mountains. This colonial gem offers historic architecture, scenic hikes, and unique local flavors.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best attractions, along with essential safety and travel tips, to help you make the most of your visit to this Colombian gem.
A brief introduction to Barichara
Known as the most beautiful town in Colombia, Barichara is a place full of history and architectural wonders. This picturesque town is a town and municipality in the Santander Department in northeastern Colombia, nestled in the Andean mountains.
Its late 18th-century constructions, colonial atmosphere, and quiet environment take visitors back to the past when buildings were made of bahareque, white walls of lime, red tile roofs, and cobblestone streets.
In 2010, Barichara was declared a Colombian heritage town in recognition of its history, architecture, and touristic potential. It was also selected as part of the Tourist Network of Heritage Town’s original cohort.
After this brief introduction, we will dive into how to get to Barichara, what to visit, and what to do in this wonderful town.
How to Get to Barichara?
These are the two best options to get there:
Bucaramanga Option
First, you will need to get a bus from Bucaramanga to San Gil for two hours and a half. After that, when you arrive in San Gil, you should get a bus to Barichara, the travel is no longer than 45 minutes.
| Option 1 | Price COP | Price USD | Distance | Travel time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bucaramanga - San Gil | 23.000 | $5.58 | 98.6 km | 2.5 hours |
| San Gil - Barichara | 6.500 | $1.58 | 22.5 km | 45 minutes |
| Total | 30.000 | $7.16 | 121.1 km | 3h 11 min |
Bogotá Option
On the other hand, if you are in Bogotá, you can take a seven-hour direct bus to San Gil. Once you get to San Gil, take a 45-minute bus to Barichara.
| Option 2 | Price COP | Price USD | Distance | Travel time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bogotá - San Gil | 60.000 | $14.57 | 328 km | 6 hours |
| San Gil - Barichara | 6.500 | $1.58 | 22.5 km | 45 minutes |
| Total | 67.000 | $16.15 | 350.5 km | 6h 45 min |
Important: You need to get by bus to San Gil first before arriving in Barichara.
Top Things to Do in Barichara
There are a lot of must-visit attractions and activities in Barichara and it will only take you one day, here are some of them:
Camino Real from Barichara to Guane Day Tour: if you are a hiking lover this is your best choice. The Camino Real from Barichara to Guane is a 5.5 km trail and hiking can take 2 or 3 hours. The hike has a low to medium difficulty level, and most of the route goes through a wide cobblestone path so that no one can miss this experience. It was declared a national monument in 1977 and restored in 1988. The Camino Real to Guane is a faithful reflection of the work of the Guane Indians who inhabited the area, as it was built with stone, representing this region.
The “Fat-Bottomed Ant”: if you are a culinary lover you need to trade a culinary delight that has captivated palates for centuries: the fat-bottomed ant or “hormigas culonas.” They are also a symbol of Santander’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Church of Immaculate Conception: This 18th-century sandstone church is the most elaborate structure in Barichara, looking somewhat too big for the town’s needs. Its golden stonework (which turns deep orange at sunset) contrasts with the whitewashed houses surrounding it. The building has a clerestory (a second row of windows high up in the nave), which is unusual for a Spanish colonial church.
Taller Centro Día: inside the courtyard of the Museo Aquileo Parra, this collective of 24 older citizens weaves bags and other artisanal products from fique fibers using traditional looms. Come and watch them work and buy a bag on your way out – they’re cheap and the group makes ends meet with the proceeds.
Travel Tips for Barichara, Colombia
- Barichara is located at an altitude of 1,340 meters above sea level. If you suffer from cardiovascular disorders, do not forget to pack your medication and follow your doctor’s instructions.
- Most places in Barichara are pet-friendly.
- Water is scarce, so it is important to ration it, especially in high season.
- It is important to wear comfortable and cool clothing for the day. Nights, however, are cold, so it is also advisable to include a jacket.
- Include items such as hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
- Comfortable shoes to explore the tourist sites in Barichara.
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Barichara, in the Guane dialect, translates to “place of rest.” Escape the daily grind and recharge in this charming town, where tranquility awaits.
FAQs
How Much Time to Spend in Barichara?
A recommended stay is typically 2-3 days to enjoy the main attractions and activities fully.
Is Barichara, Colombia Safe?
Barichara in Colombia is generally safe for solo female travelers. Like all places, it’s advisable to take standard precautions. The crime rate is relatively low and locals are friendly and willing to help. A minority of people speak English. Additionally, deserted streets at night can be concerning. However, English is spoken by a minority. Moreover, streets can be empty at night, which could be worrisome.