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Barichara: Colombian Beauty
Barichara is located 215 miles northeast of Bogotá, perched high above the Río Suárez at approximately 4,300 feet above sea level. Barichara is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque towns in Colombia. Since being protected as a national monument in 1978, much of the town’s historic core has been lovingly restored. Well-heeled travelers from across Latin America come to enjoy Barichara’s timeless beauty, fine vistas, and relaxed pace.
The town’s sleepy central park is anchored by the 18th-century Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, an elegant structure of sandstone block and red tile. Other architectural highlights include the hilltop Iglesia de Santa Bárbara and the Casa de Aquileo Parra Gómez, home to fossil exhibits and demonstrations by local weavers.
Guane, a colonial town accessible through a section of an ancient trail, is located six miles to the northwest. This tiny village is known for its archeological museum and 17th century stone chapel. Twelve miles southeast of Barichara sits San Gil, which is frequently described as Colombia’s adventure capital.
Visitors to Barichara often stay for three or more nights, taking at least one day to hike the ancient trail to the colonial town of Guane, six miles to the northwest. This tiny village is known for its archeological museum and 17th century stone chapel.
What to do in Barichara & San Gil
Barichara and San Gil offer an ideal blend of scenic charm and outdoor adventure. Visitors can hike the historic Camino Real to the colonial village of Guane, passing through rugged canyon and scenic sierra. The hike is approximately 2.5 hours in each direction on a fossil-studded path.
In and around Barichara, Camino Real active adventure options include:
- White Water Rafting
- Horseback Riding
- Mountain Biking
- Zip-lining
- Paragliding
- Rappelling
- Spelunking
- Bungee jumping
- Cable car crossing Chicamocha Canyon
Other options include visits to coffee farms and to artisan workshops specializing in basketry, stone carving, and traditional weaving. LANDED can also arrange privately guided multi-day adventure itineraries, with Barichara as a base.
What is the Weather Like?
Thanks to their elevation, Barichara and San Gil enjoy a mild, spring-like climate year-round. Daytime highs typically reach the low 80s°F, while nighttime temperatures fall to the mid 60s°F. Rain is possible in all seasons, with the wettest months usually spanning April to May and October to November.
Barichara and San Gil sit at approximately 4,300 feet above sea level. If you’re arriving from sea level or are particularly sensitive to changes in altitude, we recommend taking it easy on your first day—rest well, eat lightly, and avoid alcohol.
These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
Barichara is located approximately 215 miles northeast of Bogotá. The drive takes about 6.5 hours. The nearest airport is in Bucaramanga, roughly 2.5 hours away. Nonstop flights (1 hour) connect Bucaramanga with Bogotá.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Barichara & San Gil.
How to combine Barichara & San Gil
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
