Perched on a cliff overlooking the stunning Suárez Canyon, Barichara is one of only 18 towns in Colombia designated as a Heritage City. This perfectly preserved colonial gem has remained virtually unchanged since the 1800s, with no modern high-rises to disrupt its harmonious ochre-colored stone buildings and cobblestone streets. Often cited as the inspiration behind Disney’s animated film “Encanto,” Barichara offers visitors a genuine step back in time while providing a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Getting to Barichara & Planning Your Journey
Most travelers reach Barichara through the nearby city of San Gil, located about 23 km away (approximately a 45-minute drive). Here are your options for getting to this colonial paradise:
From Major Colombian Cities
- From Bogotá: Take a bus to San Gil (approximately 8 hours) and then transfer to a local bus to Barichara. Alternatively, fly to Bucaramanga and continue by bus or private transport.
- From Medellín: Fly to Bucaramanga (1 hour) and then take a bus or private transport to Barichara (2.5-3 hours).
- From Bucaramanga: Take a direct bus to Barichara (2.5-3 hours) or to San Gil and then transfer.
Local Transportation
When arriving at San Gil’s main bus terminal, you’ll need to take another bus to Barichara from the smaller terminal in the city center called “Terminalito.” Buses run frequently throughout the day, and the journey takes about 45 minutes through scenic mountain roads.
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Best Time to Visit Barichara & Weather Tips
Barichara enjoys a pleasant climate year-round with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). The town is located at an altitude of 1,300 meters (4,265 feet), providing comfortable days and cooler evenings.
Recommended Months to Visit
- December to March: The dry season offers sunny days perfect for exploring, though water shortages can occasionally affect some hotels.
- April to May and September to November: These shoulder seasons bring occasional rain but fewer tourists and lush green landscapes ideal for hiking.
Months to Avoid
- Colombian Holiday Periods: Avoid December 20-January 15 and Holy Week (Semana Santa, usually in March or April) when the town fills with domestic tourists and prices increase.
- June to August: This is high season with more tourists, though still manageable compared to more popular Colombian destinations.
Local Festivals
If you enjoy cultural events, consider planning your visit around these local celebrations:
- January: Tribute to the Guane culture with traditional performances
- February: Emerfest celebrates electronic music in this historic setting
- August 10: Festival of San Lorenzo, the village’s patron saint
- September: Festiver, a green cinema festival featuring environmental films
- December 7: La Noche de las Velitas (Night of the Candles) is particularly magical in Barichara
Traveler’s Tip: In April, you might witness the fascinating swarming of hormigas culonas (big-bottomed ants), a local delicacy. This natural phenomenon only lasts one day but is quite a spectacle!
Getting Around Barichara
Barichara is a compact town that’s perfect for exploring on foot. Most attractions are within walking distance of the main square (Parque Principal). However, be prepared for steep cobblestone streets that can be challenging in the midday heat.
Transportation Options
- Walking: The best way to experience Barichara’s charm is on foot. The town has a grid layout with streets called carreras and calles, making navigation straightforward.
- Tuk-tuks: These three-wheeled vehicles are readily available at the main square and are perfect for reaching the upper parts of town or nearby attractions. Keep the phone number of a reliable driver for convenience.
- Local Buses: Regular buses connect Barichara to Guane, Villanueva, and San Gil from the main square.
- Taxis: Most taxis are based in San Gil but can be arranged for longer trips.
Explore Barichara and Beyond
Want the freedom to discover the beautiful countryside around Barichara at your own pace? Rent a car and create your own adventure!
Where to Stay in Barichara
Barichara offers a range of accommodations from modest guesthouses to boutique hotels, most housed in beautifully restored colonial buildings. Unlike neighboring San Gil, Barichara isn’t a typical backpacker destination, so expect slightly higher prices but much more charm and character.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Hospedaje Aquí Estoy Bien: A modest hotel with a family atmosphere located on a quiet street at the top of the village. Simple but comfortable rooms with beautiful views of the Suárez Canyon.
- El Principito Hospedaje: A hidden gem in a 200-year-old building with just three rooms and a beautiful garden offering sunset views. Located near Capilla de San Antonio.
Mid-Range Accommodations
- Casa Hercilia: A lovely colonial house with six spacious rooms, located 200 meters from the main park on a quiet street. Features a patio with a pool.
- Casa Canela: A beautiful traditional house with a cozy atmosphere, colorful decor, and a pool. Some rooms have shared bathrooms.
- Posada Sueños de Antonio: Located in the center of town, this authentic hotel features hot water, Wi-Fi, and a delicious breakfast. The green patio attracts colorful birds.
Luxury Stays
- Casa Yahri: Located in a peaceful corner of Barichara with refined decoration, comfortable outdoor spaces, and views of the countryside and village.
- Casa Barichara Boutique: Near the Santa Barbara square with fantastic views, elegant decor, and a beautiful pool amidst orange trees.
- Casa Guatí: Offers modern, bright rooms (some with terraces), an infinity pool, and a spa. Located at the top of the village with superb views.
Countryside Retreats
- Finca San Vicente: Located 5 kilometers outside town with impressive views of the canyon. Run by a Belgian couple who can guide you to hidden spots around Barichara.
- Finca San Pedro Barichara: A traditional farm 10 minutes from the village with beautiful rooms, canyon views, and excellent home cooking.
- Finca Buenavista: Features three beautiful rooms with outdoor showers, a garden of cacti and agaves, and a pool with stunning views.
Find Your Perfect Stay in Barichara
Book your accommodation early, especially during Colombian holiday periods, to secure the best options in this charming colonial town.
Dining & Local Cuisine in Barichara
Barichara’s culinary scene offers everything from traditional Santandereano dishes to international cuisine. The town is known for its unique local delicacies, including the famous hormigas culonas (big-bottomed ants), a regional specialty that brave foodies should try at least once.
Local Specialties to Try
- Hormigas Culonas: These fried ants are a regional delicacy with a unique flavor often compared to peanuts or crispy bacon.
- Cabrito: Young goat meat prepared in various ways, often slow-cooked with local spices.
- Mute Santandereano: A hearty stew made with corn, beans, potatoes, and various meats.
- Arepa Santandereana: A corn cake stuffed with cheese, distinctive to this region.
- Oblea: A traditional sweet treat made of two large thin wafer cookies filled with arequipe (caramel), cheese, and fruit preserves.
Best Restaurants in Barichara
- El Compa: A no-frills local favorite serving hearty and authentic menu del día (set lunch) at very reasonable prices. Arrive early to avoid the line.
- Elvia: Offers inventive cuisine using local products in an original and gourmet way. Perfect for a special occasion.
- La Peñita & Bachue: Specializes in traditional dishes, particularly cabrito raised on their farm. The curry version is excellent, though service can be slow.
- Independencia “cocina y sazón”: Great food with the best view in Barichara. Reservations recommended during high season.
- Sierra: Beautiful Japanese-Colombian fusion cuisine served in a lovely patio setting with a romantic ambiance.
Cafés and Sweet Treats
- Café Ritual: Run by Wilson, a passionate coffee enthusiast who roasts his own beans. Try coffee prepared with the Chemex method.
- Milana: Visit for delicious cakes and an excellent three-course brunch menu crafted by a creative young chef.
- Flor de León: Offers tiramisu, cheesecake, and other sweet treats in a peaceful traditional house.
- Avocatto Barichara: The best Italian ice cream in the village with plenty of flavors.
- Obleas Floridablanca: Try their traditional obleas with various fillings like cheese, arequipe, and blackberry jam.
Dining Tip: Many restaurants in Barichara close on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. This might be a good day for exploring outside the town or preparing a picnic with local ingredients.
Top Things to Do in Barichara
Barichara offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences, historical exploration, and natural beauty. Here are the must-do activities during your visit:
1. Explore the Historic Center
Start your visit at Parque Principal, the heart of Barichara. Admire the impressive yellow stone Parish Church of the Immaculate Conception with its magnificent tile flooring and gold-leaf altar. Visit the Casa de la Cultura Emili Pradilla Gonzalez for a modest 2000 COP entry fee to see local art and explore the courtyard.
Take time to wander the cobblestone streets radiating from the main square. The white, stonewashed facades and terracotta rooftops create a harmonious atmosphere that earned Barichara its reputation as Colombia’s most beautiful village.
2. Visit Ancient Churches
- Capilla de Santa Barbara: Located at the top of a steep incline, this beautiful 18th-century chapel offers exceptional views of Calle Real.
- Capilla de San Antonio: A lovely little church on the southern end of town with a picturesque exterior.
- Capilla de Jesús Resucitado: A cute church next to a park, missing part of its tower due to lightning.
3. Hike the Camino Real to Guane
One of the most popular activities in Barichara is walking the historic Camino Real trail to the tiny village of Guane. This 5 km (3.1 mi) stone path was originally built by the indigenous Guane people and later reconstructed in the 1800s.
The trail takes about two hours to complete and features beautiful scenery with relatively flat terrain. Start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. In Guane, visit the small archaeological museum, enjoy lunch at one of the simple restaurants, and either walk back or take a bus or tuk-tuk to Barichara.
Experience the Best of Barichara
Discover guided tours and activities that will enhance your Barichara experience with local expertise.
4. Discover Local Craftsmanship
Barichara is known for preserving traditional crafts. Visit these workshops to learn about local artisanal techniques:
- Barichara Paper Workshop (Taller de Papel): Learn about the paper-making process using plants, natural fibers, and dyes. Watch artisans create sheets of paper and crafts from scratch.
- De la Tierra Casa Taller: Try painting with different soils from the canyon in this art studio.
- Sua Ty: Discover handmade textiles including bags, rugs, napkins, and scarves made from local plants.
- Fundación Escuela Taller: Explore the beautiful patio lined with various artisan workshops.
5. Enjoy Spectacular Viewpoints
Barichara’s location on a cliff offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and Suárez Canyon. Don’t miss these viewpoints:
- Mirador Salto del Mico: Located at the southwest corner of town, this viewpoint offers dizzying views of the canyon. The rock formation resembles Pride Rock from “The Lion King.”
- Parque Para Las Artes Jorge Delgado Sierra: Next to Santa Barbara Chapel, this park features unique sculptures and beautiful views.
- Mirador Guane: If you make it to Guane, head to the northeastern part of the village for spectacular views.
- Bioparque Móncora: Offers wonderful views of the green valley from the western side of town.
6. Try Hormigas Culonas
For the adventurous eater, sampling hormigas culonas (big-bottomed ants) is a must-try cultural experience. These ants are harvested once a year during their swarming season and are considered a delicacy in the Santander region. You can find them in souvenir shops or try them prepared in local restaurants. The taste is often compared to peanuts with a slightly nutty, earthy flavor.
7. Visit the Cemetery
Barichara’s cemetery, located next to the Capilla de Jesús, offers a unique cultural experience. Wander among the ochre sandstone graves adorned with sculpted objects in stone that evoke the deceased. The colorful and somewhat chaotic arrangement makes for an interesting visit and provides insight into local traditions.
Day Trips from Barichara
While Barichara itself deserves several days of exploration, the surrounding area offers additional attractions worth visiting:
1. San Gil: Adventure Capital
Just 23 km (14 mi) from Barichara, San Gil is known as Colombia’s adventure capital. While the city itself isn’t as charming as Barichara, it offers numerous adrenaline-pumping activities:
- White Water Rafting: Choose between the Rio Fonce (Class II-III, suitable for beginners) or the more challenging Rio Suarez (Class IV-V).
- Paragliding: Soar over the impressive Chicamocha Canyon with experienced instructors.
- Mountain Biking: Explore the canyon on two wheels with guided tours.
- Parque Natural El Gallineral: A beautiful park in the center of San Gil, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
2. Juan Curi Waterfalls
Located about an hour south of Barichara, the Juan Curi Ecological Park features impressive waterfalls over 130 meters (426 ft) high. A marked trail leads to the main waterfall where you can swim in a natural pool. More adventurous visitors can rappel down the waterfall or hike to the upper tiers for additional swimming spots.
3. Curití and Its Natural Pools
The small town of Curití, about an hour from Barichara, is known for its series of natural pools called Pescaderito. Take a tuk-tuk from town to these beautiful emerald-green pools carved into the riverbed. After swimming, visit the Ecofibras workshop to learn about weaving from fique (a local plant fiber).
4. Chicamocha National Park (Panachi)
About 1.5 hours from Barichara, this park offers spectacular views of the Chicamocha Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world. Take the cable car across the canyon (20 minutes) for breathtaking views. The park also features various activities, restaurants, and a large monument in tribute to the Santandereanos.
Multi-Day Treks from Barichara
For experienced hikers looking for a more immersive experience, consider these multi-day treks that extend beyond the popular Barichara-Guane route:
Barichara to Los Santos Trek
This challenging 31 km (19 mi) route connects Barichara to Los Santos via Villanueva and Jordán. It follows ancient Caminos Reales (Royal Roads) that were pre-Columbian paths later restored in the 19th century.
- Day 1: Barichara to Villanueva (10 km/6.2 mi, 4-5 hours) – Begin with a gentle countryside walk along a stone path with some uphill sections followed by a shallow decline to Villanueva. Stay overnight in a family-run hotel.
- Day 2: Villanueva to Jordán (15 km/9.3 mi, 5-6 hours) – Start early to catch the sunrise over Chicamocha Canyon. Follow a well-marked dirt path into the canyon with views of horses roaming freely. Jordán is a tiny village of just 60 inhabitants located at the bottom of the canyon.
- Day 3: Jordán to Los Santos (5.5 km/3.4 mi, 3 hours) – Cross a bridge and follow the river. This section can be brutally hot, so start very early. The trail includes some steep inclines before reaching Los Santos with its beautiful white church.
Trekking Tips: This route requires good physical condition and preparation. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and food supplies. The elevation changes are significant, and temperatures at the bottom of the canyon can be extremely hot. Consider hiring a local guide for safety and to enhance the experience with local knowledge.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Barichara is considered one of the safest destinations in Colombia. The small-town atmosphere and friendly locals create a welcoming environment for visitors. However, it’s always good to follow these safety tips and cultural etiquette:
Safety Tips
- Sun Protection: The sun is intense in Barichara, especially at midday. Always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, and try to plan strenuous activities for early morning or late afternoon.
- Hydration: Carry water with you, especially when hiking. The dry climate and high altitude can lead to dehydration.
- Walking at Night: Barichara is generally safe at all hours, but bring a flashlight as some streets may be poorly lit.
- Hiking Precautions: When hiking the Camino Real or other trails, let someone know your plans and expected return time. For longer treks, consider hiring a local guide.
Local Customs & Etiquette
- Greetings: Colombians are friendly and appreciate basic courtesy. A simple “Buenos días” (good morning), “Buenas tardes” (good afternoon), or “Buenas noches” (good evening) when entering shops or restaurants goes a long way.
- Tipping: A 10% tip is customary in restaurants if service charge isn’t included. For guides and drivers, 10-15% is appreciated for good service.
- Photography: Always ask permission before photographing local people, especially indigenous individuals.
- Dress Code: While casual attire is acceptable, Colombians tend to dress neatly. Avoid very revealing clothing when visiting churches.
- Bargaining: Unlike some Latin American countries, haggling isn’t common in established shops. However, some negotiation may be expected at artisan markets.
Local Language
While Spanish is the official language, many people in the tourism industry speak some English. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals. The people of Barichara are traditionally called “patiamarillos” (yellow feet) because of the ocher color of the soil in the area.
Practical Travel Tips
Money & Banking
There are few ATMs in Barichara, so it’s advisable to bring cash from San Gil or larger cities. Most restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, but smaller establishments and artisan shops may only accept cash. The currency is the Colombian Peso (COP).
Internet & Connectivity
Most hotels and restaurants offer Wi-Fi, though connection speeds may be slower than in larger cities. Mobile coverage is generally good with major Colombian carriers like Claro, Movistar, and Tigo.
Business Hours
Many shops, restaurants, and attractions in Barichara close on Tuesdays. Plan accordingly and consider using this day for activities outside town. Restaurants typically open for lunch around noon and for dinner around 6:00 PM.
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes: Barichara’s cobblestone streets can be challenging in inappropriate footwear.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.
- Light layers: Days can be warm while evenings cool down considerably.
- Rain jacket: Especially if visiting during the rainy seasons.
- Insect repellent: Particularly important for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.
Souvenirs to Buy
Barichara is an excellent place to purchase authentic Colombian crafts:
- Handmade paper products: From the Taller de Papel workshop.
- Traditional ceramics: The rustic, timeless pottery is widely used in local restaurants.
- Textiles: Handwoven bags, rugs, and clothing made from local fibers.
- Alpargatas: Traditional espadrilles with black embroidered patterns, worn by many locals.
- Local coffee: Purchase freshly ground or whole bean coffee from nearby farms.
For the best selection of locally made crafts, visit Tienda Ancestral near the main square, which only sells pieces made by local artisans.
Why Barichara Should Be on Your Colombia Itinerary
Barichara isn’t just another pretty colonial town—it’s a living museum where Colombia’s heritage is preserved in every cobblestone street and ochre-colored building. Unlike more touristy destinations, Barichara offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Colombian life while providing comfortable amenities for travelers.
From the spectacular natural setting overlooking the Suárez Canyon to the rich artisanal traditions and warm hospitality of the locals, Barichara offers a perfect balance of cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, and peaceful relaxation. Whether you’re hiking ancient trails, learning traditional crafts, or simply enjoying a coffee in the main square, Barichara invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
As you plan your Colombian journey, consider spending at least 3-5 days in this enchanting town to fully appreciate its magic. Barichara isn’t just a destination to check off your list—it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
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