Bucaramanga Day Trips: Top 5 Amazing Getaways

Bucaramanga, the “City of Parks,” is totally a fantastic place to set up shop, but did you realize it’s an equally awesome launchpad for exploring the gorgeous Santander region of Colombia? It’s so true that escaping the city bustle for a day could offer you some pretty fantastic memories, whether you’re into quaint colonial towns, getting a little crazy with heart-pounding outdoor adventures, or simply breathing in some fresh air, like your favorite wool sweater just coming out of the wash. There’s quite a range, so let’s check out five unbelievable day trips that start just a stone’s throw from Bucaramanga, designed to totally knock your socks off!

1. Barichara: Colombia’s Prettiest Little Town

Okay, so first up we have Barichara! Described by many as Colombia’s loveliest town, this gem is a true feast for the eyes. Is that a stretch, very possibly, but just bear with it! You know, it’s located a couple of hours from Bucaramanga, which might be a nice break, Barichara welcomes you with its well-kept cobblestone streets, terracotta rooftops, and an overwhelming sense of serenity; honestly, that’s one for the brochure right there. As a matter of fact, it was declared a national monument back in 1978, just a little fun fact there.

The town has a chilled, relaxed atmosphere. Apparently, life goes on at a more graceful pace. This almost allows you to really disconnect from everything and unwind. As a matter of fact, I recall one afternoon I had a little time on my own, sipping on a *tinto*, Colombia’s coffee served black, in the city’s Plaza Central, like I was living my best romantic comedy life. Basically, this is just soaking up the simple pleasures. Actually, take a moment to just look at the stone carvings on the cathedral! Maybe there, you can sense just the love and detail that has been added to this amazing little town.

You might want to visit the workshops, of course. See artisans practice age-old skills, especially in the carving of sandstone. It almost gives you that rustic-looking charm found only in these kinds of hidden Colombian treasures. Now, if you are into a bit of light adventure, there’s always the hike to Guane along the *Camino Real*. You get amazing landscape views, as you take this very historic route.

2. San Gil: Adventure Sports Capital of Colombia

Ready for some serious adrenaline? So San Gil is very much your place to be! Just about a 3-hour drive from Bucaramanga. This town is like the ultimate hub for anyone wanting a hit of extreme sports, which can be exciting. Very much think bungee jumping, white-water rafting, paragliding, and caving… that kind of craziness. San Gil totally has something to get your heart rate soaring. To be honest, this might be your vibe if chilling just isn’t on the menu for today. Still, it gives you something to think about, right?

I have this story to share with you guys: one time, as I recall, my buddies and I went white-water rafting down the Río Fonce. Basically, it was ridiculously thrilling, bouncing down the rapids with beautiful scenery rushing by; it was all the things! At the end of the day, San Gil does offer you a wide array of tour companies, which can make sure that you are not just secure but that you are also going to experience every single pulse-quickening second of your preferred adventure activity, and, for the most part, I would like to hope, that those who get travel sick have packed their seasickness pills or travel wristbands!

Okay, so if you ever manage to keep a little energy after all that wildness, make an effort to visit El Gallineral Park, which might give you some time to stroll peacefully surrounded by “beard-like” moss hanging just a little dramatically from old trees. It’s almost a soothing change in tempo following your adrenaline-fueled craziness, isn’t it?

3. Giron: Bucaramanga’s Colonial Sister

Just 30 minutes from Bucaramanga and the opposite to needing to buckle in for a long bus ride, Girón offers a colonial beauty that’s more easily reachable than, like, Barichara, which we just chatted about, isn’t it? Girón might just be a little less known. Maybe that’s a plus. It totally allows you to stroll along and take in its traditional architecture in peace, seemingly unbothered by hordes of travelers! I found that charming at least.

You see, it’s so fun to explore its tranquil plazas, admire the Basilica Menor Señora de las Nieves, which looks simply majestic, and just sample some nearby eats. As a matter of fact, you can totally lose yourself amidst the well-preserved colonial buildings. They are usually painted in just bright white with vividly colored doors and balconies; these make just great postcard photos, alright?

I seem to always suggest coffee. As a matter of fact, the coffee is great too! This one time, when I went with my uncle. We found a quaint little cafe. It felt as if time completely stood still as the gentle breeze drifted in through the doorway, pretty nostalgic too. If you happen to just like to bring a small, relaxed cultural breather just near to the hubbub that comes with Bucaramanga. It really just might be Giron!

4. Zapatoca: The City of Eternal Mist

Would you like a little mysterious atmosphere for just a little switch? It’s a big yes? Alright, get ready to venture into Zapatoca, which, like, has been called the “City of Eternal Mist,” a tag earned by its almost regular covering of a soft, hazy mist. Anyway, a trip lasting around 2.5 hours. Actually, a slightly longer drive time is worth it, with promises of a climate which has been known to be cool. Some of those views can be fairly spectacular, believe me! Very different from the kind of hot climates that you are maybe used to in other regions, like your usual summer holiday.

I remember visiting the Cueva del Nitro many years ago. Basically, a cave just filled with so many impressive stalactites and stalagmites. I would be happy to make the suggestion. So I think it adds something unique and spooky. This reminds me of stories with tales of indigenous rituals, though I wouldn’t rely on anything here! And you can see the stunning perspectives from the Cerro de la Judía overlook spot. A lot of Instagram opportunities, by the way!

Anyway, the town maintains some traditional vibes. Is that interesting? Okay, go have a little meander down its pretty little streets. You are possibly also going to experience the friendly disposition of the local community; some might be characters, I hear! Anyway, you almost sense how far detached Zapatoca appears from the fast pace of, say, more popular touristy Colombian spots. It might just offer you just that more real experience if you do find some spots off the beaten track!

5. Curití: The Weaving Wonder

Curití, a small place celebrated for its handcrafted fique goods, presents another compelling trip to just be had just over an hour out of Bucaramanga. Anyway, Curití is where old weaving practices totally remain alive; that means it gives a peek into local craftsmanship, so I think that would be fascinating to watch! In a way, I found that the village had such character!

Basically, one can browse shops filled with handicrafts from fique. Like bags and hats, rugs, all woven with expertise. I have a hat that’s going on 10 years, for real. Anywho, this is not just purchasing souvenirs. Very, very much also about helping sustain heritage-related skillsets for sure.

The area around Curití has landscapes worth appreciating as well, really. Very close to, in fact, the Santuario de Fauna y Flora Guanentá Alto Río Fonce which boasts biodiversity as well as natural splendor, so that will be your thing, huh?