White water rafting in San Gil´s Fonce River
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If you're a thrill-seeker, adrenaline lover, Santander is the way to go.

With plenty of exciting outdoor activities such as white-water rafting in San Gils Río Fonce or on the Río Chicamocha for class 4 rivers, hiking, paragliding, rappelling, kayaking or cave exploring in the Indio Cave. Along with the adventure comes a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. Visit its colonial towns, churches, cathedrals and cobblestone street towns.

San Gil

The saying “great things come in small packages”, describes San Gil perfectly. Although it’s not very big it doesn’t lack fun things to do, white-water rafting being the main attraction of the town.

Don’t miss The Gallineral Park (Parque El Gallineral), located between the river Fonce and the Curití ravine. Take a walk through the park and enjoy the enchanting large trees covered in hanging moss that have a dreamy appearance.

Barichara

Barichara is an old colonial town preserved just as it was 200 years ago just 20 km north of San Gil. Walk along the cobble stone streets and visit the town center taking in all of the 22 wonderful sculptures to see in the park. Visit the towns’ tiny cemetery and chapel and while you’re there check out the amazing knit bags made of Fíque Plants!

Guane

A quiet town just 10 km north of Barichara, is Guane. You won’t find too much to do here but just seeing the town square is enough to take your breath away. Visit the Museum of Paleontology and Archaeology housing many fossils and local artifacts.

Travel Tips

How to get there

Santander

By plane - Take a flight to Bucaramanga’s Palo Negro Airport and take a bus to San Gil, Barichara or Guane.

By land - There are direct bus-trips to Bucaramanga or Santa Martha with stop off in San Gil leaving from Bogotá and vise versa.

Dress Code - The weather in Santander is hot and sunny but despite its great weather during the day, the nights can get very cold so make sure to pack a sweater and a jacket.

Getting around - The easiest way to get around Santanderis by taxi. Make sure to ask about the ride fare before you get in as fares may vary.

Available Sightseeing Tours

San Gil Adventure Tour

San Gil Adventure Tour

(3 nights 4 days) $327 USD *

Take un unforgetable Adventure Tour to San Gil!

Recommended Hotels & Accomodations

El Hotel San Marcos Camprestre

El Hotel San Marcos Camprestre

Info: 4 Stars, WIFI connection available, Breakfast: Buffet Breakfast

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Comments for San Gil, Barichara, & Gaune

  • Comment by Stephanie Wagner — 09/06/2009

    Ive been to sangil several times and this little town just holds a place in my heart.As a rafting fanatic this place is heaven for me!Rafting during the day,lunch,siesta and then party at night in the park!

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