Barichara to Guane Hike
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
You will visit the Mirador (look-out), with a wonderful view of the Suarez River and Suarez Canyon far below. In addition to this, you’ll visit the Archaeological and Paleontological Museum, created by Father Isaias Diaz Ardila in 1970. Here you’ll uncover a collection of more than 10,000 fossils millions of years old, a 700-year-old mummy that was discovered in one of the many Chicamocha Canyon caves, along with ceramics, necklaces, and other objects made by the Guane Indians.
Available options
Barichara to Guane Hike
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Air-conditioned vehicle
Bilingual Guide for entire tour time
Detailed itinerary
1
The 5.5 km (3.4ml) Camino Real walking trail running between Barichara and Guane in the Santander region of Colombia, was originally built by the Guane Indians more than 600 yrs ago. Declared a National Monument in 1977, thousands of visitors every year now enjoy walking along the same stone path hand-built by the local indigenous before the arrival of the Spaniards.
You’ll enjoy a medium intensity walk along a 7 km (4.3ml) route created by the indigenous people for approximately 2 hours, taking the same steps as have a countless number of indigenous and travelers from all of the world before.
2
Although the transit road was originally created by the local Guane Indians, it was later adapted and reformed in 1864 by the German engineer Geo Von Lengerke into the hiking trail you see today.
These roads contain a lot of history and are considered a natural treasure, as you are not only traveling through history but also through a mixture of both a tropical and humid dry forest. This combination allows you to observe the changes of vegetation, from cacti to large trees, which makes this a very special experience.
During your descent towards the town of Guane, you’ll also get to enjoy the wonderful landscape of the Cerrania de Los Yariquies, part of the network of the Colombian National Natural Parks.
Guane was one of the last indigenous reservations, where it was decided to protect approximately 800 indigenous people from more than 10 different tribes between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. During your tour, you’ll learn the history of the Guane indigenous people.
What's not included
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the plan
Experiences and transportation not mentioned in the plan
Personal expenses and tips
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.7
3 reviews
5★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
We'll contact you shortly after your booking to confirm your Bucaramanga hotel and pick-up time.
About Barichara
Barichara is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets. It's a place where time seems to stand still, offering a glimpse into Colombia's rich history and culture. The town is also a gateway to the nearby Guane National Archaeological Park and the Camino Real, a scenic hiking trail.
Top Attractions
Plaza de Barichara
The main square of Barichara, surrounded by colonial buildings, churches, and shops. It's a great place to relax and soak in the town's atmosphere.
Historical
30 minutes to a few hours
Free
Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción
A beautiful colonial church located in the main square, featuring impressive architecture and historical artifacts.
Religious
30 minutes
Free (donations appreciated)
Camino Real
A scenic hiking trail connecting Barichara to the town of Guane. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and offers stunning views.
Adventure
4-6 hours (one way)
Free
Guane National Archaeological Park
An archaeological site featuring ancient ruins and artifacts from the Guane people, who inhabited the region before the Spanish conquest.
Historical
2-3 hours
COP 5,000 - 10,000
Cañón del Chicamocha
A stunning canyon offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and adventure activities like paragliding and zip-lining.
Nature
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty dish featuring rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, and arepa. It's a must-try for its rich flavors and substantial portions.
Lunch
Contains meat and gluten.
Arepas
Cornmeal cakes that can be served plain or stuffed with various fillings like cheese, meat, or avocado.
Snack
Vegetarian options available.
Lechona
A traditional dish made with rice, pork, and spices, cooked inside a whole pig.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and gluten.
Trucha
Fresh trout, often grilled or fried, served with local sides like rice, plantains, and salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and gluten.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Paragliding
Zip-lining
Horseback riding
Coffee tasting
Reading in a café
Strolling through the town
Visiting historical sites
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the dry season, with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Limited
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Barichara is generally safe, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of your surroundings
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services
Getting there
By air
- Santander Airport • 50 km
By bus
Bucaramanga
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are available but not very frequent. They are a cheap way to get around but may not be very convenient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Tappx, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
San Lorenzo
Day trips
Guane National Archaeological Park
10 km • Half day to full day
Explore the ancient ruins and artifacts of the Guane people, who inhabited the region before the Spanish conquest.
Cañón del Chicamocha
30 km • Full day
A stunning canyon offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and adventure activities like paragliding and zip-lining.
Bucaramanga
70 km • Full day
The capital of Santander, offering a mix of urban attractions, shopping, and dining options.
Festivals
Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • August
Festival de la Cosecha (Harvest Festival) • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Guane National Archaeological Park for a fascinating glimpse into the region's pre-Columbian history.
- Hike the Camino Real for stunning views and a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.
- Try local dishes like Bandeja Paisa and Trucha for an authentic taste of Santanderian cuisine.
- Explore the town's cobblestone streets and colonial architecture on foot for a true sense of Barichara's charm.
- Attend local festivals and events for a unique cultural experience and to mingle with the locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
