Bucaramanga , Colombia

Private Tour - Zapatoca (Culture)

Active

(2 reviews)

7h - 8h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Zapatoca is a beautiful and calm town not known by a lot of travelers. The town has 5000 inhabitants and people from Bucaramanga go there to enjoy a weekend having relatively mild temperatures (day temperature approx. 21 °C/ 79 °F). In town you can enjoy a beautiful central park and try home-made wine from oranges and blackberries.
The road to Zapatoca is one of the highlights of the trip because it goes right through the stunning landscape of the Chicamocha Canyon. There are several viewpoints to stop by during the road trip. One of the viewpoints you will visit at the end of the day is the Mirador Los Guanes which is on top of the mountains from where you can see many parts of Santander such as parts of Bucaramanga´s metropolitan area, Barichara, El Socorro, the Chicamocha Canyon, the Suarez Canyon, the crossing of the two canyons, etc.

Available options

Private Tour - Zapatoca (Culture)

Pickup included

What's included

Travel insurance and additional insurance for extreme sports

Walking tour in Zapatoca

Lunch included in the town of Zapatoca

Various stops at amazing viewpoints in the Chicamocha Canyon on the way to Zapatoca

English or Spanish speaking accompaniment

For additional cost: entrance to the cave “Cueva del Nitro"

Private transport to Zapatoca

Detailed itinerary

Zapatoca is a beautiful and calm town not known by a lot of travelers. The town has 5000 inhabitants and people from Bucaramanga go there to enjoy a weekend having relatively mild temperatures (day temperature approx. 21 °C/ 79 °F). In town you can enjoy a beautiful central park and try home-made wine from oranges and blackberries.

Zapatoca also has a lot of German history since the famous German immigrant Geo von Lengerke lived and died in the town. Nowadays you still find German stereotypes of the people living in Zapatoca.

The road to Zapatoca is one of the highlights of the trip because it goes right through the stunning landscape of the Chicamocha Canyon. There are several viewpoints to stop by during the road trip. One of the viewpoints you will visit at the end of the day is the Mirador Los Guanes which is on top of the mountains from where you can see many parts of Santander such as parts of Bucaramanga´s metropolitan area, Barichara, El Socorro, the Chicamocha Canyon, the Suarez Canyon, the crossing of the two canyons, etc.

Close to town you will visit the cave “Cueva del Nitro” where a specialized guide shows you parts of the cave that is several kilometers long.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Bucaramanga

Bucaramanga, known as the 'City of Parks,' is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes Mountains. It offers a pleasant climate, lush greenery, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a unique and appealing destination in Colombia. The city is renowned for its numerous parks, friendly locals, and a mix of modern and traditional architecture.

Top Attractions

Parque García Rovira

A large park with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Musa - Museo de Arte Moderno de Bucaramanga

A contemporary art museum featuring works by local and international artists. The museum also hosts cultural events and exhibitions.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Catedral Metropolitana de Bucaramanga

A stunning cathedral with a mix of Gothic and Neoclassical architecture. It's a significant religious and historical landmark in the city.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Parque de la Vida

A beautiful park with a lake, walking paths, and a variety of plants and animals. It's a great place for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring rice, beans, fried plantain, chicharrón (pork rind), avocado, arepa (corn cake), and a choice of meat (usually beef or chicken).

Lunch Vegetarian and vegan options are available with modifications.

Arepas

Corn cakes that can be filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or beans. They are a staple of Colombian cuisine.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options are available.

Lechona

A traditional dish made with a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. It's a festive dish often served at special occasions.

Lunch/Dinner Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Rafting Paragliding Hiking Picnicking in parks Visiting spas and wellness centers Enjoying coffee at local cafes Visiting museums and art galleries Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the dry season, offering the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and events.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bucaramanga is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate compared to other Colombian cities. However, it's important to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas.
• Use official taxis or app-based services.

Getting there

By air

Palonegro International Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal de Transporte de Bucaramanga

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Bucaramanga. It's affordable and covers most areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Tappsi, Cubero

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cabecera La Florida Provenza

Day trips

San Gil

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

A small town known for its adventure sports and natural beauty. It's a great place for activities like rafting, paragliding, and hiking.

Barichara

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

A charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to explore Colombian history and culture.

Chicamocha National Park

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A beautiful national park with stunning views, hiking trails, and adventure activities. It's a great place to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Feria de las Flores • August Festival de la Cerveza • October Festival de la Música Colombiana • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's parks and green spaces for a relaxing and scenic experience.
Visit local markets and street food stalls for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Take a day trip to nearby destinations like San Gil, Barichara, and Chicamocha National Park for adventure and natural beauty.
Attend local festivals and events for a unique and immersive cultural experience.