Barichara

Often called the most beautiful town in Colombia, Barichara captivates visitors with its pristine white-washed colonial buildings and perfectly preserved cobblestone streets. It's an ideal base for hiking to the nearby Guane village and exploring the stunning Chicamocha Canyon.

Things to do

• Hike to Guane Village — Trek the scenic 9-kilometer trail through dry forest and canyon views to reach the peaceful colonial village of Guane, a journey of approximately 3-4 hours.
• Explore Chicamocha Canyon — Visit this dramatic canyon with viewpoints and hiking opportunities that showcase Colombia's most impressive natural geological formations.
• Walk the Cobblestone Streets — Wander through Barichara's meticulously preserved colonial center featuring whitewashed buildings, hidden plazas, and artisan workshops.
• Visit the Cathedral Basilica — Admire the impressive white stone church dominating the main plaza, a stunning example of colonial religious architecture dating back centuries.
• Browse Local Art Galleries — Discover paintings, sculptures, and crafts in numerous galleries throughout town, many showcasing works inspired by Barichara's striking landscape.
• Visit the Fossil Museum — Explore paleontological exhibits featuring fossils from the Chicamocha Canyon region, offering insight into Colombia's prehistoric past.
• Take a Photography Tour — Join guided tours that highlight the town's most photogenic angles, golden-hour light, and hidden architectural details.

Food to try

• Hormigas Culonas — These large roasted ants, a regional delicacy from Santander department, are said to be an aphrodisiac and offer a nutty, crunchy snack unique to this area.
• Ajiaco Santandereano — A hearty regional stew combining chicken, potatoes, corn, and local herbs, served with arepas and topped with fresh cilantro and avocado.
• Pan de Queso — A warm, cheese-filled bread typical of the Santander region, best enjoyed fresh from local bakeries in the early morning.
• Tamales Santandereanos — These corn-based parcels filled with chicken, vegetables, and regional spices are wrapped in corn husks and traditionally served for special occasions.
• Fresh Trout from Local Streams — Grilled or fried trout sourced from nearby mountain streams, prepared simply to highlight its delicate flavor at local restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Siesta Culture — Many shops and services close between 12 and 3 PM, so plan accordingly and embrace the slower afternoon pace as locals do.
• Dress Modestly in Religious Spaces — When visiting the cathedral and other churches, wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees, as these are active places of worship.
• Support Local Artisans — Barichara is home to many independent artists and craftspeople; purchasing directly from galleries and workshops supports the community's economy and preserves its artistic heritage.
• Arrive Early for the Best Light — Visit major plazas and streets early morning or late afternoon to capture the town's charm without crowds and experience its authentic daily rhythms.