Nestled 20 km from San Gil, in the department of Santander, in the province of Guanentà, Barichara is regarded as "Colombia's most beautiful village". This charming little town represents a romantic destination highly appreciated by visitors throughout continental Colombia. Despite its reputation, bolstered by appearances in a few films and television series, the village remains largely untouched by mass tourism and preserves the tranquility visitors cherish.

Famous for its colonial architecture with whitewashed stone houses, Barichara is also ideal for nature lovers with numerous hiking trails in the surrounding area.

Barichara is part of Colombia's national monuments. A site also featured on UNESCO's heritage list and in the Colombian network of heritage cities.

History of Barichara

Barichara was the refuge of the Guanes, indigenous peoples who once inhabited Colombian territory. After the Spanish invasion, the Guanes' presence became little more than history, though their cultures remain visible in the village today.

Barichara's significance rests on the famous legend of the miraculous stone. Following the apparition of the Virgin Mary on a stone in the early 18th century, local farmers decided to build a church there. It was only later that a Spanish army captain decided to establish the village of Barichara. Initially, the place was known as Vare-Florence. Subsequently, villagers called it Vara-pitch before baptizing it with its current name, Barichara.

Barichara Today

Barichara has only 8,000 inhabitants, making it a very calm and welcoming small town. Known for its deeply romantic setting, this countryside village serves as inspiration for many artists. Its cobblestone streets lined with white houses and tile roofs are often deserted during the day, giving the impression the village is still asleep. Located in a rolling landscape, the village overlooks the surrounding countryside, offering clear views of the neighboring hills.

What to Do in Barichara?

With its Andalusian character—granted by its white-façaded houses and orange tile roofs—Barichara charms all visitors with the serenity that pervades it. Here you are struck by the village's calm, its empty streets, slumbering houses, and silence broken only by the ringing of school bells. You'll also notice windows without glass, with simple shutters, all closed during the day to keep the cool air inside homes. You'll encounter a few locals nonetheless, always happy to exchange a few words in Spanish or English with foreign visitors; Colombian warmth is perfectly embodied in Barichara.

Although the village is relatively small, it features several points of interest, such as its grand Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, which impresses with its handsome stone façade. The small chapels hidden here and there, including Santa Barbara to the north, will charm you equally.

Stop by the artistic park known as Jorge Delgado.

Surrounded by nature, you'll find to the east of the village the Bioparc Moncoa, a splendid ecological site rich in varied fauna and flora. The park spans seven hectares and offers, from its viewpoints, an incredible view of the Andes Cordillera and the Suarez canyon. Also worth discovering are the Chicamocha canyon and its verdant landscape.

During your stay in Barichara, you can explore the famous "Camino Real" trail for a hike to the village of the Guanes, where archaeological sites await you.

You can treat yourself to Colombian cuisine at several restaurants and tea rooms on site. Savor their culinary specialties, including ajiaco or roasted goat meat. For those who enjoy sampling local and unusual fare, try the roasted big-bottomed ants, a must-try "delicacy" of the village.

Finally, don't hesitate to stop by one of the many artistic workshops in the village to pick up a few souvenirs from your visit.

Climate

Barichara enjoys a hot and humid tropical climate. Thus, the first months of the year are warmer with less rainfall. For a peaceful stay, it's best to avoid October, when rain is rather heavy. With an average temperature of 21.4 °C, Barichara offers rather favorable weather for your summer holidays.

For a visit to Barichara, you must fly to Bucaramanga airport, a nearby town. Upon arrival at the terminal, you can choose between bus and car to reach the village.

If you've just spent time in San Gil, you can access the village via public transportation.

The roads to Barichara are not always in good condition, but rest assured—drivers are experienced and will get you there without issue.

While it's possible to move around by car, motorcycle, or bicycle through the cobblestone streets, discovering the small town of Barichara on foot is most delightful.

Motorcycle taxis are available at all hours to take you to every corner of the village…