Santander
COL-92 / 4-day Trip

Santander
Experience the natural beauty and colonial charm of Colombia’s Santander region on this 4-day journey. Starting in Bucaramanga, visit Chicamocha National Park and cross its dramatic canyon by cable car.
Explore the historic towns of Barichara and Guane, then travel through Socorro to the charming Villa de Leyva. Conclude your adventure in the artisan village of Ráquira before arriving in Bogotá. A perfect blend of landscapes, culture, and tradition awaits.
Day 1 | Bucaramanga – Chicamocha Canyon – Barichara |
Day 2 | Barichara – Guane – “El Camino Real” |
Day 3 | Barichara – Socorro – Villa de Leyva |
Day 4 | Villa de Leyva – Ráquira – Bogotá |
Day 1 | Bucaramanga – Chicamocha Canyon – Barichara The park’s main attraction is crossing the Chicamocha Canyon over 6.3 kilometers by cable car, offering visitors a spectacular panorama. Chicamocha is the second-largest canyon in the world with depths reaching up to 2,000 meters. Panachi park offers a fascinating view of the Chicamocha Canyon and houses a monument to the “Santandereanidad”. This monument represents the Comuneros Revolution, a historic event in Santander that was the central axis for the construction of the park. There will be time for lunch at the park. The driver will pick the group up at the other side of the Canyon. Continue to Barichara, one of Colombia’s most beautiful and well-preserved colonial towns. Here we’ll step back in time as we relax in the town’s serene main square, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and watching daily life unfold in this enchanting setting. You’ll have free time in the evening to enjoy on your own. |
Day 2 | Barichara – Guane – “El camino real” Upon arrival in Guane — a smaller, quieter version of Barichara — your guide will lead a short walking tour, sharing insights into the local way of life, regional products, and the area’s rich history. You’ll also have the chance to visit a small archaeological museum that preserves relics from the ancient Bari and Guane cultures. There will be time to relax with a coffee or ice cream before we return to Barichara by vehicle. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. We’ll provide information for activities and tours that you can enjoy in town, including a papermaking workshop, a visit to a bee sanctuary, a pottery workshop, a basketry workshop, and more. |
Day 3 | Barichara – Socorro – Villa de Leyva Our journey continues with a stop in a traditional bocadillo factory in Barbosa, where you’ll see how Colombia’s beloved guava jelly sweets are made — and enjoy a taste, of course! Afterwards, drive to Villa de Leyva. This is a charming colonial town located in the Boyacá department of Colombia, about 3 hours from Bogotá. Founded in 1572, this town is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and one of the largest town squares in South America — the Plaza Mayor. The town is a popular destination for its historical ambiance, nearby natural attractions, and cultural festivals. It offers a blend of history, nature, and a relaxed atmosphere. IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE BOCADILLO TOUR:– This tour only runs on weekdays (Monday – Friday). Included meals: Breakfast |
Day 4 | Villa de Leyva – Ráquira – Bogotá Our journey continues to the pre-Muisca archaeological site, managed by the Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia. This sacred site preserves the vestiges of a pre-Hispanic ceremonial center, featuring over 50 phallic monoliths aligned with the sun — a powerful testament to the cosmology of the pre-Muisca civilization. In the afternoon, we’ll head to the nearby town of Ráquira, known as Colombia’s “Capital of Handicrafts.” Its name comes from the Chibcha language and means “city of pots,” reflecting its long-standing tradition in pottery and ceramics. The town’s colorful, colonial-style homes are filled with handcrafted goods — from clay pots and mugs to woven baskets, toys, and decorative pieces. Ráquira’s artisanal excellence has earned it international acclaim, with its ceramics exported to countries across the Americas and Europe. In the late afternoon we’ll continue our journey towards Bogotá, where we’ll arrive by night. Drop-off at your desired location and end of services. |
INCLUDED
- Andes World Travel Tour Leader from 7 pax on
- Private transportation throughout the entire program
- All accommodation according to the Hotel List
- All entrance fees and activities
- English speaking guides during tours
- Meals as specified in the day-to-day itinerary
NOT INCLUDED
- Domestic and international flights
- Personal expenses
- Insurance
- Tips
- Everything not mentioned in the “Included” list
TOURIST CLASS HOTELS
BARICHARA: Hotel Mission Santa Barbara or similar
VILLA DE LEYVA: Hotel La Posada de San Antonio or similar