Barichara & San Gil: Review of Pescaderito & Curiti Day Trip

So, you are thinking of squeezing in as much Santander charm as is humanly achievable in a single day? Then this Barichara, San Gil, Pescaderito, and Curiti itinerary just might be up your street, and that too if you are a fan of pretty colonial towns, daring adventures, or artisan crafts, since there is arguably something here for everyone. Very Santander!

First Stop: Lovely Barichara

We’ll kick things off then with Barichara, frequently called “the most pleasing town in Colombia,” and to be honest, it is quite the looker. In fact, that reddish stone architecture paired with bougainvillea is almost dreamlike. In a way, strolling down those tranquil, old streets just feels like stepping back in time.

What To Do Here

Anyway, what might one do here? Actually, besides soaking it all in and generally just snapping a gazillion pics, you can peep at the Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción; too it is really gorgeous! It seems it dominates the main square with this almost golden glow and you’ll spot many local families hanging around, having ice cream. As a matter of fact, it is just lovely.

Oh, and speaking of churches, why not stretch your legs, too, with a brief wander out to the Puente Grande? Arguably the path leading there, very well, it is part of what’s called the Camino Real. As I was saying, this historical route connects Barichara with Guane, and there are arguably even better views than the church to reward you! By the way, look down – it’s basically paved with fossils.

Very close by is a fantastic spot called Taller de Papel Barichara and it’s almost worth the entry fee just to meet the eccentric owner, Alfredo, and witness all his mad professor equipment. Of course, if you need some souvenirs or gifts, anyway, then Alfredo offers paper making workshops, where he’ll guide you to create handmade paper from plant fibers, that’s so memorable!

First, for any seeking spectacular viewpoints, be sure to seek out El Salto del Mico; arguably, the panoramic vistas from there of the Suárez Canyon make it perfect for photographers or basically anyone looking to enjoy some breathtaking views.

San Gil: Adventure Capital of Santander

Alright, now you get to hit up San Gil. The “adventure capital,” so it is just the spot to get your pulse actually racing! Like, even if that ain’t typically your thing, it is almost good fun watching everyone else.

Thrilling Activities

Basically, San Gil boasts a pretty hefty list of adrenaline-fueled adventures, from white-water rafting on the Río Fonce and that’s so perfect for beginners, to paragliding over the Chicamocha Canyon and you could enjoy panoramic views. What might be the best option, though? I mean, it basically depends how daring you’re feeling, right?

Then again, even if scaling waterfalls ain’t for you, so there are still calmer options. Right, explore the El Gallineral Park and as a matter of fact, take in all the otherworldly, lichen-draped trees! Actually, it’s a welcome breath of tranquility. Or you know, basically you can sip some surprisingly amazing coffee!

Finding Food

When you actually need food, then hit the Mercado Central de San Gil to eat like a local. Just, you could test out arepas santandereanas, which as a matter of fact are made with ground corn, or if you feel brave, then maybe sample some hormigas culonas (big bottom ants!), but you know, each to their own.

For dinner though, maybe hit up a spot like Restaurant Mandala? In fact, it serves both Colombian and international plates in a relaxed atmosphere and you know that local flavor is something that they absolutely kill!

Charming Curití

We get to swing through Curití then, a calmer destination after super adventurous San Gil, yet there are arguably many cool artisan things going on here.

What To Do Here

Actually, Curití is kinda famed for its textiles, mostly spun from fique, which actually is a fiber taken from the agave plant. Just watch weavers crafting vibrant bags, rugs, and hammocks and if you purchase one then you have, in effect, an original memento to take home, actually.

But it’s not textiles only here, basically – if you are still game for something fairly hair-raising after San Gil, arguably consider a stop at Las Grutas de la Moneda, that, near Curití, will provide underground caving experiences. Is that very awesome? As a matter of fact, explore some stunning limestone formations, basically!

Delightful Pescaderito

We swing by Pescaderito on our loop and like Curití it really stands in even sharper contrast to San Gil. This area that’s fairly tranquil basically has an almost therapeutic quiet that the traveler could definitely use.

Peaceful Relaxation

I mean, the key activity to take part in here isn’t an activity at all, too it’s the chance to unwind by the river. Just chill to the sound of running water in the forests, breathing that great, super refreshing air. Is that really what vacationing is, or am I wrong? I mean, for some that might be it!

You know, I said there aren’t activities, so there’s something kinda special near to Pescaderito; like, go search for the Cascada de Guacamayas if you want some pretty sweet, soothing sights.

So if all this talk of peace has just made you peckish, actually there are some great lunch spots along the main streets of Pescaderito – expect typical local treats – which could just mean getting stuck into some seriously tasty trout.

#Santander #Colombia #Travel #Barichara #SanGil #Curiti #Pescaderito “`