The Top 10 Things to See and Do in Bucaramanga, Colombia
Known as “the pretty city of Colombia,” Bucaramanga is the capital city of the country’s Santander department and has pleasant weather, many parks and gardens and more to offer than you may think. Read on for the best ways to make the most of your time in the city—you might even decide to stay a little longer before heading out to San Gil or Barichara.
Paragliding in Ruitoque
Paragliding is a popular tourist activity throughout Santander, a region that enjoys the perfect climate for year-round flights. It’s no different in Bucaramanga: the little town of Ruitoque (a short drive from the city) is the starting point for paragliding flights, which last about half an hour and offer stunning panoramic views of Bucaramanga’s skyline.
Paragliding over Bucaramanga | © Chris Bell/Culture Trip
1. Visit the Heritage Town of Girón
Architectural Landmark
Girón, Colombia | © yonolatengo/Flickr
One of the least well-known of Colombia’s 17 Heritage Towns, San Juan de Girón is located just 9 kilometres (less than 6 miles) from the centre of Bucaramanga and is perfect for a day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With nearly 500 years of history, lovely cobbled streets, whitewashed walls and a laid-back attitude, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different time. Its location in a deep valley makes it a lot warmer than nearby Bucaramanga.
2. Wander the trails in the botanical garden
Botanical Garden
3. Check out the cathedral
Cathedral, Park
Bucaramanga’s cathedral | © Chris Bell/Culture Trip The Sagrada Familia Cathedral overlooks Santander Park in the historical centre of the city and is among Bucaramanga’s most important and well-known religious buildings. Its shining white facade and ornate interior make it a striking landmark, even more so when it lights up at night.
4. Have a drink at Skybar
Bar, Cocktails
5. Enjoy the view from Cerro del Santísimo
Architectural Landmark
The statue of Jesus at Cerro del Santísimo | © Chris Bell/Culture Trip
Another spot with an impressive view over Bucaramanga, Cerro del Santísimo is located in Floridablanca, an urban area bordering Bucaramanga, and boasts a huge statue of Jesus some 40 metres (131 feet) high. You can ascend to the top of the hill via cable cars, then climb to the viewpoint at the top of Jesus’s head. Needless to say, the views are something special and the statue is equally impressive.
6. Stop by La Casa del Libro Total
Museum
This unique cultural centre, located on the corner of García Rovira Park, is a great place to spend a few hours during a walk in the historical centre of Bucaramanga. A repository of histories and chronicles about the Santander region, La Casa del Libro Total boasts an exhaustive catalogue of books accessible on its many computers, as well as art exhibits, conferences and musical performances. Even if you just go in to enjoy a coffee in its airy outdoor cafe, it’s worth a visit.
7. Explore Bucaramanga's many parks and gardens
Park
8. Experience local dishes at Cabrón
Restaurant, South American
A plate of carne oreada | © Chris Bell/Culture Trip
Santander has a distinct and interesting culinary history and many unique dishes. There are many restaurants in which to sample the local cuisine in Bucaramanga, but the best is Cabrón. With a good menu of tasty local dishes, including carne oreada (a dried beef a bit like jerky) and cabrito con pepitoria (baby goat served with a rice made of blood and innards that’s much better than it sounds!), Cabrón is the place to sample the cuisine of Santander.
9. Wander through the Casa de Bolívar Museum
Museum
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