San Gil Travel Guide

Planning a trip to San Gil, Colombia? Read this comprehensive tour guide to make the most out of your visit, including a list of places to visit, things to do, where to stay and more.


San Gil is a hidden gem located in the Eastern Andino region of Colombia, also known as the “adventure capital” of the country. This small town offers stunning natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adrenaline junkie, or a history buff, San Gil has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide for San Gil, we will provide you with all the relevant information you need to help you plan your trip effectively.

Introduction to San Gil

San Gil is a charming Colombian town nestled in the stunning Andean mountains. It is located in the Santander department, approximately 300 km northeast of the capital, Bogota. Although it is a small town, it is known for its vibrant culture, friendly people, and stunning natural scenery. San Gil is also famous for being the adventure capital of Colombia, as it offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, paragliding, and hiking.

List of Places to Visit in San Gil

San Gil has numerous attractions, making it a perfect destination for adventurous travelers and culture enthusiasts. The following are some of the must-visit places in San Gil:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Catedral de la Santa Cruz: This stunning cathedral was built in 1791 and is the largest church in San Gil.
  • Museo Casa de la Cultura: This museum showcases the history, art, and culture of the Santander region.
  • Parque la Libertad: This is a popular park in San Gil, where locals and tourists alike enjoy various recreational activities and events throughout the year.
  • Parque Natural Nacional de Chicamocha: This national park is located just outside of San Gil and offers a chance to explore the local flora and fauna, as well as stunning scenic views.

Natural Attractions of San Gil: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Nacional Natural El Cocuy: This national park is located in the Sierra Nevada de Cocuy mountain range and offers breathtaking views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and a variety of flora and fauna.
  • Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados: This national park is located in the Central Andes and offers visitors a chance to see the majestic snow-capped volcano, Nevado del Ruiz.
  • Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona: This national park is a natural wonder of Colombia, famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique flora and fauna.
  • Chicamocha Canyon: This natural wonder is one of the biggest canyons in South America and offers visitors a stunning view of the Chicamocha River and the surrounding Andean Mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Gil

San Gil’s natural beauty and rugged landscape make it an ideal destination for hikers and bikers. There are many hiking and biking routes available in and around San Gil, catering to all skill levels, and interests. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Camino Real: This historic trail takes you from San Gil to the neighboring town of Barichara, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Rio Fonce trail: This trail takes you along the Rio Fonce river, offering fantastic views of the rugged Andean Mountains and lush greenery.
  • La Gruta: This trail takes you through a cave where you can see various impressive rock formations and then through the nearby nature reserve.

Best Things to Do in San Gil: Activities and Tours

San Gil boasts a wide range of activities and tours; some of the best things to do in San Gil include:

  • White Water Rafting: The sparkling Rio Fonce, Rio Chicamocha, and Rio Suarez offer class III to IV rapids which create a perfect opportunity for electrifying white water rafting.
  • Paragliding: San Gil is known for its spectacular paragliding conditions, and extreme sports seekers from all over the world come to enjoy the views from high above.
  • Bungee Jumping: For daredevils, bungee jumping in San Gil is a must-try experience.
  • Horseback Riding: There are horseback riding opportunities in and around San Gil that offer a chance to tour the countryside and get close to nature.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Gil

For a complete experience of San Gil and its nearby attractions, a week-long itinerary is ideal. An itinerary may include:

Day Plan
1 Arrive and explore San Gil town
2 Visit the nearby Chicamocha Canyon
3 Go white water rafting in Rio Fonce
4 Visit Barichara and explore the Camino Real
5 Visit Panachi Park and enjoy ecotourism activities
6 Go paragliding or zip-lining
7 Departure from San Gil

Food and Drink Scene of San Gil

San Gil has a rich culinary culture, offering traditional Colombian dishes and flavorful street food. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages you should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ajiaco Santandereano: A hearty soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and spices, which is specific to the Santander region.
  • Cabrito: Slow-roasted baby goat.
  • Hormiga Culona (Ants): Even though it might sound peculiar, the large leafcutter ants roasted gently and cured with salt are enjoyed as a delicacy in the Santander region.

Local Beverages

  • Aguardiente: Typical Colombian alcoholic drink made from sugar cane.
  • Maizena: A warm, creamy, thick beverage made of cornstarch, milk, and cinnamon.
  • Canelazo: A warm alcoholic beverage made from brown sugar cane, cinnamon, water, and aguardiente.

Where to Stay in San Gil: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Gil has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guest houses, catering to all budgets. Here are some of the recommendation places to stay.

  • Top-range hotels: Hotel Santa Catalina, Hotel Monchuelo Spa, Hotel Campestre San Marcos.
  • Mid-range hotels: Hotel de Leones San Gil, Macondo Hostel, Hotel San Silvestre.
  • Budget hotels and hostels: Cafe Onda Hostel, Hospedaje el Virginiano, Hostal La Candelaria.

What to Buy in San Gil: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San Gil offers tourists a chance to buy local crafts and souvenirs. The best things to buy in San Gil include:

  • Ceramics: San Gil is known for its handcraft ceramic pottery.
  • Coffee: The Santander region is famous for its high-quality Arabic coffee beans.
  • Handmade hammocks: Hammocks are popular in Colombia, and San Gil offers the opportunity to buy beautiful handmade hammocks.

Local Culture and Customs of San Gil

San Gil is a friendly town with rich culture and customs. To enjoy your visit to the fullest, it’s essential to be aware of the following customs:

  • Language: Spanish is the official language of Colombia, and locals speak it predominantly.
  • Respect religious customs: Colombians are a religious people, and visitors should respect their religious beliefs when in the country.
  • Family is important: Colombian culture values family and close relationships, and visitors should respect and understand this cultural norm to have a positive experience.

Best Time to Visit San Gil

San Gil is a year-round destination, with temperatures averaging around 22°C with little variance through the year. However, the best months to visit San Gil are from December to February when the humidity and rainfall are at their lowest.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Gil

When in San Gil, adhere to the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Do take a walk around the town: It is impressive to witness the unique and well-kept architecture styles of the buildings around the historical center.
  • Do learn some basic Spanish: Knowing a little Spanish can make getting around much more comfortable and provide a chance to interact with the locals.
  • Do try the regional food and drinks: It is a chance to savor the exquisite flavors that San Gil has to offer.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave your valuables in public: Do not leave your belongings unattended. It is imperative to be wary of pickpockets and street robbers.
  • Don’t disrespect religious sites: San Gil is known for having historic, religious, and traditional sites. Do not disrespect these sites and follow the regulations that apply to them.
  • Don’t jeopardize your health by consuming untreated water: Be mindful when choosing where to drink your water when in San Gil.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Gil

San Gil is a relatively safe destination, and with proper measures, most visitors have a pleasant experience. However, some precautions to keep in mind include:

  • Travel with a reputable tourism agency: This means that safety precautions, insurance policies, and emergency contacts are made accessible.
  • Avoid poorly lit areas at night: Although it is safe to walk during the day, it is better to take a taxi or other transportation methods at night.
  • Stay updated on health precautions: It is essential to check for government-issued travel advisories and seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

Health in San Gil

As with any travel destination, it is crucial to take necessary precautions to avoid any medical issues. Some health concerns to keep in mind when traveling to San Gil include:

  • Altitude sickness: San Gil lies at a relatively high altitude, so some visitors may experience altitude sickness symptoms. It is essential to see a doctor before traveling, get in the altitude slowly and stay hydrated.
  • Food safety: Be mindful of the food and drink you consume when eating out to avoid any illnesses or infections.
  • Heatstroke: San Gil has a warm climate with high humidity during the day, so staying hydrated and avoiding the sun between noon and 3 PM is vital.

Getting to San Gil: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to San Gil is relatively easy, and most visitors choose to fly into the nearby airports. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near San Gil

  • Palonegro International Airport (BGA): This airport is located in Bucaramanga, approximately 90 km from San Gil.
  • Yariguies Airport (EJA): This airport is a domestic airport and is located approximately 32 km from San Gil.

Bus Stations Near San Gil

San Gil’s bus terminal is relatively small and offers buses to various destinations in Colombia, including Bogota and Medellin.

Other Options

There are also private transfers available for visitors who prefer a more comfortable and reliable mode of transportation.

How to Get Around in San Gil

San Gil is small enough to navigate by foot. However, there are also taxis, buses, and bike rentals to consider.

Where to Go Next from San Gil: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations worth considering after a visit to San Gil, including:

  • Barichara: This colonial town is just a 40-minute drive from San Gil, with cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Bogota: Colombia’s capital city, with cultural, historical, and culinary offerings, is approximately a 5-hour drive from San Gil.
  • Santa Marta: A city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, famous for its beautiful beaches and fascinating history, is approximately a 9-hour drive from San Gil.

Conclusion

San Gil is an ideal destination for travelers who wish to explore the Colombian countryside, experience its cultural offerings, and take part in a range of adventure activities. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan the perfect trip, with an itinerary, accommodation suggestions, and a list of places to visit and things to do. Happy travels!

Parque San Gil Parque San Gil Parque el Gallineral Parque el Gallineral Going down the Chicamocha canyon towards Jordan Going down the Chicamocha canyon towards Jordan