7 days in San Gil, Colombia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Tucked away in the stunning Andean mountains, San Gil is the heart of Colombia’s outdoor and adventure capital. This small, picturesque town boasts magnificent landscapes, perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. With exhilarating activities like white-water rafting, paragliding, bungee jumping and more, there’s never a dull moment. But fear not, relaxation-seekers, you’ll also find yourself captivated by the serene beauty of this charming destination.
Things to Consider Before Arriving in San Gil
Affordable Prices: San Gil offers budget-friendly accommodations, food, and activities for travelers.
Adventure Galore: The abundance of outdoor sports and activities make this the perfect spot for thrill-seekers.
Not a Party Town: If you’re looking for a bustling nightlife scene, this town may not be for you.
San Gil is best suited for adventurous travelers seeking amazing outdoor experiences and a taste of local Colombian culture.
What to Bring with You
– Quick-dry clothing: Perfect for adventure sports and unpredictable weather conditions.
– Insect repellent: Keep those pesky bugs away while exploring the great outdoors.
– Waterproof shoes: For comfortable exploration of San Gil’s lush surroundings.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The ideal time to visit San Gil is during the drier months of December to March. However, outdoor adventures are available year-round, with June to September being the rainier season.
How to Get into the City
1. Bus from Bogotá: This 7-hour trip is the most popular way of reaching San Gil. Buses are generally comfortable and run frequently from Bogotá’s main bus terminal.
2. Bus from Bucaramanga: Located 2-3 hours away, Bucaramanga has the nearest airport to San Gil. You can fly into Bucaramanga and then take a direct bus to San Gil.
3. Drive: Renting a car and driving to San Gil offers flexibility for those who want to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace. The drive from Bogotá takes approximately 6 hours.
7 day city guide trip in San Gil, Colombia
Day 1 – Arrival
Upon your arrival, I recommend you head to the Plaza de la Libertad, located in the historic center of San Gil, to get a feel for the city’s vibe. Then go on a walking tour around the colonial-style streets and visit the Catedral de la Santa Cruz. For lunch, try the traditional dish of “Bandeja Paisa” at La Puerta del Sol, a local restaurant. In the afternoon, I suggest a visit to the popular Parque el Gallineral, where you can relax by the river and take a dip in the natural pools.
Day 2 – Adventure time
San Gil is known as the adventure capital of Colombia, so today is the day for an adrenaline rush. Early in the morning, head to the Curití municipality, just 15 minutes away from San Gil, and go paragliding – it’s a must! For lunch, try “Bocadillos,” a local sweet treat made from guava paste and sugar.
In the afternoon, go rafting on the Chicamocha River, one of the most picturesque and challenging rivers in Colombia. End your day by enjoying a delicious steak at La Fogata, a steakhouse that has been in San Gil for years.
Day 3 – Caves and waterfalls
Today is the day to explore the amazing natural wonders that surround San Gil. Head to the Cueva del Indio – here you can take a guided tour through the various chambers and see the ancient rock formations. Then, move onto Mar Suárez Waterfall, a hidden gem that offers a natural pool for swimming. For lunch, try the trout at La Cueva restaurant, located in front of the waterfall.
In the afternoon, head to the Pozo Azul waterfalls where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Day 4 – Cultural immersion
Start the day by visiting the village of Barichara, a charming colonial town located just 25 minutes from San Gil. Take a morning stroll along the cobbled streets, admiring the colonial architecture and then try the traditional “Hormiga Culona” (big-bottom ant) at La Fuente de Soda or have some delicious empanadas at Casa Nelly.
In the afternoon, go to Guane, another beautiful colonial town, where you can visit the Guane Museum, an interesting anthropological museum showcasing the indigenous history of the region.
Day 5 – San Gil surroundings day trip
Today, I suggest going on a day trip to the charming town of Barichara, known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Walk through the cobblestone streets, take in the stunning views of the Suarez Canyon, and visit the Barichara Cemetery, a beautiful place with spectacular views. Don’t skip eating at La Mora de John, a restaurant with a delicious gourmet menu.
Day 6 – Active Day
Today is the day for hiking and biking. Start with the Panachi National Park, located just 45 minutes from San Gil, it offers a breathtaking view of the Chicamocha Canyon and a gondola ride overlooking the park. For lunch, try a hearty steak at El Mirador or the Paisa dish at Restaurante Mirador.
In the afternoon, visit the La Cruz viewpoint, where you can see the whole city and surrounding areas.
Day 7 – Shopping and farewell
On your last day in San Gil, head to the Mercado Campesino, where you can buy local produce like exotic fruits. Walk around the town and shop for souvenirs at the leather shops located on Carrera 10. For lunch, head to the town center and try the “Lechona,” a typical dish of pork with rice. Bid San Gil farewell with dinner at one of my favorites, Restaurante Los Juanes, that serves delicious meat and vegetarian dishes.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in San Gil, Colombia
After spending a week in San Gil, I highly recommend continuing your travels to Baru, a small town located on the Caribbean coast – it boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia. Another great option is Villa de Leyva, a charming colonial town located in the Boyacá department, just 3-hours away by car. You can visit the town’s central plaza, which is one of the largest in Latin America and walk around the colonial-style streets admiring the beautiful architecture.
