Camino Real: the Barichara to Guane Hike

From $87 USD per person

The Camino Real from Barichara to Guane is 5.5 kilometres of stone path built by the Guane, the pre-Columbian people of the Santander highlands, and used for centuries afterwards as the trade route between the canyon communities. It was declared a national monument in 1977 and restored in 1988. It is not a trail laid out for tourists. It is the surface the Guane built, wide enough for commerce and durable enough to have survived intact.

Six to nine hours, private, most of it on foot. Two to three hours out, time in Guane, two to three hours back. The range is transfer time, which depends on where in Santander you start.

Check live availability and prices — or read on for how the day is built.

How the day works

• Pickup and the drive to Barichara (about 1 hour). Varies with your base city.
• The walk to Guane (2 to 3 hours). 5.5 kilometres of cobble and dirt through the highlands, with a guide who can tell you what you are walking on.
• Guane (about 1 hour). A tiny, well-preserved village. The church, the viewpoints over the canyon, the old houses along the narrow streets.
• The walk back (2 to 3 hours). Same path, different light, different views opening in the other direction.
• Return to your lodgings. Transfer time varies by departure city.

What’s included

• A private English-speaking guide for the full day
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in private transport
• A gastronomic experience
• All-risk insurance

Not included

• Breakfast and lunch
• Extra purchases

Good to know

• 11 kilometres on foot in total. Trekking shoes or sturdy walking shoes. Sandals and fashion sneakers will not do on this surface.
• The highlands are warm and exposed. Sunscreen, a hat, light breathable clothing and plenty of water. Your guide knows the refill points.
• Low to medium difficulty. The path is wide and well maintained, so it suits most fitness levels. If you have joint concerns or limited mobility, tell us before booking and we will give you a straight answer.
• Transfer time is inside the 6 to 9 hours. How much walking and exploring you get depends on your departure city in Santander.
• Eat before you go. Breakfast and lunch are not included. Bring trail snacks; there is a drink to be had in Guane and food in Barichara either side.

Frequently asked questions

How hard is it?

Low to medium. It is 5.5 kilometres each way, mostly on a wide cobbled path. The distance is the challenge rather than the terrain.

How long is the walk itself?

Two to three hours each way at a relaxed pace. Add time in Guane and the transfers and you have the 6 to 9 hour range.

What is the Camino Real?

A 5.5-kilometre stone path connecting Barichara and Guane, built by the Guane people before Spanish colonisation and used as a trade route for centuries after. A national monument since 1977, restored in 1988.

What is there to do in Guane?

Not much, and that is the point. The colonial church, the viewpoints over the canyon, the old houses, and a cold drink before you turn around.

Can I walk one way and ride back?

This tour is built as the full return walk. If you would rather see both towns without the hike, take the Barichara and San Gil day tour instead.

How do we get to Barichara in the first place?

We drive it. Bogotá to San Gil and Barichara, Bucaramanga to Barichara from the nearest airport, or San Gil to Barichara if you are already in the area.

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