How to get to San Gil

When planning an itinerary through the picturesque Santander department, many travellers wonder how to get to San Gil — the acknowledged capital of adventure tourism in Colombia. This cosy town, surrounded by mountains and rushing rivers, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can travel to San Gil by choosing a convenient connecting flight to neighbouring transport hubs, followed by a transfer via intercity bus or a rented car.

As there is no operating civil airport for commercial flights within the town itself, the main transit hub is Bucaramanga. Palonegro Airport (BGA) receives regular flights from the country's major hubs, making it the most convenient entry point to the region.

Upon arrival, travellers will need to take a ground transfer. It is important to note that the journey to San Gil involves a winding mountain road, so the trip will take approximately 2.5–3 hours. The route passes through picturesque landscapes, turning the transfer into a small excursion through the nature of the Santander department.

Travelling by rail is not a suitable option for visiting this region, as there is no railway station in San Gil. Passenger train services in this part of Colombia are practically undeveloped, and rail transport here gives way to more flexible bus routes and rental cars.

Even reaching the nearest major cities, such as Bucaramanga or Barrancabermeja, by train is not possible due to the lack of regular passenger services. Tourists should exclude this mode of transport from their planning and focus on ground transfers via the roads that connect the town with the rest of the country.

The main transport hub for travelling to San Gil is Bucaramanga: buses depart regularly from here and cover the distance of 100 kilometres in approximately 3 hours. This route is considered one of the most beautiful in the country, as the road winds along the edge of the majestic Chicamocha Canyon, offering passengers breathtaking panoramas of the Andes.

You can also arrive from the city of Barrancabermeja, located to the west; the journey of about 170 kilometres will take approximately 4–5 hours. For those travelling from afar, there is a route from the city of Saravena, but be prepared for a long journey: covering 340 kilometres over difficult terrain can take more than 10 hours.

The most scenic and popular route for car travellers begins in Bucaramanga: a drive of about 100 kilometres usually takes 2.5–3 hours and passes through the breathtaking serpentines of the Chicamocha Canyon. If you are departing from the warmer climate of Barrancabermeja, be prepared to spend 4–5 hours on the road, covering a distance of 170 kilometres through changing climate zones and dense tropical vegetation.

For those ready for a long drive, the road from Saravena will be a true adventure: 340 kilometres of complex mountain paths can take more than 10 hours. Renting a car offers the freedom to stop at numerous viewpoints, while a taxi from the nearest major cities serves as a comfortable but more expensive alternative; strictly ensure you agree on the fare with the driver in advance, as meters are generally not used on intercity routes.

A trip to San Gil promises to be rich and vibrant, as this city is rightfully considered the capital of extreme tourism in the country. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible and free from unpleasant surprises, it is worth considering several important practical points specific to this region.

• Wardrobe selection. The city enjoys a warm climate, so your luggage should be based on light, modest clothing made from natural fabrics. However, given the hilly terrain and cobbled streets, comfortable, non-slip shoes are critical. If you plan on rafting or visiting waterfalls, be sure to pack quick-drying sportswear and water shoes.
• Financial nuances. The official currency is the Colombian Peso. Despite the development of tourism infrastructure, bank cards are not accepted everywhere. You will need cash for small cafes, souvenir shops, and taxi fares. Money can be withdrawn from ATMs located in shopping centres or near the central park.
• Safety in adventures. Since Colombia attracts adrenaline seekers, there are many agencies in San Gil offering paragliding, caving, and rafting. Purchase tours only from certified operators with a license and insurance. Do not hesitate to ask about the qualifications of instructors and the condition of equipment before paying.
• Health protection. The active sun in the mountains can be deceptive, so high SPF sunscreen and a head covering are mandatory even in cloudy weather. It is also recommended to use insect repellent, especially when visiting El Gallineral Park. It is best to drink exclusively bottled water.
• Transport around the city. The historic centre is compact, but due to steep slopes, walking can be tiring. The most convenient way to get around is by taxi. In the small yellow cars, meters are rarely used, so the cost of the trip should be agreed upon with the driver in advance, before getting into the car.
• Language matters. In tourist offices, staff often speak English, but Spanish remains the main language in daily life. Locals are very friendly and appreciate attempts to communicate in their native language, so knowing basic phrases or having an offline translator on your phone will significantly facilitate communication.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid everyday difficulties and fully focus on the beauty of the Chicamocha Canyon and the churning waters of the Fonce River. Respect for local traditions and reasonable caution will make your visit to Santander unforgettable.