Things To Do
in Charalá
Charalá is a small colonial town in the Santander department of Colombia known for its well-preserved whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs, and mountain-ringed plaza. The town sits amid rolling hills and river valleys and serves as a quiet gateway to natural attractions in the Chicamocha region. Charalá preserves strong local traditions and artisanal crafts, and offers a relaxed, authentic Santander experience away from larger tourist centers.
Visitors come for the architecture, regional cuisine, nearby hikes, and a friendly small-town atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Plaza de Bolívar, soaking in the morning sun while sipping a traditional Colombian coffee. Wander through the cobblestone streets to admire the colonial architecture, stopping to take photographs of the vibrant facades. Visit the nearby Church of San Sebastián, where you can appreciate its beautiful altar and learn about its historical significance.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, trying regional specialties like arepas and bandeja paisa. After lunch, head to the Charalá Museum to delve into the town's rich history and its significance in the region. Spend the afternoon browsing local artisan shops for unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café to enjoy a slice of traditional Colombian cake and a hot chocolate. Engage in conversation with locals, who are often eager to share stories about Charalá's past and culture. End the day with a stroll through the illuminated plaza, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and occasional street performances.
After breakfast, prepare for a guided nature walk in the surrounding hills of Charalá, where lush landscapes await. Listen to the sounds of local wildlife as you explore trails lined with unique flora and fauna, guided by a knowledgeable local. Capture stunning views of the valley and the Andes mountains as you ascend.
Take a packed lunch with you to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint, surrounded by nature's beauty. Continue your hike along lesser-known paths, discovering hidden waterfalls and possibly spotting colorful birds unique to the region. As you walk, learn about the ecological importance of the area from your guide.
Return to Charalá as night falls, and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a local restaurant that specializes in hearty, farm-to-table meals, and indulge in the flavors of the region. After dinner, take an evening walk through the town, where the cool air and starry skies create a peaceful atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or juice | $1-2 |
| 🛌Budget guesthouse / hostel night | $10-25 |
| 🚕Local taxi short ride | $1-4 |
| 🚌Bus to nearby town (one-way) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic small-town colonial charm with well-preserved architecture
- Close access to natural scenery and opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities
- Friendly local community and traditional food
- Lower costs compared to larger tourist towns
- Limited nightlife and few modern tourist amenities
- Restricted availability of ATMs, card acceptance and specialized dietary options
- Rural roads and transport can be slow or affected by weather
- Language barrier if you don’t speak Spanish
- "Buen día / Buenas" - Good morning / Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Charalá
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic shots of whitewashed houses, wooden balconies, the central church and locals gathered in the square — best at golden hour for warm light.
Vistas overlooking the valley and river that frame Charalá against rolling hills; sunrise or sunset provides dramatic skies and long shadows.
Nearby river banks and small waterfalls offer intimate nature scenes — good for long-exposure water shots or portraits with a natural backdrop.
Capture colorful fruits, traditional snacks, vendors and daily life — candid street photography reflects local culture and gastronomy.
Food in Charalá
Charalá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, filling soup made with corn, potatoes, yucca, pork or beef and herbs — commonly served in local eateries and ideal for cooler mornings.
Must-Try!
A corn arepa, sometimes thicker and rustic in style, often accompanied by cheese, eggs or meat; easily found at breakfast stalls and small restaurants.
Slow-roasted goat or other grilled meats are regional favorites for celebrations and can be ordered at family restaurants or during local festivals.
A traditional Santander snack of toasted large ants; available in some markets and souvenir stalls in the department (try only from reputable vendors).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small market stalls around the main plaza and side streets sell fresh fruit, juices, arepas, empanadas and traditional snacks — best for sampling quick bites and meeting locals.
Simple fried food stalls (fritangas) near bus stops and main roads serve empanadas, chorizo, and cassava snacks; good for a fast, inexpensive meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shopkeepers and neighbors with a friendly 'Buen día' or 'Buenas' when entering small businesses; Colombians value courtesy and personal interaction.
Casual, neat dress is typical; avoid overly revealing clothing in town and when visiting churches. Be respectful around religious sites and during local ceremonies.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially at markets or private homes; many locals will be happy to pose if asked politely.
Safety
Tipping in Charalá
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5–10% tip in restaurants is appreciated. For taxi rides, round up or add small change; tip guides and drivers for full-day excursions.
Cash (Colombian peso) is king in Charalá — many small businesses do not accept cards. There are limited ATMs in town, so withdraw cash in larger towns like San Gil or Bucaramanga before arriving. Credit/debit cards may work at a few restaurants or hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Drier, sunnier weather with more reliable conditions for hiking, photography and outdoor exploration. Daytime is warm; bring sun protection and light layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
More frequent showers and occasionally heavy rain; trails can get muddy and some rural roads may be affected. Carry a waterproof layer, good footwear, and plan flexibility into outdoor activities.
Charalá at Night
Hiking in Charalá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes from town to nearby miradores (viewpoints) that offer sweeping views of the Charalá valley and surrounding ridgelines — suitable for most fitness levels.
Driveable trails and viewpoints associated with the greater Chicamocha area provide longer hikes and dramatic landscapes; some sections are best accessed from nearby towns like San Gil or Barichara.
Guided or self-guided walks through small farms and coffee plots around Charalá give insight into local agriculture and gentle terrain for exploration.
Airports
How to reach Charalá by plane.
The main regional airport serving Bucaramanga (Palonegro). From Bucaramanga it’s a drive of roughly 1.5–3 hours depending on traffic and route; buses and private transfers connect to towns in Santander.
There are smaller airstrips and charter options in the region for private flights or specialized tours; availability is limited and usually arranged ahead of time.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of the population identifies as mestizo with a mix of European and indigenous ancestry; many families have roots in the region going back generations.
A significant portion of residents work in agriculture, small-scale farming, and traditional crafts, contributing to local cuisine and handicrafts.
The area reflects historical indigenous (Guane) heritage in local traditions and place names; cultural influences are present in some customs and craft techniques.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport — local pick-up games and community matches are common and an important part of social life.
Cycling on rural roads and trails is popular among locals and visitors who enjoy exploring the hilly countryside.
Traditional Colombian games such as tejo may be played at social gatherings and local festivals in the wider region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Charalá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited; focus on vegetable soups, arepas with cheese or eggs, and fruit-based dishes. Ask for dishes without meat or request simple preparations at family restaurants.
Vegan choices are limited in small towns—bring snacks or ask restaurants to prepare rice, beans and salads without dairy or animal broths. Larger towns en route will have more options.
Local cooks may not be familiar with strict allergy protocols; communicate allergies clearly and avoid deep-fried cross-contaminated foods if severe. Pack medication if needed.