Things To Do
in Girón
Girón is a charming colonial town just outside Bucaramanga, characterized by its well-preserved historic center and cobblestone streets. The pastel-colored houses, whitewashed churches, and leafy plazas create a relaxed, photogenic atmosphere ideal for wandering on foot. The town is known for its artisans and local cuisine, offering a taste of Santander's traditional flavors.
Surrounded by green hills, Girón serves as a gateway to rural Santander and easy day trips from the city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Girón's historic center, where colonial architecture and vibrant colors paint a picturesque scene. Visit the iconic Church of San Juan Bautista, admiring its stunning façade and tranquil atmosphere. Take a moment to enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local cafe, sampling arepas and fresh coffee.
Continue your exploration by visiting the local market, where you can find a variety of handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with local vendors and learn about the traditional crafts that Girón is known for, such as pottery and weaving. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring regional dishes like bandeja paisa, while soaking in the lively ambiance.
As the sun sets, wander through the charming streets, illuminated by warm lights and bustling with evening activity. Stop by a local bar for a refreshing drink, perhaps trying a cocktail made with local fruits. Conclude your day with a leisurely dinner at a restaurant featuring traditional Colombian cuisine, where you can reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your day with an invigorating hike to the nearby Juan Curí Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. The trek takes you through diverse plant life and offers glimpses of local wildlife, making it an exciting outdoor experience. Upon reaching the waterfall, take a moment to bask in the beauty and tranquility of the cascading water.
After enjoying a picnic lunch near the waterfall, take the opportunity to swim in the refreshing natural pool at its base. Explore the surrounding trails, where you can discover more hidden gems of nature and capture stunning photographs of the scenery. As you hike back, take in the panoramic views of the valleys and mountains that encircle Girón.
Return to Girón in the early evening, where you can unwind at your accommodation or visit a local café for a snack. As the night falls, consider joining a guided night walk to experience the local flora and fauna under the moonlight. Wrap up your day with a cozy dinner at a family-run eatery, enjoying local delicacies and good company.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $20-60 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming colonial town with walkable historic center
- Good base for day trips in Santander and near Bucaramanga
- Limited nightlife inside town
- Some services may be basic outside the main plaza
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Sí/No" - Yes/No
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Girón
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of the town with cobblestones, pastel houses, and the church as a backdrop for photos.
A picturesque street of traditional architecture ideal for street photography at golden hour.
A historic church with white walls and a simple façade perfect for architectural shots.
A hillside viewpoint offering panoramas of the town and surrounding valleys.
Food in Girón
Girón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick corn cake typically enjoyed with cheese or hogao, a staple in the region.
Must-Try!
A hearty corn-based soup with pork and cassava, a common lunch dish.
Roast goat served with plantains or rice, a traditional Santander specialty.
A traditional ant snack often enjoyed at festivals in Santander (try a small sample if curious).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, and prepared street snacks.
Arepas, empanadas, and fresh tropical juices cooked to order.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite hello and handshake; use usted for strangers and elders.
Modest, neat clothing, especially when visiting churches or formal venues.
Time is flexible socially; plan for a relaxed pace but be on time for official appointments.
Safety
Tipping in Girón
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping of 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up for taxi rides is common.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels and larger eateries; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, warm days and cooler evenings; ideal for walking tours and outdoor photography.
Afternoon showers are common; carry a light rain jacket and plan indoor activities as a backup.
Girón at Night
Hiking in Girón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle trails along the river with scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching.
Short hikes to viewpoints offering panoramas of Girón and the surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach Girón by plane.
The main airport serving Bucaramanga and the surrounding region; about 30-60 minutes by road from Girón.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Spanish-speaking Colombians, mostly mestizo; a mix of families, artisans, and retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local games and community fields.
Road biking is popular in the Santander region, with scenic routes nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Girón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include fresh fruit, grilled vegetables, plant-based stews, and salads; communicate clearly with cooks.