Zapatoca: The Hidden Jewel of Santander
Discover Zapatoca, a captivating Colombian town known for its colonial charm, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture.
Zapatoca, a picturesque town nestled in the Santander region, is a treasure trove for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Zapatoca offers an array of attractions that cater to every type of tourist. From its charming colonial architecture to the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, this town is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals while indulging in authentic Colombian cuisine, making Zapatoca a must-visit destination for a memorable getaway.
A brief summary to Zapatoca
- Cra. 12 #1521, Zapatoca, Santander, 684069, CO
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months from June to September for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Don't miss the local artisan markets to find unique handmade crafts.
- Try the local dish 'Bandeja Paisa' for an authentic taste of the region.
- Take a guided tour to learn about Zapatoca's rich history and cultural significance.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the charming cobblestone streets.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Bucaramanga, the capital of Santander department. Take the highway from Bucaramanga heading east (Autopista Bucaramanga - Cúcuta) and continue on the road signs toward Zapatoca. The journey is approximately 95 kilometers and takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Upon reaching Zapatoca, navigate to Cra. 12 #1521, the main area of interest. Ensure to check your fuel before departure, as there may be limited service stations on the way.
-
Public Transportation (Bus)
To reach Zapatoca via public transport, head to the 'Terminal de Transportes de Bucaramanga'. Look for buses heading to Zapatoca; they are quite frequent throughout the day. The bus ride will take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The fare usually ranges from 10,000 to 20,000 COP (Colombian Pesos), so make sure to have some cash on hand. Once you arrive in Zapatoca, you can walk to Cra. 12 #1521 or take a local taxi for a small fee.
-
Taxi from Bucaramanga
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a taxi from Bucaramanga to Zapatoca. This option is faster but more expensive, typically costing between 150,000 to 200,000 COP. The journey will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Ensure to negotiate the fare beforehand or request a taxi service that uses a metered system to avoid any misunderstandings.
-
Motorbike Rental
For the more adventurous traveler, consider renting a motorbike in Bucaramanga. Numerous rental agencies provide bikes for around 70,000 to 100,000 COP per day. Follow the same route as by car, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Be sure to wear a helmet and have a valid motorcycle license. Upon reaching Zapatoca, park your bike near Cra. 12 #1521.
Discover more about Zapatoca
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Barichara Viewpoint
20.5 km
Discover the stunning Barichara Viewpoint, where breathtaking landscapes and the charm of Barichara come together for an unforgettable experience in Santander, Colombia.
Refugio La Roca
20.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Santander region at Refugio La Roca, a charming hostel perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
San Gil Tours
32.7 km
Discover thrilling adventures and breathtaking landscapes with San Gil Tours in the adventure capital of Colombia, Santander.
Pozo Azul Balneario
33.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational fun at Pozo Azul Balneario in San Gil, Santander - a perfect family-friendly destination.
Parque Santander
37.9 km
Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant culture at Parque Santander, a serene retreat in the heart of Bucaramanga, perfect for relaxation and leisure.
Cerro de Los Andes
44.1 km
Explore the majestic Cerro de Los Andes in Santander, Colombia, where breathtaking views and vibrant nature await every adventurer.
Caño Cristal
81.7 km
Discover Caño Cristales, the stunning 'River of Five Colors' in Colombia, where nature paints a breathtaking canvas of vibrant hues amidst lush landscapes.
Cordillera Oriental
95.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Cordillera Oriental in Santander, Colombia, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cueva el Chocó - Gámbita, Santander
99.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and captivating formations of Cueva el Chocó in Gambita, Santander – a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Campo Santo
0.5 km
Explore the tranquil Campo Santo in Zapatoca, Santander, where natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage in a serene setting.
Parque Principal de Zapatoca
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Parque Principal de Zapatoca, a serene park surrounded by colorful flora and rich history, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.
Cueva Del Nitro
1.3 km
Explore the stunning underground beauty of Cueva Del Nitro in Zapatoca, Santander, a must-see natural wonder for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Mirador Guane
3.6 km
Explore the breathtaking views at Mirador Guane, a scenic viewpoint in Zapatoca, Santander, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cascada de Aguas Rojas
12.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascada de Aguas Rojas in Betulia, Santander – a hidden gem of nature's splendor.
Parque Principal
15.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Parque Principal in Guane, a charming park that offers relaxation and a glimpse into local culture in Santander, Colombia.
San Vicente de chucurí
17.1 km
Explore San Vicente de Chucurí, a historical landmark in Santander, Colombia, where rich heritage meets breathtaking nature.
Parque Para Las Artes Jorge Delgado Sierra
20.0 km
Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Barichara at Parque Para Las Artes Jorge Delgado Sierra, where art and nature beautifully intertwine.
Santa Barbara Chapel
20.1 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Santa Barbara Chapel in Barichara, a cultural gem in Santander, Colombia, perfect for reflection and admiration.
Camino Real Barichara - Guane
20.1 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Camino Real Barichara - Guane, a must-visit hiking destination in Colombia's picturesque Santander region.
Alto del Mico Barichara Santander
20.3 km
Explore Alto del Mico in Barichara, a serene tourist attraction blending stunning landscapes and rich Colombian culture for an unforgettable experience.
La Cueva de los Aviones
20.4 km
Explore La Cueva de los Aviones, a stunning natural cave in Santander, Colombia, known for its breathtaking formations and rich biodiversity.
Barichara
20.5 km
Discover Barichara, a charming colonial town in Santander, Colombia, renowned for its cobblestone streets, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Barichara Main Park
20.5 km
Discover tranquility in Barichara Main Park, a lush oasis blending nature, culture, and community in the heart of Santander, Colombia.
Barichara Paper Workshop
20.6 km
Explore the Barichara Paper Workshop in Santander, Colombia - a unique cultural experience in artisanal paper-making and craftsmanship.
Essential places to dine
Tavolo Gourmet - Restaurante en Bucaramanga
34.2 km
Discover Tavolo Gourmet in Bucaramanga - where exquisite meals meet indulgent desserts in a vibrant atmosphere.
Pomiana
34.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pomiana in Floridablanca; where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Amazónica
37.7 km
Discover Amazónica in Bucaramanga: A culinary haven offering authentic Colombian flavors in an inviting atmosphere.
Restaurante La Carreta
38.1 km
Experience authentic Colombian cuisine at Restaurante La Carreta - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence in Bucaramanga.
Restaurante Taikinsa Bucaramanga
38.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Colombian cuisine at Restaurante Taikinsa in Bucaramanga - a must-visit culinary destination.
Restaurante City View Bucaramanga
38.2 km
Experience exquisite Colombian cuisine with stunning views at Restaurante City View Bucaramanga.
Santander
38.5 km
Experience authentic Colombian cuisine at Santander in Bucaramanga - where every dish celebrates the flavors of Colombia.
Restaurante Típico Santandereano
38.5 km
Experience authentic Santander cuisine at Restaurante Típico Santandereano in Bucaramanga - where tradition meets taste.
Cure Cuisine
38.7 km
Discover authentic Lebanese flavors at Cure Cuisine in Bucaramanga, where each dish tells a story from the heart of Lebanon.
El Mezon Santander Express
81.2 km
Discover culinary excellence and comfort at El Mezon Santander Express—your gateway to delicious dining and serene escapes in beautiful Santander.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Delacuesta Shopping Centre
31.9 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Delacuesta Shopping Centre, where style meets comfort in Piedecuesta, Santander.
Casa de Mercado San Gil
32.6 km
Discover the heart of San Gil at Casa de Mercado San Gil, a vibrant market offering local food, crafts, and a glimpse of Colombian culture.
Centro Comercial El Puente
32.9 km
Explore the dynamic shopping scene at Centro Comercial El Puente in San Gil, where retail therapy meets culinary delights and family fun.
Centro Comercial Parque Caracolí
34.2 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at Centro Comercial Parque Caracolí – a vibrant hub in Floridablanca, Colombia.
Cacique Shopping Center
36.7 km
Experience the vibrant shopping and culinary delights at Cacique Shopping Center, Bucaramanga's ultimate destination for retail therapy and local culture.
Shopping Tex Bucaramanga
37.7 km
Discover the vibrant style of Bucaramanga at Shopping Tex, where contemporary fashion meets local culture in a delightful shopping experience.
Giorgio Fegali
37.7 km
Explore the finest men's clothing at Giorgio Fegali in Bucaramanga, where style meets quality in a welcoming atmosphere.
Store Woman
37.8 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Store Woman, a chic clothing store nestled in the vibrant Centro district of Bucaramanga, Santander.
Centro Comercial Cabecera Cuarta Etapa
38.1 km
Explore the lively Centro Comercial Cabecera Cuarta Etapa in Bucaramanga, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
Authentic Colombian handicrafts
38.1 km
Explore Authentic Colombian Handicrafts in Bucaramanga - A treasure trove of unique artisanal items and vibrant culture.
La Miscelánea - Concept Store
38.1 km
Discover the elegance of haute couture fashion at La Miscelánea, a concept store that embodies the essence of Colombian artistry in Bucaramanga.
La Quinta Centro Comercial
38.2 km
Discover La Quinta Centro Comercial in Bucaramanga: Your ultimate shopping, dining, and entertainment destination in Santander.
Jumbo Cabecera
38.6 km
Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Jumbo Cabecera, Bucaramanga's premier hypermarket offering local and international products in a lively atmosphere.
Calzado Reyver
39.2 km
Discover fashionable footwear at Calzado Reyver, Bucaramanga's premier shoe store offering style, comfort, and exceptional service.
Megamall
39.5 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and entertainment destination at Megamall in Bucaramanga, where style meets convenience in a vibrant atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
SangriaGold
34.9 km
Discover SangriaGold in Bucaramanga: A cocktail bar where creativity meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
pasifae cafe bar
36.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bucaramanga at Pasifae Cafe Bar, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
COCKTAILS AND DREAMS rock
36.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cocktails and Dreams Rock, Bucaramanga’s top bar for creative cocktails and lively atmosphere.
Disco bar todo bien
37.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bucaramanga at Disco Bar Todo Bien, your ultimate destination for dancing and fun.
Gaia Bar Restaurant Karaoke
37.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bucaramanga at Gaia Bar Restaurant Karaoke, where food, drinks, and entertainment create unforgettable memories.
El minotauro bar
38.0 km
Discover Bucaramanga's vibrant nightlife at El Minotauro Bar, offering creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and unwinding.
Rock & Wine
38.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bucaramanga at Rock & Wine, an ideal bar for wine and craft beer enthusiasts.
La Esquinita
38.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bucaramanga at La Esquinita, a lively bar offering a diverse drink menu and a welcoming atmosphere.
BBC PUB BUCARAMANGA
38.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of BBC Pub Bucaramanga, where craft beers and delicious cuisine create an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Dulce Pecado
38.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Dulce Pecado, a bar in Bucaramanga serving exquisite cocktails and a taste of Colombian nightlife.
Boissons Pub.
38.1 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Boissons Pub in Bucaramanga, where great drinks and vibrant nightlife meet local charm.
Penelope
38.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Penelope, Bucaramanga's hottest disco club and bar, where music and fun blend seamlessly.
Municipal - Música Viva
38.2 km
Discover the heart of Bucaramanga's nightlife at Municipal - Música Viva, a vibrant live music bar celebrating local culture through unforgettable performances.
Baba Yaga. Arte, caldero y Tasca.
38.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife, delectable cuisine, and local art at Baba Yaga - Bucaramanga's premier bar and disco club.
Five Points Gastro Bar
38.3 km
Discover Bucaramanga's nightlife at Five Points Gastro Bar, where vibrant ambiance meets delectable cuisine and refreshing drinks.
