Pearls of Life: San Gil, Santander Department of Colombia
Carmit enjoying the bridge and river of San Gil, Santander Department of Colombia.
Traveling to the area of Bucaramanga from Medellin, Colombia was a journey by bus for approximately 8 hours. From there in Bucaramanga, we traveled on a small mini bus to San Gil. It was our idea to spend the next 5 nights in San Gil and to enjoy all the adventures that this area has to offer.
Iguanas chilling in San Gil trees next to the river.
San Gil is a town in the Department of Santander in Northern Colombia. Immediately we felt the uniqueness of that town as soon as we arrived to San Gil.
In San Gil, you can explore the city and the surrounding little towns that are unique in their nature. During our time in San Gil, we did day trips to the surrounding little towns for various activities. The surrounding area is known as an area for adventure, trekking, parachutes and a huge park of Iguanas on the bridges of the town. Hiking on trails in the surrounding areas is possible whether in a group or individually. Using the local buses is not only a cheap solution for sightseeing but also a safe and adventure solution for sightseeing the little towns in the area. From the city center, there are buses going out to the different local areas and more remote communities.
Noy and Carmit on the small bus to explore the surrounding towns of San Gil, Colombia.
Natural waterfalls and pools in the surrounding area of San Gil, Colombia.
Near the river bank of San Gil, the big Iguanas lay on the trees, which are a unique symbol of San Gil. It is quite a scene to see so many Iguanas concentrated in one area. Also, in San Gil, you can see diversity of people and cultures. Obviously, as in local Colombian tradition, in the city square, there are meetings of groups, men and women, in the evening eating street food, drinking coffee and selling candies.
Natural pools in the surrounding area of San Gil, Colombia.
As a typical Colombia town, the city center is where the church and square garden are. Surrounding are other businesses. I enjoyed the food in the local restaurants as a daily experience and the locals are welcoming tourists. During the day, we walked to the local food market in San Gil where we bought fresh fruits and vegetables. It was an unique authentic experience that was a fascinating one to explore.
Carmit picking out local tomatoes from the local fruit and vegetable market in San Gil, Colombia.
I enjoy San Gil. It is a beautiful and colorful town, with true authenticity of Colombia and a very good atmosphere.
Carmit hiking through the surrounding area of San Gil, Colombia.
