Santander is known for its mountainous landscapes, and getting to experience the region’s natural beauty up close was incredible. After finishing the hike around midday, we had the rest of the afternoon to explore more of Barichara.
One particularly interesting part of our visit was trying hormigas culonas, a traditional Colombian snack made from large-bottomed leafcutter ants. These ants are especially associated with the Santander region, where they have been eaten for generations. They are typically harvested seasonally, toasted and salted, and they are considered a traditional local delicacy. You can find them sold in markets and shops throughout the region, and Barichara was a great place to learn more about this unique part of Santander’s food culture. They aren't my favorite, but trying them is a must and was definitely a memorable experience!
Later that day, we met up with some Colombian friends from Bucaramanga who were also spending the weekend in Barichara. It was fun to explore the town with people from the region and spend time together over dinner and into the night. Experiences like these have shown me that traveling is not just about seeing beautiful places. It is also about connecting with people and learning about the culture of the place you are visiting.
The next day, we packed our things and began the long bus journey back home. Although our trip was relatively short, Barichara left a lasting impression on me. Between the beautiful architecture, mountain scenery, traditional food and time spent with friends, it was an incredible introduction to the region that is my home for the year.
Visiting Barichara also helped me appreciate how much cultural and natural diversity Colombia has to offer.
