+573123299725
contact@thingstodoinsangil.com
Carved over millions of years by the Chicamocha River, the Chicamocha Canyon is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in South America. Stretching 227 kilometers long and reaching depths of 2,000 meters, it ranks among the largest canyons on the planet.
Located between San Gil and Bucaramanga in the Santander region, the canyon offers jaw-dropping viewpoints, a national park, one of the longest cable car rides in the world, and some of the best paragliding conditions anywhere in Colombia.
Whether you visit on a day trip from San Gil or stop along the road to Bucaramanga, this guide covers everything you need to know about the Chicamocha Canyon.
The famous cable car is the star attraction of the Chicamocha Canyon. Spanning 6.3 kilometers, it is one of the longest cable car systems in the world.
The ride descends from the national park down to the canyon floor, crosses the Chicamocha River, and climbs the opposite wall. The 30-minute journey delivers breathtaking views at every moment.
Paragliding here is a bucket-list experience. Thermal winds rise from the canyon walls year-round, making it one of the most reliable flying spots in South America.
Tandem flights last from 20 to 45 minutes and require no experience — certified pilots handle everything while you soak in views of the 2,000-meter-deep gorge below.
Perched on the canyon rim, this adventure park is the main gateway to the Chicamocha Canyon. Beyond the viewpoints, it features ziplines, a giant swing over the void, an ostrich farm, and the Monument to Santandereanidad.
The park’s terraces offer some of the best panoramic photo spots in the region. Plan at least half a day to enjoy it fully.
The road between San Gil and Bucaramanga winds along the canyon edge, passing several free miradores. The views near the town of Aratoca are particularly stunning.
If you are driving or taking a bus, sit on the left side heading north for the best window views of the Chicamocha Canyon.
For adrenaline seekers, sections of the river at the bottom of the canyon offer challenging white water rafting. Multi-hour descents combine wild rapids with scenery you cannot see from anywhere else.
From San Gil: The national park entrance is about one hour away by road. Buses toward Bucaramanga pass the entrance — ask the driver to drop you at Panachi. A round-trip taxi with waiting time costs around COP 150,000–200,000.
From Bucaramanga: The park is roughly 90 minutes away. Any bus heading to San Gil stops on request at the entrance.
On a tour: Many operators in San Gil combine the canyon with paragliding or the cable car in a single day trip — the easiest option without a car.
The canyon is spectacular year-round thanks to Santander’s dry, warm climate. December to March and July to August offer the clearest skies for photography and paragliding.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid haze and afternoon clouds. Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, when Colombian families flock to the park.
The canyon stretches about 227 kilometers in length and reaches depths of 2,000 meters, covering an area of 108,000 hectares. By some measurements, it ranks among the largest canyons in the world.
Absolutely. Between the cable car, the paragliding, the national park, and the sheer scale of the landscape, it is one of the most memorable natural attractions in Colombia.
Park entrance with the cable car ride costs around COP 60,000–80,000 depending on the package. Check the official Panachi website for current prices, as they change seasonally.
Yes. The park is only one hour from San Gil, making it an easy day trip. Combine it with paragliding for the ultimate canyon experience, or stop on your way to Bucaramanga.