Los Santos: Climbing, Canyon Views and Guane Culture

Los Santos brings together the Mesa de los Santos plateau and its sweeping views with active pursuits and cultural discoveries. In the municipality, you’ll find designated climbing routes, a historic trail overlooking the Chicamocha Canyon, and a range of regional handicrafts. The remains of Guane culture also give the destination a distinctive historical dimension. When planning your holiday, consider which of these aspects you’d most like to experience.

Canyon Views, Climbing and Trails

The Mesa de los Santos plateau has numerous viewpoints offering panoramic views of some of the country’s most spectacular mountains. If you enjoy exploring the landscape actively, the municipality is home to Parque de Escalada La Mojarra, with more than 70 designated climbing routes. The climbing area is very close to the town center of Los Santos. If you’re planning a visit, check current access arrangements in advance.

The Teleférico del Parque Nacional del Chicamocha offers a different perspective on the canyon: the cable car crosses a canyon along a 6.3-kilometer route and is considered unique in the world. The ride offers panoramic views; its station is called Estación Teleférico Mesa de Los Santos. If you’re planning a ride, check in advance whether the cable car is operating.

The Camino Real Los Santos–Jordán offers a different focus. This winding trail is 5.5 kilometers long and connects the municipality of Los Santos with the municipal seat of Jordán. Six kiosks along the route invite you to take a break and enjoy views of the Chicamocha Canyon and the Río Chicamocha. Unlike the cable car, the Camino Real connects two places via a trail. Tandem paragliding flights are also organized on the eastern side of the canyon. In favorable conditions, a flight usually lasts about 20 minutes.

Handicrafts and History

Numerous remains of Guane culture have been found in the municipality of Los Santos: tools, ceramics, bowls, vessels with composite silhouettes, containers, and rock paintings. The range extends from crafted objects to images on rock, offering various ways to explore the history of the region.

The Mercado Campesino in the rural Mesa de los Santos area offers a wide selection of handicrafts from Los Santos and the entire Chicamocha Canyon. The market complements the historical themes with an opportunity to discover regional craftsmanship. Check opening days and hours separately before your visit.

A recurring date in community life is August 5: this day is an annual civic holiday in the municipality of Los Santos. Several activities are led by the priest of the consecrated church. If you’re planning your trip for this period, check in advance which activities are scheduled for that year.

Acuarela, on the Mesa de los Santos, is also part of the municipality’s recreation area. It includes a yacht club, a hotel, and private villas; residents of Bucaramanga use the area for recreation. Thus, along with views, activities, and culture, recreation areas are also part of the region’s character.

Getting There and Choosing Your Holiday Rental

You can reach the municipality of Los Santos by private vehicle, taxi, or the Flota Cáchira and La Culona intercity bus lines. If you’re traveling by bus, it’s a good idea to check current departure times with the operators before setting off.

If you’re looking for a holiday rental in Los Santos, first consider which activities matter most for your trip. La Mojarra’s proximity to the town center may be a useful point of reference if you’re planning to climb. The Camino Real, viewpoints, handicrafts, and Guane finds offer other areas of focus. For a family trip, you can weigh these interests and plan according to whether you want to prioritize activities, culture, or scenery.

Discover more destinations: Guadalupe, Páramo, Puerto Wilches, Floridablanca, Sabana de Torres, San José de Suaita, Charalá, Valle San José.

For the main travel overview: Santander.