Bucaramanga

About

Though it dates back to 1622, Bucaramanga remained a relatively small settlement until the 19th century when it began attracting German merchants and adventurers. Today, it’s one of Colombia’s largest cities, and the most successful - with the highest per capita GDP in the country. With over 160 parks, Bucaramanga is aptly nicknamed "The City of Parks" and "Colombia's Beautiful City". For visitors, this makes it a great city where you can relax and recharge, particularly by strolling its green spaces. The most important park in the city is arguably Parque Santander, which is surrounded by economic or historically significant buildings like the elegant Sagrada Familia Cathedral. The best park in the city, however, is the 19 acre Eloy Valenzuela Botanical Gardens, where you can see 3,500 species of native flora while walking its well-maintained trails.