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Nestled in the department of Santander in northeastern Colombia, Betulia is a charming town that combines stunning landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and a growing tourism scene for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking tranquility. Though still relatively unknown to international visitors, Betulia is a destination worth discovering—especially for its natural treasures, such as the Desert of Seven Colors, a geological wonder that captivates all who see it.
Betulia is located about 120 kilometers from Bucaramanga, the capital of the department. Surrounded by mountains, creeks, and rocky formations, the municipality offers a diverse range of landscapes–from lush, green zones to arid terrain that contrasts with the rest of the region. Its temperate climate, with an average temperature of 22°C (71°F), makes it a pleasant place to visit most of the year.
The Desert of Seven Colors in Betulia, Colombia
One of its main attractions is the Desert of Seven Colors, also known as “Colombia’s hidden desert.” Still largely undiscovered by mass tourism, this area is known for its undulating terrain and colorful sediment layers that paint the ground in shades of red, ochre, green, and violet. The contrast of colors, especially during sunrise or sunset, creates a breathtaking landscape perfect for photography and contemplation. The area also offers nature trails ideal for ecological walks and birdwatching.
@yosoytatan_ 🌵DESIERTO EN SANTANDER 🏜️ Desierto de 7 colores, una maravilla natural del municipio de Betulia – Santander Este es un espacio árido entre las montañas que llama mucho la atención, por su colorida arena que parece pintada de colores con diferentes tonos como naranja, ocre, rojo, marrón, amarillo y que además en su tierra se forma como una especie de dunas creando un paisaje bastante bonito . . . . . . #desierto #paisajes #desert #betulia #santander #viajes #travel #travelgram #desiertos#bucaramanga #colombia #vida #momentos #lugaresmagicos #maravilladelmundo #maravillasdelanaturaleza #puebliando #colores #pueblitoscolombianos #cucuta #reelsinstagram #turismo #turismorural #drone #dji ♬ sonido original – yosoytatan_
Other tourist attractions in Betulia
Beyond the desert, Betulia boasts several other attractions that captivate visitors. These include:
Los Caballeros Waterfall: A crystal-clear waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for cooling off and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Cerro La Teta: A natural viewpoint from which you can see the entire municipality and much of the surrounding Santander landscape.
San Miguel Arcangel Church: Located in the main town square, this architectural symbol is a key landmark and meeting point for locals.
@soyeldelasfotos 20.LLEGAMOS A BETULIA SANTANDER⛰️❤️💭
Cultural Traditions: Travelers can also enjoy the hospitality of Betulia’s residents, the town’s patron saint festivals in September, and typical Santander cuisine, including arepas de maiz pelao, cabro (goat meat), and mute (a traditional soup).
@heredero_restaurante ¡MUTE SANTANDEREANO DEL BUENO! Hecho con puro sabor casero, como el que se sirve en casa de la abuela👵 Escucha lo que dicen los que ya lo probaron… ¡Nuestros clientes lo aprueban y lo recomiendan con los ojos cerrados!🙈 Ven a Heredero y déjate enamorar por este clásico santandereano🥣 #MuteSantandereano #Heredero #SaborDeVerdad #ComidaTípica ♬ sonido original – El heredero| Restaurante
How to get to Betulia?
To reach Betulia from Bogota, you can fly to Bucaramanga (a one-hour flight), and then travel by road. The drive from Bucaramanga takes between 3 and 4 hours, depending on road conditions—some parts are unpaved but passable by car or motorcycle. It’s also possible to arrive from nearby towns such as Barrancabermeja or San Vicente de Chucurí, which have good road connections.
The best time to visit Betulia is during the dry season, from December to March and from July to August, when there is less rainfall and the roads are in better condition. These months also offer the best views of the Desert of Seven Colors, as the sun intensifies the vibrancy of the landscape.
A destination with great potential
Although it is not yet a fully developed tourist destination, Betulia has enormous potential thanks to its natural wealth, unique scenery, and authentic atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers seeking different experiences, far from conventional tourism, and looking to connect with a colorful, rural, and surprising side of Colombia. If you’re planning a trip through Colombia and want to step off the beaten path, be sure to include Betulia in your itinerary—this hidden gem is ready to welcome you with open arms.