A few minutes from Barranquilla There are destinations that surprise travelers with their authenticitycolorful and local charm. Beyond the bustle of the Atlantic capital, there are towns that keep alive the traditions that shaped the coastal identity, recognized for its music, gastronomy and hospitality. But where is the most beautiful one located?
Among all of them, there is one that stands out because it constitutes a perfect mix between beauty, tradition and popular art and that has become an unmissable stop for those seeking authentic experiences beyond the traditional urban circuit.
Just 30 minutes from the Malecón del Río, in Barranquilla, Galapa has established itself as one of the most charming and representative towns in the Atlantic.. Famous for its artisanal production, it stands out especially for the masks carved from ceiba tulúa wood, icons of the Barranquilla Carnival.
Its artisans, heirs of ancestral techniques passed down from generation to generation, paint their works with vibrant tones and shapes inspired by animals and mythical characters, capturing the essence of the Caribbean in each creation.
Galapa
Source: Galapa Mayor’s Office
According to the Municipal Mayor’s Office, Galapa is also one of the oldest towns in the department, since it already existed as an indigenous community before the arrival of the Spanish.
Surrounded by natural landscapes, the municipality offers attractions such as Cerro de la Bruja and Pozo Rubio, ideal for ecotourism. Also notable is the Galapa Archaeological Museum, which preserves a valuable collection of pre-Columbian pieces and allows you to delve into the history of the region’s original cultures.
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What can you eat in Galapa?
The gastronomy of Galapa reflects the essence of the Colombian Caribbean: it is tasty, colorful and deeply linked to popular traditions. Fresh and native ingredients predominate in their kitchens, such as corn, coconut, banana and Creole meats.
The chicken sancocho, the botifarras, the pelao corn arepas and the lisa rice are some of the most representative dishes.always accompanied by whey and homemade chili, which enhance the local flavors.
During festivities and fairs, food becomes a real meeting point. Traditional sweets, such as enyucado, corncob buns and cocadas, are prepared by hand and evoke the recipes of yesteryear.
Eating in Galapa is not only about enjoying its cuisine, but also sharing a cultural experience that celebrates the coastal identity and the warmth of its people.
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From Bogotá and Medellín: How to get to Galapa?
From the Colombian capital, The most practical way to get to Galapa is by flying to Barranquilla (1 h 40 min). From Ernesto Cortissoz Airport, it takes about 25 minutes by car. There are also intermunicipal buses that connect directly with the municipality. By road, it is 980 km and about 17 hours of travel along the Ruta del Sol and Vía al Mar.
On the other hand, if you travel from Medellín, The fastest route is by flight to Barranquilla (1 h 10 min) and then a short land transfer. By road, the route is 720 km and takes between 13 and 15 hours, passing through Caucasia, Planeta Rica and Sincelejo before reaching Galapa.
