Visit magical places in the coffee region like Salento and Pereira
The “Zona Cafetera” is a prosperous region in the middle of Colombia that focuses mainly on growing coffee. In this area you will find, among other things, coffee farms and beautiful mountain landscapes. In the coffee farms you can experience the essence of coffee culture: you can learn what happens to get the beautiful Colombian coffee bean with its incomparable taste. The most appreciated coffee bean in the world.
One of the most important destinations is Salento, historical heritage with colonial architecture in combination with colourful houses.
In the vicinity of Salento lies the Cocora Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys of Colombia. Here you can do a trekking that brings you close to the Nevado del Tolima. You can also practice various other mountain sports such as horseback riding, walking and climbing.
You can stay overnight on farms where you experience the culture of the coffee region.
Weather
Average temperature 18-22°C.
Recommended clothing
We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes. And bring a (rain) jacket because the weather can change quickly.
How to get there?
The coffee region can be reached by plane, car and bus. In the coffee region you can use a bus or taxi, or own (rental) car.
What does this place offer you?
• You will get a good impression of the Colombian countryside, with an emphasis on the process from the coffee plant to the coffee bean of the world-famous Colombian coffee.
• You enjoy the beautiful mountains and the green landscape.
• You stroll through the picturesque towns and villages in colonial style.
• You indulge in all kinds of adventure sports.
What to do?
• Visit Salento, a picturesque town of crafts and traditional architecture. The Cocora Valley is nearby and is a wonderful place for walking or horse riding in the landscape full of special tall wax palms.
• Go to Panaca, an agricultural theme park with all kinds of special Colombian farm animals. Also fun for children.
• Have fun in the Parque del Café amusement park with various attractions such as roller coasters and special shows.
• Enjoy the best coffee in the Recuca Park and learn all about the entire coffee production process. From planting the seed to drinking the delicious Colombian coffee.
• Immerse yourself in the natural hot springs and thermal baths of Santa Rosa de Cabal, where you will also find natural waterfalls – 24 km from the city of Pereira.
Typical local dishes
• Santarrosano Chorizo: a pork sausage made by hand in the town of Santa Rosa de Cabal, which can be eaten fried, roasted or boiled.
• Trout with plantain (patacón).
Tips
• Spend one or two nights in one of the traditional coffee farms.
• Make contact with the local residents, who are certainly open to this and are happy to tell you about their culture and traditions.
• Sign up for adventurous sports.
• Take your time to visit the coffee region: at least 4 days.
What else to see and do?
Cali, the third largest city in Colombia after Bogotá and Medellín, is about a 3-hour drive from Armenia in the coffee region. Cali is known as the world capital of salsa. So here are countless opportunities to learn this dance excellently.
