Salento Colombia: The Complete Traveler's Guide to Salento & The Cocora Valley, 2024

In a nation blessed with stunning Caribbean shorelines, majestic Andean summits, and a vast expanse of Amazon rainforest, there's no lack of beautiful destinations in Colombia. Yet, the charming tiny town of Salento and the surrounding enchanting mountains of the Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora), paint an idyllic picture of paradise that is distinctively Colombian.

From the home of the largest palm trees in the world, to the colorful streets of downtown, surrounding coffee farms and laid back lifestyle, the colonial town of Salento Colombia tops the list as not only one of the most unique places nationally but in all of South America.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Salento Quindio and the stunning nature of the Cocora Valley.

What You Will Find in This Salento Colombia Travel Guide:

• What to Do in Salento
• A Brief History of Salento Colombia
• Where is Salento Quindio, Colombia located
• What is the Weather Like in Salento
• What is the Best Time to Visit Salento
• How to get to Salento
• Getting Around Salento
• Where to Stay in Salento
• Best Places to Eat and Drink
• Places to Work Remotely
• How long should You Visit
• What to Pack
• Is Salento safe?
• A Map of Salento, Colombia
• Other Resources for Your Trip to Colombia

What to Do in Salento

Salento is a true haven for nature and outdoors enthusiasts and is full of activities that cater to a variety of different types of travelers.  From the adventurous to the more laid back, there's plenty to do regardless of your activity level. Here are some of our  top recommendations:

1. Hike the Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora)

Salento draws numerous visitors each year, primarily for one compelling reason: to journey towards the Cocora Valley. Here, you can marvel at the renowned Quindío wax palm - the tallest palm tree in the world, and the national tree of Colombia. It's a landscape unlike any other around the globe. With these gigantic wax palm trees reaching up to 200 feet tall and dotting the valley by the thousand, they create a truly surreal scene.

A visit to this location is non-negotiable. Whether you opt for a leisurely stroll through the valley or choose to embark on a more challenging trek up the hilly terrain, this will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your entire trip to Colombia

We highly recommend dedicating 1-full day and taking the main hiking loop (which takes approximately 6-8 hours) and offers breathtaking views at every turn. The loop takes you through the heart of Valle de Cocora through the towering trees, up and down mountains, through verdant rainforests, alongside a roaring river and across a number of wooden bridges. This is an adventure to be savored, so take your time!  

On your journey, you'll encounter a vibrant array of bird species, insects, and tons of beautiful plants. You will likely encounter Andean Condors, the world's largest flying birds, and hummingbirds (locally known as colibri) at the Acaime Natural Reserve. As part of the larger Los Nevados National Natural Park, the valley boasts scenery that remains relatively untouched and pristine.

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Getting Here

Simply catch one of the Willys (those vibrant, WWII-era jeeps) in the main square of Salento

Pro tip: Seek out a jeep with an open top, allowing you to stand and fully appreciate the breathtaking views along the ~30min journey!

Cost

5,000 COP per person to enter the valley + 6000 COP per person to enter the private land boundary = (11,000 COP) for the whole loop. 

8,000 COP per person for the round-trip ride to Valle de Cocora  in one of the local Willy’s (total price is included in your ticket purchase from the small white ticket booth in the main square in Salento).

What to Bring

• Sturdy shoes - as the trail can get very muddy, especially during the rainy season.
• Snacks and plenty of water - there are not many places to buy food during the trek. While you can purchase food at the hummingbird sanctuary (if it's open) the only real meal option is at the restaurants along the main road at the entrance/exit of the hike.
• Extras -  A rain jacket or poncho, a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray will likely come in handy , as well as a camera to capture the stunning views.

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Pro Tips:
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Go as early as possible - Willys start leaving the square in Salento around 7 AM.  Not only is it less crowded, but you are also more likely to avoid the fog and storms that often roll in during the afternoon.

Don't miss your ride back - The last Willy leaves Valle de Cocora between 6 PM and 6:30 PM

Go counter clockwise -  You can go either way on the loop, however going counterclockwise allows you to enter the towering palm trees on your way down, creating a cinematic climax for the end of your hike.

Want to see even more wax palms? We recommend checking out Carbonera: It is on the other side of the Cocora valley, and has even more wax palms with fewer tourists. An awesome way to explore is by taking a bike tour  

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2. Explore a Coffee Farm & Take a Coffee Tour

No trip to Salento is complete without diving deep into the aroma of Colombian coffee. After hiking in the iconic Valle de Cocora, a visit to a coffee farm is a must-do activity in Salento.  Situated in the heart of Colombia's coffee region (Eje Cafetero), Salento may be one of the best places to visit a coffee farm not only in Colombia, but the entire planet. The town is surrounded by countless coffee plantations, many of which offer tours to learn about the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans. You can even try your hand at picking some beans yourself, learning the entire coffee production process, from planting the seed to the final roasting.

The highlight is the tasting session, where you not only sample various coffees but also learn to identify the different tastes and aromas that define a good coffee roast.  Even if you're not a big coffee drinker, hopping on a coffee tour is a great way to learn about the production process as well as spend time on a charming finca as well as  gain access to some beautiful landscapes.  All in all, it's one of the highlights of an awesome Salento experience.

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Below are some of our favorite coffee tour picks:

El Ocaso  - While there are many 1-2 hour  tours available at various coffee farms in the coffee region, we highly recommend the 3-hour tour for true coffee enthusiasts.

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Coffee Luger - Knowledgeable guides and a small group setting make this a great spot to check out 

Finca Acacias - Offers an intimate and authentic coffee tour experience, highlighting the family's dedication to coffee cultivation

Buenos Aires - Participate in the planting of coffee seeds in a beautiful setting 

Finca de Don Elias - A charming, family-run coffee farm in Salento, Colombia, known for its intimate tours often led by Don Elias or his son, providing visitors with a personal insight into traditional coffee production methods

Finca La Azarcia - learn about the production process, from harvesting to roasting with an emphasis on sustainable farming practices and the opportunity to taste organic coffee

Finca Don Eduardo -  knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to sample high-quality coffee, all set against the backdrop of stunning natural scenery, making it a worthwhile 

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Pro tip: In the main square you can easily catch a Jeep (Willys) to various coffee farms. At the ticket booth, simply specify your desired destination, and you'll receive a ticket  and a bracelet indicating your chosen farm. The ticket also includes return pickup once you are finished.

If coffee is your thing, you can even embark on the Coffee Route (Rute Cafecito), an easy to follow route through many coffee fincas in the surrounding region of Salento

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3. Wander Through the Town Center

Discover the tiny town charm of Salento by strolling through Salento’s colorful streets, lined with colonial-style colorful buildings and vibrant murals. The town square, Plaza de Bolívar, is bustling with activity and a great place to soak in the local culture. Don’t miss the artisan shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Calle Real (Carrera 6): This vibrant street is where you’ll find an array of artisan shops, cafes, restaurants, and small markets. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs or simply want to appreciate the region’s crafts, allocate an hour or so to wander down the colorful street of Calle Real, coffee in hand.

Street food: Don’t miss out on local vendors selling pastries and empanadas.

Side Streets: Explore the side streets off Calle Real for hidden gems including less touristy restaurants and cafes as well as better deals on local artisan goods.

Arts & crafts: Salento is a town full of local artisans and a great place to pick up souvenirs for yourself (or gifts for others). Popular items include: beautiful multi-colored woven bags in various sizes, ponchos in the style of the local coffee growers, felt hats, and artisanal leather goods.

Pro tip: For the best photo opps of Salento’s colorful, artistic buildings, venture out early in the morning when the town is just waking up (anytime before 8 AM).

4. Climb up the Mirador de Salento

For breathtaking bird's eye views of Salento and the surrounding Cocora Valley, climb up the mirador de salento to one of its many viewpoints. The most popular and easily accessible viewpoint is Mirador Alto de la Cruz, located just a short walk (or steep hike) from the town center.

For more seasoned hikers or those looking for a more challenging trek, consider hiking to Mirador de la Virgen, which offers stunning panoramic views at 2,700 meters above sea level. This hike typically takes about 3-4 hours round-trip.

Pro Tip: We recommend going either in the early morning for sunrise, or later in the day for sunset. Grab a coffee (or alcoholic beverage depending)  on the time of day ; )  at one of the stalls at the summit and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Salento and the Cocora Valley

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5. Explore Los Nevados National Natural Park

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As previously mentioned, the Cocora Valley is an integral part of the expansive Los Nevados National Natural Park, one of Colombia's premier national parks. This park is a sanctuary for adventure and exploration, home to majestic condors, mountain tapirs, spectacled bears, vibrant wild parrots, and unique mountain flora. Additionally, it boasts imposing volcanoes and some of Colombia's last remaining glaciers.

For those who share our passion for the wild and beautiful, the proximity of such a breathtaking national park is thrilling. Fortunately, numerous tour companies offer guided single-day or multi-day treks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Los Nevados National Natural Park. Most of the hikes (usually overnight ones) can only be done with an authorized guide and after registering in the visitor's book.

The best way to explore the park is via guide. Whether you want to summit Nevado de Tolima, one of the Andes’ towering peaks, or explore the paramo, there are many great options to explore this incredible national park.

It is not officially required to have the guide, although it is highly recommended, especially for a longer hike.

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6. Visit Santa Rita Waterfall

Just outside the quaint town of Boquia, Colombia, lies the Santa Rita Waterfall (Santa Rita la cascada). This beautiful waterfall is easily accessible and a must-visit if you're staying in nearby Salento, Colombia. Santa Rita is a great place to spot birds and go for a swim in the natural pools.

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Cost: Since the waterfall is on private property, there is an entrance fee of approximately 7,000 COP per person, which grants you access to the waterfall as well as other fantastic features of Finca Santa Rita, including caves, swimming holes, and trails.

Pro tip: given Salento's sporadic weather, we recommend bringing rain jackets (or just plastic poncho) as well as shoes that can handle some serious mud. And of course water and snacks

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7. Go Horseback Riding

The natural beauty of the  Valle de Cocora's rolling green hills and coffee plantations make horseback riding one of the best ways to explore the area. Local guides, called caballistas or horsemen, offer horseback riding tours through the countryside, coffee plantations, and to nearby waterfalls.

Cost: Horseback riding tour prices vary depending on tour length and options chosen. You can check out the local providers in downtown Salento as well as book in advance on Viator or Peek

Pro tip: Don't forget to bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection while riding in the open valley. And make sure to wear comfortable clothing that can handle some dirt and horse hair.

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8. Play a game of Tejo

Tejo, the national sport of Colombia, is perhaps the only national sport across the globe that requires you to play with explosives. In reality, it's very safe and truly a blast (bad joke, i know).  The game involves throwing metal disks (called a tejo)  into a clay-lined ring. With the objective of hitting packets of gunpowder.

For a traveler friendly experience, we recommend checking out  Los Amigo bar,  just a few blocks from the main square in Salento. After a busy day exploring the magical Valle de Cocora, playing tejo with a nice cold beverage is a great way to unwind and get a true taste of local culture.

Pro tip: although not required, play tejo with a bottle of Aguardiente and your local beer of your choice (Aguila or Cerveca Poker), for optimal enjoyment ; ) 

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9. Visit the Sunday trout market

Trout is a culinary favorite in Salento, due to its abundance in the regions surrounding rivers. Every weekend, farmers and chefs converge on Salento’s beautiful town center for the Sunday trout market, bringing their food carts laden with delicious offerings. The trout is typically served with patacones and a choice of mushroom, shrimp, or garlic sauce. If you’re not visiting on a Sunday, don’t worry; this beloved local dish is available throughout the town at nearly every restaurant. For some of the best trout in town, we'd recommend checking out  Donde Laurita and El Rincon de Lucy

A Brief History of Salento

Founded in 1842, Salento, is the oldest town in the Quindío department, and boasts a rich history rooted in coffee cultivation and colonial heritage. The town played a significant role during the coffee boom of the 19th century and has preserved much of its traditional charm, making it a living museum of Colombia's past.

The historic center is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed "Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia,” (CCLC),  which includes much of the Coffee Triangle region and aims to preserve the historic coffee-growing regions of central Colombia.

Fun fact:  Although originally named Boquía, in 1865, it was renamed Villa de Nueva Salento in honor of Salento, Italy. It also goes by its nickname El Padre del Quindío (The Father of Quindío)

Where is Salento, Colombia?

Salento is located in the northeastern part of the department of Quindío - one of the three departments that make up the Colombian Coffee Region.

Geographically Salento is situated in a relatively flat plateau above the Quindío river valley, and on the western slope of the Central Cordillera mountains (one of the three mountain ranges that cross Colombia)

The small mountain town is located under an hour from the capital of Quindio, Armenia,  and the  larger city of Pereira (the capital of the neighboring department, Risaralda).

ELEVATION: 1895 meters // 6,217 feet

POPULATION:  9,748 people, of which around 3,600 live in the town itself

What is the Best Time to Visit Salento?

While the weather remains relatively consistent year-round due to its proximity to the equator, you can still notice some variation depending on whether you're visiting during the dry season or rainy season.

The best time to visit Salento is during the dry seasons - which typically run from December to March and June to September. During these months, you'll experience pleasant weather that's ideal for outdoor activities.

However, anytime of year can be enjoyable. The town of Salento is beautiful to walk through in the rain (just bring an umbrella) and for adventure enthusiasts, all activities are still available as long as you don't mind getting your hands (and feet) a little  dirty.

Pro tip: avoid visiting Salento during the Christmas and New Year's holidays (unless you are looking for a serious crowd!). Traffic, expensive prices and loud celebrations through the night. Although this can be a fun time as well, just know what you're getting into ; )

What is the weather like in Salento?

Salento enjoys a temperate climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C).  However the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional showers, so it's advisable to pack a light raincoat or umbrella.

The wet/rainy season in Salento spans from late March through early December, peaking in October, while the drier months are from December through late March, with January being the driest

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How to Get to Salento

The town, while located in the mountains, is relatively easy to reach from other Colombian cities; including, Medellin, Bogota, and Cali. Because of  Salento's popularity there are numerous buses  you can easily catch from most major other cities, including taking a bus directly from Medellin.

• By Air: The nearest airport is El Edén International Airport (AXM) in Armenia, approximately 45 minutes away by car. You can catch a flight from major Colombian cities like Bogotá and Medellín
  
  
• By Bus:
  From Armenia (bus terminal) 1-2 hours ride deepening on traffic and conditions
  From Pereira (bus terminal ) 1-2 hours ride deepening on traffic and conditions
  Both cities have buses running regularly between the towns
  From Medellin: a direct bus leave twice a day (1:30 & 8:30) from the city's south bus terminal
  If planning on traveling around Colombia by bus, and looking for the optimal bus route as well booking your tickets beforehand Busbud is a great resource.
  
  

• By Car: Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. The drive from Armenia to Salento is pretty straightforward and scenic.
  
  
• By Taxi:  If heading to Salento from Armenia via taxi, you can expect to pay around 90,000 COP ($23 USD)

Pro tip: If flying into Armenia airport, you can easily catch a 20-min bus from outside the airport terminal to the main bus station (Terminal de Transportes), and then hop on a bus (~1hr) to Salento

Getting Around Salento

Salento is a small town that is best explored on foot. For longer distances or excursions to the Cocora Valley, Jeeps known as "Willys" are a popular mode of transport. They are readily available and offer a fun way to traverse the rugged terrain.

Where to Stay in Salento

Salento offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences:

• Luxury: Hacienda Bambusa offers an upscale experience with luxurious amenities and stunning views of the coffee plantations.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Salento Real boasts comfortable rooms and a central location, making it a great choice for convenience.
• Affordable:  Only 5-min from Salento, is The Dreamer Cocora Valley with the largest plot of land of any hotel or hostel in the area. Enjoy the beautiful landscaped gardens, surrounded by the breathtaking Andean Mountains. Use our family & friends discount code "Dreamteam" for 20% of your stay!

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Where to Eat in Salento

Salento's culinary scene is diverse and delicious. Here are some top picks:

• Restaurante Camino Real: Known for its traditional Colombian dishes and vibrant ambiance. It's the perfect place to view 
• Café Bernabé Gourmet  - Beautiful decor & balcony views, nice vibe, great service, and very tasty food! They also take credit card
• Cafe Jesus Martin – One of the most famous coffeeshops in Salento, and for good reason. With beautiful decor (hanging bicycles &  wall art), the shop stands out because of its incredible story.  Run by “the man who saved Colombian coffee” (read more about him here)
• Casa de Pan - although there are many excellent bakeries in Salento, this is one of our favorites. From the pandebonos (small round balls made of yucca flour and cheese) to the bunuelos (medium sized fried dough balls), you can't go wrong.
• Bernabe – a gourmet dinner spot with reasonable prices. Definitely worth checking out for its delicious variety of dishes and great vibe
• Acaime – With a beautiful garden and treehouse, this colorful hippy cafe is definitely worth a visit.  It is rated the number one restaurant on TripAdvisor and for good reason. With a wide selection of unique and delicious dishes, including many vegan and vegetarian options. 
• El Rincon de Lucy – Its authentic charm and reputation for serving up quintessential Colombian cuisine have made it a beloved destination, especially among Colombians. you'll quickly realize that menus are a mere formality. Just select your meat of preference and you'll be served a large plate with various sides. One of the best meals (and deals) in town. 

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Where to Remote Work in Salento

For digital nomads, finding a suitable workspace is crucial. Salento has a few excellent options:

• El Patio Hostel & Coffee Shop: A cozy spot with a relaxed atmosphere and good internet connectivity.
• Meraki - in addition to offering an eclectic international menu,  they also have fast wifi. Located slightly off the beaten track, it tends to be a little quieter if you need to get some work done.

How Long Should You Visit?

To fully experience Salento and the Cocora Valley, plan to stay for at least three to four days.  This allows ample time to hike in the  Cocora Valley, visit coffee farms, explore the town, checkout key attractions, and perhaps even take a day trip to nearby towns. If you enjoy going at a more leisurely pace or plan on exploring Los Nevados National Natural Park, plan on extending your journey accordingly. 

What to Pack for Salento

When preparing for your trip, in addition to your regular belongings, consider packing the following items:

• Comfortable hiking boots (that can get muddy!)
• Warm jacket (as the nights can get cold)
• Rain jacket or poncho (given the unpredictable weather)
• Sunscreen, hat, and bug repellent

Is Salento, Colombia Safe?

Yes! As with any travel destination, of course, you still need to be cautious and use common sense, however, unlike some of the larger cities in Colombia where petty theft is much more common, Salento is truly a small laid back town with friendly residents and very little crime.

Are there ATM’s? 

ATMs in Salento can be unreliable and many places only accept cash. It is recommended to carry enough cash for your excursions. While cards are accepted at many hostels and restaurants, you will need cash for transportation, groceries, and souvenirs 

Map of Salento Colombia

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Looking for more things to do on your travels through Colombia?

If traveling to the Caribbean Coast, check out our comprehensive guides to Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta, and San Andrés

For additional information on traveling to Salento as well as all of Colombia, check out the following resources:

• Lonely Planet -  Colombia Guide
• Colombia Travel - Official Website
• Salento Forum - on TripAdvisor 
• Colombian Travelers - Facebook Group 
• Top Things to do in Salento - Tripadvisor
• Top Rated Salento Tours - on Viator 

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Closing Remarks 

We are so excited that you have made the decision to embark on your journey to Salento. It truly is a must-visit for adventure travelers, nature enthusiasts, and digital nomads alike. 

From hiking through the surreal Cocora Valley with its towering wax palms to immersing yourself in the world of Colombian coffee on local fincas, Salento provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The town's colorful streets, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine, make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Colombia.  It is sure to be one of your favorite parts of your entire trip. 

There you have it—your travel guide for what to do Salento, Colombia, and the beautiful surrounding Cocora Valley 

If looking for accommodations, we’d love to host you at our beautiful Cocora Valley finca! Or if you're traveling to other parts of Colombia, don't forget to check out our award-winning locations in Dreamer Palomino and Dreamer Beach Club on San Andres and Casa Dreamer in Bogota.

For more information on activities or tours or general questions about the area, don’t hesitate to give us a shout! We’re here to help you have the best time possible and hope you enjoy our beautiful country of Colombian as much as we do!