salento colombia tourism

10 Best Things to do in Salento, Colombia

Beautiful Salento, a town of many colors and stories, backed by one of the most mesmerizing landscapes we’ve ever seen: the Cocora Valley and the world’s tallest palm trees. Spend a few days in Salento, soaking up the warm village culture, admiring the rainbow-colored streets, and drinking freshly brewed coffee in a town that sits at the very heart of Colombia’s coffee region. Enjoy all the top things to do in Salento, Colombia !

The Story of Salento, Colombia

The story of Salento is well known; it was established because of the Quindio pass that crossed from Popayan over to Bogota . When Simon Bolivar, a South American icon of independence, crossed over the Andes mountain trails in 1830, he ordered the pass to be improved. This was done by prisoners of war who built houses and settled on the land.

Also see: The Ultimate 3-week Colombia Itinerary (Travel Guide)

However, we were also told that the town got its color from a German couple who traveled here as tourists around 20 years ago. They fell in love with Salento, integrating themselves as part of the community and convincing the locals to paint their houses to draw more tourists to the town. We don’t know how true this story is, but it’s nice to imagine! 

Read: Best Things to do in Bogota

Things to do in Salento, Colombia

Salento has a lively center and colorful houses with matching flowers, plants, and painted ornaments. There’s also a small party scene to be found here if you look in the right places, with cute cafes hosting live music events and DJs. Here are some of the top things to do in Salento:

1. Hike in the Cocora Valley

The Cocora Valley (Valle del Cocora) is what brings people from all over the world to Salento. It’s a stunning landscape filled with wax trees (the tallest palm trees in the world) native only to Colombia and northern Peru . 

Here are all your hotel options in Salento.

Cocora Valley Tour

Jump in a Willy (the original Jeep, which is about 60 years old!) at the town square before 9 AM so you can arrive before the crowds. Once you arrive, you’ll be met with a landscape that looks straight from a painting; towering palm trees emerge out of the low-lying clouds as the sun’s rays pass through them.

Read about the best things to do in Colombia .

You can follow a couple of trails, whether on foot, mountain bike, or horseback. There is one main loop (trail) that passes stunning viewpoints which starts about here . However, be aware that the entire Valle del Cocora loop is about a 5-6 hour hike. It’s well worth the effort, though, as you pass through cloud forests, jungle, and wax trees. This is the best thing to do in Salento!

2. Calle Real

Calle Real is the most famous street and one of the top things to do in Salento! The pedestrianized street is lined with two-story white houses that have had their windows, balconies, and doorways painted in beautiful bright colors.

Also visit Medellin in Colombia .

If you visit before 9 AM, you’ll get to see the colorful doorways. After this time, the doors open to show the shops, and the colors won’t be as visible. However, this is still a great time to enjoy a little shopping for souvenirs or enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the cute cafes. You could even head for the local pool bar, where you’ll find the men of the village sipping coffee and playing games; a great insight into the culture of Salento! 

Tip: Once you reach the end of Calle Real, follow signs for Mirador de Salento to see beautiful views of the town.

3. Mirador de Salento

Enjoy the best views of Salento and the surrounding countryside at the Mirador de Salento (viewpoint). It’s a steep staircase, but walk only 5 minutes up, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the small town, the green mountains, and the luscious nature. Visiting at sunset is even more spectacular, although this is also the busiest time. 

Best of all, the Mirador de Salento is free to visit! 

4. Plaza de Bolivar

Plaza de Bolivar is a place where you can absorb the authentic Salento way of life. The lively square sits at the center of the town, surrounded by the church and beautiful trees. You’ll find most restaurants around this square and other amenities like ATMs. Plus, it’s the Willy collection point to take you to the Cocora Valley.

Tip: at the weekends, the local market is held in Plaza de Bolivar. It’s a great time to shop for some local handicrafts and watch the older men with their traditional sombreros and ponchos playing music and chatting with each other.

5. Bird Watching in Salento

Twenty percent of the world’s bird population lives right here in Colombia , and the stunning landscapes of Salento are home to some beautiful species. Not only can you see exciting birds in the Cocora Valley among the wax trees (toucans and kestrels!), but you can even see parrots chattering and singing on the roofs of Salento town.

There are also plenty of other nature reserves surrounding Salento, where you can join tours to see hundreds of species of birds.

Book your bird watching tour in Salento

6. Play Tejo

Do as the locals do and join in on a game of Tejo! The premise of the Colombian game is to throw a rock at targets that sit among thick clay. But this is a game with a difference: the target contains gunpowder and creates a small explosion when hit. It’s more complicated than it looks!

Also visit the beautiful city of Cartagena in Colombia .

Get a group together from your hostel, drink a beer, and enjoy a bit of competition with one of the top things to do in Salento. There are a few places you can go and play, and it should only cost under 10000 COP for a round of Tejo. Los Amigos is one of the most popular places to play in the area ( here is the location ).

7. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Salento is a bucket list experience, particularly amongst the wax trees of the Cocora Valley . You’ll get to see the beautiful landscape from a new perspective and learn so much more about the area from knowledgeable guides. Join a tour and ride through open meadows, across tranquil rivers and waterfalls, and end at the most spectacular viewpoints of Valle del Cocora.

As with all wildlife tourism , do your research very carefully to make sure you choose a sustainable, ethical business that treats the horses with love and care.

Read: Wildlife Tourism Alternatives

8. Santa Rita la Cascada

There are plenty of waterfalls around Salento, but Santa Rita la Cascada really is the most beautiful of them all! Just 5km away from Salento, the waterfall is a lovely corner of nature and the perfect place to cool down and swim.

Also visit the jungle town Minca in Colombia

Arrive at the nearby Finca, where you’ll need to pay 7000 COP to enter (as the waterfall is on private land) before starting the 1.5 km hike to the waterfall. It’s relatively flat the whole way, through open farmland, roaming cows, and along small winding rivers. If you want a longer hike, there is also the option to take a longer 6km trail. 

9. Join a Coffee Tour

Salento and the surrounding nature is a designated UNESCO world heritage site , forming an essential part of Colombia’s coffee cultural landscape. Because of this, there’s no better place to do a coffee tour than Salento!

Join a tour and head to a coffee farm. Here you’ll learn about the importance of coffee in Colombia , the growth, production, and process from bean to cup. You’ll get to try different types of coffee and brew as you picnic under the wax trees of the Valle del Cocora—bliss!

Book your coffee tour in Salento

10. Day Trip to Filandia

Filandia is a beautiful town just 30 minutes from Salento. It’s got the same colorful vibe as Salento, filled with beautiful houses that have their doorways, window frames, and roof tiles painted in bright rainbow colors. However, Filandia is much quieter and a good option for a day trip to escape the crowds of Salento.

The town is also famous for its fantastic food scene, coffee farms, and the beautiful waterfalls located nearby (Doble Cascada is a favorite!). 

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Salento

Salento may be famous for coffee, but it has some great places to eat too. You can find small cafes with pastries, traditional restaurants serving Colombian classics, and diners serving American-style brunch to backpackers. In short, Salento has variety!

Some of our favorites were:

• Restaurante Mi Tepuy (Vegetarian / Vegan)
• Coco Bowl (Vegetarian)
• Cumana Bistro Food (Venezuelan)
• Andariego! (Best coffee in town)
• Café Jesús Martín (Beautiful old style cafe)
• Cocina y Horno (Pretty good Italian)
• El Cacharrito (Hamburgers, veggie options)

Where to Stay in Salento

Salento is tiny, so wherever you stay in the town will locate you near the main streets and squares. However, if you’re looking for a more remote experience, there are some fantastic accommodation options out in the Cocora Valley. For example, glamping or boutique eco-resorts overlooking the most stunning landscapes.

Hotels in Salento 😴

Choose from hostels and guesthouses situated around Calle Real and Plaza Bolivar for a lower-cost option. 

How to Get to Salento, Colombia

Salento is accessible by bus from major cities in Colombia, like Bogota , Medellin , and Jardin. However, if you’re leaving from Bogota, be aware that the Andes mountains sit right in the middle of your journey, making it tricky and lengthy to travel by road (a bus from Bogota to Salento takes around 8 hours). 

For that reason, it’s easier to fly from Bogota or Medellin to Pereira or Armenia airport (around a 1-hour flight). From here, you can jump on a bus or in a taxi which will take you just under an hour. It’s a good road, just a little bit windy at the end as you travel into the mountains and valleys of Salento.

Getting Around Salento

Salento is very small, making it super easy to get around. You can walk everywhere in the town on foot or up to the nearby viewpoint, Mirador de Salento.

As it’s a popular town for tourists, plenty of taxis and tour groups are also leaving daily to take you to the Cocora Valley or local chocolate and coffee farms. 

How Much Does Salento Cost?

Salento is very affordable, although its popularity with tourists can make accommodation a little more expensive than in other cities in Colombia. The majority of your budget will be spent on all the tours and experiences that Salento offers. 

Costs of Traveling in Salento

Travel on a budget in Salento, from $160 − $410 USD weekly per person, mid-range $460 − $720 USD, and high-end from $740 − $1080 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $30 − $90 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Food: $5 − $15 USD
• Activities: $5 − $40 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Salento

December – February, and July – September are the best times to visit Salento as this is the dry season. However, be aware that the weather is always a real mixture because of the location of Salento high up in the hills. This means the day can start warm and sunny but quickly turn to mist and rain (there’s a high chance of rain most days, especially at night).

This changing climate makes Salento unique, providing the opportunity to see the wax trees loom out from the low-lying clouds. 

Is Salento Safe?

We felt safe during our whole Colombia trip, but Salento, in particular, felt very safe. The locals are incredibly friendly, and the town’s size makes for a lively yet cozy atmosphere both day and night.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Colombia trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Salento via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Colombia Itinerary: The Complete 3-Week Travel Guide

15 things to do in bogota, colombia, 10 best things to do in colombia in 2024.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Amazing pictures! Which lens did you use? i go this year to colombia :D

Thanks! You can find our gear here . Have the best time in Colombia.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Maddy's Avenue

By: Maddy Cornelius · Last Updated: January 31, 2024

14 Epic Things to Do in Salento, Colombia: Ultimate Salento Guide

In the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle ( Eje Cafetero ), lies Salento, a charming small town with some incredible things to do.

Ready to hop in a Willy (jeep) to discover Salento’s world-class coffee farms ? To hike through the Corcora Valley under towering wax palm trees ? To stroll endlessly colorful colonial streets , play tejo , and savor traditional paisa food ?

A visit to Salento is an essential Colombian cultural experience – and a magical one too, thanks to the region’s magnificent flora and fauna.

In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know for the perfect trip to Salento!

Here are 14 epic things to do in Salento, plus where to stay , the best coffee shops and restaurants , and must-know tips .

• Why You Should Visit Salento

My four-day visit to Salento came as I entered my third month of traveling through Colombia. And it quickly became one of my favorite places in the country!

Your trip to Salento will be filled with the three C’s: Coffee. Color. And Corcora. The ultimate trifecta.

Salento’s laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, coffee shops and coffee fincas, vibrant streets, and the incredibly beautiful Valle de Corcora are reason enough to visit Salento for a few days.

The stunning nature here emanates an undeniably joyous vibe. And the views of the area’s endemic wax palms truly are an amazing sight to see.

And yes, if you’re wondering, Salento is touristy. But it is not overly busy, nor overrated or overpriced.

You’re going to love it.

Feel free to use this table of contents to jump to different sections of this guide, or simply read on. This Salento travel guide has it all!

Table of Contents

1. Hike in the Cocora Valley National Park (Valle de Cocora)

2. glamp under millions of stars, 3. visit a coffee farm (finca de café), 4. explore salento’s colorful streets, 5. climb up to the viewpoints (miradores), 6. visit salento’s best coffee shops, 7. stop by de olier chocolate factory, 9. play tejo at los amigos, 10. hike to the cocora waterfalls (cascadas de cocora), 11. hike to santa rita waterfall, 12. go on a horseback riding tour, 13. eat trout, 14. take a half-day trip to filandia, where to eat & drink in salento, where to stay in salento, colombia, what to pack for salento, take the bus to salento, fly into armenia or pereira, final thoughts on the best things to do in salento, salento, colombia travel faqs, did you know…, what to do in salento, colombia.

Of course, the top thing to do in Salento is hiking in the Cocora Valley National Park !

Home of the Quindio “wax palms,” the world’s tallest palm trees, the Valle de Cocora is a wondrous, lush, green landscape of soaring mountains, dotted with spotted cows and horses. Trout-filled rivers rush through the valley as butterflies flutter about, in the shadows of the iconic 60-meter-high palms. And it’s far more breathtaking than you could imagine.

The most popular hike is the Acaime Trail. Moderate in difficulty, it covers about 7 miles (11 kilometers) and takes about 4.5 hours to complete. I loved every moment of it.

Along the way, you’ll pass by various viewpoints. Mid-way through, you’ll also have the option of a 1-hour round-trip detour to visit the Casa de los Colibris. Taking a little break, hot chocolate in hand, as dozens of hummingbirds flit and twitter around you is such a beautiful experience!

A few times along the way, we wondered if we were heading in the right direction, but we always were. All in all, the hike is pretty straightforward, so you shouldn’t need a guide.

Though if you’d prefer hiking with a guide, so you can soak up some local knowledge and learn about the local fauna, then check out this Full-Day Cocora Valley Hike with Lunch .

After spending a couple of months in Colombian cities, I wanted to experience as much of the country’s natural beauty as I could.

Glamping under millions of stars, at Lumbre Glamping , fit the bill.

Located mid-way between Salento and Valle de Corcora, staying at Lumbre Glamping immerses you completely into nature, while providing all of the comforts of home.

Climbing into my comfy bed, gazing out at twinkling stars, and waking up to sunbeams, birds chirping, and lush mountain views, was magical . With floor-to-ceiling windows, each of Lumbre’s 10 tent-cabins offers this experience.

Not to mention, each room includes a spacious bathroom and private outdoor lounging area.

The grounds also feature a campfire area, a massage deck (featuring sounds of the river rushing below), a restaurant, a spa, and two magnificent waterfalls that you can hike to. Details on the waterfall hike are included later in this guide.

I can say, for sure, glamping is one of the best things to do in Salento. My experience in Salento would have been half as special if I’d just stayed in town. So, if I were you, I’d make sure I went glamping in Salento – for one night, at least! Book your stay at Lumbre Glamping now.

Reserve your glamping tent at Lumbre Glamping now.

FYI: A Willy (a shared jeep; the main mode of transportation in Salento) from Lumbre to Salento costs 3,000 COP (or about $.60 USD), and the journey takes about 15 minutes.

Coffee lovers, listen up! As the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, you can’t leave Salento without touring at least one coffee farm!

Before arriving in Salento, I did a lot of research on the best coffee tour experience, and came across Finca El Ocaso’s Premium Coffee Tour . It was the most incredible experience, and a toss-up for my favorite thing to do in Salento – along with the Acaime trail, of course.

About El Ocaso’s Coffee Farm Tour

Nestled 20 minutes outside of Salento, spending time at this lush, idyllic coffee farm was a dream.

The coffee tour started out with an explanation of how exceptional, sustainable coffee is cultivated. Then, we set out into the leafy farm to pick as many ripe (red and yellow, not green) coffee “cherries” as we could in 10 minutes. Next, we witnessed how the cherries are processed – from picking to fermenting to drying to roasting.

Then came the super fun part! We learned about the different aromas and flavor profiles that make great coffee, through nose tests and taste tests.

First, we tried to guess 10 aromas – from hazelnut, vanilla, and apple, to rubber, leather, and smoke – taking notes all the while. Then, we made and taste-tested multiple coffees, guessing the beans’ processes (natural, washed, honey, passion 300, and pasilla) and choosing our favorites. Finally, we learned how to prepare perfect cups of coffee ourselves, through different methods: siphon, Aeropress, and Chemex.

It’s safe to say, I left Finca El Ocaso with a renewed love for coffee culture, and a whole lot of new coffee knowledge!

I cannot recommend this Premium Coffee Tour enough to anyone who loves coffee and wants to learn more. Book your Premium Coffee Tour now!

How to Get to Finca El Ocaso

To get there, simply purchase a round-trip Willy ticket from the booth in the town square. The journey costs just 3,000 COP (or about $.60 USD) each way. You’ll get the 1:30 PM Willy out there, and the 5:00 PM back.

Alternatively, when you book your Premium Coffee Tour online , transportation from your Salento hotel is included.

The quaint colonial town of Salento is beyond beautiful.

Its white buildings – adorned with decorative doors, paneling, and window-frames in every color of the rainbow, flower pots, and wrought-iron lanterns – are the perfect backdrop for coffee-drinking. And photos.

The main street, Calle Real, is lined with souvenir shops. Filled with lovely rugs, traditional baskets, jewelry, woodworks, candles, and just about everything else you can imagine, the souvenir shops are worth a browse. You’ll also find plenty of food trucks and stalls serving up traditional snacks.

After you’ve had your fill of Calle Real, make sure to explore the quieter side streets.

And of course, spend some time in the main plaza, people-watching under the palm trees.

RELATED READING: 17 Lovely Things to Do in Villa de Leyva, Colombia

Continue to the end of Calle Real and you’ll find a set of stairs leading up the hill, to two different viewpoints of Salento and the surrounding landscapes.

The first, Mirador Alto de la Cruz , features views of the town, plus some nature trails that head down the back side of the hill. Instead of heading back down to town, follow the ramp that leads to right, and you’ll find a wooden platform featuring another, even more fabulous viewpoint: the Mirador de Salento .

Along the way, you’ll pass by many food vendors, handicraft stalls, and ladies selling traditional sweets.

These miradores would be amazing places to watch the sunset!

While in town, you must visit a coffee shop or two.

My two favorites were Jesús Martin and Concreto, for different reasons!

Jesús Martin

Jesús Martín is one of the most highly-acclaimed coffee operations in the region. Don’t believe me, just stop by the café and see the many awards and certificates that adorn its walls. With the highest commitment to quality, Jesús Martín’s finca (located in nearby Quimbaya) cultivates some of the finest beans around, and roasts them in small batches to perfection.

We chose to try their Exotic blend (of geisha and bourbon), brewed in a Chemex. With a dark chocolate aroma and sweet, sour flor de jamaica (hibiscus) flavor notes, it was super complex and delicious!

This modern, minimalistic coffee shop drew me in with its cool design, but won me over with its oat milk! A rarity in Colombia. If it’s a latte, flat white, or other espresso coffee you crave, then head over to Concreto .

There’s an express location near the town square, and a sit-down café perfect for reading a book (or playing Monopoly Deal – our favorite travel companion!) at the other end of Calle Real.

If you love artisanal bean-to-bar chocolate like I do, then don’t miss a visit to De Olier Chocolatl .

In the heart of town, you’ll find De Olier’s chocolate factory. Here, they make super high-quality chocolate from scratch, from cacao grown at their own local farm. As bean-to-bar implies!

At De Olier, savor a hot chocolate (a must!) and a brownie in the garden. Then, walk up to the counter to taste all kinds of chocolates, choose your favorites, and buy some bars and bonbons to take with you.

My favorite bars were the 85% and the passionfruit! And at 15,000 COP (about $3 USD) per bar, they were an absolute steal!

8. Go Birdwatching

Salento’s incredible variety of exotic, colorful birds might just turn you into a birdwatcher!

If an early morning walk through the Andean jungle with a nature guide, while watching extraordinary birds and other wildlife, sounds like your jam, then book one of these three awesome tours. They’re all operated by the same bird-loving company!

• Birdwatching in Salento
• Endemic Birds Tour in Salento
• Birdwatching and Coffee Tour in Salento

I saw an Andean Motmot for the first time in Salento and was so excited!

Salento’s flora and fauna are next-level extraordinary; if you’re at all interested in a birdwatching tour , you won’t be disappointed. Click here to book it!

For just 5,000 COP (about $1 USD), how can you say no to playing Colombia’s national sport, tejo ?

Tejo involves lots of beer-drinking and gunpowder – and Los Amigos , in the center of town, is the place to play. What could go wrong?

In case you’re not familiar with tejo , here’s a synopsis…

Kind of like Cornhole, the aim of the game is to lob the tejo (a heavy iron weight) at the bocín (metal ring), that’s held in place on a board of damp clay. The ring is laced with sachets of gunpowder ( mechas ). Naturally. You get 1 point for being the closest to the ring; 3 points for causing an explosion; 6 points for a bullseye; and 9 points for hitting a bullseye with an explosion.

I felt a little intimidated playing tejo in the big cities, so my first experience was in Salento. Luckily, Los Amigos is super welcoming to travelers, and their staff will give you a walk-through of the rules.

Playing tejo is one of the best things to do in Salento. It’s alcohol-induced, loud, smoky, dangerous fun. And a can’t-miss, quintessential Colombian experience.

On Lumbre Glamping ’s farmland you’ll find two magnificent waterfalls: one smaller, one larger.

At 9 am, we set out to find them, and had the entire place – the trail and the waterfalls – to ourselves!

The steep uphill journey takes about 30 minutes – part way on grassy hills overlooking the valley’s rolling hills, and part way through shady jungle trails.

If you’re a guest of Lumbre Glamping , entry to the waterfall trail is free.

If not, entry costs 15,000 COP per person (about $3 USD); this fee helps with the upkeep of the trail. Guest or not, use of Lumbre’s hiking poles is included. You’ll need them! The hike is straight uphill!

I decided not to hike to the Santa Rita Waterfall, since I already went to the Cocora Waterfalls.

But if you need more waterfalls and natural pools in your life, go for it! You’ll find the trailhead in the nearby town of Boquia, a quick bus or private Willy ride away from Salento. The hike up to the waterfall and back will take about 2-3 hours.

If you’d prefer to go with a guide, this Cocora Valley and Santa Rita Waterfall Tour includes visits to the best viewpoints in Cocora, horseback riding, and explore Santa Rita’s waterfalls, pools, caverns, and tunnels. Book your Cocora Valley and Santa Rita Waterfall Tour now.

Going horseback riding is one of the top things to do in Salento, Colombia!

We decided to explore Corcora on foot. But if you love horses, or just want to experience this iconic Salento activity, then check out this Cocora Valley + Salento Horseback Riding Day Tour .

As with all animal tourism activities, you should always do your own research to ensure that the horses are healthy, happy, and lovingly cared for . According to the reviews I read, the horses on this horseback riding tour are.

Personally, I’ve been on three other tours with the company that operates this one, and they were all great.

Trout is a local specialty in Salento, and almost every restaurant in Salento serves up their signature version.

You’ll find it prepared a million different ways: fried or grilled alongside beans and rice; inside of omelettes; in sandwiches and burgers; and baked into creamy gratin.

Salento’s rivers are filled with wild trout. But as we finished our hike in Corcora, we came across a huge trout farm. Assuming this is where most of Salento’s restaurants source their trout from, you’re likely not eating wild fish. Which, for me, was pretty disappointing.

Nevertheless, my favorite place for trout was at El Rincón de Lucy . On the other hand, the recommended dish at Donde Laurita (the trout gratin) was a total disappointment. I wouldn’t go there again.

Another wonderful town in the heart of the coffee region, Filandia is located just 30 minutes away from Salento. I had planned to visit this town, but ran out of time.

From what I heard, Filandia is a less touristy version of Salento, but just as beautiful – if not, more beautiful. You only need 2-3 hours there to stroll the colorful streets, pop into a coffee shop, and enjoy a fabulous lunch at Helena Adentro over sweeping views of the Eje Cafetero .

To get to Filandia, simply check the Willy schedule in Salento’s main square, and hop on. The journey costs 8,000 COP (about $2 USD) each way. Willys leave every hour or two. If I were you, I’d buy a round-trip ticket.

I’ll be honest, the foodie scene in Salento has a long way to go. That said, there are a few gems, from coffee shops to dinner spots. Here are the best places I discovered while in Salento!

• Jesús Martín : One of the most highly-acclaimed fincas and cafeterías in the region,you can’t miss Jesús Martín. Maybe a Chemex-brewed geisha coffee of the highest quality? Or a cappucino? Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong.
• Concreto : A cute little coffee shop, perfect for espresso-based coffee. And they have oat milk, which is hard to come by in Colombia.
• Cumaná : Super delicious Venezuelan food and incredibly friendly service. We loved the tequeños (fried “peasant” cheese sticks), Cuajada de Pisillo with trout (kind of like a Spanish tortilla), the veggie soup, and the Dominó arepa (with “peasant” cheese and beans), along with some fresh fruit juices. 10/10 would go back!
• El Rincón de Lucy : A good place for cheap, local food in a quiet corner of town. Go for the trout, with sides of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and fruit juice. The whole experience comes out to about $3.
• Brunch de Salento : Owned by an Oregonian, this popular restaurant is open all day and serves up American favorites from waffles and omelettes to burgers and lasagna. Brunch de Salento also puts together packed lunches, perfect for your hike in the Corcora Valley.
• Café Bernabé Gourmet : Here, you’ll find Colombian food made with local ingredients and an international twist. I’ve heard the coffee is good, but I didn’t try it myself.
• Coco Bowls : Inspired by his travels in Southeast Asia, the owner opened up his own little slice of Bali in Salento. Here, you’ll find health-conscious vegetarian food, from açai bowls and avocado toast to wraps and bliss bowls.
• Lumbre : Our beautiful glamping experience included a lovely daily breakfast. We also ate quite a few healthy lunches and dinners at Lumbre ‘s restaurant (think: soups and veggie burgers), overlooking amazing valley views.

Whether you want to stay in Salento or the surrounding countryside, I’ve rounded up the best accommodation in the area.

• Lumbre Glamping : This is where I stayed, and I would do so again and again! Soaking in the area’s extraordinary nature, while enjoying the comforts of home, makes for an unforgettable experience. If you can swing it, glamping is one of the best things to do in Salento. Book your stay at Lumbre Glamping.
• Hotel Terasu Salento : Located a stone’s throw from Salento’s main square, this hotel features a leafy garden, a quiet, relaxing environment, and lovely guest rooms with individual terraces. Book your stay at Terasu Salento.
• Finca El Ocaso: Want an immersive coffee farm and nature experience? Then stay at 20 minutes outside of Salento at Finca El Ocaso , the beautiful coffee farm I raved about in #3 above!
• Viajero Hostel Salento : The most popular hostel in town, Viajero offers fabulous views of the surrounding mountains, and a variety of room types to suit every budget. Just a few blocks from the center you couldn’t ask for a better location. Book your stay at Viajero Hostel Salento.

Salento’s weather can be all over the place. Generally speaking, this green area received a decent amount of rain! But it can also be very hot, and very cold at night!

Be prepared for all weather with warm and cold weather clothing, rain gear, and of course, hiking gear.

• Hiking boots , hiking socks , and hiking poles : for exploring Corcora and waterfall hikes
• Natural insect repellent : yes, there are mosquitoes in Salento!
• Natural sunscreen
• GRAYL Geopress water filter : so you can safely drink any water
• Warm jacket : it gets cold at night in Salento
• Waterproof rain jacket : don’t let a little rain stop your adventures
• Binoculars : for spotting the abundant wildlife
• Travel insurance : an absolute must-have on an adventurous trip full of hiking and Willy rides

How to Get to Salento

There are many ways to get to Salento, the best option for you will depend on your budget and timeline.

Typically, travelers visit Salento after exploring Bogotá or Medellin, as geographically, Salento is right in the middle. From either city, you can take the bus to Armenia. Then, you can hop on another bus to Salento. From Bogota, the journey will take 9+ hours. From Medellin, the journey takes 7+ hours.

Wherever you depart from, you can expect a long, winding ride – and often, roadworks, accidents, and other delays that can tack on a few hours to your journey.

The best place to search for bus routes and fares throughout Colombia is on this website .

You can fly into the coffee region from anywhere in Colombia. But depending on where you’re coming from, you may have a stopover.

There are two airports within an hour or so of Salento: Pereira and Armenia.

I flew in and out of the Pereira airport. From the airport, I took an Uber Comfort to Salento for 220,000 COP (or about $48 USD). I arranged a taxi back to the airport for 180,000 COP (or about $40 USD).

The Armenia airport is also about 1-1.5 hours away, traffic dependent. A taxi from Armenia to Salento costs roughly the same.

You can also take the bus from either airport.

Choose to fly into whichever airport has the better flight schedule/cost. I use this website to find the best airfare.

How to Get Around Salento

Willys – Salento’s shared jeep taxis – are the most common form of transit in Salento.

They are absolute beasts when it comes to conquering the bumpy dirt roads around the region, and can uncomfortably pack up to 14-16 people; 10 or so inside – and a few outside, standing on the back bumper, hanging on for dear life.

Willys leave the main town square on a regular schedule, heading out to Valle de Corcora, Filandia, the Fincas Cafeteras, and more. They’re cheap too. No matter where you’re headed, you can expect to pay a set rate of less than 5,000 COP (about $1 USD) for a one-way journey.

You can also take private journeys via Willy, but for the same price as a private taxi.

Simply walk up to the booth in the main square and tell the attendant where you’d like to go.

Taxis are abundant in Salento. Ubers are not. You can grab a taxi from the main square, just be prepared to pay way more than you would in a shared Willy.

If I were to visit Salento over again, I would 100% stay outside of town again, at Lumbre Glamping or a coffee finca. And if that were the case, I would definitely rent a car . I wish we had rented a car for our Salento trip, but we didn’t know any better!

We spent a lot of money on jeeps and private taxis (especially to/from the airport) and we were at the mercy of their schedules. If we had rented a car, we would have saved money, plus we would have squeezed in a visit to Filandia, and possibly another spontaneous coffee farm stop.

That said, if you plan to stay in town, and only leave to visit Valle de Corcora and one coffee finca, then you’ll get by easily without a rental car!

Considering renting a car? You can pick up your rental at Pereira or Armenia airport. This is my favorite website for snagging the best deals on rental cars worldwide.

I just left Salento, and I literally cannot wait to go back.

From hiking in Corcora, admiring those iconic wax palms, and touring the fincas, to savoring incredible coffee and chocolate, and exploring the sleepy town’s colorful streets, I loved my time in Salento.

There are so many incredible things to do in Salento, so make sure to stay long enough to do them all! 3 or 4 full days will suffice.

And please, don’t forget your hiking boots with good ankle support (like I did). You’ll need them! Especially if you want to explore even more of nearby Los Nevados National Park!

MORE COLOMBIA TRAVEL INSPIRATION

• 10 Unmissable Things to Do in Guatapé, Colombia
• 17 Lovely Things to Do in Villa de Leyva, Colombia
• Ultimate Guide to Providencia, Colombia: Must-Know Tips & Things to Do
• 30 Totally EPIC Things to Do in Bogota, Colombia (+ Travel Tips!)

Yes, Salento, Colombia is absolutely worth visiting. Of course, the main draw cards to Salento are hiking in the magnificent Valle de Corora and going on a coffee tour . But more than that, Salento is a cultural experience. You’ll play tejo, eat local food, and explore the town’s colorful streets. The nature is also incredible; waterfalls, exotic fauna, glamping, horseback riding, and other breathtaking experience await in Salento! Salento is touristy, to be sure. But there’s a reason why. Salento is a must-visit on your Colombia trip.

3 or 4 days is the perfect amount of time. That way, you’ll have plenty of time for all of the best things to do in Salento! Including hiking in Cocora , touring coffee farms , exploring the town, checking out the souvenir shops, admiring the wax palms, going birdwatching , hiking to waterfalls, and more. This guide details all of the best things to include in your Salento itinerary for 3 or 4 days.

This Salento travel guide details the best ways to get to Salento. In summary, you can take the bus to Armenia from other cities in Colombia, and then hop on another bus to Salento. Or, you can fly into Pereira or Armenia (both airports are about 1 hour away from Salento) and then take a bus or taxi to Salento. Once you arrive, get to exploring! This guide details what to do in Salento, from hiking in Corcora and touring coffee farms to waterfall hikes and traditional food.

You can fly into either Pereira or Armenia to get to Salento. Both airports are located about 1 hour away from Salento. It really just on the best fares and schedules you can find! From either airport, you can take the bus or a taxi to Salento. This website is my favorite for finding cheap airfare.

SAVE THIS POST ON PINTEREST FOR LATER!

When you book travel or purchase something through our links, we receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you ? Your support enables Maddy’s Avenue to keep producing helpful travel content. Thank you!

• Book a HOTEL : This is my favorite website for scoring amazing deals on accommodation worldwide – from luxe beach resorts to chic city stays, and everything in between.
• Shop my favorite TRAVEL GEAR : A collection of all of my must-have travel gear.
• Book a HOSTEL : If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the best website to score cheap hostel deals.
• Book a VACATION RENTAL : The best site for finding the perfect vacation rental for an unforgettable getaway.
• Purchase TRAVEL INSURANCE : Never go on a trip without travel insurance. If you travel regularly or are a remote worker, SafetyWing has an amazing monthly subscription for digital nomad insurance! I currently use SafetyWing .
• Book GUIDED TOURS & EXCURSIONS : Many of the tours I recommend are hosted with Viator, which works with local tour operators.
• Find CHEAP FLIGHTS : My favorite flight fare aggregator for finding the cheapest flights.
• Get an eSIM FOR YOUR PHONE : Instantly connect your phone up to a local data plan with an eSIM . It’s cheap and super easy!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. When you click through a link on this page and make a valid purchase, Maddy’s Avenue may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We only recommend products/services that we believe in and know you will love too. Your support enables us to continue making helpful travel content. Thank you for reading, and thank you for your support!

Join the adventure.

Be the first to know when new travels or recipes are published! Plus, gain FREE access to my Know-Before-You-Go Travel Guide!

About Maddy Cornelius

Hey! I'm the cook, world explorer, chief wordsmith, and photographer behind Maddy's Avenue. A California native, I've lived in many countries around the globe, but I'm currently traveling through Latin America. Slowly. Running two businesses. Livin' the "digital nomad" life. I’m here to learn, grow, and explore this planet - ever in search of bold flavors and epic adventures. My goal? To inspire you to live a bold life: to discover yourself and the world around you at greater depths – one forkful, or one plane ticket, at a time. Thanks for being here!

You’ll Also Love

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How to Take the Perfect Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid

Be the first to know when I publish new recipes or travel guides. Plus, gain FREE access to my Know-Before-You-Go Travel Guide!

Maddy's Avenue is here to inspire you to live a bold life : to discover yourself and the world around you at greater depths – one forkful, or one plane ticket, at a time. Learn more...

• About Maddy’s Avenue
• Terms & Disclosure
• Destinations
• Adventure Travel
• Digital Nomad Travel
• Luxury Travel
• Foodie Guides

Affiliate Disclosure

Maddy's Avenue shares affiliate links to recommend products we love and earn commissions from purchases you make. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more...

Copyright © 2024 Maddy's Avenue · Theme by 17th Avenue

You cannot copy content of this page.

16 Surprisingly Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide

• Last Updated: January 10, 2024

A comprehensive list of all the awesome things to do in Salento with a few that you probably never heard about.

Top 6 Things to do in Salento, Colombia:

• Hike in Cocora Valley
• Take a walk down the Callee Real
• Visit Coffee Factory
• Enjoy views from Mirador Alto De La Cruz
• Take a Willy Jeep ride to Finca
• Visit Aldea de Los Artisanos (The Artisan Village)

Salento is the best town to base yourself for exploring the Colombian coffee region, the so-called Eje Cafetero. Not only because it is a very beautiful, colourful town with tons of things to do but also because there are numerous tours and trips you can do from Salento to explore the region.

I actually extended my stay because I found Salento to be a great base to work, relax and enjoy this beautiful region of Colombia. So if you are not sure if Salento is worth visiting, wonder no more.

Salento is definitely more touristy than Jardin or Filandia. But there are so many awesome things to do in Salento as well as incredible day trips and hikes you could take like the Cocora Valley for example, that without a doubt Salento is one of the best towns to visit in the Coffee Triangle region of Colombia.

Salento has retained its colonial, old-world architecture and charm with a traditional feel and a very laid-back Colombian vibe. It is also very safe, also for solo female travellers, and packed full of Colombian magic.

So how many days do you need to explore Salento, Colombia?

I would suggest a minimum of 3 days if you want to hike the Cocora Valley and tour some traditional coffee fincas. But you could easily stay for a week and have something to do every single day.

If I managed to persuade you to stay in Salento for a few more days, here is the comprehensive list of all the cool things to do in Salento.

Exploring more of Colombia?

Here is my epic, totally adjustable Colombia itinerary for any type of traveller .  Also here you will find my complete guide to all the beaches on Colombia’s Caribbean coast . 

Heading towards the coast? You should check out Mendihuaca and Palomino and definitely spend two days trekking and swimming in Tayrona Park !

Table of Contents

16 Surprisingly Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia

Visit coffee factory / finca in salento..

You could not say you visited the Colombian coffee region if you didn’t witness the coffee-producing process in one of the traditional fincas.

There is at least one in most of the region’s towns, and Salento boasts at least four coffee factories worth visiting. You will learn about coffee growing and manufacturing processes, and of course, taste a sample of the best coffee.

You will be surprised to hear that this is a rare treat in Colombia, especially outside the coffee region. Coffee in Colombia, in general, isn’t of the best quality as the majority of Colombia’s best quality beans are exported.

Although good quality coffee is available in stores, most Colombians and coffee shops opt for the cheap brand. Hence usually, the coffee served on the street, in restaurants, and in hotels is of poor quality and often heavily sweetened to kill the sour taste. For the best coffee in Colombia, you will have to opt for a high-end coffee shop like Juan Valdes or take a coffee farm tour in Salento 🙂

What can you expect from a coffee tour in Salento, Colombia? Most of the tours offer a comprehensive introduction to the growing process of Colombian coffee. They take place on the little coffee farm, and you are shown the whole process from the growth of the beans all the way to drying and comparing ‘good’ and ‘bad’ coffee beans.

Many claim that this experience creates an inability to tolerate bad coffee moving forward, which I think is a good thing.

The best coffee farms to visit in Salento are Cafe Ocaso, Don Eduardo and Finca Momoto. I personally recommend Finca El Ocaso as you can combine this very highly-rated coffee tour with a fantastic hike. Finca El Ocaso is located 5km from the Salento centre, and a walk there is enjoyable and boasts some incredible vistas.

Drink some more coffee in the town of Salento

Luckily you can have a great coffee in the town of Salento as well. There are a few great, traditional looking and very quirky coffee shops in Salento. If you are normally drinking your coffee with milk, I suggest trying Tinto (black coffee) at least once. I have learnt to drink black coffee in Colombia and particularly enjoyed it in Salento as the coffee was simply excellent.

If you are a sucker for great views, make sure you visit the Botanica coffee shop near the Miraduro for sunset. 

Have a cup of delicious coffee at Jesus Martin coffee shop too! It is located just off the main square and is a go-to place for the best coffee in town. 

Stroll the colourful streets of Salento, including Calle Real (the Salento's main street)

Many pueblos in the Colombian coffee region have retained their traditional appearance and atmosphere. Men sitting in coffee shops wearing cowboy hats and sipping coffee from fancy china, traditional colourful buildings and street food, all spiced up by ever so present Colombian music.

You will simply fall in love with the vibe and charm of those towns. Salento is no different.

Take a walk down the Callee Real , where many coffee shops and restaurants are located as well as many artisan shops with some of the best artisan jewellery I have seen in a while. It was so hard for me to resist spending all my money there. Get lost along the colourful streets and snap some of the best Instagram-worthy photos.

Enjoy magnificent views from Miraduro de Salento

Head to the mirador just before the sunset; you will not regret it. One of the main attractions in the town of Salento is el Mirador Alto De La Cruz offering a wonderful view over the town.

Climb the steep steps to the top of the mirador, where you will find an ‘I love Salento’ sign. After snapping some photos, don’t go back the same way. Turn to the left and take a path down until you reach Mirador de Salento, where you will be able to enjoy the magnificent view of the mountains and valleys. Make sure you stay for the sunset!

Take a ride in Willy Jeep / A super fun thing to do in Salento

Willy Jeep is not only a symbolic vehicle of the Colombian coffee region but it has also been recognized as an official Colombian Cultural Heritage.

Willy jeeps were Used by American Army during the Second World War. After the war American army started selling them at a very attractive price in developing countries, including Colombia. The first Willys appeared in Colombia in 1946.

Colombian farmers and cafeteros appreciated them for their power and manoeuvrability and were used to transport goods, animals and passengers. The fully loaded jeeps hold the name of ‘Yipao’ (and the cargo is pretty impressive) and are also often called ‘mulas mecánicas’ (mechanical mules).

It is a lot of fun sitting in the jeep, and while in the coffee region of Colombia, you will be transported that way at least once. From Salento, this is the way to get to both Cocola Valley and Filandia.

There are around eight seats available for the passengers, but 2 or 3 of them are not actual seats as you will be standing at the back of the jeep. Make sure you don’t miss this fun activity and way of transportation.

Hike the spectacular Cocora Valley / The best thing to do in Salento

Visiting Cocora Valley is one of the best things to do in Salento and is often the main reason many travellers visit the town. And although it isn’t the only great thing about the region, it is undoubtedly one of the best. If you are a hiker, make sure you take on the full 5-hour loop hike. It is one of the best hikes I have done, and I hiked in Madeira, which is hard to beat.

This spectacular trail will take you into the forest, jungle, rivers, farmland, and of course, the tallest palm trees in the world.

It takes, on average, 5 hours to complete the hike, which includes many stops for photos. It can be pretty challenging at times but totally doable. I have met a whole family of 3 generations on the trek, so if you are at least moderately fit, you will greatly enjoy it!

This hike can be either done clockwise or counterclockwise. If you do it counterclockwise version, you will start with the more challenging climb and very easy walk down, ending up in the Wax Palm Valley. The counterclockwise option is usually the recommended one, yet I (as I do) did the opposite and really enjoyed it.

Don’t fancy walking for hours? No problem! You can also opt in for a shorter walk to Wax Palm Valley which would make around an hour-long visit and would be equally spectacular. The choice is yours, but it is definitely an unmissable attraction while visiting Salento.

The best app to use while hiking in Colombia and in the coffee region is   Maps. Me. I was new to this app and totally loved the simplicity of its interface.

Hike to the Santa Rita waterfall

There are many great hikes starting from Salento, Colombia, and a walk to Santa Rita waterfall is definitely one of them. I have not been blessed with the best weather during my stay in Salento, so I only managed to hike twice, and unfortunately, this particular one wasn’t one of them. But if I ever return, I will not miss out on the hike again. I have, however, been told that both the hike and the waterfall itself are fantastic, so if you manage to get a good clear day, try to fit it in.

If you crave some more mountain vibes you should not miss the magical Minca near Santa Marta – check out both of my travel guides!

But for the ultimate adventure take 3 days trip to Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas! This one can’t be missed!

Have a warming aguapanela 

It can get cold in the is part of Colombia. I wasn’t rewarded with the best weather during my three-week stay in the region, and towards the end of my Cocora Valley hike, the weather turned around pretty dramatically. By the time I came back to Salento, I was totally frozen. It was the time for  aguapanela . 

I am not a fan of sugary drinks, yet this was a godsent on that particular day. Colombians love their  aguapanela . 

Aguapanela  or agua de panela is a traditional and popular Colombian drink. It is made from panela (unrefined sugarcane), boiled at a high temperature, and then crystallized. This is added to hot water, often served with lemon and a piece of cheese on a side. It is kind of a Colombian tea drink. Great after a long day hiking 🙂

Eat Fresh Trout

In the coffee region of Colombia, you will not only drink the best coffee but eat the freshest trout. It is a signature dish, and a grilled trout is extra delicious. Usually served with rice and patacones, trout is a signature dish of the region. 

Try Obleas with arequipe 

And while we are on the topic of food – you need to try obleas with  arequipe . 

Salento was also the first place where I tried  arequipe . As I mentioned earlier, I don’t have a particularly sweet tooth, but something about Salento and the surrounding area made me crave sweets. So I tried the obleas (round waffles) filled with  arequipe . I will just say one thing – If you never try  arequipe in your life, your life will not be complete. 

PS. Many coffee shops also serve a carrot cake to die for!

Visit the Artisan Village (Aldea de Los Artisanos)

This is totally off-the-beaten-track thing to do in Salento and it is absolutely crazy that no one is talking about this place. I was lucky enough that I had been told about it by the owner of my hostel.

Aldea de Los Artisanos (The Artisan Village) is a small community located 10 minutes walk out of the town of Salento. You can learn how the artisans create their craft and buy some great handmade jewellery and artisan goods. But there is absolutely no pressure to purchase anything. 

Those guys will be more than happy to show you around, and all their workshops and display are held in their homes. This was a great experience, and as much as I resisted purchasing souvenirs in the town, I bought a necklace in one of the shops there, not only because it was beautiful but also because I wanted to support the local artists. 

The artisan town is beautifully set within the valleys and mountains of Salento, and the whole trip could be made in an hour. Please put it on your list!

Go bike riding or rent a quad bike.

I was surprised to see many folks coming to Salento specifically to take a mountain bike tour. It turned out that there are many trails suitable for off-road bike riding, so if this is something you love, do it in Salento. You can also rent a quad bike (only available with the guide) and take an off-road tour of the surrounding area. It is indeed a great and unusual way to explore this wonderful region.

Try Horseback riding

Horseback riding is very popular in the area of Salento, and the great news is that you can take a ride around Salento trails but also enjoy the Cocora Valley from a horse saddle.  Book your adventure here , and you will definitely have an unforgettable experience. I have passed many riders during my hike, and they have seemed to have a really great time!

Or Paragliding

Fancy some extreme sports? Paragliding in Salento is truly unforgettable! This beautiful land of mountains and valleys is spectacular from the land. Imagine seeing it all from the above! Just ask at your hostel or any local tour company and experience Salento from a different point of view. Literally.

Take a day trip to Filandia

I loved Filandia! It is one of the prettiest and most charming towns I have visited in Colombia. Not only it is extra colourful, full of awesome artisan shops and surrounded by incredible mountain views, but it also boasts some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in the area.

Make sure you take a day trip to Filandia during your stay in Salento, and when there, you cannot miss lunch in the restaurant Helena Adentro . The trout there was incredible, but all items on the menu looked fantastic, and this restaurant is now one of the most famous in the coffee region of Colombia. 

From Filandia, you can also make an excellent secret hike to  doble cascada  (double waterfall). And if instead of staying in Salento, you would prefer more off the beaten path base, Filandia could be just that!

Have a glass of wine and listen to life music in Cafe de Alma

In the evening, head to Cafe de Alma and relax while pondering over your daily adventures. The service and staff in this place are top class. They have live music most of the night and are very nice and reasonably priced (for Colombian standards) red wine.

I loved ending my day there. It is nicely located at the bottom of the viewpoint and a great spot for people watching. 

Where to stay in Salento, Colombia

Colombia is a great country to travel on a budget and stay in hostels and Salento is no different.

I stayed in Casa la Eliana , and I really enjoyed my stay. I actually booked a private room to give myself some ‘me-time and get work done. This hostel is lovely, with a great kitchen, outside garden, and friendly staff. I heard only great things about  Viajero Hostel , yet it was out of my budget, so I wasn’t able to check it out. 

I walked past and had a sneak peek into the  SOA Hostel , lovely located right at the edge of town, offering coworking space and loads of activities. If I ever return to Salento – I will definitely check it out!

Hostal Tralala  has great ratings and excellent prices, and  Yambolombia Hostel  seems to be very popular among travellers and backpackers.

Are you surprised that there are so many things to do in Salento? I was as well! I really didn’t expect this town will have so much to offer. Although very popular and touristy, especially on the weekends, Salento is a great place to base yourself in the Colombian coffee region for all the activities and for a great relaxed time.

Let me know what you think! And if you go, I will be looking forward to hearing your thought. Please comment below. And until then, happy travelling!

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you purchase the product or make a booking via one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Please know that I will never recommend or promote a product I don’t believe in or haven’t used. This way, you are supporting this blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

My favourite Travel Resources 

• For most of my accommodation, I use Bookings.com  and  Hostel World . With both booking platforms, you will often get free cancellations and access to tons of reviews. Read them! You will also get the most extensive selection of all types of accommodation. I hardly ever look elsewhere. If you are travelling in Asia – Agoda is definitely worth checking out!
• Make sure you download Google Maps and, for each new destination, download an offline map of your location and surrounding area. This way, even without the internet or Wi-Fi, you will be able to get to navigate around the town.

Moovit is also an excellent and very underrated travel and journey-planning app. It works great in many countries and will show you all possible routes by public transport, including the timetables.

For busses, I mainly use  Busbud  or  Omio  and  Flixbus to travel in Europe. 

123Go   — Great for tickets for trains, buses, ferries and charters in Southeast Asia! The best way to buy your ticket for the overnight Bangkok train! Rome2rio   – Another great journey-planning app. If your way of travel is mainly public transport  – you will use this app for sure!

 The travel insurance I use is Heymondo , and their plan suits me perfectly. They have clear policies with no deductibles, the price is excellent for what they offer and the price doesn’t go up when you are over 30 years old. They have a dedicated, easy-to-use app and free assistance calls.

I can get a cover for a month or three months and I know I can travel with peace of mind and get the best product for my money. And it also covers COVID-19.

Heymondo offers my readers 5% off so go ahead, and click on this link and your quote.

• I carry two debit cards with me. Given I don’t have a permanent country of residence,  Revolut  and Wise  work fantastically. In case one gets frozen, stolen or simply lost, I have a backup. The great thing about both cards is that you can freeze them straight from your phone and transfer money between them in case you need to. You will also get a great exchange rate and create separate foreign currency accounts. 
• I booked most of my tours via either  Get Your Guide  or  Viator . You can also book locally, but I advise you to ask around and follow the local recommendations. 

For more travel tips and recourses, visit Pati’s Travel Tips page!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow Me On Social Media

Hi, I’m Pati. A traveller, photographer (aspiring), dreamer and hopeless believer in magic. I caught the travel bug in my forties – and not planning to look back any time soon. I travel solo and on a budget and I try to spend as much time and effort as possible to truly immerse myself in the country I am visiting.

Whether you are like me and decided to change your life around a new dream or just wandering (because not all who wander are lost) – I am here to tell you that everything is possible. 

Recent Posts

Backpackers Guide to visiting Gjirocaster, Albania

Koh Tao on a Budget Complete Guide – Is Koh Tao Expensive?

Awesome Things To Do On Koh Tao Besides Diving

Best Areas to Stay in Krabi (Best Towns and Beaches in 2024)

• 10 Unmissable Things to Do in Salento, Colombia (+ Tips for Visiting)

Perched up on the mountains of the Colombian department of Quindío, the Andean town of Salento has a charm that sets it apart from anywhere else in the country.

The town is mostly known for being a gateway to the Cocora Valley, home of the tallest palm trees in the world, but there are also many other wonderful things to do in Salento that deserve some attention.

In this article, I will show you exactly what to do in Salento along with lots of foodie recommendations and some practical tips to make the most of your visit.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Map of the Top Things to Do in Salento

To make your life easier, I created a fully customized map that includes all the best places to visit in Salento marked with blue, the best places to eat and drink in Salento marked with yellow, and the best places to stay in Salento (green).

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Best Things to Do in Salento, Colombia

Hike in the cocora valley.

Cocora Valley is the one attraction that draws everyone to Salento. This dramatic landscape is dotted with the tallest wax palm trees in the world and towering summits in every direction.

To get to Cocora Valley, you have to take a Willy (a traditional jeep) from the main square. The first Willys typically leave around 6:30 am and then they run frequently through the day as they depart once a Willy is full (it usually means 8-10 people).

The ride takes around 30 minutes and costs 8,000 COP ($2 US) for a round trip. First, you need to get your tickets in a separate line, then wait for the next available Willy in another line.

After arriving at Cocora Valley, you can decide whether you want to do the full loop which is 12 km and takes around 4-6 hours, or if you just want to do a shorter version of the hike.

You have to start counter-clockwise and after you reach Mirador 1 and Mirador 2 (the two best viewpoints along the hike), you can either continue along the loop or take a shortcut that will lead you back to the starting point.

The full loop is considered moderate to difficult and takes you through different landscapes from cloud forests to pastures with cows and crossing rivers. The shorter version is roughly 5 km and it’s much easier but still gives you a glimpse of the incredible scenery.

Since it rained a lot in the last couple of days when we visited, we decided to skip the longer hike and just do the shorter one.

To be honest with you, I think it was more than enough. The shorter version includes the best views and you still get to admire the wax palm trees up close. Needless to say, seeing these palm trees was definitely one of the highlights during our 2 weeks in Colombia !

Entrance to Cocora Valley costs 6,000 COP ($1.50 US) and if you want to do the full loop, there’s another 5,000 COP ($1.30 US) to pay along the way. You can also join a guided trek in the Cocora Valley if you don’t want to do it on your own.

Saddle up and go horseback riding

If you’d rather explore Cocora Valley from a different perspective, why not go horseback riding? It’s one of the most unique things to do in Salento and it allows you to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time.

There are several horseback riding tours available, from short 2-hour rides to full-day adventures. You can also choose to ride through the Cocora Valley or explore other areas nearby such as coffee plantations, rivers, and waterfalls.

Whatever you choose, it’s a great way to experience the beauty of Salento and its surroundings.

The cost of a horseback riding tour varies depending on the length and destination, but most tours are between 30,000-100,000 COP ($8-25 US) per person.

Tour a coffee farm 

If you’re a coffee lover like me, the one thing you definitely have to do in Salento is visit a coffee farm.

It’s no secret that Salento has a thriving coffee scene because of its location on Colombia’s famous ‘Coffee Triangle,’ which is made up of three departments: Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindío. 

The Coffee Triangle spreads across a line from south to north of the central mountain and is known for producing the vast majority of the country’s coffee.

There are many coffee farms you can visit in Salento, most of them are located on the same winding road southwest of the town. Even the closest one is a 45-minute walk from the center, so it’s better to take a Willy ride.

Just like when going to Cocora Valley, you can take a Willy from the main square where you can also buy your entrance ticket to the coffee farm.

The most popular options are Finca Buenos Aires , Las Acacias Coffee Farm , Finca El Ocaso Salento , Finca De Don Elias , and Coffe Farm El Recuerdo .

We chose to visit Finca Buenos Aires and it was an unforgettable experience. Our guide, Mauricio was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about coffee, and we learned so much about the process of growing and roasting coffee.

Plus as we were the only two people opting for the English tour, we ended up having a private tour for the same price as a group tour (30,000 COP/$8 US per person).

The tour takes around 1.5 hours and includes a walk through the coffee plantation, learning about the different varieties of coffee beans, and seeing how they are processed and roasted. Of course, you also get to taste some delicious freshly brewed coffee at the end.

Another great thing about Finca Buenos Aires is that they are the furthest coffee farm from Salento. This means that on the way, you will be the first one to board the Willy (since you will be the last one to leave) and have a higher chance of getting a seat for the bumpy ride.

Since Finca Buenos Aires is the last stop, it also means that it’s the first stop on the return journey, so you will definitely have a seat on the way back as well.

If the Willy gets full anywhere along the way they won’t be able to pick up anyone else, so if you choose to visit a closer coffee farm you might have to wait for the next Willy.

Take in the views at Mirador de Salento & Mirador Alto de La Cruz

After all the hiking, horseback riding, and coffee tasting, you might want to take a break and just enjoy the stunning views of Salento.

The two best places to do this are Mirador de Salento and Mirador Alto de La Cruz. They are located right next to each other so once you make it to the top, you can easily visit both viewpoints.

To get to the Mirador Alto de La Cruz, you will have to walk up a steep staircase with more than 200 steps. It’s definitely a workout, but the view from the top is so worth it! You can see the entire town of Salento and its surroundings.

Mirador de Salento can be reached by following the steep Carrera 4 street. There’s a roofed viewing platform where you can take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The view is totally out of this world!

As I mentioned, you can walk between these two viewpoints. I recommend taking Carrera 4 on the way up to Mirador de Salento, walking over to Mirador Alto de La Cruz, and then taking the stairs down back to the town.

Of course, you can also do it the other way around, I just think it’s a little bit easier this way.

Both viewpoints are free to visit and open all day, but the best time for the views is at sunrise or sunset.

If you happen to be visiting in the morning, you can stop for breakfast at one of my favorite cafes, Coco Bowl, which is located at the lower end of the stairs leading to Mirador Alto de La Cruz.

People-watch at Plaza de Bolivar

I would describe Plaza de Bolivar as the beating heart of Salento, it’s where all the action is. This bustling square is right in the town’s center and is surrounded by quaint colonial buildings, a gorgeous church, beautiful flower beds, and cafes and restaurants.

The vibe around Plaza de Bolivar is unmatched, there’s so much color from the pretty infrastructure, plenty of fresh street food to be sampled from the vendors and gangs of locals out for their daily walks.

There are some sights to see at Plaza de Bolivar, like the Lady of the Carmen Church and the statue of Simon Bolivar. You won’t have to pay an entry fee to see either, but beware that the church will be busy during prayer times.

Photograph the colors of Calle Real

A stroll up Calle Real is a must-do for every visitor coming to Salento. It’s the town’s main street, lined with multi-colored houses and small handicraft stores.

Calle Real does get quite busy, especially on the weekends. The street isn’t hugely wide, so you can feel crammed when the crowds are out. If you can, I would definitely recommend going for a stroll in the early morning hours when most of the people are still asleep.

Another huge perk of visiting Calle Real early is that the doors on the multi-colored houses are closed, which means you get to see them in their full beauty.

But, after 9 am, they open up into shops, so if you want to do some shopping, you might want to hold back until then.

Join a game of Tejo

Give yourself a break from the sightseeing and indulge in a game of Tejo, Colombia’s national sport!

The game comes from Colombia’s indigenous people and involves throwing a small metal disk in the center of a ring to try to hit gunpowder-filled targets to try to make them explode. Plus, there’s a lot of beer drinking involved in between rounds.

In Salento, the best place to play Tejo is at Los Amigos , which is only a five-minute walk from the main square. All you have to do is ask the person at the bar if you can play. They’ll teach you the rules, and you get started.

Hike to Santa Rita Waterfall

Another one of the best things to do in Sarento is hiking to the tranquil Santa Rita Waterfall. 

Not many tourists venture out to see this beautiful waterfall but if you love off-the-beaten places, then this is a must-do activity!

The trailhead is located a bit out of town, so your best bet is to catch a bus at the local bus station. Look for buses heading to Pereira or Armenia and ask the driver to drop you off at Santa Rita Waterfall (Santa Rita la Cascada).

If they are not familiar with the name, ask to be dropped off at the yellow bridge (you can find it as Puente Metalico on Google Maps), it’s essentially the same place!

It’s only a 10-minute drive from Salento and from the bridge, it takes around 20-25 minutes to get to the entrance of Santa Rita.

You’ll have to pay a small entrance fee of 7,000 COP ($1.8. US) but this gives you access to the whole area consisting of multiple waterfalls, a dark cave, and even a natural pool. If you want to take a dip, don’t forget to pack your swimsuits!

There are various hiking trails you can follow so depending on how much time you have, you can choose one that suits your plan.

We decided to skip the most difficult part of the trail as it was raining a lot the previous night and the trail was pretty muddy and slippery. But we still visited Santa Rita waterfall, the natural pool, and the Barranquero waterfall which were all amazing!

We spent about 2.5 hours exploring the area, taking photos, and relaxing by the waterfalls before heading back to Salento (not counting the bus ride and the walk to the entrance). It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip!

Visit the nearby town of Filandia

If you want to take a break from Salento and explore somewhere new nearby, consider visiting the charming town of Filandia. It’s only a 40-minute drive between the two and easily doable.

Filandia is less popular than Salento because there are fewer things to do there, but don’t let that discourage you, the beauty of this little mountainside town makes up for it.

There’s such a chill atmosphere in Filandia, life is at a much slower pace than in Salento, and it’s nowhere near as busy. You’ll find plenty of cozy coffeehouses, colonial buildings, and friendly locals willing to share their way of life.

Some of the main sights in Filandia include the Mirador Colina Viewpoint, Mirador Del Tiempo Detenido, the Centro De Interpretacion handicraft museum, and Iglesia María Inmaculada.

Sample the local cuisine 

Colombian food is some of my favorite, and there’s no better place to try than Salento. You can find all kinds of little eateries selling famous bites and local delicacies all over town. It’s a pure dream for foodies!

Here are some of my favorite dishes you absolutely have to try:

• Trucha is a popular dish in Salento, considering the town’s proximity to trout-filled streams. It’s typically served with rice, patacones (fried plantains), and salad.
• Arepas de choclo is a traditional Colombian snack made from cornmeal dough and filled with cheese. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a perfect snack while exploring Salento.
• Tamales are another must-try in Colombia, and you can find some of the best ones in Salento. They’re made from corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
• Ajiaco is a hearty soup dish made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and guascas (a local herb). It’s perfect for chilly days in Salento and is often served with avocado and rice on the side.
• And of course, no trip to Colombia is complete without trying their famous coffee! Salento has plenty of cute coffee shops where you can sample some freshly brewed Colombian coffee while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Where to Eat & Drink in Salento

Talking about food, I wanted to mention a few of our favorite places to eat and drink in Salento. Salento may not be the biggest town in Colombia, but it sure has some delicious options!

Here are some of my recommendations:

• Brunch de Salento – A hole-in-the-wall brunch spot with lots of options like tacos, burritos, and desserts. You can also get a takeaway breakfast if you’re planning an early morning adventure!
• Beta Town Restaurant – An indoor and outdoor restaurant serving a mix of Colombian and typical Western specialties. We actually stayed at their hotel as well and absolutely loved it.
• Café Jesús Martín – One of the best cafes in Salento, serving delicious coffee and tasty desserts and sandwiches.
• Coco Bowl – This cute vegan restaurant is located right at the foot of the stairway leading up to the Mirador Alto de la Cruz and they have the most amazing smoothie bowls.
• Restaurante Cocina y Horno Salento – A traditional Colombian eatery close to Bolivar Square offering everything from trout to bandeja paisa.
• El Cacharrito – A delicious burger bar with all kinds of combos to satisfy your cravings. They even have veggie options, too.

Useful Info for Visiting Salento

Where to stay in salento.

Salento is a pretty small town, so you won’t find any big chain hotels here. Instead, there are plenty of cozy guesthouses, boutique hotels, and hostels to choose from, each with its own unique charm.

For such a small town, there are a surprising number of options, so it all depends on your budget and preferences.

Most of the accommodations are located within the town itself, but you can also find some more secluded options in the surrounding countryside.

Some of my recommendations include:

• Beta Hotel – A beautiful and cozy hotel located a short walk from the town center with great service and delicious food. This is where we stayed during our visit and absolutely loved it.
• Hotel El Mirador del Cocora – Located at the edge of the town with breathtaking views of the Cocora Valley, this hotel is perfect for nature lovers looking for a quiet and peaceful stay.
• Panorama Salento by DOT Boutique – A new, modern, and stylish hotel with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s also located close to all the main attractions in Salento.
• The Corner House Hostel – The top-rated hostel in town and also one of the cheapest options. It’s located just a corner away from the main square and has a great social atmosphere.
• Glamping Lumbre – If you want to try glamping in Colombia , this is the perfect place. Located close to the entrance of Cocora Valley, it offers luxurious tents with insane views.

How to get to Salento

Although Salento doesn’t have its own airport, flying to one of the nearby airports is still the most convenient way to get there.

The two closest airports are Pereira (PEI) and Armenia (AXM), both of which are about an hour’s drive away from Salento.

From the airport, you can either take a taxi or a bus to get to Salento. Buses from Armenia typically leave every 20 minutes but you will need to take a taxi to the bus station from the airport first.

We flew to Armenia but since the bus station is a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport and Salento is 1 hour, we decided to take a taxi directly from the airport which cost us about 120,000 COP ($30 US).

The bus from Pereira doesn’t leave that frequently and there are only 5 buses per day so make sure to check the schedule beforehand. If you fly to this airport, getting a taxi directly from the airport is probably your best option.

Another option is taking a bus directly from major cities in Colombia such as Bogotá, Medellín, or Cali. However, keep in mind that the journey can be quite long and may require transfers, so it’s best to plan ahead.

One of the most popular options is to take an overnight bus from Bogotá or Medellín. This way, you can save time and money on accommodation while getting to Salento.

The main bus terminal in Salento is just outside the center of town, so you can easily walk to your accommodation from there.

Best time to visit Salento

To really get the most out of your trip to Salento, you should visit between December and February.

This is when the town gets its least amount of rainfall, but be warned, in January, Colombians are known to take their holidays, so it can get crowded there.

Another thing to note is that the town celebrates its anniversary on the 5th of January. The festival takes place on the weekend closest to the 5th and it’s a great time to visit if you want to experience traditional Colombian culture and celebrations.

However, it also means that the town will be crazy busy, and getting in and out of town will be a nightmare. We didn’t know about this festival beforehand and accidentally ended up in Salento during that weekend. It was really chaotic!

Also, visiting during the dry season doesn’t mean that it won’t rain at all. Be prepared for occasional showers and pack a poncho or umbrella just in case.

Even though we visited in January we had heavy rainfalls every afternoon which limited our outdoor activities. Luckily we had some extra days in our Colombia itinerary so we still managed to see and do everything on our list.

How to get around Salento

Salento is a very walkable town due to its small size. If you’re going anywhere within the locality, you can do so by foot.

If you want to visit some attractions outside of town such as Cocora Valley or the coffee farms, you can either take a jeep (Willy) or rent a private car. Jeeps leave from the main square and go to different destinations in the area.

Horse rides are also available in town if you really want to ride around in style. They can be taken for short journeys or full-day tours, depending on your preference.

Planning a trip to Colombia?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Colombia. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Ultimate 2 Weeks in Colombia Itinerary
• 3 Days in Cartagena: The Perfect Cartagena Itinerary for First-Timers
• 18 Best Things to Do in Cartagena You Can’t Miss
• Where to Stay in Cartagena: 6 Best Areas & Hotels
• How to Spend 3 Days in Bogota: The Ultimate Bogota Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Bogota: 5 Best Areas & Hotels
• 3 Days in Medellin: The Perfect Medellin Itinerary for First Timers
• Top 20 Things to Do in Medellin You Absolutely Can’t Miss
• 13 Best Things to Do in Guatape, Colombia
• Luxury Glamping in Guatape: Bosko Hotel Review
• Glamping in Colombia: 17 Stunning Bubbles & Luxury Tents to Book

Pin It for Later!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Salento Colombia: Ultimate Guide (Things to do, Where to Stay & How to get to Quindío’s Prettiest Town)

At the heart of the country’s famous coffee region and surrounded by the world’s tallest palm trees is Salento Colombia. This small town in the foothills of the Andes is one of the most beautiful in the country.

With vibrantly painted buildings and timeless colonial architecture, Salento in Quindío attracts thousands of visitors every year. While many come for the most popular attractions, there are plenty more things to do in Salento and you can easily stay for a fun-packed few days.

If you’re planning to visit, then you can be sure this ultimate Salento travel guide answers all your questions. From how to get to Salento, what to do in Salento and even where to do laundry!

Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a qualifying purchase.

Where is Salento, Colombia?

Salento is a relatively small town located in the central Colombian region of Quindío . The nearest cities are Armenia and Pereira, both within an hour’s drive of Salento.

Additionally, the town is located almost an equal distance from 3 of Colombia’s biggest cities, Bogotá, Medellín and Cali.

While the distances between these cities and Salento are not huge (200 to 300 km). The journey takes many hours due to poor road conditions and maintenance work.

What is Salento Colombia known for?

Despite having a lot to offer, Salento is pretty much known for only two things . The lush landscapes and palm trees of the Cocora Valley . And the countless farms producing world-class coffee .

But of course, you’ll find more than that in beautiful Salento . Nature activities, international restaurants and cafes and cool bars. Plus, sitting at an altitude of almost 1900 metres, the weather is pretty mild. Expect warm days, cool nights and plenty of rainy days.

Best Things to do in Salento, Quindío

Whether you’re a foodie or an adrenaline junkie, there’s something for everyone here. Take your pick from these 11 great things to do in Salento…

Enjoy a scenic Cocora Valley Hike

Home to the world’s tallest palm trees , the Cocora Valley – or Valle de Cocora – is simply stunning.

Reaching heights of up to 60 metres, the palm trees look spectacular among low clouds and the mountainous backdrop. A walk here is one of the most popular hikes in Colombia .

To visit by yourself, take a Willy Jeep from the main square in Salento for 8000 COP for a return ticket . The first jeep leaves at 6.30 am and then every hour thereafter.

Or you can take a tour with a local guide to accompany you on the hike.

To hike through the valley, you need to follow the road from the jeep drop-off point for around 5 minutes. You’ll pay the entrance fee of 20,000 COP and have the choice of two main routes.

The first route (shown with the red and blue arrows in the image below) takes you to two viewpoints.

The second option is to complete the full 12 km route, which takes around 4 to 5 hours. If you do this route, you’ll also have to pay an extra 6000 COP at the end of the hike.

It’s important to note, that the trees are mostly growing along the first 2 km of the trail. As shown in the picture, after this point you’ll see far fewer trees but nevertheless still incredible scenery.

Climb to the Town’s Viewpoint (Mirador Alto de la Cruz)

Located at the eastern end of Calle Real – the main street in Salento – is the town’s best viewpoint.

While not the most spectacular view, it’s an easy and short walk up the steps to reach the overlook of Mirador Alto de la Cruz . The best time to go is at sunset or anytime when there isn’t rain or low clouds.

Visit a Coffee Farm

If you’re in Colombia’s coffee triangle – a large area where the best of the country’s coffee is grown – a trip to a farm is a must-do. Also known as fincas, you not only get to try different coffees but also see and participate in the whole farming process .

Most of the fincas are located southwest of Salento, just a short jeep ride away. Jeeps run from the main square to all the fincas throughout the day, mostly to coincide with the tour times.

Head to the small hut in the square to check the times and prices for the farm you want to visit. In fact, you can buy your tour tickets from here too.

The bigger farms offer tours in English and Spanish , often with a choice of a standard or premium tour. I opted for the premium Salento coffee tour at Finca El Ocaso , which lasted around 3 hours.

During that time, I picked coffee cherries, learnt about the process from farm to cup and got to try Colombian coffee at the end. I booked through WhatsApp in English and the staff were very helpful.

Browse the small shops on Calle Real

Salento’s busiest and most colourful street is lined with shops. Whether you’re in the market for a gift for yourself or a loved one, there are plenty of souvenirs to choose from. Jewellery, clothes, trinkets and much more.

Enjoy the Town’s Cafe Culture and coffee shops

Salento, Quindío has its share of rainy days. And, there’s nowhere better to hide from the rain than a cosy café.

Grab yourself a coffee, brewed in a manner of your choosing, as well as pastries, pancakes, sandwiches and the like. Café Jesús Martín near the town square was my favourite!

Play Tejo – Colombia’s Explosive Sport

Tejo is the most explosive sport in South America , quite literally.

No trip to Colombia is complete without a game of tejo. Which involves throwing rocks or metal spheres at envelopes of gunpowder .

In Salento, the go-to place for tejo is Los Amigos Bar , just a few blocks from the main square. If you’re travelling alone, most hostels do organise trips here or just tag on to another group.

Walk to the Santa Rita Waterfall

Located just north of Salento, this beautiful waterfall can be reached in a couple of ways.

The first option is to take a jeep for 1500 COP followed by a 15-minute walk to the trailhead.

Alternatively, you can walk from Salento . This way you can either walk along the roads for free or through coffee farms where you pay a small fee (around 5000 COP) for crossing private land.

The entrance fee for Santa Rita Waterfall is 10,000 COP . And you can spend a couple of hours walking the trails and seeing one of Colombia’s coolest waterfalls .

Join a Multi-Day Trek through the Los Nevados National Park

If the Cocora Valley wasn’t enough hiking for you, then the nearby Los Nevados National Natural Park has more trails than you could wish for ! Salento is a popular base for trips into the national park, so it’s easy to find others also heading here.

A few one-day hikes exist, but the park is most popular for longer treks. Whether it’s hot springs or 5000-metre-tall mountains, the treks are challenging.

The tourist information office in Salento’s main square can give you more information on open passes, current conditions and best options.

Avoid the crowds and visit La Carbonera to see the Palm Trees

Most visitors are attracted to Salento by the Cocora Valley, which is growing in popularity year after year. However, on weekends and national holidays, the valley can be flooded with visitors. The Instagram parks full of props for the perfect photo don’t help either.

A little-known alternative to the Cocora Valley is La Carbonara . Here, there are as many (if not more) palm trees and far, far fewer people .

You can take a jeep from the main square in Salento Colombia. However, you may need to request this in advance and pay for the whole jeep if there aren’t many passengers.

Spend a day visiting nearby Filandia

Filandia is a smaller, less well-known version of Salento. And, it’s perfect for a day trip .

The streets are equally as brightly painted with colonial architecture . There are great restaurants and cafes, beautiful surrounding countryside and small-town vibes.

Like Salento, it is busiest on the weekends. So head here during the week to really feel the magic of Filandia.

Go Paragliding and see Salento from Above

Get a bird’s eye view of Salento by paragliding over the coffee region.

Although not as popular as in Medellin or San Gil , you’re sure to get an incredible view on a tandem flight. The entire coffee region is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, honouring its importance in the country.

Although you can book online through third-party sites, for the best price book through your hostel or a tour agency in Salento, Quindío. It’s certainly a unique thing to do in Salento…

Where to Stay in Salento

As one of the most popular towns in Colombia, Salento attracts visitors from far and wide. As such, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets, group sizes, preferences and more.

The hotels vary from cheap and cheerful to stunning luxury. And, the hostels – which are popular with backpackers – have incredible facilities and high standards.

MY TOP PICKS:

NICE HOTEL: El Mirador del Cocora BUDGET OPTION: Hostal La Casa De Lili SOCIAL HOSTEL: Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel

Hotels in Salento Colombia

• Did someone say bathtub on the balcony?! Ok, so maybe not every room at Hotel El Mirador del Cocora has a bath or hot tub on the balcony , but those that do are worth it! 100 USD for a double room, terrace, mountain view and whirlpool AND breakfast – I know where I’ll be staying in Salento next time! And even the cheaper rooms are beautiful, spacious, comfortable and well-decorated. Check availability on Booking.com .
• Another luxury option with bungalows, hot tubs, hammocks and beautiful rooms is Hotel Kawa Mountain Retreat . Combine the best of a close location to the town with panoramic mountain views. Rooms sleep up to 3 adults and 1 child. See prices and availability on Booking.com .
• For cheap, cheerful and comfortable , Hostal La Casa De Lili is your go-to option just a couple of blocks from the main square. With rooms to sleep up to 6 people, this hotel has everything you need for a short stay. Check availability for your dates on Booking.com .

Hostels in Salento

• Viajero is a popular hostel chain with locations across Latin America. Viajero Salento is a common choice for backpackers . Offering beautiful views, beautiful rooms and plenty of activities , there’s everything you need for your time in Salento. Book on Hostelworld or Booking.com .
• Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel is another large and popular hostel not far from the centre of town. With stunning decor in both the private rooms and dorms as well as well-designed communal spaces , you won’t be in a hurry to leave! Check availability for your travel dates on Hostelworld or Booking.com .
• Located opposite the bus station, Cattleya Trianae is a small, independently-run hostel with low prices and comfortable rooms . It is the only hostel I’ve ever stayed in that has a walk-in wardrobe, a luxury I’ve never even had at home! Check prices and availability on Hostelworld .

How many days do you need in Salento?

3 to 4 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Salento.

There’s so much to do and you’ll have travelled pretty far to get here and will travel pretty far to your next destination.

In 2 days you could still see the best of the town. While 1 day would mean picking only one or two things to do.

The 5 nights I spent in Salento, Quindío is longer than probably 95% of people. But it meant I had a duvet day when it didn’t stop raining one day and I got to see the town both busy on the weekend and quiet during the week.

How to get to Salento Colombia 

Despite there only being a couple of direct options, it’s pretty easy to get to Salento from most cities in the southern and central parts of Colombia. Bogotá, Medellín, Neiva and Cali amongst others are in easy reach.

Bogotá to Salento

To get from Bogotá to Salento , you first need to travel to the city of Armenia . There are two options for this, either flying or taking a bus.

Firstly, a handful of direct flights operate from Bogotá to Armenia every day taking just 1 hour. Check out prices for your travel dates on Skyscanner .

However, the cost can start to add up once you add baggage . Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost and time of getting to Bogotá Airport and from Armenia Airport to Salento.

The second option is cheaper but more time-consuming – take a large coach-style bus from Bogotá to Armenia. Followed by a local bus or taxi to Salento

Bogotá to Armenia

Advertised as taking 8 hours , long-term roadworks near Armenia where they are building a road through the mountains, mean this can easily become 9 or 10 hours .

You have the choice of morning departures – arriving in Armenia by early evening. Or, night buses that arrive in Armenia around 5 to 7 am.

Tickets from Bogotá to Armenia can be purchased at the bus station. Or, more simply booked online in English. Check the prices and availability of bus tickets for your travel dates online across all companies.

Armenia to Salento

Buses to Salento, Quindío leave from just outside Armenia Bus Station in the south of the city.

These are small buses and you pay for your ticket (5500 COP per person) on the bus. The journey takes around 45 minutes.

Another option is to take a taxi from Armenia to Salento . This is essential for those arriving early or late in the day when the buses aren’t running.

But taking a taxi is also convenient with a hotel drop-off in Salento rather than having to walk the hills with your luggage.

Ibagué to Salento

I don’t think Ibagué makes it onto the itinerary for many backpackers. But, after spending 4 nights in the Tatacoa Desert surrounded by bugs and mud, I was desperate for a nice hotel. And, Ibagué was the most on-the-route place that had while still making sure we were heading towards Salento.

The hotel ( Sonesta Ibagué ) was dreamy with a rooftop pool, steam room and sauna .

As well as the COMFIEST bed I’ve ever experienced. I literally have a photo of the mattress to show a salesman for when I’m in the market for one for my future house! A sad but true anecdote …

But, staying in Ibagué also broke up the long journey from the desert to Salento. From Ibagué Bus Station, there are departures to Armenia all throughout the day costing around 40,000 COP per person. You can book these tickets online , which is especially handy if you prefer to organise your travel in advance.

And, from there, you can take the local bus from Armenia to Salento for 5500 COP each. The total journey time should be around 4 hours.

There are substantial roadworks between Ibagué and Armenia, which can sometimes cause delays. So do make sure you have snacks, podcasts, TV downloaded etc.

Neiva to Salento (from the Tatacoa Desert)

Another reason for staying in Ibagué after visiting the desert was that the direct connections from Neiva to Armenia left at really awkward times of the day .

Although the journey is not particularly long by Colombian standards, the buses all leave in the evening or in the middle of the night. And, given the journey takes around 6 hours , it’s a bit too short for a night bus.

If you’re staying in the Tatacoa Desert or in Villavieja, you’ll first need to take a van or jeep to Neiva .

These leave from the small square on the western side of the town costing 10,000 COP per person and drop you off at Neiva Bus Station.

To avoid the less-than-ideal departure times direct to Armenia, it’s easiest to travel via Ibagué . Use Coomotor or Taxis Verdes (yes, it’s a bus company, not a taxi!).

• Neiva to Ibagué : Around 40,000 COP, 3.5 hours – CHECK PRICES & BUY
• Ibagué to Armenia: Around 40,000 COP, 3 hours – CHECK PRICES & BOOK
• Armenia to Salento: 5500 COP, 45 minutes (last bus 8 pm)

Cali to Salento

The home of salsa dancing, Cali is a popular place for international visitors to come and learn to dance. Most people travel Colombia in a U-shape starting or ending in Bogotá. So, if you’re heading north from Cali, the best next stop is Salento.

Buses run throughout the day from Cali to Armenia , taking around 3 to 4 hours and costing around 40,000 COP.

In Armenia, jump on the local bus to Salento for 5500 COP per person. And, 45 minutes later, you’ll have made it to this bright and colourful mountain town!

Popayán to Salento

Although not the most popular destination in Colombia, the colonial architecture and beautiful buildings still attract plenty of visitors. The introduction of direct services from Popayán to Armenia means that you no longer need to change in Cali.

Small 12-seater buses run between Popayán and Armenia , taking approximately 6.5 hours.

These services cost 65,000 COP per person and tickets can be bought at Popayán Bus Terminal. From Armenia take a similarly small bus to Salento for 5500 COP for the 45-minute journey.

San Agustín to Salento

The journey from San Agustín to Salento is long . In fact, it’s one I’d recommend breaking up with a stop elsewhere such as Popayán, Cali or the Tatacoa Desert.

Because ultimately, the quickest journey from San Agustín to Salento is going to take you via at least one of these places. And, probably isn’t doable all in one day on public transport .

I wouldn’t recommend travelling from San Agustín to Salento in one day, but if you need to, here’s how…

One option is to first take a bus to Popayán. This leg alone will take around 4 to 5 hours. From here, you’ll need to take a 6.5-hour bus to Armenia, followed by a 45-minute bus from Armenia to Salento.

The last bus leaves Armenia for Salento at 8 pm – after this time, you’ll need to take a taxi. With the likelihood of delays, it might be worth spending a night in Popayán.

Another option is to travel from San Agustín to Neiva. Coomotor operates large coaches on this 6-hour route. From Neiva, you can travel directly or via Ibagué to Armenia (6 to 7 hours), then switch to the local bus from Armenia to Salento (45 minutes).

Medellín to Salento

The journey from Medellín to Salento is one of many possibilities – as is Salento to Medellín. And, picking from these is probably going to depend mostly on your budget and time constraints.

The first option is to fly from Medellín to Armenia , taking just 50 minutes in the air.

However, both Medellín and Armenia Airports are located outside of the city. So, as well as the cost of the flight and baggage , you’ll also need to consider taxi fares on both sides – or more time-consuming buses.

Find the best prices and the best dates with flight comparison sites like Skyscanner!

Make sure you use tools such as ‘Add nearby airports’ and set your departure airport as wide as possible (you can just put the United States or Colombia, for example) to see the cheapest places to fly from! Check prices for your trip here…

Alternatively, you can travel by road . Direct services by bus from Medellín to Salento operate 3 times a day from the south bus station.

These small, 18-seater buses (no toilets, bags possibly on the roof) leave at 9.15 am, 1.30 pm and 8.30 pm costing 70,000 COP. With an advertised journey time of 8 hours, these services should arrive at 5.15 pm, 9.30 pm and 4.30 am, respectively.

Bus via Armenia or Pereira

Another option is to take a bus from Medellín to Salento via either Pereira or Armenia – the closest cities to Salento. This is on large, intercity coaches with toilets and luggage storage underneath

Tickets from Medell í n to Armenia can be booked online in advance – no visit to the bus station needed.

As can tickets for Medell í n to Pereira , allowing you to plan your travel day in advance and not have to worry about services being full.

From both of these, you can take local services to Salento in under an hour.

The last bus from Pereira to Salento is at 6.30 pm and from Armenia is at 8 pm. Services are more regular from Armenia to Salento, but Pereira is around an hour closer to Medellín. After this time, you’ll need a taxi.

Prepare for Delays

Importantly, the road conditions between Medellín and Salento are pretty poor . Landslides are common and roadworks are almost endless, especially in the first 100 km south of Medellín.

My journey from Armenia to Medellín was delayed over 2.5 hours due to traffic and diversions. But, I know people who experienced even longer delays.

While there’s nothing you can do about the traffic itself, I recommend making good preparations.

Bring plenty of snacks and drinks and wear comfortable clothes and an extra layer for if it’s cold. Plus, it’s a good idea to travel on the larger coach-style buses that have toilets.

Is Salento Colombia worth it?

Absolutely! People tend to come to Salento for two reasons: coffee and palm trees .

Colombia’s coffee region is world-famous and visiting a coffee farm – with tastings of course – is not to be missed!

While the almost equally famous Cocora Valley with its sky-high wax palms and easy-to-follow hiking trail is a popular destination. So if one or both of these sound like your idea of a good time, Salento is totally worth visiting – because it also has so much more to offer!

Best Places to Eat

Salento might be a small town but it’s packed with plenty of options for eating and drinking out .

So whether it’s local Colombian food or European-inspired, home comfort food, there’s something for you. Being a popular spot with international tourists, there are also plenty of vegetarian options including exclusively veggie places.

On evenings and weekends, the main square fills with pop-up food stalls and food trucks . These mostly offer local food at very affordable prices, perfect for grabbing a quick bite to eat.

My top picks are:

• Wabi Asian Kitchen (Japaense)
• El Cacharrito (burgers)
• Somevi Pizzeria (pizza)
• Camino Real Parrilla Bar (something for everyone)
• Restaurante MERAKI (something for everyone)

For coffee, breakfast or brunch, Café Jesús Martín is one of the best cafes around with tasty food and highly-rated coffee.

Although there is no big supermarket like Exito, for a fairly short stay you should be able to get everything you need in the town.

Head to Supercocora Salento (the town’s biggest supermarket) for cooking and snacking essentials. Use local shops for fresh fruit and vegetables and tiendas for drinks, snacks, cigarettes, beers, etc.

Almost all of the ATMs in Salento Colombia can be found around the main square. For those using cards such as Monzo, Starling or Revolut, go to the Davivienda for fee-free withdrawals .

You’ll find this Davivienda ATM on the northeast corner of the square in a small setback area.

It’s not easily noticeable from the outside. But, it’s the third door to the right from the corner with a small Davivienda sign above the door and is next to Ventanilla Salento – which has much bigger signs!

Laundry in Salento

Lavandería Yola (also called Lavadaria Yola) offers a cheap and quick laundry service. Charging 5000 COP per kg of washing, you’ll generally get your clothes back the next day clean and folded.

What to wear?

The variable weather in this part of Colombia is what makes it great for coffee farming and growing tall trees. But packing for somewhere that has 3 seasons’ worth of weather in 1 day can be challenging !

Generally speaking, the weather will be warm during the day, cool at night and always a chance of rain. Pack accordingly.

• A lightweight rain jacket
• Thin layers like long-sleeved tops, fleeces, running tops and/or jumpers
• Trainers will normally be fine. But if you’re wanting to do the longer hike of the Cocora Valley – especially during or after wet weather – hiking boots would be better .

What is the best time of year to visit Salento?

Salento can be enjoyed all year round.

But visiting in the dry season months of January, February, July, August, September or December is best for good weather. Avoid January and April to escape the crowds associated with vacation time in the country.

The dry season months have the lowest chance of rain, perfect for Salento’s outdoor activities. But the rainy months do still have sunny days, just with a risk of sudden downpours.

Due to Salento’s popularity with Colombians, t he town is especially busy around national holidays and vacation periods . The month of January as well as Easter are when the crowds really build.

Visit during the week to see the town at its quietest. Although staying in Salento on the weekend is an experience in itself.

How do you get around Salento?

Salento isn’t a big town. And within the town, most places are located within just a few blocks of each other meaning you can walk.

For travelling to spots just outside the town, such as the coffee fincas or the Cocora Valley, you need to take a Willy Jeep .

These 4×4 vehicles come with two options: you can sit in the back or you can stand on the back (like the very back) and hold on for dear life! The latter of which should be experienced at least once if you have the nerve and forearm strength to manage it!

The Willys mostly operate set routes at set times to popular spots such as the Cocora Valley and coffee farms. However, if you want to go somewhere specific you can ask for their availability at the small hut in the centre of the main square.

Where to go after Salento?

Despite its pretty remote location, Salento is fairly well connected to most of Colombia .

After taking a local bus to nearby Armenia, you can catch intercity buses to Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Popayán and Neiva. Each of these then has plenty of local connections for smaller towns.

Alternatively, Armenia’s El Eden International Airport can connect you to Cartagena on the north coast as well as Bogotá and Medellín. Plus, there are even direct flights from Armenia to Panama City, Panama and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Is Salento Colombia Safe?

Salento is probably one of the safest places in Colombia to be a tourist.

Like everywhere in the world, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can happen, but reported incidents in Salento are far and few between. Of course, hostel kitchens are still hotspots for food mysteriously going missing from where you stored it!

Remain vigilant when on buses to and from the town. Keep your most valuable items in a daypack that is on you at all times – not on the overhead shelves, not under the bus and not left alone. A padlock isn’t sufficient when someone can walk off with the whole thing!

Is Salento safe to walk in at night?

Generally speaking, yes – it is safe to walk around Salento after dark .

I say that because the sun sets around 6 pm , but I wouldn’t really call that nighttime. And this does inevitably mean you’ll be walking to get dinner – or whatever your evening plans – in the dark.

But Salento is a very safe place with little crime and more tourists than locals.

Outside of the main square and street, you’ll probably not encounter many people during the week. But on weekends, the streets will be busy with tourists coming and going until the early hours.

If you’re staying outside of the town, take care walking on the roads as pavements or sidewalks don’t really exist outside the town centre.

Is Salento Touristy?

This isn’t the answer you want to hear, but Salento is very touristy . As in most things in the town exist for tourists and most people there are tourists.

All year round the town is full of tourists from near and far who flock to visit the lush landscapes and take in the picture-perfect buildings. This isn’t a town you come to and see the locals living their lives.

Almost all infrastructure within the town has been built and designed for tourists.

So, this does mean there is a great choice of restaurants, cafes, bars and hotels . As well as more souvenir shops than you’ll have the motivation to go in .

But, what makes Salento great is still easily enjoyed despite the crowds and touristy feel. Nothing can take away from the beautiful landscapes and incredible coffee.

Do you have any questions or want any more information? If so, drop a comment below and I’ll get back to you!

Information and prices are correct as of January 2024 but are subject to change in future.

More Colombia Travel Guides

MEDELLIN: Comuna 13 Medellín (Guide & Recommendations For This Must-Do)

PALOMINO: Santa Marta’s More Trendy Neighbour (A Complete Guide)

SAN GIL: Ultimate Guide to Colombia’s Adventure Capital in Santander

BOGOTA: Cascada La Chorrera, Choachi: Colombia’s Tallest Waterfall (Complete Guide)

SANTA MARTA: Playa Taganga (Is This Santa Marta’s Dirtiest Beach?)

VILLA DE LEYVA: Pozos Azules Villa de Leyva (Complete Guide to the Blue Wells)

PIN IT FOR LATER!

7 thoughts on “Salento Colombia: Ultimate Guide (Things to do, Where to Stay & How to get to Quindío’s Prettiest Town)”

Hi… Im moving to Colombia very shortly. Was wondering if you would mind sharing the information or the pic of the mattress you discovered. Would greatly appreciate the info… amazing article bybthe way.

Ok, so I just did some googling and apparently they are called Pillow Top Mattresses. Basically, a mattress top that is built-in/not removable from the spring mattress itself. It was at the Sonesta Hotel in Ibague, so I guess you could always try contacting them for an exact brand or product that they use.

Re: Salento… I’m travelling alone and want to do the horseback riding in Cocora. It seems that you pay the double to cover for the guide. Is there any place in town that they assembly groups for this activity?

Hi – I’m not aware of anywhere in particular. It’s probably worth asking at some of the bigger hostels (Coffee Tree, Viajero etc) or asking on a Backpacking Colombia Facebook group to see if anyone wants to join you.

I will be staying at hacienda bambusa. Should i rent a car? Is driving and parking easy in salento

I don’t think you need to rent a car just to get around Salento, the jeeps are a good way to get around the town and there are buses to other nearby towns like Armenia and Filandia. As the town is mostly full of tourists there aren’t many cars so I think driving and parking is fairly easy – although it is busier on the weekends and around Colombian holiday periods.

Wow, this guide to Salento is amazing! I’ve been wanting to visit this town for years and this post has only fueled my desire to go even more. The pictures are stunning and the information on the best places to visit, eat, and stay is so helpful. I especially loved the suggestion to visit the nearby coffee plantations – I’m a big coffee fan and would love to learn more about the production process. Thanks for sharing! ????

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

© Getty Images

Set amid gorgeous green mountains 15 miles (24km) northeast of Armenia, this small town survives on coffee production, trout farming and tourists, the last drawn by its quaint streets, typical paisa architecture and its proximity to the spectacular Valle de Cocora. It was founded in 1850, and is one of the oldest towns in Quindío.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Salento. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Colombia

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Salento

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Salento with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

The Absolute Best Things to Do in Salento, Colombia

Despite being excited to experience all the best things to do in Salento, Colombia, we did not arrive in the best of spirits.

Our supposed 6.5-hour bus ride had turned into a whopping 11 hours.

We were both carsick from the journey.

And by the time we finally rolled into town, everything was closed–so the dinner we planned to have was cancelled, and instead we spooned peanut butter onto the apples from our bag and almost immediately went to sleep, wondering if we had made a mistake trekking all the way out Colombia’s coffee triangle and hoping for a more optimistic outlook in the morning.

We didn’t need to worry: Salento is amazing.

As soon as we leaped out of bed on our first morning in the city (which happened to be Valentine’s Day) and started plotting out things to do, we were hooked.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Between the lush landscapes, the plethora of dining options for such a tiny town, the absolutely stunning Cocora Valley, Salento was absolutely our type of place.

By the end of day one, we had already decided we were going to extend our three-day visit to five (and had we not had a plane to catch the next week, we probably would have ended up extending it several days beyond that).

Looking to explore one of the most magical spots in Colombia?

Look no further than Salento.

Table of Contents

What to Pack for Salento, Colombia

Where we stayed in salento, colombia, when to visit salento, colombia: weekday vs weekend trips, getting around salento, colombia.

Wondering what to do in Salento?

For such a small town, Salento and its surrounding regions pack a hefty list of things to do–most of them featuring the incredible landscape of the surrounding valleys.

Hike the Valle de Cocora.

Let’s start with the most obvious: the famous Cocora Valley tends to be what draws tourists to Salento and is one of the most popular things to do in Salento with good reason.

Between the incredibly green landscape, the gigantic wax palm trees (the tallest in the world!), and the invigorating trails, hiking the Valle de Cocora is like something akin to wandering through Ireland crossed with the Lorax.

Though you can rent horses to ride out to the best of the wax palm viewpoints, we really recommend making the hike yourselves (it takes about 5 hours, depending on how many photo stops and picnic breaks you take).

Not only does that ensure a whole bunch of extra views of the trees themselves, but you also get to enjoy the lush forested part of the hike, home to a beautiful river and some waterfalls.

We used these hiking directions and found them accurate and useful!

Play some tejo .

The object of tejo is simple.

Drink beer, and while doing so, throw heavy metal pucks at gunpowder-stuffed envelopes, causing them to explode.

It’s hilarious, ridiculous, tons of fun, and absolutely worth playing–it also felt remarkably like being back home in the USA.

We could see tejo being popular there!

Walk to Salento’s mirador .

The viewpoint over Salento is an easy climb up a staircase at the end of Calle Real (you can’t miss it: the street literally dead-ends into the stairs), but the real views happen when you turn left and make your way past a playground to a second, less obvious viewpoint.

From there, you can see out over the entire valley.

Go horseback riding.

Our Valentine’s Day gift to ourselves was a horseback ride (just the two of us and a guide!) outside Salento, and it made for one of the most memorable Valentine’s Days that we’ve had together, as well as making the list of our favorite things to do in Salento.

The ride started in town, and once we got a little further out, our guide stopped at an inconspicuous gate, opened it, and let us through: suddenly, all at once, we were staring down at the valley.

“Welcome to paradise,” he smiled, and we were inclined to agree.

The ride took us down into the valley, through several river and stream crossings, through tunnels built a hundred years ago for a train that never showed up, and to a beautiful waterfall.

On the way back, it rained (as it often does in Salento–it’s how it stays so lush!), but we were quite content underneath warm, giant ponchos and found that the weather even added to the ambiance a bit.

Go bike riding.

This region is perfect for biking, and there are oodles of trails–both along the river and beyond–to check out.

Bike tours are common, or consider renting a bike from one of the many hostels and shops in town and striking out on your own, trail map in hand.

Stop by the main square.

What’s a Latin American city without a main square?

Salento’s is small and cute, boasts a humble church (of course), is set at the top of a steep hill, and is framed in the background by beautiful, misty mountains: what’s not to love?

True, you won’t need to spend a long time here, but dropping by should definitely be on your mind when deciding what to do in Salento.

Visit the Santa Rita Waterfall.

Though we visited as part of our horseback ride from Salento, you also have the option of hiking out to the magical Santa Rita Waterfall.

There is a small fee to enter the area that the falls are in, but it is worth it: the hike there will have you wondering if you have been transported directly to Middle Earth.

We had the waterfall to ourselves while there, minus a small snack stand set up around the corner, and the waterfall takes on a majestic, otherworldly quality–it’s pretty enough and isolated enough that it could easily be located in a fairytale.

Check out the wildlife.

The Salento region is well-known for its incredibly beautiful and diverse birds: from toucans to hummingbirds and beyond, this is a world-class place to try to spot exotic birds.

Bird-watching tours are available, and the Acaime House located in the Cocora Valley is a great way to see some colorful hummingbirds in a low-key setting.

Learn all about coffee.

Colombia’s coffee is world-famous, and Salento is set smack in the middle of Colombia’s coffee triangle.

From either Salento or one of the other beautiful small towns in the coffee triangle , you have plenty of choices when looking for a lovely farm (or finca ) to enjoy.

Sadly, the vast majority of Colombia’s high-quality coffee gets exported, and there’s not nearly as much of a coffee culture in most of the country as you would think (we found the highest concentration of tasty coffee in touristy Cartagena).

However, adding a finca visit to your list of things to do in Salento is the perfect way to get to taste some of the very best of what Colombia’s coffee beans have to offer.

Don’t have time to do a tour?

The Jesus Martin coffee shop in Salento is known as the best place in town for a high-quality cup.

Stroll down Calle Real.

Salento’s main drag of tourism is bursting with color from every direction: from the brightly painted buildings to the artisan crafts (some more legit than others) to the souvenir stalls, a visit to Calle Real cannot be overlooked when deciding what to do in Salento.

Try the trout.

Trout is an extremely common dish in Salento–you’ll see it on just about every menu in town!

If you tend to like fish, don’t leave Salento without trying a plate or two.

Your packing list for Salento should revolve around two things: enjoying the outdoors, and the near-daily afternoon rainstorms.

Here’s what we suggest you bring!

Umbrella — Seriously: you’ll want it.

Hiking Boots/Shoes — In the muddy Cocora Valley especially, hiking boots came in very handy. At the very least, be sure to wear sneakers!

Hat — Don’t go home with a sunburn.

Don’t forget to add travel insurance to your packing list for Colombia! We use & recommend  Safety Wing for their affordability, the ease of purchasing and the clarity of their contract!

Posada Martha Tolima — This guesthouse made for a perfect quiet retreat in Salento, with low prices, unassuming but decent rooms, and a very tasty included breakfast (eggs, arepa, fruit, coffee, and bread, with the eggs made to order!).

The hotel is just a  5-minute walk from the main square, and the price was right.

We would love to stay here again!

Check rates & book your stay at Posada Martha Tolima!

Salento is a very popular destination with Colombian travelers on a domestic weekend getaway, which means that the vibe in town is very different depending on when you go.

(And, for that matter, this is a Colombia travel tip that can also apply to other getaways like Cartagena and Guatape .)

During the weekdays, Salento is quiet to the point of feeling almost empty, though plenty of businesses and restaurants are open to cater to backpackers (though not Los Amigos, the bar where you can play tejo ).

On the weekend, Salento’s quiet streets are suddenly jam-packed, parking lots exist where empty fields once sat, and the main square suddenly holds around 10-15 extra restaurants and pop-up food stands that didn’t exist before.

Calle Real becomes packed with people, and the city comes alive.

There are pros and cons to each type of visit: we loved that the Valle de Cocora was extremely uncrowded while we were there and that the town was leisurely for the beginning of our visit.

The liveliness of the weekend, though, had its own charms.

If possible, we’d recommend planning a trip to Salento, Colombia that includes both weekdays and weekends, but if you’re short on time–go with whichever suits your personality best.

Salento is tiny– within the town itself, there’s no need for transportation other than your own two legs.

To get to the Cocora Valley, Jeeps (also called “Willys”) meet in the town square and leave about every half hour (whenever they fill up) in the morning. Rates are 4000 COP (or about $1.40 USD) per person, per way as of the time of writing.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

29 thoughts on “The Absolute Best Things to Do in Salento, Colombia”

Oh I am dreaming to visit Colombia. All the colors are so bright and vegetation is so lush! I woold love to take a long hike in Salento

Colombia is definitely beautiful! We’re so glad we decided to visit.

What a beautiful and colour place this is in Colombia! I like the look of absolutely everything, but the Santa Rita waterfall is my favourite. Tejo sounds like a lot of fun, and very different from any game I’ve played before!

I’m partial to the Santa Rita waterfall, too. 🙂 And the picture doesn’t show how it started pouring rain soon after we got there!

I would love to spend most of my time here! What a truly lovely part of the world surrounded by such beautiful nature. There’s no doubt I would be spending most of my time just exploring the countryside and the options of hiking or horse-riding are both great. I could get over how inexpensive transport is and I just love the colorful buildings in town. This seems like such a gorgeous find!

I agree, the inexpensive transport is excellent! Colombia was very easy to get around for the most part.

Whoa! So much nature and so much color! Salento look splendid. I’d love to play some Tejo. Somebody managed to set up a snack stand in that isolated waterfall?? That’s interesting. I wonder how much business he makes!

That’s a good question! I’d imagine quite a bit, with all the tourists coming by.

What a colorful little city! And so much to do. Tejo sounds like so much, especially after a few drinks I’m sure it gets even funnier. All the hiking and horseback riding in a countryside that sounds absolutely amazing. I’ve pinned this because this is a place that we absolutely must go to at some point.

Hope you get there soon! It’s a great little place.

This post has left me in a dreamworld, I mean horse riding on those grasslands and witnessing those colourful buildings that waterfall, everything looks so amazing. This place wasn’t on my list, but now it definitely is and I will try my best to visit. Bookmarking your page for future reference 🙂

It’s definitely quite a dreamy place!

I would definitely love to go there. From the moment you said coffee, I made a decision 🙂 🙂 I absolutely love coffee and Salento seems like a great place to learn more on the subject. I would definitely love to visit a finca, to maybe learn some inside tips on how to “treat” my coffee better 😛 I would also like to do that hike through Valle de Cocora. I just took up hiking so, I am thrilled about that. 🙂 Safe travels!

Hahaha, I hear you! Coffee is an easy sell. 🙂

Ha ha tejo sounds hilarious! And I imagine it’s the sort of game which gets funnier and funnier as it goes on! I love the bright vibrant colours of the building at the start of your post – so vibrant! I love trout and would be feasting on that the entire duration if I go to Colombia – here in New Zealand, trout cannot be bought or sold commercially. So I don’t get to eat it as often as I would like!

It’s so true–tejo was fun at the beginning, but the longer it went on, the more fun we had. I had no idea that trout wasn’t able to be commercially sold in New Zealand, that’s interesting!

That first picture of the horse hooked me. Honestly, I had not heard about Cocora Valley–Salento but I am sure it beautiful. No doubt you guys decided to extend the trip. I loved your idea of horse riding for Valentines day. A great gift to yourself. Coffee, charming views and wildlife would be my reasons to visit.

I agree, it was the perfect gift for us! It was a wonderful day.

Salento looks like my kind of place. I love outdoor adventure and horseback riding. Would totally do them in a heartbeat. The colourful houses are so inviting.

Same! Salento quickly became a happy place for us.

Wow, some beautiful photos here! Salento looks amazing- will definitely be referring back to this when I eventually get to South America!

Thanks, Lauren! It is definitely an amazing place.

I would love to learn all about Cuban coffee! That sounds perfect

Just wondering who you went horse back riding with in Salento?

I’m so sorry, but I don’t remember. We set it up through a local Whatsapp number with a guy named Oscar, not through a tourist agency or anything.

However, if you ask your hostel/hotel or just head into one of the tourist offices in town, they’ll definitely be able to point you in the right direction!

THANK YOU, for sharing all of this. I’m going to mirror my trip off your blog. We arrive Sunday morning and leave Monday unfortunately.

Thank you so much, Anthony! So glad we could help–hope you had a great trip to Salento!

Thank you very much for sharing this post!! It looks amazing! I’m going to Salento in a couple of weeks and can’t wait to see all the things you mentioned here 🙂 Quick question. Do you have a recommendation for the horseback riding tour? Any guide or agency? Many thanks! Cheers

That’s great to hear Thomas, thanks! For the horseback riding tour, we just got the Whatsapp of a guy from our hotel–very informal, but it worked out great. 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Explore Salento

Plan Your Trip to Salento: Best of Salento Tourism

Essential salento.

Trending in the forums

Salento Is Great For

Hiking tours.

Nature and Wildlife Tours

Coffee & Tea Tours

• Hotel El Mirador Del Cocora
• Finca Campestre La Adelita B&B
• Hotel Salento Real
• Finca El Ocaso Salento
• Kawa Mountain Retreat
• Etnia arte y sabor
• Cumaná Bistro Food
• Beta Town Bar&Grill
• Hamburguesería El Cacharrito
• Brunch de Salento
• Valle del Cocora
• Cabalgatas San Pablo
• Bosques de Cocora
• Kasaguadua Natural Reserve
• Las Acacias Coffee Farm
• Cocora Valley, Salento and Coffee Farm Day Tour
• Cocora Valley and Salento Hike Tour
• Santa Rosa de Cabal and Hot Springs Day Trip
• Coffee Farm and Salento Walking Tour with Lunch
• Horse Riding Cocora Valley

10 Best Things to Do in Salento Colombia

Situated in one of the most beautiful regions in Colombia, Salento is unmissable!

Explore the colourful town of Salento, set against the stunning Cocora Valley with the world’s tallest palm trees.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

This is one of our favourite places in this vibrant country, and we’re sure you’ll love it too.

Enjoy the warm village atmosphere, stroll through quaint streets, eat home-cooked Colombian dishes and taste fresh coffee in this central hub of Colombia’s coffee region. 

Table of Contents

10 Best things to do in Salento, Colombia!

1. hike around the cocora valley.

The Cocora Valley (Valle del Cocora) is the main drawcard for visitors to Salento.

This breathtaking landscape boasts wax trees, the tallest palm trees in the world, and only found in Colombia and northern Peru. And the scenery everywhere around here is stunning! 

We recommend heading to the main town square in Salento before 08:30 to beat the crowds. Buy a return ticket for a Willy, a very colourful jeep, for COP 10,000 (USD 2.50) per person. 

Upon arrival, you have a few choices for how to visit the Cocora Valley, and there are some helpful staff to give you some information and send you in the right direction.

One main loop (trail) that passes sensational viewpoints is the 4 – 6 hour hike known as the Valle de Corora loop.

We chose this option, and it was spectacular; you’ll pass through jungle and cloud forests, cross small streams on rickety wooden bridges, and marvel at the towering wax trees.

The entire loop is one of the best things to do in Salento Colombia!

Remember that you must take some cash to pay entry fees. The first entry fee is COP 6000 (USD 1.50), a fee to pass through private property along the hike.

An optional fee of COP 20,000 (USD 5.00) must be paid if you wish to enter the Hummingbird Sanctuary ( we didn’t go inside here, and a few hours into the hike, you must pay COP 20,000 (USD 5.00) to enter the stunning National Park.

We recommend that you hike in an anti-clockwise direction to enjoy the quiet hike and the beautiful views and then end with the wax palms.

Note: Drones are not allowed inside the Cocora National Park.

If you’re not a hiker and don’t want to trek for hours here, there is an option to take a horseback ride in the Cocora Valley, or you can pay the COP 20,000 National Park fee, enter and walk to a few different miradors or viewpoints to admire this gorgeous valley.

2. Horseback Riding

Sign up for an unforgettable experience in Salento and go horseback riding! This activity is one of the best things to do in Salento, especially amidst the towering wax trees of the Cocora Valley. 

Discover the stunning landscape from a fresh perspective with your local guide to experience the area’s hidden wonders.

Set off on a journey through open green meadows, across peaceful rivers and enchanting waterfalls. Gaze at the awe-inspiring vistas at the Valle del Cocora’s most spectacular viewpoints.

You can go directly to the Valle de Cocora and arrange a guided horse ride here, starting from 30 minutes for COP 60,000 (USD 25.50) for one person and up to 4.5 hours for COP 400,000 (USD 100) for one person.

We recommend this Horseback Riding Tour in the Cocora Valley .

3. Join a Coffee Tour – One of the Best Things to do in Salento Colombia

One of our favourite activities and things to do in Salento is to visit a coffee farm. You will notice many farms dotted around the gorgeous countryside of Salento; however, we read excellent reviews online for El Ocaso.

Better yet, this farm was about an easy (and beautiful) walk from the centre of Salento, taking us about 1.5 hours, with a few photo stops along the way.

The standard coffee tour here is COP 40,000 ( USD 10), takes approximately 90 minutes, and is available in English and Spanish. You can check tour times on  El Ocaso website . You can pre-book your ticket online or pay on arrival; cash or card is accepted.

We did the 90-minute tour, and our guide was engaging and knowledgeable; we learned so much about the entire coffee-making process; we even had the chance to pick some coffee beans; it was so much fun. 

The tour took us through the steps from seed to roast and finished with a tasting session that expanded our understanding of flavours and aromas in coffee. 

There is also an interactive 3-hour coffee tour for COP 100,000 (USD 25), and you can also  book the 3 hour tour here , including hotel pick-up/drop-off, which is very convenient.

4. Hike up to El Mirador

Behold the remarkable beauty of Salento and its picturesque countryside from the Mirador de Salento (viewpoint). 

Despite the steep staircase, a mere 5-10 minute climb promises a rewarding panorama of the charming town, lush mountains, and landscapes. Witness the sunset spectacle for an extra touch of magic, although be prepared for crowds during this popular time.

The Mirador de Salento is entirely free and an unmissable experience in Salento.

5. Take a Day Trip to Filandia

Just 30 minutes from Salento, Filandia is another gorgeous town that beckons with its vibrant charm. Like Salento, it boasts colourful houses adorned in bright rainbow colourings yet offers a quieter escape from the crowds. 

Beyond its picturesque streets, Filandia boasts a renowned food scene, thriving coffee farms, and stunning nearby waterfalls like the beloved Doble Cascada. 

The easiest way to get to Finlandia is to take a Willy (jeep), departing from the town centre.

Read more: 5 Cheapest Countries to Visit in South America

6. Eat Fresh Trout Like the Locals

Trout, or “trucha,” in Salento, Colombia, offers a delicious culinary experience you must try here. Thanks to the region’s pristine mountain streams, the trout served in local restaurants is exceptionally fresh, contributing to its delicious taste and quality. 

Dining on trout provides a genuine immersion into Colombian mountain cuisine, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage.

With various preparations available, there’s something to satisfy every palate. 

We enjoyed fresh trout prepared two ways at Cocina y Horno restaurant and recommend this place.

We indulged in a plate of simple, freshly grilled trout and another trout dish cooked in cream and garlic; this preparation is very popular with the locals.

Get Connected with eSIM

Get connected easily on your travels—buy an eSIM! An eSIM works like an app: buy it, download it, and get connected in minutes! It’s easy, affordable, and convenient. Keep your original phone number, too!

Click below and view which eSIM data plan you need for your next adventure. Use our referral code: RACHEL5045 , to get $3 off your first purchase !

7. Plaza de Bolivar

Plaza de Bolivar symbolises the essence of Salento’s vibrant lifestyle. Situated at the heart of town, this lively square is flanked by the church and verdant trees.

It serves as a focal point for dining, with numerous restaurants and essential amenities like ATMs, currency exchange, and decent cafes nearby. 

Additionally, it serves as the departure point for Willy vehicles headed to the Cocora Valley.

Try to visit the local markets here during the weekend, with many artisan handicrafts and souvenirs to take home. It’s also a great place to sit and capture photographs of this lively, colourful town.

8. Santa Rita la Cascada

Amidst the numerous waterfalls near Salento, Santa Rita la Cascada stands out as a true gem. Located just 5km from Salento, this breathtaking waterfall offers a serene oasis in nature, inviting visitors to cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim.

Upon arrival at the nearby Finca (farm), an entrance fee of COP 8000 is required to access the waterfall, as it is situated on private property. 

Following this, embark on a 1.5 km hike to reach the waterfall. The trail is flat, winding through open farmland, past cows grazing in the fields, and surrounded by serene rivers.

For those seeking a more extensive trekking experience, there is also the option to follow a more extended 6 km trail.

9. Enjoy a Menu del dia (Menu of the Day)

“Menu del dia” in Colombia refers to the daily set menu offered by many restaurants, especially in urban areas during lunchtime. It’s a popular option for locals and visitors, offering a convenient and affordable way to enjoy a complete meal. Many eateries and restaurants in Salento offer a menu del dia.

Our Tip: You can enjoy an excellent menu del dia in Salento at La Posada de Rubi from around COP 16,000 (USD 4).

They usually offer meals between the hours of 12 and 3, and you can order them to take away if you wish.

10. Explore the colourful streets

Remember your camera as you wander the town’s charming, colourful streets.

Cafes, souvenir shops, and countless photo opportunities await you at every turn. For a taste of local flavour, indulge in some street food—Salento boasts many options, from cheese-filled arepas and chorizo sausages to empanadas. 

While Calle Real is popular, I recommend veering off into the smaller side streets to discover many hidden gems and photogenic houses and buildings.

Where to Stay in Salento

Salento is a small town, and there are many accommodation options available.

If you want to meet other travellers, I recommend staying at a hostel in Salento. The most popular is the Coffee Tree Boutique Hoste l; what a place! And if this hostel isn’t available, Viajero Salento Hostel is also recommended.

If you’re searching for a clean, comfortable and affordable private room, I recommend Casa Salento , and Casa La Eliana .

For those wishing to stay in the city centre and have a more significant budget for accommodation, the Ecohotel Piedmonte and Hotel Terasu Hotel tick all the boxes.

And, if you seek a secluded getaway, consider the exceptional lodging choices in the Cocora Valley.

Perhaps you’re keen to experience boutique eco-resorts that offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes. If so, here are our top picks!

11 Most Popular Foods From Colombia

eSIM Colombia – The Best SIM Card for Colombia

The Perfect 2 Days in Bogota Itinerary

How to Get to Salento

Salento is reachable by bus from major Colombian cities such as Medellin, Jardin, and Bogota. Yet, departing from Bogota poses a challenge because the Andes mountains divide the journey, resulting in a longer, more complex road trip.

The bus ride from Bogota to Salento typically takes around 8 hours.

To simplify your journey, consider flying from Bogota or Medellin to Pereira or Armenia airport, which takes approximately 1 hour. From there, you can easily catch a bus or taxi for a journey of just under an hour.

The road is generally good, albeit a bit winding, as you traverse into Salento’s mountainous and scenic valleys.

From Bogota:

There are no direct buses from Bogota to Salento, so your best option is to take a bus to Armenia.

Check the schedule and book your ticket from Bogota to Armenia with Busbud . The journey takes around 7-8 hours, and prices start at about COP 78,000 (USD 20 USD)

From Armenia, you will then take a connecting bus to Salento. You can usually reserve a seat on Busbud ; if not, the buses along this route are frequent, and you can buy a ticket at the station.

Another option is to book a cheap flight from Bogota to Armenia or Pereira with Skyscanner and then take a straightforward bus to Salento.

From Medellin:

We travelled to Salento from Medellin by bus, which was easy and comfortable. Take a bus directly to Salento from Terminal del Sur in Medellin via Flota Occidental. There are approximately four departures daily, but this can change anytime.

Tickets are COP 78,000 (USD 20) and can be easily purchased on Busbud or at the Flota Occidental desk in Terminal del Sur. The bus ride takes about 7-8 hours, depending on traffic. 

Another Medellin option is to book a flight to Armenia or Peirera . Upon arrival, you can take a shorter bus or taxi to Salento from either of these two airports.

We recommend using Uber or Didi ride-sharing apps to book a ride.

From Armenia:

Take a taxi from Armenia to Salento or a bus from the Armenia Transportation Terminal. Buses leave regularly, and prices are very affordable, starting at just COP 5,000 (USD 1.30)

How to Get Around in Salento

Salento’s compact size makes it incredibly convenient to navigate. You can explore the entire town on foot, including the nearby Mirador de Salento viewpoint.

The popular Willys (jeeps) are a very affordable and convenient way to get around town or the surrounding area, with short trips starting at COP 4,000 (1.10 USD) per ride.

These vehicles offer daily trips to must-see attractions like the Cocora Valley and local chocolate and coffee farms .

• 🔥 Hot Tip: Book accommodation in advance on Booking.com
• 🎟 Book your attractions and tickets online: We recommend Viator and GetYourGuide
• 🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
• 📸 Join a Group Tour: Find some amazing Group Tours here
• ✅ Get Connected with an eSIM: Fast, easy and affordable! View easy eSIM options here

Best Restaurants and Cafes in Salento

We always try to find the best places to eat when we travel, and the cuisine in Salento was better than we expected.

Here are some of our favourite places to eat or enjoy the perfect cup of fresh Colombian coffee.

Cumana Bistro Food – A fantastic place to enjoy typical Venezuelan food! Order the signature Venezuelan dish of Pabellón Criollo; you won’t be disappointed.

Restaurante Cocina y Horno – Fresh trout cooked in many ways, and other great dishes on the menu, too! We had an excellent, affordable meal here. It is highly recommended.

Cafe Jesus Martin – Excellent coffee! And, if you’re just after a simple breakfast, then stop by here for some scrambled eggs and toasted baguette; quick and affordable.

Coco Bowl – A cute little spot serving vegetarian food.

La Posada de Rubi – The best menu del dia in town! Home-made soup, your choice of main dish, accompanied by fresh juice.

Best Time to Visit Salento

The optimal times to visit Salento are typically from December to February and July to September, coinciding with the dry season.

However, the weather can be unpredictable due to Salento’s elevated location in the hills. Days may begin with warm sunshine but quickly transition to mist and rain, with a high likelihood of rainfall, particularly at night.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing Travel Insurance.

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

We hope you enjoyed reading more about the best things to do in Salento, Colombia. We’d highly recommend it if you can find the time in your travel itinerary to spend a few extra days in Salento.

Here’s our recommended itinerary for the Perfect 2 Days in Bogota .

For food lovers, you need to try these 11 Most Popular Foods From Colombia , and we suggest you buy an eSIM for Colombia to stay connected!

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

Tasty Food Adventures

12 Most Popular Foods from Norway

Where To Eat The Best Pizza In Florence – Top 5 Places

What To Eat in Costa Rica – 6 Dishes You Must Try

Travelling for Food? 10 Best Countries for Food Lovers

See all Food Adventure blogs

Expert Travel Guides

Magical Island of Flores in Indonesia – 7 Day Itinerary

Getting to Burundi – Finally Putting Burundi on a Map

Why You Should Visit San Marino in 2024

How Many Days In Paris Do You Need?

See all our Travel Guides

Trusted Hints & Tips

How to Become a House Sitter and Travel the World for Free in 2024

The 11 Best Travel Websites To Save Money

Africa Packing List: The ESSENTIAL Packing List for Africa

Portable Coffee Machine – Our Essential Travel Gadget (2024)

See all our expert Hints & Tips

5 Cheapest Countries to Visit in South America

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Post Comment

Home » Travel Guides » Colombia » 15 Best Things to Do in Salento (Colombia)

15 Best Things to Do in Salento (Colombia)

This laid back small town in Colombia is the most touristed spot in the Coffee Triangle. And between its colorfully painted facades and proximity to the postcard-perfect wax palms of the Cocora Valley, it’s no wonder.

People flock here for chilled out vibes and the chance to experience the outdoors and local culture. From paragliding, hiking, and horseback riding to playing tejo, checking out the artisan crafts, and eating trout served every which way possible, you’ll probably fall in love with the place too. The whole town is walkable, with viewpoints and coffee fincas within your reach, but there are plenty of secluded places to hole up in the ridiculously beautiful natural surroundings for a while too.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Salento :

1. Hike the Valle de Cocora

For the iconic postcard views of Colombia’s tall Quindio wax palms set in lush rolling hills, psyche yourself up for this walk.

It’s about 5 to 6 hours of up-and-down hiking through beautiful green valleys, cloud forests, and streams.

The gorgeous trek lives up to all the hype, so hop in a 4×4 jeep leaving from Salento’s main square early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Pack some snacks, bring lots of water, and don’t miss the side-trip to the hummingbird reserve, Acaime, during the middle of the hike! But if you just want photos of the beautiful palms or you’ve arrived later in the afternoon, take the path straight to the valley where the trees are (don’t turn right onto the hiking path) – it’s only about an hour or so roundtrip.

2. Play Tejo

Salento is the perfect place to play Colombia’s favorite explosive sport, tejo! Hit the local cancha de tejo, Los Amigos, to try your hand at launching heavy weights at gunpowder targets across the room.

This bar is tourist-friendly and they even have a “mini-tejo” court here where the distances are shorter and your chances of hearing that satisfying bang are (hopefully) higher.

Los Amigos is just a few blocks from the main plaza and there’s no entrance fee – if you want to play, you just need to buy a beer! Or you can just chill with your drink and watch some of the more adept locals play.

3. Eat Trout

The specialty dish in town, you’ll find fresh trout or trucha on nearly every menu of every restaurant in Salento.

And you can get it served in different styles – fried, grilled, or baked – with almost any topping you can dream up.

A local favorite is trout baked in cream sauce with garlic and cheese.

Plates are typically served with giant patacones (thin smashed and fried plantains) and a little salad on the side, but sometimes rice, beans, soup, and juice can accompany your meal.

Local favorites include Rincon de Lucy and Restaurante Andrea on Calle Real for the budget-conscious and Donde Laurita just off the main square.

4. Tour a Coffee Plantation

Since Salento is the most popular tourist town in the Eje Cafetero – Colombia’s Coffee Zone – you’re kinda required to visit a farm or finca that specializes in growing the stuff. Everybody loves Don Elias, a small family-run farm where all the production is done by hand and all the coffee is sold to visitors.

You can take a tour of the lush property, learn about the coffee plants, see how the beans are harvested and dried, and then try a cup at the end.

For a bigger operation and a slightly longer tour, check out El Ocaso nearby.

Both fincas are a nice walk downhill from the center of town.

5. Reserva Natural Acaime

This hummingbird reserve – “Casa de los Colibris” – is a must-do detour off of your Valle de Cocora hike.

Even if you’re sweaty and out of breath, stop off for a brief respite while you sit in the middle of these flitting iridescent hummingbirds.

There’s a small entry fee, but in exchange you receive a hot drink and all the time you want to chill out and photograph the multicolored creatures.

This family home sets out large numbers of feeders for the birds and maintains the trails so that you can be mesmerized by them gliding in and out.

6. Stay at La Serrana

This stunning eco-farm and lovely hostel on the outskirts of Salento feels like a cozy retreat even though it’s super affordable.

Calm and tranquil with 20 hectares of farmland surrounding a Colombian-style hacienda, you’ll feel comfortable in a dorm room, private room, or “glamping” canvas tents.

Their onsite restaurant uses ingredients from the organic gardens and serves dinner every night using local foods, plus all the rooms come with breakfast.

The lodge is decorated in a warm, rustic style, and guests can take advantage of free popcorn, a selection of DVDs, comfortable couches, and the opportunity to purchase milk from their cows.

7. Walk Up to the Mirador

From the main square of Salento you can glimpse colored stairs leading up and away from town.

Head this way for a look at the city and its surrounding hills and green fields from the viewpoint or mirador, Alto de la Cruz.

There are lots of shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and refreshments as you work your way up the path.

Once you get to the top, take the trail to the left for sensational views from the nearby shelter.

If you want to keep going, head down the hill to see the river, local farmers, and cows grazing in verdant pastures.

8. Check Out Salento’s Coffee Shops

This is where they grow the beans, so try a strong cup of Colombian coffee in one of Salento’s cute cafes.

Jesús Martín takes the number one spot for most popular coffee shop in town.

They’ve got skilled employees and a cool ambiance with murals on the walls and eclectic decor and furniture.

Try your coffee straight or order a fancy drink, but be sure to grab a cake, cookie, or alfajor to go with it.

While lots of the highest quality beans are exported, they still serve a great selection of Colombian coffee here.

9. Stroll the Plaza Bolívar and Calle Real

Head to the colorful center of Salento for some wandering, photo-taking, people watching, or just some sitting and beer drinking.

Check out the church, Nuestra Señora del Carmen, in the main square of Plaza Bolívar where you’ll also see all the colorful 4×4 jeeps used for trips to the valley.

There are restaurants, a small supermarket, souvenir shops, and a few bars where you can relax outside.

Then check out the mostly pedestrian Calle Real off the corner of the plaza.

Brightly colored buildings pave the way for more restaurants, bars, hostels, touristy trinket stores, and a busy afternoon or evening hang out spot.

10. Go Horseback Riding

Once you’ve done all the exploring you can on foot, grab a local Colombian guide and hop on a horse to see more of the countryside surrounding Salento.

Arrange three to five hour trips that include steep hills, thick forests, and river crossings, as well as visits to waterfalls and viewpoints.

Hostels can book these trips for you, or you can check out companies like Cabalgatas San Pablo that take great care of their horses and provide excellent guides.

You can even organize horseback rides through the Valle de Cocora if you don’t feel like walking it – just be sure to do it with a reputable company.

11. Mountain Biking Tours

If you feel more comfortable pedaling your way out of town, look into an afternoon of mountain biking – mostly downhill – to explore the Andes, coffee plantations, and dirt tracks around Salento.

Depending on your fitness or the amount of exertion (or exhilaration) you want to undertake on your vacation, you can choose from different trails.

Head out through the pine forest, alongside local farms, or shoot downhill on more difficult routes like Alegrias, a famous adrenaline-filled, single-track route.

Or try the easier La Carbonera, a dirt road that glides past lots of wax palms.

Salento Cycling has excellent bikes, gear, guides, and lunch included.

12. Go Paragliding

These are the best views you’ll get over the lush green valleys and farmlands that surround Salento.

Contact a local tour company that’ll provide you with transportation out to the nearest launching point – aka, a huge hill about an hour away – and strap yourself to a professional guide who’s flown thousands of times.

BetaTown is well known for setting up these trips and providing a full safety briefing, insurance, and an experienced pilot to take you flying through the air.

If you’re brave and your stomach can handle it, ask to do a couple of loop-de-loops as you soar back toward the ground.

13. Visit the Food Trucks

This is one thing you might miss out on in Salento if you didn’t know it was there.

About four blocks from Plaza Bolívar down Calle 6, you’ll find La Estación del Food Truck.

There’s an eating area filled with pretty string lights, picnic tables, and a some shelter from the rain.

With several different food trucks to choose from, the atmosphere is great, prices are affordable, and it’s the perfect place to try a variety of of cuisine.

There’s Venezuelan arepas, Mexican burritos, Arabic-style kebabs, hamburgers, vegetarian food, cocktails, and more!

14. La Aldea del Artesano

There’s a small community of artisans living just a short stroll from Salento’s center.

Pay a visit and learn how each one creates their crafts and artwork without the pressure to purchase anything.

The local government has funded a place for artists to live and work, and these creative people work together as a community to keep it going.

Each has a workshop that tourists can explore.

They craft things out of natural materials, like handmade jewelry and lamps made from gourds.

Slightly off the beaten path, head out to where Carrera 5 and Calle 12a split to visit La Aldea del Artesano (also known as Villa Flor).

15. Kasaduadua Natural Reserve

Much lesser known and explored than the popular Valle de Cocora, lots of visitors would tell you to come here first on your trip to Salento.

The team that runs this reserve and eco-lodge is incredibly passionate about what they do, and they can help you get a better understanding of the famous wax palms and other flora and fauna of the region.

Be sure to book ahead for entry and a two-hour tour of this Andean rainforest – you pay by donation.

If you’d like to stay for a night or two, they have amazing sustainable accommodation in the main lodge or their cool geodesic domes made from bamboo where you’ll be surrounded by nature.

15 Best Things to Do in Salento (Colombia):

• Hike the Valle de Cocora
• Tour a Coffee Plantation
• Reserva Natural Acaime
• Stay at La Serrana
• Walk Up to the Mirador
• Check Out Salento’s Coffee Shops
• Stroll the Plaza Bolívar and Calle Real
• Go Horseback Riding
• Mountain Biking Tours
• Go Paragliding
• Visit the Food Trucks
• La Aldea del Artesano
• Kasaduadua Natural Reserve

03 Jan A Travel Guide to Salento Colombia for Solo Travelers (and everyone else!)

The sleepy town known as Salento is the tourist hub of the Coffee Axis (Eje Cafetero) in Colombia and, in my opinion one of the best destinations in the country for solo travelers.  Here you can enjoy local food and culture, choose an adventurous tour or slow down at a coffee shop. For the solo traveler, it’s a place you’ll feel safe, meet plenty of people, and can also do many activities alone if needed.

A solo traveler myself, I visited Salento on my own and found it to be one of my favorite getaways while living in Colombia. Getting there alone was straightforward to navigate and I met plenty of other travelers even despite the dip in tourism due to COVID. I truly think this should be a must-stop for every Colombian itinerary.

So without further ado, here’s my guide to visiting Salento for the solo travelers (and everyone else):

What's in this post?

Click to skip ahead

Things to do in Salento

How to get to salento, getting around salento, where to stay in salento, where to eat in salento, how long should you visit, solo travel in salento, more resources for colombia travel.

*This post includes affiliate links and I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. By using my links you’re merely supporting what I love to do: write this blog! I only recommend products/companies that I use myself.

THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO

First, let me start by solidifying your interest in visiting this Colombian town by sharing all the beautiful experiences and things to do in Salento:

1. Hike Valle de Cocora

Probably one of the initial destinations that drew you to visiting Salento is Valle de Cocora or Cocora Valley. The lush valley of towering palm trees is more amazing in person and an absolute must-visit. It can be experienced by meandering on your own through the valley or by tackling the full trek up the hills, through the forest, over suspension bridges and finally through the picturesque valley.

An adventurous soul myself, I highly recommend doing the full-day trek. It’s about 15 km and takes about 6 hours (so not a walk in the park) but it is beyond worth it. You’ll experience stunning views, get up close with Colombia’s nature and feel really proud after completing the loop.

To start the trek, you can either go on your own, or hire a guide. If  you book through your hostel or in town you can expect to pay around  80,000 COP   ≈ $20 USD (2021 price) . If you prefer to have everything booked beforehand, you can also reserve this hike on GetYourGuide .

Personally, I found the guide helpful and because the weather was SO bad when I visited, the trail in the forest was difficult to navigate, so to be honest I think I would have gotten lost otherwise. Plus, having a guide is perfect if you’re a solo traveler so you’re not alone in the forest.

However, if you meet hiking buddies and want to take on the trail on your own, it is possible. Just make sure to go counter clockwise, start around 9 AM, bring plenty of water and be prepared for mud and rain.

Getting there:

If you hire a guide, they’ll meet up with you and take care of getting you to Valle de Cocora. 

However, if you go on your own, you’ll need to go to the town’s main square where they’ll be jeeps and ask which are going to Valle de Cocora. There should be a jeep leaving every hour starting at 6 AM (if not sooner, they leave whenever a jeep is full). The trip to the valley costs 5,000 COP  ≈ $1.50 USD and takes about 30 minutes. 

Pro tip: try to find a jeep with an open top so you can stand up and take in the wonderful view along the way!

Entrance fee:

Once you’re there, there is an entrance fee for the valley and then the hike. Fees tend to change but in total you should pay around 10,000 COP  ≈  $3 USD. If you hire a guide, this will all be included.

2. Tour a coffee finca

Another must-do activity in Salento is visiting a coffee farm. There are many 1-2 hour options at various farms, but for the coffee lovers I recommend diving deep into the local coffee process by signing up for the 3 hour tour at El Ocaso. 

This was one of the best tours I’ve ever done through my travels so far. It was fascinating to learn about something I enjoy every day and I had so much fun with the people in my group and our wonderful tour guide. I can’t recommend it enough!

During our time we were guided through the entire process of coffee from the planting of the seed to the final roasting. Then came the tasting, which not only involved trying various coffees, but also learning about the different tastes and smells humans experience and which to look for in a good coffee. The entire 3 hours were interactive and it’s a great tour for solo travelers.

You can book a tour with El Ocaso on their website , through GetYourGuide or talk to your accommodation who will have a WhatsApp number. The premium 3 hour coffee tour I described is 70,000 COP  ≈  $17 USD ( 2021 price ) and is offered in both English and Spanish.

3. Horseback riding

In a lot of popular destinations, to be honest horseback riding feels to me like a tourist trap and it’s an activity I usually skip out on. But in Salento, I felt it was 100% worth it and one of the best ways to experience the landscape. Plus, it’s so much fun! I hadn’t ridden a horse in years so the thrill was going to be there regardless. But then we trekked through the forest and across rushing rivers, so it really felt like I was in my own movie!

This is a great activity to do as a solo traveler, as well. I went alone, but met several people in my group and we had a blast together. 

I recommend booking a horseback riding tour with Cabalgatas San Pablo online or via Whatsapp at +57 312 206 6673. They were so great and seemed to treat their horses really well. I talked to a man in my group who had been horseback riding for years, and said every time he visits Salento he goes there – so highly recommended! 

There are a few different tours/routes you can book. Originally I intended to take the one to Santa Rita waterfall but there was a landslide so I did the Rio Navarco y Boqueron route which went down through the valley and across rivers. It was adventurous and involved some beautiful views.

4. Wander through Salento’s colorful streets

Grab your camera and stroll through the little town. You’ll find a ton of cafes, souvenir shops, and more than a few picture opportunities. As always, my favorite thing to do when exploring a town is try some street food and Salento has more than a few places to grab a pastry or an empanada. The most popular street to explore is Calle Real, however I also recommend taking some of the few side streets that may just be on your way.

5. Hike to El Mirador

At the end of Calle Real you’ll find a staircase to Mirador Alto de La Cruz and farther up to Mirador de Salento. You’ll be able to enjoy a view above the city and of the valley below.

6. Visit Santa Rita waterfall

Although I had every intention to visit Santa Rita waterfall via horseback riding, we were unable to because of the weather. However, if you’re lucky and have extra time then Santa Rita waterfall is said to be beautiful and worth a trip off the beaten path. 

You can visit a few ways, via bus and then hiking, horseback riding, or even biking. Before going, I would check with your hostel – they can tell you how best to make it happen and if the weather is ok to go.

7. Eat Trout

Trucha (trout in English) is the local dish of Salento and a meal you NEED to eat. Honestly, my mouth is watering thinking of the fish and the sauces they smother it in served with fried, crispy plantains…

Almost every local restaurant will have trucha on their menu, so I’m not sure you can go wrong. However, the places I really enjoyed were Parrilla y Vinos Juan Esteban and a food stall Carpa la Mona.

How to Get to Salento

Salento can be reached by bus or by a combination of flying and taking a bus. 

From Medellin:

You can take a bus directly to Salento from Terminal del Sur in Medellin via Flota Occidental . There are typically 4 scheduled times a day but double check schedules. Tickets are 70,000 COP ≈ $17 USD and can be easily purchased on BusBud or at the Flota Occidental desk in Terminal del Sur. The bus ride takes about 7 hours depending on traffic. 

From Medellin, you can also fly to Armenia or Peirera and then take a shorter bus to Salento.

From Bogota:

There is not a direct bus to Salento from Bogota, instead you’ll take a bus to Armenia   (around 7 hours and 70-80,000 COP  ≈ $18 USD) and then take a connecting bus from Armenia to Salento. You can book these buses on BusBud , usually with the companies Expreso Palmira and Bolivariano.

You can also fly from Bogota to Armenia or Pereira and then take a short bus to Salento.

There are no direct buses from Cali to Salento, instead you’ll take a bus from Cali to Armenia via Bolivariano or Expreso Palmira . You can search options here on BusBud . It should take about 4 hours and cost about 35-45,000 COP  ≈  $8-11 USD.

From Armenia:

You can take a taxi from Armenia to Salento or a bus from the Armenia Transportation Terminal. Buses leave every hour if not more frequently and are around 5,000 COP   ≈  $2 USD.

From Pereira:  

You can take a taxi from Pereira to Salento or a bus from the Transportation Terminal Pereira. Buses leave every hour and are around 5,000 COP  ≈ $2 USD.

A note about taking a bus to Salento: 

Buses especially coming from Bogota and Medellin can be long. While your ticket may say 7 hours (which is the average time), it could be much longer. My bus to and from Medellin ended up being 9 hours due to construction and long stops. During the majority of that time I did not have service so I recommend having a book to read, downloading some tv shows on your phone, and bringing snacks, water, and Dramamine (there are some curvy roads).

In terms of safety, I felt very safe on these buses and ran into no issues taking them alone. I still recommend keeping your valuables on your though, rather than storing underneath the bus. 

The other thing to note in terms of safety as a solo traveler for these buses is being conscious of arrival time when choosing a departure time. I do not recommend taking any night bus for this reason. While the buses to or from Bogota and Medellin are long, they’re not long enough for a full overnight bus unless you leave very late. Otherwise, leaving at 9 PM results in arriving at your destination at 3 AM which is inadvisable and super inconvenient. Instead, I suggest taking a morning bus. Although it’s a pain because it takes up your whole day, to me it’s better than arriving somewhere extremely late at night alone.

I took the 1:30 PM bus from Medellin and arrived around 10:30 PM in Salento. I met friends to walk to the hostel with and thankfully Salento is safe. However, I wouldn’t recommend leaving later than that.

Getting around salento

Salento is small so walking everywhere within the town should not be a problem. However, it is hilly so if you’re walking to your hostel with a large backpack then expect to take your time and stop for some breaks.

Otherwise, the way to get around to main areas like the coffee farms or Valle de Cocora is via the red jeeps in town which are typically 5,000 COP  ≈  $1.50 USD a ride. 

You can also talk to your hostel about booking a private taxi somewhere. They’re not super common but it is possible. T he morning I needed to get to the bus station I really didn’t feel like heaving my backpacks across town, so I talked to the hostel front desk and got a private ride for 4,000 COP  ≈  $1 USD to the terminal.

If taking a bus to Armenia, Peirera, or Medellin, head to the Salento Bus Terminal.

WHERE TO STAY in Salento

If you’re a solo traveler like me on a budget or someone who likes to meet a lot of people, I recommend staying at a hostel in Salento. The two most popular are Viajero and Coffee Tree Boutique . 

Viajero Hostel :

Viajero has a reputation of its own in Colombia and is wildly popular for backpackers. It’s great to meet people, this particular location has an incredible view, offers salsa lessons and yoga. The one thing I will say is that if you stay in a dorm room, know they’re nothing fancy. Not bad per say, but just a very basic bunk bed (not the fancier capsules you’ll find in the Medellin or Santa Marta Viajeros).

→ Check availability for Viajero here on Hostelworld or Booking.com

Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel :

This highly rated hostel in Salento has all the cozy, cabin vibes you need in the sleepy town. The farm house has large common areas to hang out and beautiful views. 

→ Check availability here on Hostelworld or Booking.com

Salento has many affordable and beautiful hotels to ensure a relaxing stay surrounded by nature. Below are some of my recommendations.

Hotel El Mirador del Cocora :

Out of everywhere to stay in Salento, this hotel may be the best. Here you’ll have panoramic views of the lush green valleys and mountains which can be enjoyed from the patio or even your room. If you choose the Suite with a mountain view, you’ll even have your own spa hot tub to soak in.

→ Check availability for Hotel El Mirador del Cocora here

Casa Salento:

For a comfortable and affordable stay, try they homey Casa Salento. Rooms start at just $30 a night and guests highly rate it for a delicious breakfast, welcoming staff, and good cleanliness.

→ Check availability for Casa Salento here

→ Search for more accommodation options in Salento here ←

WHERE TO EAT in Salento

Since we’re on the subject, let’s get into food.

Like I mentioned, for eating trout I recommend Parrilla y Vinos Juan Esteban and a food stall Carpa la Mona.

For an incredible breakfast and good wifi for the digital nomads, I recommend Brunch de Salento .

For those looking for an instagram-worthy cafe try Coco Bowl .

If you need a quick coffee to go before a tour, head to Andariego Coffee To Go .

And for more local dishes try El Rincon de Luci .

How Long should you visit Salento

For the slow travelers and digital nomads, you may like Salento enough to stay awhile. However, for those passing through and on a timeline, I suggest at least 3 nights and 2 full days. This way you have one day for Valle de Cocora and one day for the coffee farm and horseback riding. Ideally, if you don’t want to feel rushed then 3 days is even better.

MORE ON SOLO TRAVEL IN SALENTO:

As I’ve mentioned, Salento is a perfect Colombian destination for solo travelers.

If you’re looking to meet people, three great ways are on the bus, at a hostel, and in group tours. On the bus from Medellin there were a ton of backpackers, and I met a friend, grabbed their number and we hung out for a few days. Hostels as always are also great to meet others, especially at breakfast, during free activities, and in common areas. Lastly, if you don’t meet anyone just go on a group tour alone – each one I went on had some great people participating to hang out with afterwards.

In terms of safety, Salento is known to be a very safe town. Usually I try to avoid walking alone at night altogether, but (while I still don’t recommend wandering around) I felt okay to walk alone to a nearby convenience store and back from restaurants past dark in Salento. 

Lastly, don’t forget to book your travel insurance so yourself, your belongings and your bookings are covered in the case of any incidents (that are unfortunately not so uncommon while traveling). 

My go-to for all coverage is World Nomads because it’s designed for backpackers and covers everything I do. However, if you’re looking for a a more affordable option to cover travel medical emergencies I suggest SafetyWing .

And that’s it – enjoy your Colombian getaway to the coffee countryside of Salento. Check out some of the additional resources below ad related blog posts for more Colombia travel tips!

More Resources for Your Trip to Colombia

Planning your own trip? Here’s some resources I used to book and coordinate my itinerary through Colombia along with some recommendations:

If you’re a budget traveler or looking for an easy way to meet others,  Hostelworld is the best place to search. Below are some of my recommendations, click to search for availability ! 

• Medellin: Hostel Rango Boutique OR Los Patios
• Cartagena: Life is Good Hostel  
• Santa Marta: Viajero
• Minca: Mundo Nuevo Eco Lodge OR Masaya Casas Viejas
• Salento: Coffee Tree Boutique
• Bogota: Cranky Croc Hostel
• Cali: Viajero Hostel & Salsa School
• Palomino: Casa Chapolin

Booking.com is the way to go when search for hotels in Colombia because they typically offer free cancellation with plenty of affordable to more luxurious stays.

Flights to Colombia  from the U.S. are typically the most affordable in South America to Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, or Cali.  Domestic flights within Colombia also tend to be pretty affordable especially if traveling light. To find the best deal & prices I recommend using Skyscanner . 

The easiest way to search for and book buses in Colombia is with BusBud where you can easily compare options and use a platform in English. Check it out here . 

Travel insurance is a must for every trip, especially when coming to a destination like Colombia where you may be doing adventurous activities, taking a lot of buses, and theft is a higher risk. Make sure you’re covered!  My go to is always WorldNomads which has a generous coverage and is made for backpackers. You can search for coverage here . However if you’re looking for only travel medical emergency insurance,  Safety Wing  is a good option too.

Tours & Experiences

There’s a lot of free thing to do in Colombia or experiences you can do on your own. I always recommend checking blog posts for inspiration. If you’re interested in tours though like a boat tour of Rosario Islands , a day trip to Guatape from Medellin, or a trek to the Lost City  then I suggest checking on GetYourGuide & Viator . 

Know Before You Go

Check out my Colombia Destination Page here for information on visas, health requirements, currency, outlets, and more.

Flights to Colombia  from the U.S. are typically the most affordable in South America to Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, or Cali.  Domestic flights within Colombia also tend to be pretty affordable especially if traveling light. To find the best deal & prices I recommend using Skyscanner . 

The easiest way to search for and book buses in Colombia is with BusBud where you can easily compare options and use a platform in English. Check it out here . 

Travel insurance is a must for every trip, especially when coming to a destination like Colombia where you may be doing adventurous activities, taking a lot of buses, and theft is a higher risk. Make sure your health, bookings, luggage, and belongings are covered. My go to is always WorldNomads which has a generous coverage and is made for backpackers. You can search for coverage here . However if you’re looking for a cheaper option for travel medical emergency insurance, I suggest Safety Wing . 

There’s a lot of free thing to do in Colombia or experiences you can do on your own. I always recommend checking blog posts for inspiration. If you’re interested in tours though like a boat tour of Rosario Islands , a day trip to Guatape from Medellin, or a trek to the Lost City  then I suggest checking on GetYourGuide & Viator . 

Related Posts

Your Guide to Visiting One of Colombia’s Cutest Town’s: Jardin

Colors like you see in the Pixar movie Encanto, really do exist in Colombia. And while the inspirati...

The Best Apps & Websites for Traveling in Colombia

Looking for resources to help make your trip through Colombia seamless? I recommend downloading and ...

A Travel Guide to Salento Colombia for Solo Travelers (and everyone else!)

The sleepy town known as Salento is the tourist hub of the Coffee Axis (Eje Cafetero) in Colombia an...

Liked this post? Pin it to save

Christopher Berge

Hello Caroline, Your website has been very helpful to assist a female friend of mine to travel independently in Colombia for a meet-up in Salento. Your writing, pictures, advice and website layout are all very professionally and handsomely done. Keep it up. I will use some of your recommendations for booking my trip late October 2022.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Subscribe me to Caroline Rose Travel

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home » South America » Colombia » The best Things to Do in Salento, Colombia: Explore the stunning Eje Cafetero

The best Things to Do in Salento, Colombia: Explore the stunning Eje Cafetero

Salento, Colombia, offers a wealth of fascinating activities and sights, so a visit to Eje Cafetero should definitely be on your itinerary for Colombia.

In this blog post, you’ll learn all about the best things to do in Salento to get the most out of your stay. From breathtaking hikes through the Cocora Valley to the fascinating coffee tours that will delight more than just coffee fans among us – Salento is the ideal place for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Get inspired by our list of the best things to see in Salento and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in one of Colombia’s most beautiful regions.

What to find out in this post

• 1 Salento, Colombia Facts
• 2.1 Explore the colorful center of Salento
• 2.2 Calle Real
• 2.3 Hike in the Valle de Cocora and discover the impressive wax palms
• 2.4 Eje Cafetero: Visit a Coffee Farm
• 2.5 Enjoy the local gastronomy
• 2.6 The Mirador of Salento – En las Manos de Dios
• 2.7 Visit Filandia
• 2.8 Bike Tour & Mountain Biking
• 2.9 Santa Rita Waterfall
• 2.10 Go on a day trip
• 3.1 The best place to stay for nature lovers
• 3.2 The best budget accommodation in Salento
• 3.3 Is your ideal accommodation not included?
• 4.1 Getting to Salento from Medellín
• 4.2 Getting to Salento from Bogotá
• 5.1 The Willies of Salento
• 5.2 Walking
• 5.3 Bus and Colectivo
• 6 Where is Salento?
• 7.1 About the AuthorVicki

Salento, Colombia Facts

• Municipality in the department of Quindío
• Less than 10,000 inhabitants
• Part of the Eje Cafeteros, the Colombian coffee triangle
• The region is located at an altitude between 1,300 and 4,750 meters above sea level
• Considered the oldest modern settlement in the region

SALENTO INFO BOX

Where to stay in Salento: Casa La Eliana (Comfortable accommodation near the bus terminal) or Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel (Good hostel with a great view)

The most popular activities & tours in Salento

Visit Cocora Valley

Cocora Valley + Coffee Farm Tour

Thermal Springs visit in Santa Rosa del Cabal

Quindío Magical Towns Tour

Getting there: By bus from Medellín or Bogotá or by plane (Pereira or Armenia). Make sure to compare prices beforehand at flight comparison sites like Skyscanner.

Transport: On foot, Willy, or cab

Want to rent a car? Find great, trustworthy deals at RentalCars .

Salento Must-Have: Colombia Travel Guide

The best things to do in Salento

Explore the colorful center of Salento

When visiting Salento, many people focus on the famous Cocora Valley. But many forget that the city itself is also worth seeing .

Admittedly, the historic center of Salento is not particularly large. Therefore, it is worth taking 1-2 hours of your time to discover the colorful alleys of the small Colombian town.

Let yourself be enchanted by the colors of the multicolored buildings , and check out the small handicraft stores, where you can indeed find a suitable souvenir to remind you of this trip.

Plaza Bolívar – Salento’s Main Square

Plaza Bolívar in Salento is the vibrant heart of this charming village and an absolute must for any visitor. Surrounded by colorful colonial buildings that reflect the region’s history and culture, the central square invites you to linger and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

At the latest, when you leave for the Cocora Valley or any other Salento excursion destination, you will end up in this square. Because this is where the Willys, the city’s iconic jeeps, are waiting .

The town’s church, the Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, is also in this plaza. It’s worth taking a peek inside, as something is always going on here.

Calle Real is the main pedestrian street in Salento. Characterized by vibrant colors and traditional, well-preserved colonial buildings , this picturesque pedestrian street is great for taking some travel snapshots.

Along Calle Real, you’ll find various interesting stores offering everything from handmade jewelry and traditional clothing to locally grown coffee .

You can enjoy local delicacies in the many cozy cafes and restaurants while watching the hustle and bustle of the street.

Hike in the Valle de Cocora and discover the impressive wax palms

Opening Hours Cocora Valley: 08 – 18 Uhr

Entrance Fee Cocora Valley: 10.000 COP (ca. 2 €/$ 2.2) + 6.000 COP (ca. 1,20 €/1.3) for the extended hike

Getting there: approx. 25 minutes by Willy from Plaza Bolívar (9.000 COP/approx. 1,80 €/$ 1.90 return)

For many travelers, Valle de Cocora, the Cocora Valley, is the main reason to visit Salento. Home to giant wax palm trees, Cocora Valley is definitely one of the most unique places I have ever seen . This picturesque place will definitely captivate you immediately as well.

After about a 25-minute ride in the Willy, you will reach Cocora Valley and can start your hike. There are two trails you can choose from . One option is to hike exclusively in the Valle de Cocora, that is, through the wax palm area.

Another option is to take the circular trail, which will take about six hours. The route takes you through beautiful scenery, along and maybe even a bit through the region’s river, along forest landscapes, to a hummingbird farm (entrance fee: 15,000 COP/approx. 3 €/$ 3.2), where you’ll be greeted with hot chocolate and cheese (yes, weird combo, I know, but this combination is very popular in Colombia).

For me, the long hike in the Cocora Valley was an absolute highlight of our trip. It is truly recommended for those who like hiking and want to spend more time in Colombian nature.

Extra tip: I recommend leaving no later than 8:30 am from Salento (ideally at 7:30 am) to visit the Cocora Valley. Especially during the high season, it can get really crowded.

Eje Cafetero: Visit a Coffee Farm

Opening Hours Finca Buenos Aires: 09 am – 04 pm (Tours start at every full hour)

Entrance Fee Finca Buenos Aires : 35.000 COP (ca. 7 €/$ 7.5)

Getting there: about 25 minutes by Willy from Plaza Bolívar (8,000 COP/approx. 1.65 €/$ 1.7 round trip) or on foot (about 1½ hours each way) or as a guided Tour

A visit to Eje Cafetero, Colombia’s famous coffee triangle, is an invitation to take a closer look at the region’s coffee cultivation. And Salento is definitely an ideal place to do so.

Surrounded by numerous coffee farms, you have many great places to visit. Among the most visited in the region are the coffee fincas Don Eduardo, Las Acacias, and El Ocaso .

Looking for a coffee farm that is not right by Salento and is less touristy, a local highly recommended the Buenos Aires Coffee Farm .

And indeed, the tour was just great. Beginning on the hour, the guided tours start at the Finca and take you on a journey from planting to harvesting and later preparation of the coffee beans . The tours are given in English and Spanish in relatively small groups.

Each of our questions was answered, and our tour guide, Pablo, clearly enjoyed his work and had a lot of knowledge to share with us.

And most importantly, of course, you get to taste at the end of the tour. Besides a freshly brewed coffee, we were surprised with a small snack and a refreshing lemonade.

Enjoy the local gastronomy

Salento has two special dishes that are the pride of the region and are usually served in combination: Trout (“Trucha”) and Patacón (A kind of crispy tortilla made from plantains).

If you visit the region, you can try both dishes in different versions.

If you don’t like to eat fish, I recommend the patacóns as a single dish. At Restaurante Bambu , you can enjoy them, for example, with mushrooms (highly recommended) with a simply fantastic view over the idyllic nature of the region.

Delicious lunch menus, sandwiches, and soups of the day (also many vegetarian options) can be found at the Meraki restaurant .

The Mirador of Salento – En las Manos de Dios

Opening Hours Viewpoint: 08 am – 06 pm

Entrance Fee Viewpoint : 5.000 COP (ca. 1 €/$ 1.10)

This particular viewpoint is located just a short walk (about 10-15 minutes) from downtown Salento towards the coffee fincas. So, if you’re heading there on foot or with a private driver, this is a convenient option for a short stopover.

The viewpoint offers several photo opportunities , such as a willy, an eagle, or some butterfly wings, including antennae you can pose with.

The highlight, however, is the hands that you can climb up to get a great view of the surrounding nature or snap a nice photo for your travel album.

Admittedly, the lookout is more for fun, to snap a few amusing photos, than to enjoy a grand view . But for the small entrance fee, it’s well worth the enjoyment.

Visit Filandia

Travel time Filandia: approx. 40 minutes

Journey Price: 16.000 COP (ca. 3,2 €/$ 3.4) return

Getting there: By Willy from Plaza Bolívar once an hour.

If Salento is too touristy for you or you just want to visit a charming local village nearby, then a visit to Filandia is just what you are looking for. You can easily get to the small town between Pereira and Salento by taking a Willy , which runs about once an hour between the two towns.

Filandia is a quiet, authentic place with tranquil, colorful colonial buildings surrounded by beautiful green nature .

Stroll through the small town, let yourself be enchanted by the picturesque colors of the buildings, drink a coffee with a view over the coffee-growing areas, or climb the observation tower just a short walk from the town center.

Extra tip: For a small lunch with a view, visit the Helena Adentro restaurant. Some of the best coffee we had in Filandia was at Café Quindío.

Bike Tour & Mountain Biking

Mountain biking and cycling around Salento are fantastic ways to actively explore the region’s stunning scenery and breathtaking nature. With various routes and difficulty levels aimed at less-trained and experienced cyclists, the scenic trails and narrow country roads offer unforgettable experiences.

Cycle through dense forests, past lush green hills, and along rivers while enjoying panoramic views of the majestic Andes.

Extra tip: Don’t forget your helmet and sunscreen! Especially during the midday hours, the sun gets pretty intense.

Santa Rita Waterfall

Travel time Santa Rita: approx. 40 Minutes (10 minutes by Bus + 30 minutes walk)

Journey Price: 3.000 COP (ca. 0,6 €/$ 0.65) return

Entrance Fee: 7.000 COP (ca. 1,50 €/)

Santa Rita Waterfall is an impressive place to visit during your trip to Salento. Located about 6 km/3.7 mi from Salento, this picturesque waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a refreshing swim in its natural pool.

To get there, you can either go for a hike (you can also take the bus for the first kilometers) or join a horseback riding tour to fully enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Go on a day trip

Many consider the Eje Cafetero area around Salento to be one of the most beautiful areas in Colombia. If you have more time to spare, planning an additional day trip in the area is worthwhile.

You can book a tour to many of the following places locally or online. If you are a confident driver, it is also worth renting a car on-site and exploring the area on your own (especially recommended outside the rainy season!).

The best way to do this is to book your car through RentalCars and then pick it up at Pereira Airport.

Santa Rosa de Cabal Hot Springs

Opening Hours Hot Springs: 06.30 – 10.30 am + 11.30 am – 05.30 pm + 06 pm – 11.30 pm

Entrance Fee Hot Springs: Depending on the season and time, between 41.000 COP (approx. 8,50 €/$ 8.7) and 100.000 COP (approx. 20,50 €/$ 21.20). You can find the exact prices on the official website

Getting there: about 60 km/37 mi from Salento, journey ideally with a rental car or as a guided tour from Salento

The hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal, located in the picturesque region, are a true paradise for recreation seekers and nature lovers. These natural hot springs, surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful waterfalls, offer a relaxing retreat after a long hike through the Cocora Valley .

These springs’ mineral-rich, warm waters are known for their soothing and therapeutic properties that pamper the body and mind alike. Here, you can relax in a beautiful setting and enjoy the healing powers of the water while listening to the sounds of nature.

Unfortunately, our own trip to the hot springs fell through thanks to heavy rains. However, other travelers and locals have praised this place so much that it simply can’t be missed on this list.

Jardín Botánico del Quindío – The Botanical Garden

Opening Hours Botanical Garden: 08 am – 03.30 pm

Entrance Fee Botanical Garden: 60.000 COP (ca. 12,50 €/$ 12.7)

Getting there: About a 1-hour drive from Salento by rental car or taxi

The Jardín Botánico del Quindío in Colombia is a unique natural paradise that emphasizes ecological conservation, scientific research, and environmental education.

In this fascinating botanical garden, you can admire various plant collections and exhibits, including the notable national palm collection, which includes nearly every species of palm native to Colombia.

Additionally, the garden offers unique attractions such as a beautiful butterfly garden, an insect zoo, and bird-watching areas.

A visit to Pereira is an excellent opportunity to experience Colombia’s urban life while you’re in the region. This lively city lies only about 1 to 1.5 hours from Salento and offers an abundance of sights, stores, and restaurants. It is also far less touristy than many other Colombian cities.

Here, you can admire modern architecture, explore local markets, and enjoy delicious Colombian cuisine. A detour to Pereira is an excellent addition to your stay in Salento and allows you to discover Colombia’s diverse flair in all its facets.

Extra tip: If you later fly to Medellín or another region of Colombia, you can kill two birds with one stone and visit Pereira on the way to the airport.

A visit to Pijao, a picturesque village in the coffee region of Colombia, is a beautiful opportunity to experience traditional Colombian life off the beaten path. Pijao is about 35 kilometers/22 mi from Salento and is surrounded by impressive mountains and lush vegetation.

In this charming town, you can stroll through the narrow streets, admire the colorful colonial facades, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Pijao also offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about coffee production in the region, as it is surrounded by numerous coffee farms where you can take part in guided tours and see the coffee-making process up close.

Unfortunately, during our trip, we didn’t manage to visit Pijao as planned, as the rainy season started way too early for us and flooded the roads. However, since we had already put a lot of planning into our local trip, I didn’t want to withhold this fantastic place from you.

Extra tip: If you want to visit this beautiful and less touristy place, you should know that its accessibility is not exactly easy. You can reach it either by rental car, motorcycle, or taxi.

Horseback riding

For some visitors, one of the best activities around Salento is a horseback ride through the breathtaking landscape of the coffee region. Guided horseback rides allow you to explore the picturesque valleys, green hills, and traditional coffee farms in a very special way.

However, before you go horseback riding, it is essential to ensure that the horses are well-treated and healthy. Make sure they look well-fed, groomed, and not overworked. Unfortunately, we have seen some horses that looked really anything but happy. However, if you consider these aspects, you can have an unforgettable and responsible riding experience in the enchanting surroundings of Salento.

Where to stay in Salento

Casa la eliana.

I’ll be completely honest with you. There doesn’t seem to be a perfect place to stay in Salento, But of all the ones we looked at, Casa La Eliana was by far the best option.

This place is not located right in the center of town – but a 3-minute walk from it and therefore much quieter – and has cozy rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

The owner, Jesús, and his wife will give you many practical tips for your excursions and can help you spend a few wonderful days in Salento and its surroundings.

Check further info, prices, and availability of Casa La Eliana

The best place to stay for nature lovers

Coffee tree boutique hostel.

If you are looking for simply gorgeous views over the nature of Salento, this hostel is the right place for you. Besides the beautiful nature, the house’s dogs also help you feel almost at home.

The location on the outskirts of the village provides a quiet environment, and the common area offers the option to get in touch with other travelers.

Check further info, prices, and availability of Coffee Tree Boutique

The best budget accommodation in Salento

Viajero hostel salento.

If you are traveling on a smaller budget and like to stay in hostels where you can quickly get in touch with other travelers (thanks to the communal lounge), this is the right place to stay.

Viajero Hostel is one of the most popular accommodations in Salento, especially for backpackers. You can choose from rooms of different sizes and facilities, private rooms, family rooms, or dormitories.

Check further info, prices, and availability of Viajero Hostel Salento

Is your ideal accommodation not included?

Check all accommodations in Salento

How to get to Salento

Getting to Salento from Medellín

Travel time: ca. 6-7 hours

Journey cost: ca. 73.000 COP (ca. 15 €/$ 15.50)

Tickets: at Terminal del Sur in Medellín or (recommended) book online in advance at Busbud.com

The cheapest way to travel from Medellín to Salento is most likely by bus. Usually, the bus company Flota Occidental is responsible for the trip. There are normally several buses daily (in most cases, there are three).

It is worth booking your ticket in advance to be sure to have one available. (We tried to book our ticket for the following day only spontaneously the night before, and all seats were already sold out).

Extra tip: Even if the trip officially only takes 6 hours, you shouldn’t rely on these travel times (in our case, it was a good 10 hours of travel thanks to traffic jams and construction sites on the road). This is not only true for this particular trip but for bus trips in Colombia in general.

Travel time : ca. 6-7 hours

Renting a car: on-site or at RentalCars

Another option is to rent a car and drive the route yourself. This way, you also have the opportunity to visit different places along the way (e.g., the enchanting city of Jardín ) and do not depend on bus schedules.

However, note that the rental prices will be a bit higher if you don’t drive your rental car back to Medellín afterward.

The roads on this route are relatively good, but there may be road closures along the way. Therefore, be sure to listen to the instructions of the local road police. Road flooding can occur from time to time, especially during the rainy season.

By airplane

Travel time : ca. 50 minutes

Journey cost: from 55 €/$ 60

Tickets: Buy your ticket, ideally, some days in advance at flight comparison sites like Skyscanner.

If you have little time or long bus rides are just not your thing, you can also travel from Medellín by plane. Salento itself does not have an airport, but the nearby cities of Pereira and Armenia both offer daily flights to and from Medellín.

From there, you can get to Salento by bus or taxi. However, from Pereira airport, you must first take a bus or cab (about 10 minutes) to the bus station. From here, buses leave about once an hour to Salento (about 1 – 1 1/2 hours).

Getting to Salento from Bogotá

Travel time : ca. 9 hours

Journey cost : ab 58.000 COP (ca. 12 €/ $ 12.50)

Tickets: At Terminal de Salitre in Bogotá or (recommended) book online in advance at Busbud.com

From the Colombian capital, Bogotá, you can also take the bus to Salento several times a day. First, you must book a bus to one of the surrounding cities, Armenia (or Pereira) (about an 8-hour drive).

From here, you can continue by bus or taxi to Salento (about 1 hour).

Several operators operate from the Terminal de Salitre in Bogotá, which means buses to Armenia run several times daily.

Travel time : ca. 55 minutes

If the long bus ride from Bogotá is too strenuous for you, you can also travel by plane. Since Salento itself does not have an airport, you should book your flight via the neighboring cities of Pereira or Armenia.

From there, you can take a bus or cab to Salento. From Pereira airport, you have to take a bus or taxi (about 10 minutes) to the bus station. Buses leave about once an hour to Salento (about 1 – 1 1/2 hours).

Salento Transport

The willies of salento.

The Willies in Salento (Jeeps) belong to the city like Sagrada Familia to Barcelona . They are already a cult object in the area. It’s hardly surprising that they can simply be found in various iconic places in Salento as a photo point.

You can use the Willys for various excursions in the area. For example, they will take you to the Cocora Valley to see the famous wax palms, Filandia, or the coffee farms in the area.

To use the Willys, all you have to do is go to Salento’s main square, Plaza Bolívar. From there, you can hardly miss the departure point. Buy your ticket at the small stand by the cars.

Extra info: The Willys are often filled up to the last “seat.” This also means the footboard outside the jeep, on which up to three people can ride standing up. If that’s too risky for you, better sit inside or wait for the next Willy.

Salento itself is relatively small and thus easy to explore on foot. Even many coffee farms can be reached within 30-90 minutes of walking if you enjoy a walk.

Bus and Colectivo

If you want to visit places further out, like Pereira, the best way is to take the bus. You can buy your bus ticket at the bus stop, a short walk (about 7-10 minutes) outside the center.

Where is Salento?

Colombian Salento is located in the Departamento de Quindío, in the heart of Colombia’s coffee triangle. The charming village is situated at an altitude of about 1,900 meters/ 6.233 ft. above sea level.

FAQ about visiting Salento

The best time to visit Salento is probably between December and early March. You will find the best temperatures with less rainfall during this dry season. However, this is also the most touristy time in Salento.

Salento is easily accessible by bus from larger cities such as Pereira, Armenia, or Medellín. The trip from Pereira or Armenia takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, while the journey from Medellín takes about 6 hours.

To explore Salento and its surroundings at your leisure, it is recommended to stay at least 2 to 3 days. This way, you will have enough time to visit the most important sights, like the Cocora Valley and the coffee farms, and enjoy the local culture and atmosphere.

Salento, Colombia, is considered a reasonably safe destination, even for solo travelers. However, as with any tourist destination, you should keep an eye on your valuables and exercise some caution.

In Salento, as in the entire country, the Colombian currency, the peso (COP), is used. It is advisable to carry cash in smaller denominations for daily use, as not all stores and restaurants accept credit cards.

In general, you should assume that not all locals speak English. However, in the tourist area, many can communicate in English. It is recommended, nevertheless, to speak some basic Spanish.

Interested in Colombia?

About the Author Vicki

Hi, we are Vicki & Eduardo, an international travel couple on a mission to help you save money for priceless travel experience. Follow us through the miracles of this world and you will be rewarded with a bunch of practical travel tips.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Unknown Enthusiast

14 Best Things to Do in Salento, Colombia in 2024 (Salento Travel Guide)

Looking for the absolute best things to do in Salento ? I’ve got you covered! Read on for all the details.

Out of all the places we visited during our trip to Colombia, Salento was *probably* our favorite spot ( Cartagena makes it tough to choose, though!). We loved the beautiful rolling hills, the mountains in the distance, the lush greenery, the towering wax palms, the colorful streets, the laid back vibe… I mean, the list is never-ending!

Salento is part of the coffee growing region in Colombia (sometimes referred to as the Coffee Triangle). This entire area was actually named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011.

Salento is most known for its proximity to the stunning wax palms of the Cocora Valley , but there is a lot more to do here than just hike. Despite being a small, rural village, there are actually a whole bunch of exciting things to do in Salento!

14 Best Things to Do in Salento, Colombia

Let’s dive into the list of our favorite things to do in Salento. However, definitely read to the end of the post for a whole bunch of other helpful information , like when to visit, how long to stay, where to eat, how to get around, and more!

1. Plaza de Bolivar

Plaza de Bolivar is the heart of Salento. This vibrant square is filled with palm trees and places to sit, and surrounded by colorful buildings and the village church.

There are stalls and food vendors lining the square. On one side of the square, you have more street-food-style trucks with takeaway items, plus some craft stands. On the other side, there are “restaurant” food trucks with dedicated seating set up. These offer an affordable, but delicious, meal.

At night, there is often live music or street performances going on, and it has a really fun vibe.

Plaza de Bolivar is also where you can find the willy trucks, the main form of transportation around Salento. (Point #4 will get into this more!)

2. Iglesia Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Carmen

This church, the Our Lady of Carmen, is the main church in Salento. It is located on the Plaza de Bolivar and is open for visitors during the daytime hours. You can see the steeple rising high above the rooftops from some of the viewpoints in town.

The inside of the church is really stunning. Highlights include a tiled floor, the ornate capitals on the columns, and above all, THAT CEILING! I loved the wooden designs, it definitely made this church a standout for me.

3. Best Things To Do in Salento: Stroll Calle Real

Calle Real is an adorable street in Salento, full of colorful doors, windows, balconies, and even colorful chair-rail molding on the buildings.

This is the main tourist street in Salento, but even though it has a bit of a touristy feel, you can’t skip it! During the day, the doors are all open, revealing shops and restaurants. You can find a whole bunch of shops selling souvenirs, but also some really nice handmade jewelry, clothing, and home décor items. Overall, there is still a fun feeling even with the crowds.

If you come before 9am, a whole different experience awaits. The shops and doors are closed. Just a few locals move about, mostly tending to early morning deliveries or cleaning the areas around their stores.

In these peaceful hours you can simply walk and admire the street with maximum color and vibrancy! The closed doors bring a sense of wholeness to the buildings and allow their rich colors to create a beautiful tapestry all along the street.

Block after block you get unique combinations and new sights. Walking down Calle Real early in the morning was truly one of my favorite things to do in Salento.

The rest of Salento is also very, very colorful, with a similar style of bright, painted doors and windows. It’s just a bit more extra on Calle Real!

Travel Tip: Calle Real is also known as Carrera 6. In Colombia, all East-West streets are Calle and North-South are Carrera. So, Carrera 6 is the official street designation and Calle Real is the nickname, with Calle being Spanish for “street”.

4. Take a Ride in the Willy Jeeps

Taking a willy jeep is THE way to get around the Salento area. It’s cheap, easy, and convenient to get a ride to the Cocora Valley, a coffee farm, Kasaguadua, or other attractions in the area.

It can also be very thrilling, as usually they have several people standing on the back and holding onto the roof as they drive you through somewhat bumpy, unpaved backroads. It’s a mode of transportation, but it’s also an experience in its own right.

To get a ride, the process is very simple and straightforward. Just go up to the little shack by all the willy jeeps (you can see it behind the jeeps in the picture above, you definitely can’t miss this spot in the square) and buy tickets. There will be posted departure times and hours on the stand, so you can consult the time schedule ahead of time.

Hours do change throughout the year, but generally, the first jeeps depart for Cocora Valley around 6-6:30am. Jeeps for other destinations will depart a little bit later in the morning.

If you don’t see your destination posted on the list, no worries! Just go up to the counter and ask for a ride to wherever you want to go – they are very familiar with all the attractions in the area and regularly take people to them. For example, when we went to both the Ocaso Coffee Farm and the Kasaguadua Nature Preserve, it was no problem to get a ride there, even though there is no schedule posted for those locations.

Additionally, the willy jeeps are familiar with the schedules at the destinations, and will swing back around when the tours are ending to pick people up and bring you back to town.

I would plan to arrive at the ticket shack 10-15 minutes before you need to leave, in case there is a line or there are any questions.

Ticket prices are generally around 6,000 COP round trip (about $1.50) per person for destinations closer to town, and then about 11,000 COP round trip (about $3) per person for the Cocora Valley.

Read More: 29 Amazing Things to Do with 3 Days in Bogota

5. Finca Osaco Coffee Farm Tour

As Salento is part of the so-called “Coffee Triangle” in Colombia, there are a number of coffee farms ( finca , in Spanish) close to town that offer guided tours to visitors. This is definitely a must-do thing to do in Salento.

While there are a lot of farms to choose from, we really enjoyed our tour at Finca Ocaso, and I would highly recommend it. Here’s what its like:

First, you need to get out to the coffee farm, which will involve walking about 4 km or taking a willy out. It’s a pretty decent walk, with some good hills and no sidewalks, so I would just take the jeeps. The jeeps usually leave about 30 minutes before the tours start, so arrive at the ticket shack around 45 minutes ahead of time.

For tickets to Ocaso, you can make reservations ahead of time on their website, or just show up and buy tickets on the spot. The regular tours are capped at 30 people. When we went in the summer, there were only around 15-20 people there, but tours can sell out.

There are both Spanish and English speaking tours, with several times for both languages throughout the day. You can view the schedule here .

There is a way to make reservations on their website, but it wasn’t a great form (e.g. for “which language do you want the tour in”, the options were “Espanol” or “Spanish.”). Personally, if you want to reserve, I would just message them on Whatsapp to reserve your spot – their number is at the bottom of the webpage . We took the route of showing up and buying tickets on the spot.

The tour starts with everyone receiving a traditional woven picking basket for harvesting the beans, which you tie around your waist. You then learn about how they start the sprouts of the coffee plants and prepare them for planting.

Then you are taken into the fields, where you learn about the different types of coffee plants, how they are taken care of, and what a ripe coffee berry looks like. You’re given 10 minutes to wander through the coffee plants and find ripe coffee berries to collect in your basket.

Afterwards, you pull the beans out of the berries, put them in the grinder, and see the greenhouses where the beans are dried and the ovens where they are roasted.

Finally, you are taken through a demonstration of the different methods of coffee drink preparation, from grinding the beans to steeping in water. This was a really fun and engaging demonstration, and people in the tour get to participate in the brewing process. At the end of it all, you get to try a cup of coffee from beans that were grown, harvested, and prepared at the Osaco coffee farm.

There is time afterwards to enjoy the grounds – with beautiful views overlooking the hills and valleys, and some cute tables and spots set up to relax and enjoy.

The tour was given in English and was the perfect amount of time for us – less than 2 hours, with several interactive activities. 

• Price : 30,000 COP per person (about $7)
• Time : Tours last between 1.5 and 2 hours

Best Things to Do in Salento #6. Hike Cocora Valley

Doing a hike in the Cocora Valley (or Valle de Cocora , in Spanish) is the main reason that most people visit Salento and with good reason: it was absolutely breathtaking.

The primary draw to the Cocora Valley is the wax palm trees, which are the tallest palms in the world, growing up to 200 feet high! The wax palms are also the national symbol of Colombia.

The Cocora Valley is really a magical place, with the towering wax palms dotting the valley and lush mountains providing absolutely gorgeous views.

In fact, Disney’s Encanto is actually set in the Cocora Valley. Apparently the writers were traveling around Colombia, gaining inspiration for the film. When they visited Cocora, they knew it was THE place – it just felt magical. Honestly, I have to agree, it really had this fairytale feeling to it.

The Cocora Valley is about a 30 minute ride from Salento via willy jeep. You can see the Wax Palm Grove with only about 1/2 hour of hiking, but the entire Cocora Valley trail is about 8 miles/12 km, and takes anywhere from 5-7 hours to complete.

This trail climbs about 2500 feet/762 meters as it winds up into the mountains and rainforest. In fact, the valley is an entrance to the Los Nevados National Park , which continues on farther into the mountain regions.

We have a lot to say about this hike (how to prepare and what to expect, plus which direction is the best to hike, etc), so check out our dedicated post about Cocora!

Read More: A Detailed Guide to the Cocora Valley Hike in 2024

7. Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is one really fun and popular way to experience Salento and/or the Cocora Valley.

There are a couple options for horseback rides near Salento. The first, and definitely most popular option, is doing a horseback ride through the Cocora Valley. This is a great option if you don’t want to hike, but still want to see the wax palms and the sights.

However, it could still be a good option for you even if you also do the Cocora Valley hike separately, as the horse back riding path is somewhat different from the footpath. On this horse ride, you’ll visit the Wax Palm Grove, then go through a farm, cross the river, and go on horse paths up to viewpoints high in the mountains.

👉 Book this Cocora Valley horseback riding experience here!

Alternatively, you can do a horseback ride to the Santa Rita waterfall, which is a waterfall a couple miles outside of Salento. Ride through the rainforest to the waterfall, enjoying the unique experience and beautiful views.

👉 Book this horse ride to the Santa Rita waterfall here!

8. Mirador Alto de la Cruz

Mirador (Spanish for viewpoint) Alto de la Cruz is a beautiful viewpoint over the town of Salento and the surrounding hills and mountains.

You can access the viewpoint at the end of Calle Real. The street ends at the staircase up to the mirador; you really can’t miss it!

The stairs are quite steep, and there are some little booths on the stairs selling some trinkets, and there are several stalls at the top selling water and food. At the top, you’ll also find a playground for children, a workout station with several different machines, and several benches to sit at overlooking the city. 

Fun Fact: The name for this viewpoint comes from the fact that there is a large cross at the summit. The 14 stations of the cross (a Catholic tradition) are highlighted as you climb the steps.

9. Mirador de Salento

From Mirador Alto de la Cruz, follow the trail toward the playground and continue on the backside of the hill to get to Mirador de Salento, a covered balcony with views over the Cocora Valley. You can also access it from town by going up Carrera 4.

While the other mirador has a better view over the city, this viewpoint has much better view over the countryside, and generally just had a nicer setup. The viewing area had a nice deck and railing, and the vista and landscape were absolutely gorgeous.

It’s also really fun to see the Cocora Valley from farther away! You can’t reeeaaaallly see the wax palms, but you can certainly see where they would be. Or, you can zoom in a lot on your phone and see them!

10. Kasaguadua Nature Preserve

The Kasaguadua Nature Preserve is a bit of a hidden gem, but was one of my absolute favorite things to do in Salento and should definitely be on your Salento itinerary as well.

In a nutshell, the Kasaguadaua Nature Preserve offers a daily guided hike through this lush and primal jungle preserve. Throughout the hike, you learn about the jungle ecosystem and some of the plants that grow there. This hike does have some elevation change, so be prepared and have some water.

Here’s what a visit is like : You will be met at the gate by one of the caretakers at Kasaguadua, who takes you into the jungle. You descend through a section of jungle that is in the process of recovering after having been cleared.

The guide will teach you about the recovery process, the different plants that grow at the different recovery stages, how they help the soil and each other, and how the plants work together.

You will tour old growth jungle that has not been cut down and see the difference between that sort of the jungle and the recovery jungle section. You will learn more about the wax palms and see them in different stages of growth (from babies to teenagers). 

As you go through, the caretaker highlights how the cloud forest is wildly different than forests in almost every other part of the world. 

The whole thing was an incredibly interesting, engaging, and funny tour. I was also super impressed with the sustainability work they are doing at the nature preserve. They are using the resources of the land, but making substantial efforts to do so in a way where humans can use what they need, while also preserving the integrity of the forest.

When we visited, Carlos was the guide for the day. He was a fantastic guide, sharing super interesting details about the forest, and making everyone feel like a big group of friends by the end. Kasaguadua is definitely one of the most interesting places to visit in Salento.

There is one 10am English tour offered every day. Send them a message on WhatsApp (+57 320 425 8075) the day before to reserve your spot. The tour lasts for 2 hours, and a 30,000 COP donation per person is suggested.

You can walk out to Kasaguadua or pick up a willy jeep in town. I would recommend taking the jeep, as you’ll be walking mostly on hilly, unpaved roads that don’t have sidewalks. The willy will stop and pick you up after you are done with the tour.

Stay at the Kasaguadua Ecolodge

As part of the tour, you stop in at the lodge and cool geodisic domes made of bamboo they have built on Kasaguadua, where people can stay in the forest and participate in the sustainability systems they have implemented. There are a limited number of pods, so it’s a very private and exclusive experience.

I was very impressed with the welcoming, and really architecturally cool setup they had created right in the middle of the jungle. In fact, if we hadn’t done this tour on the last day of our visit (and were leaving for the airport later that afternoon), I would absolutely have booked a night or two at Kasaguadua on the spot.

👉 Interested in staying in Kasaguadua? You can book your stay here! 👈

11. La Aldea del Artesano Artisan Workshop

This artisan workshop is a compound-like area on the outskirts of town. Artisans all live in the buildings surrounded a little garden courtyard area.

There are about 6 houses and shops that are open in the daytime hours. However, there is the major caveat that these people are also living their lives here, and there are no set hours for when the shops are open. Sometimes the owners are in town, working privately, or just having personal time. So, how many and which shops are open really just depends on when you show up – it’s just part of the fun!

Still, it’s a nice place to visit. They have some fun and unique wares, and it’s a peaceful place to do some shopping. When we went, we visited two shops that had mainly jewelry, figures, and sculptures for sale. This is definitely an off the beaten path thing to do in Salento.

12. Best Things to Do in Salento: Try Your Hand at Tejo

Tejo is an exciting, unique game that is the national spot of Colombia, and definitely one of the funnest things to do in Salento. I have never participated in anything quite like it!

The idea is that you throw a metal disk towards a target – if you hit the target, there’s a small explosion of gunpowder. It makes for some exciting rounds! We had a ton of fun playing Colombian tejo!

If you’re curious about the details, a metal ring is secured on a bed of clay, where you are throwing the metal disk. On the metal ring, you arrange 4 paper triangle packets that have gunpowder in them. If the metal disk makes correct and sufficient contact with the gunpowder in the packets on the metal ring below, you are rewarded with a satisfying bang.

In Salento, the main tejo bar is Los Amigos. It caters mostly to tourists, but from what I’ve seen, the tejo room was very authentic for this Colombian pasttime.

While we read that there is no entrance fee to play tejo, only the requirement that you buy drinks, we’re pretty sure we paid an entrance fee + for the drinks at Los Amigos. However, the conversation and transaction was only in Spanish, and our Spanish is pretty bad, so the specifics are a little unclear, ha!

In total, we paid 24,000 COP for the two of us (6000 x 2 drinks, and then another 5000 per person). Once you’re in, you can play as long as you want, and we were given a large supply of packets. No minors are allowed.

Address : Carrera 4

13. Eat Trucha ( Trout )

Trout is THE dish to eat in Salento, as trout are caught fresh daily in the Quindio River, just outside of town. It is a very traditional dish and just about every restaurant will serve some variation of trout.

This delicious trout above was served with a herb cream sauce at Restaurante Meraki in town. It was flaky, tasty, and large enough to share.

14. What NOT to do in Salento: Walk from Mirador de Salento to the River

When we arrived at the Mirador de Salento, we noticed a path that started at the viewpoint and seemed to lead down to the river, which we could see in the valley below. We had read beforehand that walking to, and along, the river was a great activity to do.

So, we asked one of the workers there about it, and he confirmed that yes, that path would lead you down to the river and it was about a 20 minute walk.

Well, that was great news! We headed down. Unfortunately, the very nice-looking path quickly turned a lot more rough, and then became incredibly overgrown (Matthew had to bushwhack our way through one section of it).

Then the path turned into a somewhat steep, narrow, precarious stream. By this point we were too far in to want to turn around, so we kept pressing on. (We’ve gotta be close, right?)

By the time we finally reached the road we were tired, a little muddy (I had a nice wipeout at one point), and a bit frazzled. We walked along the road until we reached the entry point to walk along the river. Except… the area along the river was closed off with barbed wire. So we ended up just walking back up the side of the paved road back into town.

I would 100% recommend NOT trying to access a river trail via the path from Mirador de Salento. It’s not a very nice trail and there’s really no payoff at the end! (Definitely made for a good adventure, though!)

Where to Eat in Salento

There are a variety of restaurants and places to eat in Salento, and enjoying the local cuisine is definitely one of the best things to do in Salento! Here are our favorites:

Restaurante Shalem

This restaurant had the most adorable exterior and decorations (which… may be why we chose it, ha!), but it also served a very good and economical traditional Colombian breakfast.

Address : Calle 6 #4-44

La Fonda de Los Arrieros Restaurante

Right off of Calle Real, this restaurant had a really cute garden courtyard seating area and delicious food.

Address : Carrera 6 #3-21

Restaurante Meraki

This restaurant was on a quiet street and had a cute dining area. We liked the trout, the rice plate, and the jugo con leche (essentially a juice milkshake) here! I recommend getting jugo con leche anytime you see it – it’s so good and there are many flavors to try.

Address : Carrera 3 #5-56

Terraza Pizzeria

If you are looking for a break from Colombian fare, this pizzeria was really a delicious option. I loved my personal sized lasagna, Matthew liked his pizza, and the jugo con leche was top notch. And don’t worry, it still has a Colombian twist as pizza here is quite different from what you’ll find the USA.

Address : Carrera 6 #4-42

The Food Trucks at Plaza de Bolivar

We ate at the food trucks twice. It’s actually a great way to eat lunch, as there is covered seating, the food is really good, comes out fast, and the price is very reasonable. These are set up right along Plaza de Bolivar Square!

The Fruit Stands at Plaza de Bolivar

For sure stop here at least once for some fresh cut fruit or fresh pressed fruit juice!

The Snack Stands at Plaza de Bolivar

There was a variety of snacks available on carts around Plaza de Bolivar, but I want to spotlight two.

The first are obleas – a thin wafer sandwich with dulce de leche (or other toppings) inside. It is an extremely popular treat in Colombia and we saw locals eating them frequently.

The second one was this pineapple ice cream sundae. It came with four types of ice cream and other fresh fruit served inside a fresh pineapple. Delightful!

A Few Other Things to Note About Dining in Salento

• Most places just take cash. There are several ATMs in town, so it is easy to pull cash out. There is also a cash exchange (with a reasonable rate) inside Centro Artesanal Los Guayacanes – located at the intersection of Carrera 6 with Calle 6 (Google maps may try to lead you to the wrong spot on this one).
• When you are done eating, you can ask a waiter/waitress for the check, but you can also just go up to the front counter to pay.

Read More: 34 Traditional Colombian Foods to Eat in Colombia

Other Helpful Information for Visiting Salento

How many days do you need in salento.

I would plan for most of one day to visit the Cocora Valley, and another 1-2 days for the other attractions in and around town. We did three (almost) full days in Salento, which I thought was a perfect amount of time.

Is Salento Safe?

We felt really safe in Salento, day or night. While I would still exercise caution at night, we did walk around in the dark and felt perfectly fine.

Is Salento, Colombia expensive?

We did not find Salento to be expensive at all. We spent around 10-15 USD for a sit down meal and 5-10 USD for a quicker meal for two. Willy rides were around 1-3 USD. The Cocora Valley had a nominal fee, and the coffee farms and Kasaguadua were both about 7 USD per person. You can find accommodations at a range of price points, but there are many options for private rooms for two people between 25-40 USD/night.

Note : While prices are given here in USD for convenience, Colombia uses the Colombian peso (COP) and you cannot pay in dollars. At time of writing, about 4300 pesos = 1 US dollar.

Read More: Our Colombia Travel Budget: What Does a Trip to Colombia Cost?

When Is the Best Time to Visit Salento?

Weatherwise, Salento has very stable (and pretty nice!) temperatures year round. Average highs are steady around 72F/22C, with lows around 55F/13F, year round. Days tend to be overcast, with June-September and December-January having the highest percentage of clear skies.

Salento receives rain year-round, with January and February receiving the least amount of rain, followed by July and August. The spring and fall months do tend to have higher amounts of rain and cloud clover. You can look at weather trends in Salento further here .

Tourism does tend to be higher in the winter. And any time during the year, weekends and holidays are much busier than weekdays. We went in July and had great weather and manageable crowds. But, the first day we arrived was part of a 3-day weekend in Colombia and the crowds were much higher.

Overall, I would say that July and August are the best times to visit (with June/September also being pretty good times), followed by December-February.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Securing some travel insurance is an important part of prepping for any international trip – you never know when something might happen, and your regular insurance generally won’t cover you overseas. Costs for a medical emergency on vacation can add up extremely fast, so it’s just better to be safe than sorry. (If covid has taught me anything, it’s that you never know what could happen!)   I like booking insurance at  Insure My Trip , as they offer a variety of plans with different coverages to choose from, so you can find the right option for you. Plus, they have great customer support if you need help before, during, or after your trip.

👉 Check rates at Insure My Trip here! 👈

What Should I Pack for Salento?

This isn’t a comprehensive packing list, but these are a few different things I would recommend packing for Salento:

• A poncho /rainjacket : (or umbrella , but I would recommend a poncho or rainjacket when you’re hiking)
• Hiking leggings: These are my favorite leggings – I wear them around the house and also for exercise! They were perfect for hiking Cocora.
• Good hiking shoes: The better grip you have, the better.
• Comfortable shoes for walking around town: My favorites are these really cushy white sneakers , and these soft and supportive sandals .
• A battery pack: Between the coffee farms, the colorful town, and the wax palms, you’re going to be taking a lot of pictures. I always carry this battery pack with us so I can charge my phone as needed.

Read More : 35+ Favorite Travel Essentials for Women in 2024: Outfits, Accessories, and Gear

How Do I Get From Pereira to Salento?

Many travelers choose to travel between major cities in Colombia, including Salento, by air. However, Salento does not have its own airport, and the closest airports are in Pereira or Armenia, which are both about 45 km/27 miles away.

There are several ways you could consider getting from the airport in Pereira to Salento, and I have a whole post dedicated to all the details about how to get to this village!

Read More : How To Get From Pereira to Salento (5 Different Options)

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Salento

We loved our time in Salento! It has plenty of exciting activities, beautiful sites, delicious food, and charming locales keep you busy for several days. I definitely think Salento is worth visiting and would recommend it to anyone who loves nature or charming villages!

Read More Colombia Articles:

• 28 Unique Things to Do in Cartagena
• What Does a Trip to Colombia Cost? Our Colombia Travel Budget
• 34 Traditional Colombian Foods to Try in Colombia
• The Best Things to Do with 3 Days in Bogota
• How to Get from Pereira to Salento: 5 Different Options
• Where to Stay in Salento, Colombia (3 Different Areas + Hotel Recs)

Pin for Later!

Stephanie is the author of The Unknown Enthusiast. She's visited 21 countries and 37 of the 50 US states (but her first love will always be France). When she's not traveling, she enjoys reading, taking naps, playing games, eating popcorn, and spending time with her husband (Matthew) and 4 daughters. Stephanie lives in Alabama, USA.

Similar Posts

13 Most Instagrammable Places in Cartagena, Colombia

Day Trip From Medellin to Guatapé: How To Get There and 13 Best Things to Do [2024]

25 Cartagena Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Your Perfect 3 Days in Cartagena Itinerary [Top Things to Do]

Where to Eat in Cartagena: 13 Favorite Restaurants

A Colombia Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Colombia Cost in 2024?

A Detailed Guide to Salento, Colombia

Categories Dog-Friendly Accommodation , Travel South America , Travel with a Dog

Known for its coffee, proximity to the Valle de Cocora (Cocora Valley) and Los Nevados National natural park, and the giant wax palm trees, Salento, Colombia is a popular tourist destination. It’s filled with excursions that will please any traveler, from more laid back activities like playing tejo (a game where you throw metal pucks filled with gunpowder that explode on impact while you drink beer), to treks and thrilling adventures.

The town square and Calle Real are buzzing with the mix of local residents and travelers, yet not overwhelmingly so. Let’s not forget that this is one of the best coffee regions of Colombia.

Located in the northeast corner of the Quindio department, Salento was the first settlement in the region. Once the main route from Popayán and Cali to Bogotá, the route eventually diverted, slowing the growth of the town. Because of this, Salento has managed to retain more traditional colonial architecture more than other town in the department.

We tend to avoid the major attractions when we arrive in a tourist city. There is always more to do than what the fliers in your hostal say, you just have to do a little sleuthing, especially if you travel with your dog, like we do. So the first thing we did when we arrived in Salento, Colombia, was talk to the locals.

We did not see many listings for any of these tours listed below in town. For such a small town, we found plenty to do during our two week long visit without feeling trapped or bored. Fortunately for us, most of the activities listed below were dog-friendly, so Sora got to tag along.

What to Do in Salento

Don eduardo coffee tour.

As you can imagine, being in Colombia’s coffee triangle, you’ll see advertisements for loads of coffee tours in the region, so picking one can be overwhelming. Because we happened to stay at The Plantation House , we discovered Finca Don Eduardo, a local coffee farm.

Tim led us and his two rambunctious (but well-behaved) puppies down the muddy trail to the finca (mud boots are available at Plantation House). Along the walk, Tim explained the various types of coffee grown around the world, the reasons for growing said various types of coffee, and provided an overview of coffee growing culture in Colombia.

Eventually, we arrived at the unofficially organic 7-hectare coffee plantation and took a seat while Tim described the steps to go from bean to cup, while we sipped on freshly hand-roasted “Colombian standard” coffee. (The Colombians export their best coffee and drink the next grade down.)

Once we learned all about coffee production, Tim handed the reigns over to Julio, his finca administrator. We watched the process from start to finish, ending of course, with as much “Export grade” coffee as we wanted to drink. I couldn’t taste too much of a difference between the two, both were fantastic.

Tours run each morning and afternoon (in English and Spanish, respectively) and guests from Plantation House may join and pay anywhere from $20,000 COP (just under $7 USD) to free, depending on the number of nights they stay at the hostal (the fourth night grants a free tour). Depending on the time of the year, you may be able to directly purchase coffee beans from Don Eduardo.

Drink Coffee at Jesus Martin

While Don Eduardo doesn’t sell his coffee by the pound or by the cup at the moment as he exports it all, head to café Jesus Martin for what Tim deems has one of the best Colombian coffees in town.

The cafe is located just off the main square on a quiet side street. Though the cafe maintains its Colombian roots, we felt like we were back home in a hipster coffee shop in Portland, thanks to the vibe and the quality of the coffee.

Trek the Santa Rita Waterfall

Colombia travel is synonymous for off the beaten path, especially for water falls. I asked around about waterfall hikes, and the locals sent us to Santa Rita. Aside from one small horseback ride tour and a couple of locals, we were the only ones on the trail.

A bit tricky to find, we used Maps.Me  to navigate our route. The hike basically takes you across private land and along a river before reaching the waterfalls. The path can be muddy, thanks to all the rain and cows grazing, so bring good shoes.

To see our favorite offline apps for cycling and other outdoor adventures, read: The Best Offline Mapping Tools for Cycle Touring

How to Get to the Santa Rita Waterfall

There are a few ways to reach this waterfall. If you want to trek the whole way, walk down the Camino Inca at the end of the road from Plantation House and continue all the way down until you reach a yellow bridge crossing the main road via Trail Once. Cross the yellow bridge, then make a right on a dirt road just past the river from the Finca Hotel Rancho San Antonio . You’ll see camping and picnic tables on the right side. Walk down that path and follow the signs to Cascada Santa Rita.

The other options are to walk down the main road (which is curvy and not really safe, as we learned) and hitch a ride when you’ve decided your nerves have been sufficiently rattled, or hire a jeep from the main plaza to take you to the campground.

Eventually, you’ll arrive to a Y in the road where there is a large gate. Head left beyond the gate and when you arrive at Finca Santa Rita, the owners will charge you 2.000 COP for entry. The path to the waterfall is quite obvious. Continue for about two kilometers until you reach the sketchy bridge crossing over to the waterfall just beyond. Brave the cold if you like and take a dip.

If your feet have a nice crust on them from all the mud, ask the gentleman at the finca if you can rinse off with the hose. Walk back the same way and you can either wait for the bus to take you back (our driver allowed Sora to board), walk, or hitch a ride.

Guided Tour at Kasa Guadua

For a mind-blowing lesson in forest biology and a history of the region, do not miss the Kasa Guadua tour. Owners Nicholas (a Brit) and Carlos (a Colombian) have dedicated the past ten years of their lives to creating this true ecological sanctuary. You’ll see the word “eco” just about everywhere in Salento, but it really means very little in the way of sustainable practices.

Salento, like much of South America, was destroyed by the Spanish when they landed in the 1500s. Upon arrival, Salento was a lush land, covered in thick cloud forest, which the Spanish cut down, as the trees impeded on their goals of conquering the land for their own purposes: Farming and development.

So they cleared the forests and brought their livestock, which sprinkled grass seed and stamped the native seeds into the earth, sending the forest into a deep hibernation.

Kasa Guadua has taken their 12 hectares and welcomed the return of the cloud forest thanks to the awakening of the seed bank . In the 2.5-hour walk, we saw dozens of varied eco-climates that work in harmony because the forest provides exactly what it needs for that particular section of land.

For more eco tourism destinations, read about our outdoor-filled visit to Pachijal Ecolodge in Mindo at  Why Dog-Friendly Pachijal Ecolodge is Worth a Visit.

We took a rest at the lodge, where we met Nicholas who served us aguapanela , a local drink made with panela, the local sugar. The entire lodge is made from sustainably-harvested guadua, the bamboo that originates from the region (and to harvest sustainably, it means living in a tent for two years so that you can wake up between the hours of 2-5 in the morning when the water has left the stalk of the plant), uses their own water filtration system, creates their own methane gas used for cooking, and still comes complete with WiFi. Be sure to check out the guest pods made from guadua and a material made from recycled water bottles and plastic bags.

The tour ends with a warm hug from Carlos and a donation of your choosing for the tour.

Local River Trek

This is not an official name by any means, it’s just what I call it, because that’s exactly what it is. After our tour with Kasa Guadua, I asked Carlos for some local hike recommendations we can do with Sora and this is what he suggested.

You’ll take the same Camino Inca route through Plantation House as though you were headed to Santa Rita Waterfall, but continue past the campground for about half a kilometer. When you arrive at the set of shops, ask a local where the trail   is located. They’ll point you in the right direction. If you’re there with your dog, then beware the pack of small ones chasing after you. They’re harmless and were mostly puppies when we went.

The path continues along the river and offers some beautiful views of the valley and the mountains above. You’ll walk past fincas and colorful homes. There are several access points to the river where you can wash off your muddy feet from the hike down.

When you come to the red bridge, cross and turn left onto the dirt road. Continue walking along here until you reach the suspension bridge ( puente colgante in Spanish) in between some industrial fenced yards. You’ll see a sign for Delifruits, with photos of tons of fruit and juices. Cross the bridge and begin the trek up past Finca El Ocaso.

Continue along the road for four kilometers and you’ll eventually arrive back into town. Stop at the juice stand on the right-hand-side, about halfway up the hill to rest for a moment and suck down some delicious mango juice. Follow the road to head back into town.

Corcora Valley Trail

Everyone comes to Salento to see the giant wax palm trees of the Corcora Valley. The wax palm is the tallest palm tree in the world and is the official tree of Colombia. This is main tourist attraction that everyone visits, however, it is a story of environmental destruction.

Remember, the Spanish came and wiped out the land to create arable land for their livestock. Well, they left the wax palms because they really had no use for their fibrous insides and so today, they are what remain of the forest.

Now, since cows still graze this land, and need grasslands to survive, the unintended consequence of livestock is that the grass blocks out the seed bank, so there is very little to no growth of vegetation that supports the wax palms in a symbiotic relationship. The wax palms attempt to reproduce, but new growth is eaten by the cows, and once they die,  all those trees that you look to, high above in the sky, likely won’t be there for long.

The locals joke about the use of the word “forest” in this context, for there are other nearby areas with proper wax palm forests. To give you an idea, the famous Corcora Valley boasts 10,000 wax palms. Visit the Carbonera Valley where over one million wax palms thrive. As we learned at Kasa Guadua , the local ecosystems thrive in a crowded environment where various pests and species coexist in a harmonic state, thus, the wax palms flourish as well.

All right, enough about the loss of the land, let’s talk about the beautiful hike that leads to the wax palm forest. When you hop out of your Jeep, don’t follow the gringos. Head up the road a short distance and enter on the right across from the Cabañas Truchas Cocora and in front of the Nacional Parque Nevado brown sign.

Shortly after entering, a fellow will ask you for 2.000 COP apiece and instruct you to follow the footpath that runs next to the horse path. The trail meanders along a river, through fields, and finally, into a forest sprouting ferns from all angles and the river racing to my right with water spilling over rocks, the dirt transported me back to Oregon.

After about three kilometers, you’ll arrive at a signed intersection that will give you a few options. Either head up and left for the longer route, or directly left where 800m of steep climbing will lead you to a mirador that overlooks the entire valley. Continuing down the nice wide path will lead you to the famous wax palms.

While we encountered many hikers along the trail, we still felt like it was off the tourist path for much of the path (until we headed to the mirador, which is a popular trek).

If you’re traveling with your dog , you’ll need to overcome two obstacles: 1) your driver may give you a hard time about bringing a dog and tell you they’re not allowed anywhere. Either find another driver or convince him to take your dog along; 2) there is a sign that says no dogs allowed at the entrance, but given that street dogs can’t read, and enter freely, we went ahead and continued on in with Sora. Not one person (guide, ticket taker, no one) said a word about Sora, other than that she is pretty, because she is.

Acaime Sanctuary

We highly recommend taking the short 900m detour from the Corcora Valley Trail to Acaime , a hummingbird sanctuary. The 5.000 COP entry fee includes a warm drink at the cafe, where you can sit and watch dozens of hummingbirds suckle nectar.

Where to Stay and Eat in Salento

Salento, colombia hotels.

We spent two weeks at Plantation House and highly recommend the tranquil grounds for travelers. The shared kitchen is clean and the rooms cozy with hot showers. The Internet doesn’t reach the rooms, which was a bit of an annoyance, but it is fast, even with all the users. And, if you don’t travel with your own pet like we do, there are four dogs and several cats around to get your animal love on.

Our Favorite Salento Restaurants

Even with just a few roads making up this small town, Salento offered plenty of vegan options.

For the biggest veggie burrito you’ll see in all of South America, spilling over with veggies, beans, sauces, and rice head to Brunch.  Another great lunch spot (and the one we frequented most often) was  Punto Veggie . The service can be agonizingly slow, but the food is worth the wait. If you don’t opt for the fixed lunch of the day, we recommend the falafel.

For dinner, head to  Casa La Eliana   (which is also a hotel) . Go for the vegan basil and lemongrass curry overflowing with green vegetables, Indian flavors, and all the spice you can handle, if you ask for it. The homemade garlic pita bread is a fabulous change from the drab white tasteless bread available in South America. Oh, and while you’re at it, order a plate of hummus if you’re extra hungry from the hike.

For a nice meal out, try Luciernaga . Slightly pricier than most of the joints in town, the menu offers something for everyone, including a vegan plate that comes with a pile of dreamy garlicky kale, a veggie patty, and grilled vegetables. Sip on a regional craft beer while warming yourself by the fire and listening to the evening live music.

Map of Activities

Pin for later.

Sunday 24th of November 2019

Hello, I'm currently living in Colombia as a Peace Corps volunteer and have adopted a dog. I plan to fly to Pereira and take a bus to Salento, spend a night there, continue to Buenavista, and later take a night bus to Medellin. I wanted to ask if you had experience taking buses these routes? Was it a challenge with your dog? I know for big companies like Brasilia you need to have a carrier with you. Did you guys bring one? Thank you!

Jen Sotolongo

Tuesday 26th of November 2019

Hi Rio! Thank you for rescuing a pup during your time in Colombia! We took Sora on a couple of buses in Peru by somehow convincing the drivers to allow us to take her without having to put her in a kennel. I would be extremely careful with your dog in a kennel on the bus. I don't always trust that it's air conditioned or that there is enough air for them to breathe. I would maybe reach out to a local rescue group and ask if they have experience. When we couldn't find a bus, we opted for private transport. It's more expensive, but we didn't have to worry about Sora's health.

Laura Starkey

Monday 10th of April 2017

Hi there! We were thinking about going this weekend with our 2 pups. Any recommendations before we go? Is Finca Don Eduardo the only pup-friendly place? Thanks!

You'll have so much fun there! We miss it...and all it's fresh air! We asked at a few places (three others) and none were dog-friendly. These were Yambolombia (or something like that), La Floresta just past the bridge, and then La Serrana was, but dogs aren't allowed in the main building and the WiFi didn't reach the other rooms.

Other than what I suggested in my blog post, I can't think of other suggestions. People might tell you places aren't dog-friendly. Just ask someone else to confirm. They almost always were. Have fun!

Tuesday 14th of March 2017

Practical Guide to Salento, Colombia – Pretty Mountain Town in the Coffee Region

• Post author: Adam McConnaughhay
• Post published: February 19, 2020

Set in the mountains of Colombia’s coffee growing region, Salento has long been a mainstay on the Colombia travel map.  It’s a quaint, quiet, little mountain town with beautiful surrounding scenery and, of course, great coffee!  If you want to see it yourself, read on in this practical travel guide to Salento, Colombia, where you’ll learn why you should visit, how to get to Salento, what to do in Salento, where to stay in Salento, practical travel tips, and a suggested packing list to plan your trip to Salento, Colombia.

*Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links.  I am a participant in the Amazon Associates Program as well as other affiliate programs and may earn a commission on qualifying purchases made after clicking links from this site.  There is never any additional cost to you.  For more information, please consult my Disclosure Policy.

Why You Should Visit Salento, Quindio

I’ve been to Salento twice.   The first time was all the way back in 2011, my very first year in Colombia.  In 2014, Susana and I returned along with my mom and sister.

Both times I was struck by the pretty scenery in this quiet little town nestled in the mountains of the coffee region aka the Eje Cafetero  of Colombia .  The surrounding hills are very pretty, and the town itself has a neat little mountain Colombian cowboy/campesino style.

The nearby Valle de Cocora is also beautiful, and I did the most unique coffee tour I’ve done anywhere in Colombia in Salento (more on both of those below).  There are some other neat small towns nearby as well, including the hidden gem of Filandia .

Pretty firmly on the backpacker and Colombian traveler map, Salento is still a nice quiet escape from the cities and a great spot to enjoy some nature .  I’d personally consider it to be the premier destination of the coffee region.

If you’re ready to plan your own trip there, read on to learn how to get to Salento, what to do in Salento, where to stay in Salento, as well as some practical travel tips and a packing list in this practical travel guide to Salento, Colombia!

Travel Guide to Salento, Quindio, Colombia Contents

• How to Get to Salento, Colombia
• What to Do in Salento, Colombia
• Where to Stay in Salento, Colombia
• Practical Tips for Salento, Colombia

Packing List for Salento, Colombia

How to get to salento.

With it having become such a popular destination, you can get to Salento fairly easily from any of the other major destinations in Colombia’s interior.

Can You Fly to Salento?

Are there flights to Salento?  No.  There is no airport in Salento, so there are no flights to Salento.

The closest airports are in Armenia and Pereira.   You can check flights on Colombia’s flagship airline Avianca ( Avianca Europe here ) or compare prices on flights across airlines at SkyScanner.com , Expedia.com , or CheapAir.com .

Buses to Salento

As noted above, the two closest cities to Salento are also Armenia and Pereira, and you can get buses to Salento from either.  I know you can also get buses to Salento from Manizales as well since that’s what I did back in 2011.

*Note all prices here were last checked in February 2020.

How to Get the Bus From Armenia to Salento

There are mini buses that run from Armenia to Salento (and Salento to Armenia) every 20 minutes from about 5:30 am to 8 pm. 

The bus from Armenia to Salento can be boarded at the terminal in Armenia .  The trip takes around 45 minutes and should cost approximately 4,500 pesos .

To return from Salento to Armenia, get the bus at the Transportation Office in Salento, a few blocks from the main plaza.

You can also hire a private taxi from Armenia to Salento, which should cost 80-100,000 pesos and take around half an hour.

How to Get the Bus from Pereira to Salento

You can get buses from Pereira to Salento at the Pereira terminal .  On weekdays the Pereira Salento buses run at 6:50am, 1:30pm and 4:30pm, and on weekends at 6:50am, 7:30am, and hourly until 5:30pm.

The price of the bus from Pereira to Salento should be 6,500 pesos and the trip should take about 90 minutes.

Like the Salento to Armenia buses, get your return bus from Salento to Pereira at the main transportation office in Salento.

You may also be able hire a private taxi to take you from Pereira to Salento although I can’t tell you confidently the price (I would expect 100-150,000 given the travel time).

If the times of the buses direct to Salento aren’t any good for you, you can also hop a bus from Pereira to Armenia and get one of the more frequent buses to Salento from there mentioned above .

How to Get the Bus from Medellín to Salento

If you are coming from Medellín to Salento, you have a few options.  You can catch a bus from the terminal to either Armenia or Pereira and get to Salento from Medellín via that route .

Or you can get a direct bus from Medellín to Salento with Flota Occidental .   Their direct Medellín to Salento buses depart from the Terminal del Sur in Medelllín at 9 am, 11 am and 2 pm, and 10 pm daily .  The trip from Medellín to Salento takes around 7 hours .  The price should be 51,000 pesos .

If those times suit you, that’s probably the best way to get to Salento from Medellín. You can get an idea of other options as well as how to return to Medellín at this great guide to taking the direct bus from Salento to Medellín .

There is another charter van service from Medellín to Salento you can book online ahead of time via Viator ( book the return Salento to Medellín trip here ) .  Note you do pay a bit of a premium that way, but it includes a stop at the Santa Rosa hot springs, so actually it’s a pretty decent value.

You can of course also fly into Armenia or Pereira to get to Salento from Medellín.  You can check flights on Colombia’s flagship airline Avianca ( Avianca Europe here ) or compare prices on flights across airlines at SkyScanner.com , Expedia.com , or CheapAir.com .

How to Get the Bus from Bogotá to Salento

There are not to my knowledge any direct buses from Bogotá to Salento.  You will have to opt for a bus to Armenia or Pereira to get from Bogotá to Salento .

Total travel time by bus from Bogotá to Salento should run around 9 hours.

Again, you can also fly into Armenia or Pereira to get to Salento from Bogotá.  You can check flights on Colombia’s flagship airline Avianca ( Avianca Europe here ) or compare prices on flights across airlines at SkyScanner.com , Expedia.com , or CheapAir.com .

How to Get to Salento from Cartagena

If you want to get from Cartagena to Salento, your best option is to either fly into Armenia or Pereira or do it by bus via Medellín .

If you want to fly, you can again check flights on Colombia’s flagship airline Avianca ( Avianca Europe here ) or compare prices on flights across airlines at SkyScanner.com , Expedia.com , or CheapAir.com .

If you want to get from Cartagena to Salento by bus, look for buses that go to Medellín.  I would, however, highly recommend that you make a stop off in Rincón del Mar and/or the San Bernardo Islands on your way from Cartagena to Medellín (and of course spending some time in Medellín is also worth it).

Once in Medellín, follow the instructions above.

What to Do in Salento, Quindio

Visit the cocora valley.

No visit to the coffee region is complete without a visit to the Valle del Cocora aka the Cocora Valley .  It is considered one of Colombia’s finest natural areas and definitely first on the list of things to do in Salento.

The Cocora Vally is most famous for its giant wax palms, the national tree of Colombia .  The trees are the largest species of palms in the world, and many grow to be over 100 feet tall.

Unfortunately, they are considered threatened as many of the younger trees were cleared for cattle ranching in the 80s and 90s.  Fortunately, there are better conservation efforts underway, although it will take time for the forests to grow dense again, as the trees take a long time to grow.

Luckily, there are still many left in the Valle de Cocora, and they make for a beautiful sight.  The green covered hills with the tall palms adorning them are majestic and not to be missed.

Hike into the Forest in the Valle del Cocora

There is a neat hike up into the forest of the hills in the Cocora Valley .  You’ll go from the more plain like areas in the valley up into the denser, wetter forest.  It is very pretty.

I’m going to be honest, when I did this back in 2011, I actually did not have a very good time.  The forest was very pretty, but we accidentally hiked the horse path in.  And it was the rainy season.

And it was pretty awful , like a 3-5 foot deep trench of mud.  I had rented boots a size too big and got one stuck the mud pretty early on.  Out came my foot with no boot on it, and I had to fish the boot out.  So for the rest of the day I had a wet, muddy sock.

Once we got into the cooler air higher up, it was very chilly and unpleasant.  It also rained later in the day.

So, I would say you should do this hike if you’re into hiking, but I can’t tell you strongly enough to make sure you avoid the horse path .  I’m pretty sure I remember correctly, we headed to the right from the entrance.

But, ask, and ask again to double check, because that hike was miserable both going in and going out.

And, if it has been raining, dress warmly .  Shorts were a mistake on my part, although I guess on the bright side, they didn’t get too muddy.  Seeing the forest is worth it , however.

Horseback Riding in the Cocora Valley

Honestly, this is what I should have done the first time!

Presumably, you can take a horse up that muddy path I waded through and get up in the forest that way much more comfortably.  When we went back with my mom and sister, Susana and I did a shorter little trail where we rode horses in the Valle del Cocora.

We got the horses right around the entrance, and I want to say the little trail we did took around half an hour or so.  A guide comes along and the horses basically just follow him, although Susana refuses to ever ride horses again after heres trotted a bit more than she wanted.

For what it’s worth, I used to ride horses when I was like in the 5th grade, and these were definitely trained differently.  We actually saw a girl who supposedly knew what she was doing get thrown.

I don’t know, these are horses bred for the Andes, so they are smaller and skinnier anyways but they didn’t look to be the happiest or healthiest.  Not sure we’d do it again (well we definitely won’t because Susana would have none of it, but you know what I mean).

Still, it was a quicker way to see a bit of the forest around (and it definitely beat hiking through mud!)

How to Get to the Cocora Valley from Salento

The best way to get from Salento to the Cocora Valley is to get one of the Willy’s Jeeps from the plaza .  From the morning to the early afternoon, you should see them waiting to fill up and be able to get the jeep from Salento to the Valle del Cocora pretty easily.

The cost of the jeep from Salento to the Valle del Cocora should be 4,000 pesos (last confirmed price check February 2020).

It should take about half an hour to get to the Valle del Cocora from Salento .  If you are going during the rainy season, do ask at your hostel or in town if you can rent boots (hopefully that aren’t a size too big).

Do the Most Unique Coffee Tour in Colombia at the Reserva Sacha Mama

This is undoubtedly t he most unique and coolest coffee tour I’ve done in Colombia!   I can’t encourage you enough to include it on your list of things to do in Salento.

Reserva Natural Sacha Mama is actually not really a coffee farm.  Years ago, it was, but after the crash in coffee prices in the late 80s, it along with many other coffee farms in the area were converted to cattle ranches.

This of course led to lots of deforestation (including the chopping down of many of the young wax palms) in the area.

The property was later bought by Pedro, the current owner and manager of Reserva Sacha Mama.  His goal was to replant the forest and turn the area into a nature reserve.

Somehow though, there were several coffee plants that were never cut down.  Pedro uses them to do a bean to cup tour and sells the coffee as well as a way of funding his project of reforestation .

I had actually met Pedro back in 2011 in town.  My friend Zach and I had a long chat with him.  He has to be one of the nicest people I’ve ever met.

We unfortunately didn’t have time to visit then, but I made a point to make sure I would go if I ever made it back to Salento.  Especially since the bag of coffee I took home was excellent!

When Susana, my mom, my sister, and I returned to Salento in 2014, we did in fact go and see Pedro.

Reserva Sacha Macha is located about an hours hike outside of Salento .  Pedro actually came and picked us up in exchange for some gas money since my mom had a hurt ankle at the time, but there’s some great scenery on the hike (the photo at the top of the post as well as this one below is from a lookout on the way).

Once we got to Reserva Sacha Mama, we sat on Pedro’s little deck and did some bird watching.   We got to see a toucan up close munching on a banana and then washing himself off in the bird bath.  Of course, we also enjoyed some terrific coffee.

For the tour itself, we went into the forest where the old coffee trees are.  I had been to traditional coffee farms before and the plants are always around 4 feet or so tall, but these were big tall vines.

We picked a few beans while Pedro also told us about the other trees in the forest and the importance of each of them and how they contribute to the ecosystem.  It was neat that we not only learned about the coffee but basically got a nature tour as well.

Pedro then explained to us the drying and fermentation process that he completes naturally and organically.

Finally, we roasted some coffee.  In fact, we roasted the very coffee that we purchased to take home , even sealing the bag and putting the label on it.

The tour concluded with a lunch of pasta and vegetables straight from Pedro and his family’s garden.  And of course, more coffee!

Honestly, I can’t recommend the tour at Reserva Sacha Mama enough.  Not only do you get both a unique (but still very informative) bean to cup coffee tour, but you also get to do some bird watching get to learn a bit more about nature and the forest too.

Plus, you’ll be supporting a worthwhile and sustainable project and family run business by a very nice and gracious guy!

Learn more about Reserva Sacha Mama at its Facebook page or its website .   They also welcome guests to stay there, which would be great for a place to get away from it and get in touch with nature.

Or You Could Do a More Traditional Coffee Tour

While I again can’t tell you how much cooler Sacha Mama was than your standard coffee tour, they are neat as well.

There are a number of coffee farms that have tours around Salento , so if you ask your hotel or hostel in Salento or just ask around town, I’m sure you’ll find a good one.

If you’d like to book one online in advance, you can do so at the well known Finca Ocaso via Viator.

Also, for a more unique experience in the vein of Sacha Mama, you can do a day tour to the Momota coffee farm (also via Viator) that is a 3 hour experience that includes a complete bean to cup workshop along with an in depth explanation of the traditional methods they use.

There are some other coffee tours listed online, but for prices that seem inflated at best.  However, both of those seem pretty reasonable, so if you want to book ahead of time do it with one of them.  Otherwise, just ask around once in town to make sure you get fair prices.

Hike Up the Hill in Town to Enjoy the View

You also have to include this in your plans for what to do in Salento.  Near the end of town above the central plaza, there is a tall hill.

You can hike up the hill, where there are stairs along with the 14 Stations of the Cross.  Once atop the hill, there are a few vendors selling drinks and snacks along with some games for kids.

But the real highlight, and why this has to be on your list of things to do in Salento, is t he incredible view you get of town and the surrounding hills and mountains!

So make sure you hike up and then sit and enjoy the great view while you recover from the walk up.

Get Some Neat Handicrafts

Salento is well known for its artisan goods.

Be sure to pop into some of the shops around town to find some neat souvenirs.  In particular, you’ll find some great Colombian ponchos (kind of like a fleece pull over, great for the cooler weather in the mountains).

I also got a great straw hat last time we were there.  I loved that hat until it got ruined on a boat ride back from Tayrona National Park a couple years later.

There are also some neat little shops selling art and handicrafts, all of it hand made and at good prices.

You’ll find lots of little shops on the road heading from the main plaza up the hill towards the back of town near where the lookout point is.

Eat Some Trucha and/or Some Beef

Trucha or trout is the main fish eaten in Salento and much of Colombia’s interior.  It’s good and tasty, but it is also bony, so watch out for all the little bones.  I’ll be honest, I prefer a good Mojarra in Cartagena as it’s easier to eat, but the trucha is also pretty tasty.

Given all the cattle ranching in the nearby area, you can also get some good beef in Salento.  While a lot of the best is reserved for sending to the cities or export, you can get a decent steak at an even more decent price in Salento.

Given how long it has been since we have been there last, I’m not going to try to recommend any specific restaurant in Salento, but there are lots around the main plaza, all of which should be just fine.

Have Some Good Coffee

Duh!  Given you are in the Eje Cafetero, sampling some coffee has to be on any list of the things to do in Salento!

We stopped in to a cool little café named Café Jesus Martin just around the corner off the main plaza (I’m pretty sure on the far left hand side if you have the church to your back) that was great.  My mom had a fancy latte and I had a good Irish coffee.

That being said, you can get good coffee all over in Salento, so make sure you sample some.  You’ll also surely want to take some home.  You can find it for sell all over in shops, and of course, if you do a coffee tour, you can get some direct from the farm too.

While I would say, definitely try to pick up some Sacha Mama, Cafe Salento is also one of my favorite coffees I buy in the supermarket here in Cartagena, so you won’t go wrong with that either.

Enjoy the Pretty Little Town and Surrounding Scenery

Honestly, maybe this should be at the top of this list of things to do in Salento, Colombia!

While maybe not as picturesque as the uniformly white adobe houses of Barichara or all the colonial era churches of Mompox , Salento is still a pretty little town.  People are friendly, and it has that little country town feeling. 

So make some time just for strolling and taking the town in.  You of course also have beautiful mountains all around as well.

Where to Stay in Salento

La serrana – where we stayed both times (now lalola b&b ).

Both in 2011 and when I returned with my family in 2014, we stayed at La Serrana, a small former farm about a 15 minute walk outside of Salento.  Unfortunately, La Serrana has closed, but what used to be the back house now operates as a Salento B&B named Lalola .  The area around I’m sure is still gorgeous with nice views of the valleys below.  It would still top my list of places to stay in Salento.

Check Availability and Book Here via Booking.com

Montana Guesthouse – An Alternative Option on the Outskirts

Just a tad further from where La Serrana was located and Lalola is today, is the newer Montana Guesthouse .  It is a little slice of luxury in the quiet mountains of Salento.  Featuring pretty, modern rooms and even a hot tub, it is among the finest Salento hotels.  For those looking to fully enjoy the exclusivity of being in the mountains, it makes a great option, especially as a place to stay in Salento for couples and families.  If you’re looking to be even more in touch with nature, they also have a glamping site nearby.

Hotel Salento Plaza – Great Centrally Located Hotel

If you’re looking for a hotel in Salento proper, check out Hotel Salento Plaza , located just off the main plaza.  It is a pretty, little property with a nice garden.  In addition to standard rooms, it also has family rooms that sleep up to 5 and includes breakfast.  It would be a great option for those looking for couple or family friendly hotels in Salento.

Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel – Neat Little Hostel Just Out of Town

Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel is located in a big, pretty house on a hill about a 10 minute walk out of town.  In addition to the pretty property, you’ll also get to enjoy the surrounding scenery here.  Breakfast is included and there are privates as well as dorms available at this hostel in Salento.

Viajero Hostel Salento – An Even Better View from this Salento Hostel

Also located just out of town, Viajero Hostel Salento has a big grounds with gorgeous views of the surrounding hills.  There are privates as well as dorms on offer here and breakfast is also included.  There are also yoga, dancing lessons, and other activities.  That makes it one of the nicest hostels in Salento, especially for those looking to meet other travelers.

Hotel El Mirador del Cocora – Luxury with a View

Located on the edge of town near the look out atop the hill, Hotel El Mirador del Cocora, is a sleek and modern but rustic boutique hotel.  It also has incredible views of the valley below.  This would make for an especially good place for couples to stay in Salento.

Practical Tips for a Trip to Salento, Colombia

• There are ATMs in Salento.
• Salento is a quiet mountain town, so don’t expect much of a night life.  There are a few little bars in town, and at some of the hostels there may be more of a social vibe, but don’t expect a party.
• You can get Willys jeeps from the main plaza in town to many of the sites outside of town, and perhaps to many of the hostels out of town.  There may also be mototaxis available.

A Packing List for Salento, Colombia

If you’re wondering what to pack for Salento, keep in mind the following general guidelines about the weather in Salento:  it tends to be chilly in the evening but can get warm during the day when the sun is out.  When it is rainy, it will be chilly all day .

When is rainy season in Salento?   One of the reasons Colombia is such a large producer of coffee is there are two rainy seasons in the coffee region.  Rain peaks in April, May, and October , however there’s a good chance of rains from March-June and September to December.  It’s best to make sure you pack a nice rain jacket.

The best weather in Salento tends to be in July.  You can see more about the average rainfall at this link .

Considering, it’s up in the cool air of the mountains, you’ll also want to pack some warm clothes.  You’ll want a decent jacket or hoodie for the evenings (nothing too heavy similar to what you’ll need for Bogotá).

Useful Travel Gear:

• If you need a travel bag, I love my Osprey Porter 46L Pack .  It can be carried as a duffel (shoulder-strap is not included; I have this generic one ).  You can get a ton in it, especially if you use a set of packing cubes .  It has straps for condensing it when it’s not completely full too.  You can also check out the Farpoint 40L that is a tad smaller to comply with the strictest carryon requirements and has more padding on the backpack straps.
• I also love my Roam Packable Backpack .  It packs into the little front pouch.  That makes it perfect for stuffing into a bigger pack when traveling and carrying as a day pack.  It holds quite a bit and is sturdier than I expected (you can see my full review here ).
• I also like my Takeya water bottle .  It keeps things cold all day , perfect for going hiking in the Valle del Cocora or elsewhere around Salento.  You’ll also save a few pesos and be more environmentally friendly than buying plastic bottles.  If you want something lighter to pack, check out this collapsable bottle .
• Despite the cooler mountain air, when it’s not raining, the sun can get strong, so you might want a good sun hat , and this packable Panama hat can be folded up and not lose its shape.  That makes it perfect for travel.  While it works for unisex, the ladies might also want to check out this more floppy sun hat style (also packable).  You could also opt for a generic ball cap .
• With that hot sun at a high altitude when it’s not raining, you also don’t want to forget the sunscreen!   I like Coppertone Sport as it seems to hold up well to sweat.
• A good travel towel is always nice to have traveling, especially for the hostel shower, and Rainleaf’s microfiber towel is great and dries quick.
• Given the remoteness and non-drinkable water, a Steripen can also come in handy to purify tap water.  A Lifestraw bottle is also a nice option if you want the purifier built into a bottle.

Gear for the Weather in Salento:

• This Columbia Men’s Voodoo Falls Jacket is lightweight but warm.  It’s also waterproof and has a hood in case the weather in Salento turns rainy while you’re there.
• The same for this Heavenly Hooded Women’s Down Jacket .  Susana has a jacket just like this, just without the hood, and it’s very warm and easy to pack.
• For those traveling elsewhere in Colombia as well, this 3 in 1 Men’s Jacket comes with a removable fleece.  Ladies version here .
• The ladies might also like this soft fleece , and the men this one .

Clothes to Pack for Her:

• This t-shirt is cute and comfortable .  I have it recommended on almost all of my guides.
• Columbia’s Saturday Trail Pants are comfortable for lots of walking like hiking in the Cocora Valley.
• These Dickies Cargo Pants would be as well.
• These Merrell hiking shoes will also hold up great for all the walking in Salento.  If you’re looking for something that will hold up in the mud during rainy season, you can also check out their taller hiking boots .
• For something a bit more casual for walking around town, Susana loves her Toms shoes .
• Finally, this nifty drawstring bag is great for carrying around town or hiking.

Clothes to Pack for Him:

• Columbia’s Thistletown Polos are comfortable, dry quick, and block UVs.
• Their Blood and Guts Button-ups do as well.
• These dungarees would work for walking around town or hiking in the Valle del Cocora.
• Of course, so will a classic set of jeans.
• For good normal walking shoes, check out these New Balance walking shoes .
• For more heavy duty shoes for hiking in Salento, check out these Merrell hiking shoes or to hold up in the mud their hiking boots.

Did you like this post?

Share it with your friends!

Share on Facebook   Share on Twitter

And don’t forget to like and follow us!

Like us on Facebook   Follow us on Instragram   Follow us on Twitter

You may also be interested in the following posts: Practical Guide to the Lush Mountain Town of Minca Practical Travel Guide to Barichara, Colombia’s Prettiest Little Town Explore Colombia’s Amazon – Travel Guide to Leticia, Colombia Practical Guide to Palomino, Colombia’s Hippest Beach Town Comprehensive Guide to Tayrona National Park

Planning your trip to explore Cartagena?

Check out the following posts to help plan: Insider’s Guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Cartagena Complete Packing List for Cartagena Top Things to Do in Cartagena

Adam McConnaughhay

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Destinations
• Travel Guides

• A pocket guide to Salento, Colombia

Jo Williams

Planning a trip to Salento? Here are our top picks...

Stay: Hotel Terasu Salento

Experience: Coffee tour

Visit: Cocoro Valley

See: Howler monkeys in Reserva Barbas Bremen

Day trip: Santa Rosa hot springs

Visiting Salento in Colombia is like stepping back in time. Undisturbed by the country's recent economic development, sleepy Salento is lined with colourful streets and quaint coffee shops where days are easily lost watching the world go by.

The entire town is easily walkable and has become a gateway to some of Colombia’s best hiking trails, like those in Valle de Cocora and Los Nevados National Park. It’s become a must-visit for travellers to Colombia, and for good reason. It’s not hard to imagine yourself staying here for a while.

Is Salento worth visiting?

With around 900 residents, the quiet town of Salento has become something a backpacker’s paradise in recent years. This is a place where you come to unwind, get out into nature, search for the perfect cup of coffee, and really get to know the country. The history of Bogota and the culture of Medellin are an absolute must when visiting Colombia for the first time, but it's in the little towns like Salento where you will really fall in love.

Salento’s brightly painted houses, and window boxes bursting with colourful flowers, look like something straight out of a Disney film. In fact Salento is said to be part of the inspiration behind the hit 2021 film Encanto . Other places in Colombia that appeared in the film include the Choco rainforest, Catedral de Sal, San Basilio de Palenque, and the Caño Cristales, which also appeared on David Attenborough’s series, The Green Planet.

Is Salento too touristy?

Though there are plenty of hotels, nice places to eat and opportunities to buy souvenirs, Salento isn’t too touristy. It’s a great place for visitors to come and experience life in a small Colombian mountain town. The entire coffee region surrounding Salento is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, honouring its importance in the country's tourism scene. It’s not just foreigners that come to visit, Colombians also recognise the old-world charm of this small town and come to explore Salento on their holidays.

The best time to visit Salento

The best time to visit Salento is from December to February, these are the warmest months with the least amount of rainfall. Due to its location showers are likely at any time of the year so pack a waterproof. Temperatures average between 11 °C (52 °F) and 21 °C (69 °F) year round. If possible try to avoid visiting in January as this is when Colombians go on their holidays. If you are visiting Salento in January, you can expect higher prices and fewer accommodation options.

Getting around Salento

It’s possible to travel without a tour in Colombia. Public transport, although slow, is readily available and cheap. To get to Salento you will first need to get to Armenia, the capital city of the department, located around 24 kilometres away. You can easily fly to Armenia then get a taxi, or there are also regular buses to Salento.

Salento is walkable and you won’t struggle to see everything in town by foot. However for day trips out to Valle de Cocora and Los Nevados National Park you will need to hop on a jeep from the central plaza. Although these 4x4’s comfortably seat 7, they are often in high demand and can see up to 11 tourists holding onto bumpers and roof racks. Get there early if you want to secure a safer seating option.

Where to stay in Salento, Colombia

Although the town isn’t big, it’s best not to stay right in the centre especially during peak season. It can be a little noisy at night near Plaza Bolivar, but choose a hotel just a couple of streets back and you can have all the convenience without any of the noise (or price tag)!

These are our recommendations for the best places to stay in Salento;

Terasu Hotel Salento has large comfy rooms, lovely views and great service on the edge of town.

Hotel Salento Real has fast WIFI and a great breakfast, located right near the centre of town, but far enough away to be peaceful at night.

Hilltop Hostel is a great place to stay if you’re looking to save some cash. Get stunning views of the surrounding area from the roof, plus it even has a pool.

Things to do in Salento, Colombia

Hike the valle de cocora.

Many will stay in Salento to get to the Valle de Cocora. Home to Colombia’s tallest trees, the Quindío wax palm, the stunningly picturesque Valle de Cocora is a highlight of any trip to Colombia. Hiking the Cocora Valley offers spectacular views and a chance to spot a wide array of local wildlife. From Salento, take a wild ride in a local ‘Willy Jeep’, to the start of the 12km loop. You will get to explore a unique landscape, climbing up steep vistas, crossing rickety bridges, and marvelling at the ginormous trees that make this place so special.

Go on a tour of a Colombian coffee farm

Salento lies right at the heart of Eje Cafetero, Colombia’s coffee triangle, home to one of Colombia's biggest exports. Do a coffee tour to get the full story on why this small bean holds such a great amount of pride for the country. From town it’s an easy walk to Don Elias, a small family-run farm where all the production is done by hand and all the coffee is sold to visitors. Another option is visiting El Ocaso, a slightly longer tour as the farm is much bigger.

Tejo is the national sport of Colombia, and possibly the only national spot in the world to incorporate explosives. Tejo, also known as turmequé, involves throwing rocks or metal spheres at envelopes of gunpowder. For a tourist friendly experience, head just a few blocks from the main square for the best place to play tejo in Salento, Los Amigos Bar.

Shop on Calle Real and visit Plaza Bolivar

Salento is a great place to just go for a wander. Explore the colourful streets, get a bite to eat at Brunch de Salento, and try every coffee shop in town. Plaza Bolivar is where everything happens in town. There are lots of great restaurants, a small supermarket, a few souvenir shops, and lively bars to spend the evenings in.

Drink coffee at Cafe Jesus de Martin

Probably the most famous coffee shop in Salento, Cafe Jesus de Martin boasts some of the best grinds in Colombia. Choose between a variety of brewing methods, try the finest local coffees, and chat to the friendly staff about the new-fashioned coffee culture in Colombia.

Hike to the Mirador Salento

You can’t miss the colourful steps leading up to the viewpoint from town. It's an easy hike up 6 flights of stairs (242 steps) to the mirador, Alto de la Cruz, where you will be rewarded with beautiful views over town. Don’t miss the wonderful stalls selling handmade crafts on the side streets of the walk.

Visit the Sunday trout market

Trout is one of the most popular dishes in Salento, every weekend farmers and cooks bring their food carts to Salento’s town centre to take part in the Sunday trout market. They come served with patacones, and mushroom, shrimp or garlic sauce. If you’re not visiting on a Sunday, you can try this favourite local dish from pretty much anywhere in town, but Donde Laurita is known for the best trout in Salento.

If you have enough time in Salento, take a day trip to nearby Filandia , known as “the daughter of the Andes”. Filandia in the state of Quindío, is another small beautifully adorned Colombian town with scenic mountain views. Head to Helena Adentro "la casa rosada", said to be the best restaurant in the whole coffee region. It’s just a 40 minute drive from Salento, and is a great way to explore more of the area.

Santa Rita Waterfall

An easy hike, or ten minute bus ride from town, will take you to Santa Rita la cascada, a beautiful private nature reserve with waterfalls and clearly marked hiking paths. Much quieter than the other hikes in the area, Santa Rita is a great place to spot birds and go for a swim in the natural pools.

• Where to next

Salento sits at the centre of a triangle cornered by Bogota, Medellin and Cali, all are between a four to eight hour drive away. Each one of these major cities is worth a visit for different reasons. Head south to Parque Arqueológico De San Agustin to uncover one of the most amazing archaeological sites in South America. Or travel east to the beautiful whitewashed town of Villa de Leyva.

North you will find Salento’s rival for the most colourful town in Colombia, Guatapé, and the Piedra del Peñol. And make sure not to miss Colombia's Caribbean coast with tourist hotspot Cartagena, the stunning Playa Del Cabo and the iconic trek to the Ciudad Perdida.

• Introduction
• Getting around
• Where to stay
• Things to do

Share this article

Author - Jo Williams

Jo Williams is a freelance writer with 10 years' experience working in travel and tourism. A Brit who got fed up with the 9 to 5 corporate life, she sold everything to become a full-time wanderer.

Jo has travelled to over 70 countries and worked throughout Europe for a major tour operator. She hopes to inspire you to work less and travel more.

Last Updated 4 September 2023

Salento Itinerary: 3 Perfect Days in Salento, Colombia

When it comes to travel in Colombia, one of the top places to visit is Colombia’s coffee region also known as the coffee triangle. While I don’t drink coffee, I was more than happy to head up to the mountains for a few days after hot and humid Cartagena . Part of me was sad to leave the coastline but those feelings quickly disappeared when I woke up my first morning to see a lush jungle sprawled in front of me and the adorable town of Salento, one of the best places to visit in the coffee triangle. Visiting Salento was a highlight of my time in Colombia so if you are looking for a Salento travel guide then here’s my take on a 3-day Salento itinerary.  

How to Get to Salento

Salento can be accessed by bus from many cities or by flight via Pereira which is the closest airport. Since I only had 10 days in Colombia, I chose to fly to Pereira from Cartagena. There are local buses that will take you to Salento but since we travelled as a group, we chose to arrange a private transfer to save on time. You can book a private transfer from the airport to Salento here.

Flights, including checked luggage, were pretty reasonably priced when booked in advance. Of course, travelling by bus is still much cheaper if you are coming from somewhere closer such as Bogota or Medellin.

From Medellin, the bus will also likely stop in Pereira where you need to transfer to another bus to Salento. Note that Pereira is an industrial city, not really a touristic one. As I mentioned we travelled as a group of four women and were warned by local Colombians not to be out in Pereira after dark. So, plan your travels accordingly if you have a transfer.

Getting Around Salento

Salento town itself is small enough to explore on foot. For any day trips in the area, it’s common to hop in a jeep or ‘Willy’ that will take you where you need to go. These can be found in the main square, you’ll find a small ticket office where you can purchase your tickets to coffee farms in the area or Cocora Valley then join the line for the next jeep headed in that direction. Make sure to note the schedule for the return before you leave!

One thing to be aware of is that they do fill up the Jeeps as much as they can, which means there will be people standing on the back. This can be fun if you are up for an adventure but if standing on the back of a moving vehicle does not sound appealing to you, come early to ensure you get an inside seat.

Where to Stay in Salento

If you are travelling to Salento make sure when you book your accommodation that you stay in Salento town. There are a few cool-looking camps or hotels more in the jungle, but unless you are renting a vehicle staying in these places will make it tricky to explore.

I stayed at Viajero Hostel in Salento . I was with three other friends so we got a private room and had the added benefits of a large outdoor area and common space with daily activities like salsa dancing classes. The rooms are basic but clean and the property itself is beautiful with amazing views. I definitely recommend it for budget or solo travellers.

If you would prefer a hotel, take a look at Hotel el Mirador de Cocora or Hotel el Jardin , both of which are in the heart of the town.

Things to do in Salento, Colombia: a 3 Day Salento Itinerary

When it comes to deciding how many days to spend in Salento I suggest a minimum of three days. Salento is very laid back and relaxing, especially in comparison to the bigger cities so it’s a nice place to have a break. You might even want to spend longer. However, since three days is how long I spent in Salento, I’m basing my suggested Salento itinerary based on that.

Day 1 in Salento  

Visit a Coffee Farm  

Assuming you arrive in Salento by midday, you’ll still have lots of time to visit one of the nearby coffee farms. There are several different ones to visit in the area and each has a different type of experience. Some are very hands-on and allow you to participate in the coffee experience from picking the beans. Others are more of a quick guided tour with a tasting at the end, so consider what works best for you. Even if you don’t drink coffee, the coffee tours in Salento are a lot of fun.

As mentioned earlier, there are plenty of Jeeps (Willys) in the main square that will take you out to these coffee farms. At the ticket booth let them know which one you want to go to. You will pay for your ticket and transportation there and get a bracelet for the farm of your choice. The ticket also includes pickup when finished. Just be mindful of the schedule. I visited Coffee Luger when I was in Salento and highly recommend it.

Take in the views at the Mirador

On the edge of Salento town, you will find a set of stairs leading up the hill to the mirador, or lookout. The views here, if you have a nice clear day, offer views of Salento on one side and views of the valley on the other. Word of caution: we were warned that sunset is not the best time to go as this is when there are most likely to be pickpockets. Decide accordingly but be mindful of your things!

Explore Calle Real

Calle Real is the main tourist street in Salento. If you want photographs, it is best to come early in the morning. However, for the atmosphere it is best in the evening. There are plenty of shops and restaurants as well as street food vendors who come out in the evening.

Fun fact: The colourful houses of Salento and nearby nature are said to be the inspiration for the town and scenery in Disney’s Encanto.

Day 2 in Salento

Cocora Valley

Cocora Valley is a huge part of why so many people choose to visit Salento and yes, it is a must on your itinerary even if you aren’t a huge hiker.

Cocora Valley is home to the tallest palm trees in the world which tower 60 meters above the farmlands in this beautiful valley. It’s most popular for the big hiking trail which is nearly 11km long. The route takes about 5 hours across rivers and up the hill so if you are adventurous and love to hike then yes, this big loop is for you. Since it’s a loop you can go two directions. Clockwise is said to be a little easier since it’s less uphill. However, most people prefer to go counterclockwise because it ends in the wax palm valley which, for most, is the highlight. You can do the hike on your own but if you would prefer, you can also do it with a guide. Check out a guided option here.

 If you are not into the idea of a 5-hour hike, that’s ok! You can still visit the beautiful wax palm valley. Parts of the area are very done up with photo ops for instagrammers, but you can do a little bit of a hike up the hill to the mirador to get the viewpoint which is very much worth it.

Cocora Valley, on top of being a hiking destination, is also known for horseback riding and bird watching. If either of those are of interest, take a look at these tours.

• Cocora Valley birding hike
• Horseback riding & Cocora Valley

Like with the coffee farms, the best way to get to Cocora Valley is by jeep. You pay for the ride in the main square of Salento and will get a ticket for the journey there and another for the way back (so don’t lose it!). The ride each way is about thirty minutes. You will also need to pay on arrival to enter the wax palm valley, so bring cash.

A couple of things to keep in mind: the hike is very uneven and can be wet, so dress appropriately. You are also high in the hills here so the altitude may affect you. Bring plenty of water (and maybe a Gatorade/Powerade) and take it easy if you need to.

After a busy day exploring Cocora Valley, you no doubt are ready to have a cold beer. Well, you can get a beer pretty much anywhere in Salento but I suggest a beer and a game of Tejo.

What is tejo? It’s a local game that consists of throwing a metal disk (your tejo) into a clay-lined ring. The goal? Get the gunpowder packets to explode. Does it sound a little sketchy? Maybe. But it’s so much fun and one of the best things to do in Salento.

There are a couple of places to play Tejo but I recommend going to Los Amigos. You can play a game for the price of a beer and they will set it all up and explain it to you. It’s a fun way to spend an evening in Salento.

  Day 3 in Salento

Visit a Waterfall or Hot Spring

By your third day in Salento, you’ve probably explored most of town. If you follow this Salento itinerary you will have also had a coffee farm experience and visited the famous Cocora Valley which means it’s time to chase some waterfalls.

There are a few options depending on how far you want to go, what you want to spend, and what kind of waterfall day you are looking for.

If you want to stay close and save money, head to Santa Rita Waterfall. You can take a bus (or walk) to nearby Boquia and then walk about 30 minutes to this waterfall. It is located on private property so there is a small entry fee. There is a small pool here where you can swim so bring a bathing suit!

If you want a relaxing day after your Cocora Valley hike, then consider a day trip to Santa Rosa de Cabal Thermal Hot Springs. These springs are about 90 minutes away from Salento so you will need to book a tour. It’s a nature spa-type establishment so there is an entry fee and facilities like changing rooms and restaurants on site. There are some beautiful waterfalls with small pools below that are fun for photos, then several hot spring baths. It’s a fun way to spend a day relaxing. Book a trip to Santa Rosa de Cabal here.

Final Tips for Salento Travel

Salento is much more laid back and relaxed than the bigger cities in Colombia. As such, it feels a lot safer. Of course, you still need to be cautious and use common sense. However, you don’t need to be as mindful about some things like carrying your cell phone in your hand etc. the same way as you do in, say, Medellin.

One thing to note is that Salento is incredibly popular with locals as well which makes it a popular weekend getaway. To avoid crowds, it’s best to plan your visit during the week and skip the weekends.

I hope this Salento itinerary comes in handy and that you enjoy it as much as I did!

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

By leaving a comment you agree with the storage and handling of your name and email address by Eat Sleep Breathe Travel. *

Dreaming of Adventure?

Sign up to the Eat Sleep Breathe Travel mail list and stay up to date with all the latest travel tips and stories.