Nestled in Colombia’s stunning coffee region, Salento is a charming, colorful town that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and laid-back vibes. Known for its iconic wax palm trees, world-class coffee, and vibrant streets, Salento is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Colombia. Here’s your guide to the best attractions and activities in Salento.
- Hike the Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora)
- Tour a Coffee Farm
- Wander the Streets of Salento
- Try Trout and Patacones
- Hike to Alto de la Cruz viewpoint & Salento Viewpoint
- Take a Jeep Ride (Willys Jeep)
- Experience the Local Nightlife
1
Hike the Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora)
The Cocora Valley is Salento’s crown jewel and home to Colombia’s national tree, the towering wax palm. This stunning valley is a haven for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and several hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Fun Fact: These magnificent palms are the tallest in the world, reaching heights of up to 60 meters (almost 200 feet)! Incredible, right?
Trail Options:
- Short Trail (1–2 hours): A quick and easy walk to enjoy the views of the wax palms without walking too much.
- Loop Trail (5–6 hours): This popular trail takes you through varied landscapes, including cloud forests, farms, and the wax palm valley. Highlights include the Acaime hummingbird reserve (small entrance fee required) and a suspension bridge crossing.
Price:
- Entry Fee: 5,000 COP for the park entrance. An additional 6,000 COP is required for the loop trail.
- Optional Add-ons:
- Entry to Acaime Hummingbird Reserve: 20,000 COP.
How to Get There:
- By Jeep (Willy): From Salento, hop on a colorful Willy Jeep from the town square. Jeeps depart frequently, especially in the morning, and the ride takes about 25–30 minutes.
- Cost: Around 10,000 COP one way.
- By Taxi or Private Transport: A taxi ride is quicker and costs about 50,000 COP each way.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a rain jacket as the weather can change quickly. Don’t miss the viewpoint at the Acaime Reserve for stunning photos.
GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here is an option we believe is among the best.
Salento: Private Cocora Valley, Salento & Coffee Farm Tour – Click Here
2
Tour a Coffee Farm
Salento is at the heart of Colombia’s coffee-growing region, so visiting a coffee farm is a must. Farms like Finca El Ocaso and Don Elias offer guided tours where you can learn about the coffee production process, from bean to cup, and taste freshly brewed coffee.
My Experience: I joined a guided tour with Finca El Ocaso Farm, and I absolutely loved every moment of it! The experience was incredibly enriching—I learned so much about the intricate process behind coffee production, from bean to cup. My guide was not only knowledgeable but also engaging, making the whole tour both educational and fun.
Even though I’m not a huge coffee enthusiast, the coffee tasting at the end completely won me over. The flavors were so rich and distinctive that I could immediately tell the difference between high-quality, freshly brewed coffee and the cheaper varieties you’d find at your local Tim Hortons.
Cost: Tours range from $10-$30, depending on the farm and duration.
How to Get to the Coffee Farms from Salento:
- By Jeep (Willy): The iconic colorful Jeeps depart regularly from Salento’s main square. Most farms, like Finca El Ocaso, are about 20–30 minutes away, and the ride costs around 5,000–10,000 COP per person. Ask the driver to drop you off at your chosen farm or the closest point.
- By Taxi or Private Transport: A taxi offers a quicker and more direct option, costing about 20,000–50,000 COP depending on the distance.
Tip: Book your tour on the farm website in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
3
Wander the Streets of Salento
Salento’s vibrant streets and charming colonial architecture make it one of the most picturesque towns in Colombia. A walk along Calle Real, the town’s main street, is a must. This lively avenue is lined with brightly painted buildings, artisan shops, and cozy cafés where you can soak up the local atmosphere.
Don’t stop there— explore the smaller, parallel streets to uncover hidden gems, including small markets and unique handmade goods. Salento’s colorful ambiance and welcoming vibe are sure to leave you enchanted at every turn!
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the light makes the colors pop for perfect photos.
Recommendation: For an afternoon treat, head to Pailart for the best handmade ice cream in the city. Location: 631020, Salento, Quindío, Colombia
4
Try Trout and Patacones
Salento is known for its signature dish: trucha con patacones (trout served with fried plantains). Many local restaurants serve this delicious meal, often cooked with garlic or butter for extra flavor.
My Experience: Honestly, I was a bit skeptical about having a whole trout served on my plate, but the one I tried exceeded my expectations—it was delicious! I can definitely understand why trout is the specialty of Salento and why there’s so much “hype” around it.
As an added bonus, in most restaurants, it’s also one of the most affordable options on the menu. So, not only do you get to enjoy a local delicacy, but it’s also a budget-friendly choice.
Best Spots: Rincon de Lucy for an authentic, affordable meal or El Patio for a more upscale experience.
5
Hike to Alto de la Cruz viewpoint & Salento Viewpoint
Salento is home to two viewpoints, both within walking distance from the town center and offering completely different perspectives of the area. The Salento viewpoint and the Alto de la Cruz viewpoint. Both are free to visit and easily accessible, with a short 10- to 15-minute walk from the main square, making them perfect stops for a leisurely exploration of the area.
At the Salento Viewpoint, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes that define this region. It’s an ideal spot to admire the beauty of Colombia’s rolling hills.
Location: Cra. 4ª, Salento, Quindío, Colombia
In contrast, the Mirador Alto de la Cruz offers a higher vantage point with a clear view of Salento itself, showcasing the colorful rooftops of the town against the backdrop of the majestic mountains.
Location: Cl. 1 #5-89, Salento, Quindío, Colombia
Both viewpoints provide unique perspectives, making them must-visit spots during your trip!
6
Take a Jeep Ride (Willys Jeep)
The iconic Willys Jeeps are not only a mode of transport in Salento but also part of the town’s charm. Hop on one of these colorful jeeps to visit nearby attractions, like the Cocora Valley or coffee farms, or simply enjoy the ride through the picturesque countryside.
Cost: Around 5,000 to 15,000 COP per ride, depending on the distance.
Tip: For Cocora Valley, the jeeps leave from the main square every morning.
7
Experience the Local Nightlife
While Salento is a laid-back town, it does have a small but lively nightlife scene. Head to bars like El Tejadito de Salento or Donde Mi Apa to enjoy local beers, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for some billiards, head to Danubio Bar.
If you’re not feeling the vibe of a local bar, head to the center of Salento, where the heart of the town truly comes alive. You’ll find everyone gathering there—kids laughing and playing in the park, dogs joyfully running around, and a cheerful atmosphere all around. I spent an evening there playing cards with my family, and it was such a simple yet fun and memorable experience.
Tip: Try a glass of aguardiente, Colombia’s traditional spirit, for a truly local experience.
Stay connected! Follow us on social media for exclusive content & updates on our travels.
On our website, you’ll find all the essential information and tips, while on our social media, you’ll get even more – including personal experiences, funny moments, stunning videos, and much more!
Final Thoughts
Salento is a destination that will steal your heart with its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals. Whether you’re hiking among the wax palms of Cocora Valley, sipping world-class coffee, or exploring its colorful streets, Salento offers unforgettable experiences at every turn. So pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with this charming Colombian gem!
Don’t want to miss out on our latest articles? Be sure to subscribe to our website, and you’ll receive a notification every time we publish something new!