Salento Day Trips: Top 5 Unforgettable Adventures

Salento, that little Colombian gem nestled right in the heart of the Coffee Region, makes, too it’s almost, the perfect home base. Seriously, it’s super charming with its brightly painted buildings and super laid-back vibe. But here’s the thing: staying put the whole time would really, really be a bit of a shame. The surrounding area, it teems, that it just teems with adventures just waiting to happen. So, what I am trying to say is, get ready to explore! Here, I’m dishing on my top five Salento day trips, packing in tips and insights to help you make the absolute most of your time.

1. Cocora Valley: Home of the Towering Wax Palms

You know, no trip to Salento is, it seems, totally complete without checking out the Cocora Valley. Now, I’m talking about is that place known for its seriously crazy tall wax palm trees—Colombia’s national tree. Picture this: you, standing in a bright green valley, surrounded by these giants that are almost, in a way, like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. Very spectacular, right? To get there, so you grab a Willy (that’s, just a little, one of those colorful Jeeps) from Salento’s main square, and pretty soon you are on your way! Once you show up, you might consider doing one of the hikes. There is, like your, the shorter one that takes you straight to see the palms. Very accessible. Very picturesque. Alternatively, similarly to you, perhaps you are looking for a longer loop. Maybe go for the one that swings you through the cloud forest; it’s rather magical but will, actually, demand a good chunk of your day and more of a, pretty much, solid level of fitness.

Trust me, whatever path you take, do not forget your camera! You are going to seriously want to capture those postcard-perfect moments, for sure. By the way, wear layers, since the weather could be a little unpredictable, it could be sunny one minute and then misty, almost, like magic the next! Another thought is you bring snacks and water because hiking always stirs a powerful craving!

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2. Coffee Farm Tour: From Bean to Cup

Considering, for example, you find yourself in the Coffee Region; very obviously, that it’s a must, kind of, to check out a coffee farm! Like seriously, that’s like going to Rome and passing on seeing the Colosseum. In Salento, a lot of farms actually open their doors to tours where they very much explain that entire coffee-making process from the little bean to your morning brew. Very fun to explore!

So many of these farms actually have options available, too it’s almost, whether you are more keen to walk or ready, willing, and able to participate, arguably, in a totally hands-on experience! For instance, in that case, you might be able to pick coffee beans, and then, well basically, they demonstrate all the washing, drying, and roasting stuff. Seriously, who knows, too! You know, maybe learn how to properly taste coffee, just like the pros? We learned a whole lot from our tour!

Generally, the way it appears, this day trip is seriously amazing for coffee lovers. Definitely, too it’s almost, for anyone wondering how coffee gets made. Just imagine strolling via coffee plants, breathing that lovely, rather aromatic air. And as well, what’s way better than getting your fresh cup of joe, literally steps, maybe, from where they are, potentially, growing all the beans.

Read our full review: Salento Coffee Farm Tours Full Review and Details

3. Filandia: The Prettiest Town You Have Never Heard Of

Here we have Filandia, is that, seemingly, a really beautiful town only a stone’s throw away from Salento and very much flying under the radar, for now. If you’re searching around a less touristy feel compared to, potentially, Salento (though I still have, I should mention, so much love for Salento). Actually, for instance, in that case, then a short bus ride gets you straight there! So awesome.

Arguably, the highlight really might be climbing to the top of the Mirador de Filandia. Basically, for example, to see some super sweeping views of the whole region. In that case, you are a photo type of person! Bring the camera with you!

Take it from me, actually wandering around Filandia’s main square, and looking, yet, at all the colorful colonial architecture, just soaking up the vibes, I feel so in love with the local culture. Another thought might be taking some souvenirs back home to family or to yourself to make this a truly spectacular day out for yourself and those you care about!

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4. Santa Rosa de Cabal: Hot Springs and Waterfalls

Santa Rosa de Cabal might, perhaps, just be slightly farther away than some of the others; still, what you are thinking is, so, wanting some relaxation in warm, soothing thermal waters; seriously, don’t write off a visit there! Okay, alright. This location, that, features some beautiful natural hot springs. This is actually right beneath a pretty fantastic waterfall! Picture just how gorgeous everything is around.

Okay, well frankly, getting here typically usually involves a bus ride from Salento to Pereira and then another little bit to Santa Rosa. So awesome and worthwhile once you show up!

For example, arguably, you might enjoy something super chill. Something a bit refreshing in natural springs might just seriously sound like your sort of thing, specifically. And what I mean by that is you want, might be, to enjoy the sound of the falls! Here’s an insider’s perspective: plan for more than one day if that sounds appealing since you may appreciate the relaxing environment surrounding it to fully appreciate the location!

Read our full review: Santa Rosa de Cabal Hot Springs Full Review and Details

5. Pijao: Colombia’s First “Cittaslow” Town

Okay so, Pijao might be a somewhat less common choice when it comes to Salento day trips. It can still be awesome though. You know, and the reasoning actually really could not be any clearer. Specifically, this area became Colombia’s first Cittaslow community.

You know, but so what actually, in fact, does it actually mean? Clearly, for example, what this expresses generally is what they want from tourists! It indicates a dedication in what they offer by preserving the locale’s quality of life; just at the same time that they appreciate protecting the atmosphere. Also what may attract you: things tend to be so traditional!

Now honestly, going over the brightly-colored buildings will really draw you in more with those streets just bursting! And as well they can really make people want you here as well, for instance.

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