A GUIDE TO THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA
If there's ever a place to turn 31, it's Salento, Colombia.
Surrounded by luscious green forests, Salento is absolutely gorgeous and definitely worth staying for a few days. Whether you're thinking about hiking Cocora Valley, visiting local coffee farms, horse riding through the mountains or just relaxing for a few days, there's plenty to do and discover.
I hadn't planned to be in Salento for my birthday. Originally with San Andres in mind, a beach destination was on the cards. As it turns out, San Andres had some really stormy weather on the way, so with a last-minute change of plans, I hopped on the bus to Salento.
Chilling at the Coffee House in Salento
Hiking Cocora Valley, Colombia
One of the best hikes in Colombia, Cocora Valley is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park covering over 580 km2. Famous for its tall wax palm trees, the scenery is gorgeous and breathtaking.
A stroll through the valley takes around 5 hours. If you're heading clockwise, you can head straight to the climax of the trail.
Going anti-clockwise, just walk up the trail where the jeeps leave you and go over the blue gate. This is the most popular route as you leave the stunning views till last.
Heading anti-clockwise, the views are wonderful crossing through the jungle. There's a chance to stop and visit the hummingbirds for a small fee. Personally, it wasn't worth it for us, but don't let that stop you.
Cocora Valley, Salento
Gorgeous!
There's one main (and very steep climb) to the top of the valley. Bring plenty of water and good walking boots as it can get slippery if it's been raining.
Once you're at the top, the views are stunning! There's a small entrance fee into the valley of around 3000 pesos.
Stop by the miradors on the way down!
Hanging out at the mirador.
To get to the start of the hiking trail, take a deep from the main square. A return journey costs $8000 pesos. Be sure to leave early to avoid the crowds!
Visiting the coffee farms in Salento
There are three main coffee farms to visit, Arzacia (organic), Osaco (big and beautiful), Arcacia (pretty cool too).
If I can give you a recommendation, its to do the Arzacia tour at the organic coffee farm. If you go later in the day, the tour group is likely to be smaller. The owners are absolutely wonderful and explain everything about the production of organic coffee, which takes quite a bit longer than regular coffee.
Organic coffee farm in Salento.
Tours start at around $12000 pesos.
After your tour, I'd recommend going to Osaco, as it's close by and the views from the coffee shop are beautiful!
You can take a jeep from the main square which will cost around $6000 pesos.
Horse riding in Salento, Colombia
I'm not much of a rider but the 3 hours on a horse on my birthday left my bum terribly bruised. I'm pretty sure it has something to do with the saddle 🤷🏽♀️.
The views were wonderful and we visited some cute waterfalls along the way.
Horse riding in Salento, Colombia
For half a day, you can expect to pay around $45,000 pesos.
Where to stay in Salento, Colombia
My number 1 recommendation would be the Coffee Tree Boutique hostel in Salento. It's incredibly cute. I booked a 4 person dorm which is spacious enough, but from what I heard the six-person dorm can get a little crowded.
Viajero Salentois also a great hostel. I stayed here for my first two nights before I moved. They have morning yoga for anyone interested :).
Hotel Kawa Mountain Retreat: For a gorgeous getaway in the mountains, head to a peaceful retreat with 360 panoramic views.
Mountains in colombia | Oops i booked again
Gorgeous mountains! Climb up the stairs in the town, the views are stunning!
How to get to Salento
From Bogota, there's a bus to Armenia and then a connecting bus to Salento. You can also take a flight to Pereira and then a bus to Salento.
If you're heading to Jardin, the routes a bit tricky, but you can check out this blog post here.
Planning a trip or fancy a freebie? These are some websites and services I love:
Booking.com: For the best hotel deals! 🏝
World Nomads: Travel insurance on the go 🌎
Revolut:Great for keeping a travel wallet 💶
Freetrade.io: Sign-up for a free share!✨
Airbnb: For the best apartment deals!🏡
Affiliate links above!
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Surrounded by luscious green forests, Salento is absolutely gorgeous and definitely worth staying for a few days. Whether you’re thinking about hiking Cocora Valley, visiting local coffee farms, horse riding through the mountains or just relaxing for a few days, there’s plenty to do and discover. CLICK HERE to read more! #salento #colombia #colombiatravel #cocoravalley #coffeefarms #southamerica #hikingcolombia