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

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

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.

SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE

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!

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 🙂

Surprisingly Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia

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. 

SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
VIEW FROM BOTANICA COFFEE SHOP / SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE

 

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.

SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE

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!

SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE

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).

SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE

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!

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

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.

COCORA VALLEY / SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
COCORA VALLEY / SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
COCORA VALLEY / SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE
COCORA VALLEY / SURPRISINGLY AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SALENTO, COLOMBIA / COMPLETE GUIDE

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 🙂

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

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!

Aldea de Los Artisanos (Artisan Town) / Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide
Aldea de Los Artisanos (Artisan Town) / Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide
Aldea de Los Artisanos (Artisan Town) / Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide
Aldea de Los Artisanos (Artisan Town) / Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide

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!

Surprisingly Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide
Filandia / Surprisingly Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide
An Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in Colombia / All You Need to Know (2021)
Filandia / Surprisingly Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide
dentro Filandia / Surprisingly Awesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide
Trout at Helena Adentro Restaurant

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. 

Aldea de LAwesome Things to do in Salento, Colombia / Complete Guide

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

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

Share:

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
LinkedIn

Follow Me On Social Media

Pati's Journey Within

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