About Salento

Everything about Salento Colombia can be found here: what to do and tips about this beautiful colonial village in the Colombian coffee region.

Salento is by far the most popular village in the coffee region, followed by Filandia, which is 30 kilometers away. Nearest major cities are Armenia (25 km) and Pereira (35 km). Salento is located in the mountains at an altitude of 1895 meters and is home to just under 10,000 people, if you include the countryside surrounding Salento. In 2011, the historic center with its colonial architecture was declared a World Heritage Site. The houses have colorful balconies and facades in the authentic architecture of early 20th century coffee towns.

There is a good reason that Salento is one of the most touristic places in the Eje Cafetero: the location is ideal: near the biggest attraction in Salento, the Valle de Cocora Nature Reserve, a hiker’s paradise. Hikers can also take treks to National Park Los Nevados, and nearby are coffee fincas where you can experience the process from “field to cup.”

There is a beautiful and cozy city center and a wide choice of hotels & hostels, cafes and restaurants for every budget and taste.

In this travel guide you will read all about Salento Colombia: how to get there, what to do, what are the best neighborhoods to stay, tips for hostels and hotels, what are the best cafes and restaurants and more. If after reading this guide you are in doubt whether to go to Salento or Filandia, read this article with a comparison of the two coffee villages based on atmosphere, activities, accessibility and more.