Best Day Trips from Medellín: Explore Guatapé, Santa Fe de Antioquia, and Coffee Farms

Travel guide Coffee Triangle, Travel Guide Medellin

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Medellín, the city of eternal spring, is not only known for its year-round pleasant weather and vibrant culture, but it also serves as a gateway to some of Colombia’s most beautiful and diverse destinations. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a day, there are plenty of exciting day trips just a short drive away. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, charming towns, or learning about Colombian culture, Medellín offers easy access to a variety of destinations that are perfect for a one-day escape. Here are some of the best day trips from Medellín:

1. Guatapé: A Colorful Paradise

Distance from Medellín: 2 hours (approximately 80 km)

Why Visit?
Guatapé is one of the most popular day trips from Medellín due to its picturesque landscapes, vibrant streets, and iconic rock formation, La Piedra del Peñol. This charming town is known for its colorful buildings adorned with intricate bas-relief designs, creating a stunning contrast against the surrounding lush green countryside. Whether you’re a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, Guatapé offers a perfect blend of scenic views, historical charm, and adventure.

What to Do:

  • Climb La Piedra del Peñol: The highlight of Guatapé is the enormous rock formation, La Piedra del Peñol, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and rolling hills. The 740-step climb is definitely worth the effort!

  • Stroll through the Town: After exploring the rock, take a walk through the colorful streets of Guatapé. Visit the town’s main square, where you can sit at a café and admire the vibrant murals on the houses.

  • Boat Tour on the Reservoir: You can take a boat tour around the reservoir for a relaxing experience, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the stunning scenery.

How to Get There:

  • Public Transport: There are frequent buses that depart from Medellín’s North Terminal (Terminal de Transportes) to Guatapé. The trip takes about two hours.

  • Private Car or Taxi: If you prefer a more comfortable and flexible option, consider hiring a taxi or a private driver. This will also give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Accommodation:

  • Guatapé has a variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to boutique hotels with beautiful lake views. If you’re just visiting for the day, it’s still a great idea to stay in Medellín and make the trip back in the evening.

    Recommended accommodations:

  • Jordan hotel Boutique
  • The Boato
  • Ecolodge Bahia del Peñón

2. Santa Fe de Antioquia: A Step Back in Time

Distance from Medellín: 1.5 hours (approximately 80 km)

Why Visit?
Santa Fe de Antioquia is a colonial gem that offers a glimpse into Colombia’s past. This charming town is known for its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and historical architecture. As one of the oldest towns in the Antioquia region, Santa Fe de Antioquia is perfect for history lovers who want to explore a well-preserved slice of Colombian heritage.

What to Do:

  • Visit the Puente de Occidente: This iconic suspension bridge, built in the 19th century, is one of the largest in Colombia and is an engineering marvel. It offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and the Cauca River.

  • Explore the Historic Center: The town’s main square, Plaza de la Independencia, is home to several important colonial buildings, including the Cathedral of Santa Fe de Antioquia. Wander through the charming streets, visit the local museum, and enjoy the slow-paced atmosphere.

  • Relax by the River: Take some time to relax along the banks of the Cauca River. There are several spots where you can take in the view and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

How to Get There:

  • Bus: You can catch a bus to Santa Fe de Antioquia from the North Terminal in Medellín. The bus ride takes about 1.5 hours.

  • Private Transportation: A private driver will allow you more flexibility in your schedule and the opportunity to stop at scenic spots along the way.

Accommodation:
Santa Fe de Antioquia has a range of accommodation options, including colonial-style boutique hotels and rustic guesthouses. However, for a day trip, it’s best to return to Medellín in the evening.

Our recommended accommodations are:

3. Coffee Farms: Experience Colombia’s Coffee Culture

Distance from Medellín: 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on which region you visit)

Why Visit?
Colombia is known for producing some of the finest coffee in the world, and a visit to one of the coffee farms in the region is an unmissable experience for coffee enthusiasts. The Coffee Triangle (Zona Cafetera) is a UNESCO World Heritage site, but you can also visit smaller farms closer to Medellín to get a taste of the coffee culture.

What to Do:

  • Coffee Farm Tour: Take a guided tour of a coffee farm to learn about the entire coffee production process, from planting the coffee beans to brewing the perfect cup. Many farms offer interactive tours where you can pick coffee beans, roast them, and, of course, taste the coffee!

  • Hike Through the Coffee Region: Some farms offer nature walks through the lush landscapes that surround the coffee plantations. These walks provide stunning views and insight into the agricultural practices of the region.

  • Coffee Tasting: No visit to a coffee farm is complete without sampling the coffee. Enjoy a tasting session where you can try different varieties of Colombian coffee and learn about their unique flavor profiles.

How to Get There:

  • Tours: Many tour companies in Medellín offer day trips to coffee farms, complete with transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals. This is a hassle-free option for international visitors.

  • Public Transport or Private Car: Alternatively, you can take a bus or hire a private driver to one of the nearby coffee regions.

Accommodation:
Some coffee farms offer overnight stays in rustic cabins or eco-lodges, so if you prefer to extend your experience, consider staying overnight.

Recommended accommodations:

Travel Tips:

  • Transportation: Public buses are an affordable and reliable option, but if you’re short on time or prefer comfort, hiring a private driver or booking a guided tour can make your day trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

  • Language: While many Colombians in tourist areas speak some English, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Spanish phrases. This will enhance your experience and allow you to connect better with the locals.

  • Weather: The weather in Medellín is mild year-round, but it can vary in other regions. Be sure to bring comfortable clothes and sunscreen for outdoor activities, and a light jacket for cooler mountain areas.

  • Safety: As always, be aware of your surroundings and take the usual safety precautions. Colombia has made great strides in tourism safety, but it’s best to stay informed and follow local advice.

Los Nevados National Park

Travel guide Coffee Triangle

Los Nevados National Park is the perfect place in the coffee region for trekking tours to glaciers and lakes. The park covers 583 km2 and is located in the regions of Caldas, Risaralda, Quindío and Tolima at an altitude of 2660 to 5321 meters. The ecosystems consist of forests in the valleys to glaciers and páramo / super páramo, with limited vegetation and the typical frailejones trees. The 3 highest snow-capped peaks are the Nevado del Ruiz (5,321m), the Nevado del Santa Isabel (4965m) and the Nevado del Tolima (5215m).

Volcano eruption
In 1985, the Nevado del Ruiz volcano erupted and devastated the town of Amero, killing 25,000 people. Volcanic activity is still observed from Nevado del Ruiz. PNN los Nevados is open to visitors, but due to possible volcanic activity, the viewpoint at Nevado del Ruiz at 5100 meters is closed to visitors. Volcanic activity is closely monitored, including with cameras.

Tours and trekkings
Tours and trekking tours range from a short car tour (5 km, from the Brisas entrance in Manizales) to an ascent of the Nevado de Santa Isabel glacier or a multi-day trek to the Nevado del Tolima. Trekking tours can be booked through agencies such as Paramo Trek in Salento, Andes Turismo y aventura in Santa Rosa de Cabal and Ecosistemas in Manizales.

#ColombiaMyWay Hotel Tip

Stay in a hotel with thermal pools

Near the Los Nevados National ParkWe stayed at the Hotel Termales del Ruiz, a former “ski resort”, at an altitude of 3500 meters. (See photo above). Its location in a bird sanctuary is spectacular. Besides bathing in the two natural thermal pools, you can hike along the marked hiking trails (with or without a guide) and feed the many hummingbirds. We really wanted to visit Los Nevados National Park, which is 12 km from the Hotel Termales del Ruiz and we e were able to arrange a driver through the hotel to take us for a car tour through the park.

How do you get there?
Hotel Termales is located off the beaten track. There is no bus to get there, you can reach it by rental car or private transportation from Manizales. (36km, approx. 1.5h) The hotel is 22km from La Nubia airport in Manizales.

Would you like to know more? Then read our travel stories about the trip we took ourselves to Termales del Ruiz and the car tour through Los Nevados National Park.

Santa Rosa de Cabal Thermal Hot Springs

Travel guide Coffee Triangle

Home 9 Category: Travel guide Coffee Triangle

There are several thermal baths in the coffee region, but the natural setting of the Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal is hard to match. From the baths, you look out on the waterfall, which is surrounded by tropical plants and flowers. When you see this place for the first time, it’s guaranteed to take your breath away!

The Termales are located in a nature reserve, at an altitude of over 1,900 meters, in the province of Risaralda. 10 Kilometers away is the town of Santa Rosa de Cabal. The Termales are not on the well-known tourist route to Salento and are therefore often skipped when visiting the coffee triangle. However, if you want to relax a few days in a beautiful, green surroundings, this part of the coffee triangle is definitely worth a detour. Here you can read more about the thermal baths, such as prices and packages, opening hours, the best time to visit the thermal baths, what to bring and the best hotels to stay near Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal.

The baths

There are 3 pools and 1 children’s pool with natural, warm water. From all the pools you have a beautiful view of the 95-meter high waterfall, under which you can take a cold shower.

The spa

There are various spa treatments at the San Miguel Termal Spa, from a mud mask to scrubs and full body treatments.

Hiking trails

If you arrive early like we did, you will have the trails almost to yourself and can photograph the waterfall in peace. You can also do an organized hike, the Expedición Termal. During this hike of about 2 hours, you will hike with a guide to the point where the waterfall starts. 

Plan your trip

Opening hours

365 days a year from 9:00 am to 12:00 am (ticket office closes at 10:00 pm)

In the low season, the hot springs are open from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm and you can come whenever you want. In the high season, there are 3 timeslots when you can visit, and you may stay for a maximum of 4 hours.

The timeslots are:

From 6:30 am to 10:30 am
From 11:30 am to 5:00 pm
From 6:00 pm to 11:30 pm

Check the website for more information and to reserve your entrance tickets. 

Updated August 2025

Prices

 

  • The prices for entrance + access to the thermal pools (pasaporte termal) start at COP50,000/€12.50 for adults and COP38,000/€9.50 for children (up to 1.20 meters)
  • Children up to 90 cm are free.
  • If you book online, there are often discounts.
  • Prices vary depending on the day and time of day. The highest ticket price is during holidays and on weekends for the timeslot from 11:30 am to 5:00 pm: COP81,000/€21.50
  • Expedición Termal hike from COP54,000/€13.50, for a 2-hour guided tour.
  • Spa treatments, from facial masks to full body massages. Check here for more info.

    These prices are valid until 15.12 2025

Facilities
  • Showers
  • Toilets
  • Locker Rooms
  • Free storage service of your belongings: You get a big plastic bag where you can put all your stuff. The bag will be taped off and before you leave the premises, you pick up your stuff again
  • Lockers (for a fee)
  • Souvenir shop
  • 2 restaurants serving local and international cuisine
    How to get to Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal

    From St. Rosa de Cabal
    By Willy Jeep, taxi or bus

    Bus:
    The bus departs from the town hall of Santa Rosa de Cabal to the balneario of Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal. A ticket costs around COP2,500-3,000 ($0.75) and the trip takes about 45 minutes. There is a bus every half hour until about 6:00 pm. Upon arrival at the Termales, check what time the bus returns to the city.
    Tip: Check with your hotel if it is on the bus route. We were able to get on right in front of our hotel and didn’t have to go into town to catch the bus.

    Willy Jeep:
    The traditional Willy Jeeps depart from the market of Santa Rosa de Cabal. You agree on a price with the driver on the spot, which is usually around COP5,000/$1.25 one way. In the mornings and early afternoons, Willys go frequently to the Termales.

    Taxi:
    A one-way taxi ride from the center of Santa Rosa de Cabal to the hot springs costs on average between COP20,000-25,000 ($5-6.25), depending on the time of day, traffic, and any waiting time. The ride usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Some drivers also offer a return service where they wait while you are at the pools. Including waiting time, this usually costs around COP40,000-50,000 ($10-12.50).

    Coming from Salento
    First take the bus to Pereira. From there, continue to Santa Rosa de Cabal/Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal. The bus ride from the Terminal de Transportes in Pereira to Salento takes about 1 hour. Tickets cost around COP12,000/$3. Expreso Alcalá departs every hour and Flota Occidental has 2 departures per day.

    Coming from Manizales
    First take the bus to St. Rosa de Cabal. Then continue to Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal. The bus ride takes about 1 hour. A ticket costs around COP10,000/$2.50 one way. The trips between Manizales and St. Rosa de Cabal are operated by Flota Occidental and run about every 4 hours (during the day).

    Own transport
    If you come with your own vehicle, you can park in the spacious parking lot.

    Best time to visit the thermal baths

    During the week in the early morning hours. On weekends and holidays it can get very busy with families, especially later in the morning.

    Packing List

    What should you defenitely not forget to bring?

    • Swimwear
    • Towels (not provided!)
    • Bathing slippers
    • Cash for food, drinks, locker and souvenirs
    • Change, for tips when you store your clothes for example

    Hotels and Accommodations

    Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal is located in a gorgeous, green surroundings. On the road between Termales and Santa Rosa de Cabal, there are several nice little hotels for every budget, often with beautiful gardens and a “private” river. If you choose your hotel wisely, you can stay very close to the hot springs, or even have them at your doorstep! Check our insiders tips here.

    #ColombiaMyWay Tips

    # Tip 1

    Hotel Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal
    This hotel has a spectacular setting between waterfalls and hotsprings. You cannot get any closer to the thermal baths than in this hotel! If your planning allows it, plan a stay during the week. This is a popular hotel with Colombian tourists and it can be especially crowded on weekends and during vacation periods.

     

    # Tip 2

    Mamatina hotel
    Recommended if you would like to stay close to the Termales, but still book an affordable, comfortable accommodation. The restaurant of Mamatina has a very good reputation. This colorful hotel is close to the Termales, 1km away. The bus to the Termales stops right in front of it!

     

    Below you will find more hotels and hostels. For your convenience, we have listed the distance from Termales with each accommodation.

    $ price range up to $35

    $$ price range $35 – $65

    $$$ price range above $65

    €

    €€

    €€€

    More hotels in Santa Rosa de Cabal

    Additional tips

    Helpful (and tasty) tips

    1. Go for lunch instead of dinner

    Most of the hotels between Termales and Santa Rosa de Cabal are rural and there is not much to do in the evening. Also, not all hotels have their own restaurant. Therefore, go for dinner in the afternoon so you don’t have to look for a restaurant nearby in the evening.

     

    2. Taste the chorizo santarrossano

    If you tell a Colombian you’re going to Santa Rosa de Cabal, 9 times out of 10 he won’t mention the thermal baths, but the chorizo santarrossano! This homemade sausage, is a local specialty, which is famous throughout the region. 

     

    3. Eat a delicious cake at El Parisino

    In a beautiful setting, you can enjoy French pastries here, made with a Colombian touch. Be sure to try the yummy Cheesecake con Arequipe (caramel) or the Cheesecake con (mucho) chocolate. Que riiico! Café el Parisino is located in Hacienda Santa Clara, Via Termales de Santa Rosa km 1. Opening hours (August 2025): On Sundays from 12:00 to 20:00, on Mondays and Tuesdays from 13:00 to 19:00, and on Fridays and Saturdays until 20:00.

    4. Discover even more thermal baths

    If you can’t get enough of the wonderful hot water, check out San Vicente Reserva Termal, 17 km from the town of Santa Rosa de Cabal. If you go here by rental car, keep in mind that the last 12 km of the road are unpaved.

    Los Nevados National Park

    Los Nevados National Park

    Los Nevados National Park is the perfect place in the coffee region for trekking tours to glaciers and lakes. The park covers 583 km2 and is located in the regions of Caldas, Risaralda, Quindío and Tolima at an altitude of 2660 to 5321 meters. The ecosystems consist...

    read more
    Salento or Filandia? Which destination suits you?

    Salento or Filandia? Which destination suits you?

    The Eje Cafetero, Colombia's coffee region, is one of the most beautiful and visited areas of the country. Two of the most popular villages here are Salento and Filandia. Even thought they are just about 30 minutes apart, both villages offer unique experiences. So,...

    read more
    Travel Guide Filandia

    Travel Guide Filandia

    About FilandiaIn this travel guide Filandia, you will find everything you need to know about this authentic village in the Colombian coffee region,...

    read more

    Salento or Filandia? Which destination suits you?

    Travel guide Coffee Triangle

    Salento or Filandia? Which destination suits you?

    The Eje Cafetero, Colombia’s coffee region, is one of the most beautiful and visited areas of the country. Two of the most popular villages here are Salento and Filandia. Even thought they are just about 30 minutes apart, both villages offer unique experiences. So, how do you choose the destination that fits you best? In this article, we compare Salento and Filandia based on atmosphere, activities, accessability and more. 

    1. Atmosphere and charm

    • Salento: This village is the most famous in the Eje Cafetero and attracts many tourists. The center is lively, colorful and full of restaurants, cafes and souvenir stores. The main street, Calle Real, is often crowded, but it buzzes with energy.
    • Filandia: Filandia is quieter and a little less touristy, but at least as charming. The village square is surrounded by traditional coffee houses and local restaurants. Here you will experience a more authentic Colombia without the big crowds.

    Conclusion: Looking for vibrancy and hustle and bustle? Choose Salento. Want tranquility and an authentic atmosphere? Go to Filandia.

    2. Access to nature

    • Salento: Salento is the gateway to the famous Valle de Cocora, home to the tallest wax palms in the world, the palmas de cera. Here you can make beautiful hikes and enjoy breathtaking views.
    • Filandia: Filandia offers access to lesser-known but beautiful natural areas such as the Barbas-Bremen Canyon, a nature reserve where you have the chance to spot howler monkeys and rare birds.

    Conclusion: For iconic nature and well-known attractions, Salento is the favorite but for a quiet and unique nature experience, Filandia is ideal.

    3. Activities and places of interest

    Salento: Besides the Valle de Cocora, in Salento you can also visit coffee fincas, go horseback riding, bird watching, hiking and mountain biking. Activities are easy to book, such as at one of the small travel agencies or hostels or online.

    Filandia: In Filandia, you can also do these activities and tours, but the activities are less visible -less promoted- than in Salento. Filandia adds unique activities, such as a visit to the observation tower Mirador de Filandia, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. At one of the small museums / workshops you can learn more about the rich tradition of Filandia, including the tradition of making the traditional canasto.

    Conclusion: Both villages offer fun activities, but Filandia adds some extra, authentic experiences. On the other hand, the activities in Salento are easier to book.

    4. Accessibility

    • Salento: Salento is easier to reach from the major cities of Pereira and Armenia. There are direct buses and the roads are well maintained.
    • Filandia: Although Filandia is also easily accessible, it may take a little longer to get there from certain cities, such as Pereira.

    Conclusion: If you are limited in time, Salento is more practical.

    5. Food and drink

    • Salento: Here you will find a wide range of international restaurants, local food stalls and cozy cafes. Be sure to try the Trucha with patacones, a local dish.

    • There are also several options in Salento for people with special dietary needs such as vegan and vegetarian food.
    • Filandia: Filandia has fewer restaurants, but the quality and authenticity are excellent. Many places serve dishes with ingredients from the region. There are restaurants that serve vegetarian dishes, but the choice is a lot more limited.

    Conclusion: For more choice, go to Salento, but for an authentic meal, Filandia is a top choice.

    6. Accommodation options

    Practical tip: it can be useful to know, that the city center of Filandia is flatter and easier to walk than Salento.

      Which one do you choose?

      If you like a lively atmosphere, iconic nature such as the Valle de Cocora and a wide range of facilities, Salento is the perfect choice. But if you want an authentic experience, tranquility and unique views, then Filandia a destination not to be missed.

      Why not combine both? Their proximity makes it easy to experience the best of both worlds during your journey through the Eje Cafetero.

      Check our travel guides Salento and Filandia for more information on these two unique destinations in the coffee region of Colombia.

        All about Pijao-What to do and tips

        Travel guide Coffee Triangle

        Home 9 Category: Travel guide Coffee Triangle

        About Pijao

        Pijao is an authentic coffee village in the Colombian coffee region, an hour’s drive from Armenia in the district of Quindío. The colorful village was founded in 1902 and is home to over 7,000 people, some 4,000 of whom live in the countryside. Pijao is at an altitude of 2,600 meters and the air is pure and fresh.

        Pijao is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has another special title in addition to this status. The village has been recognized by the ” Cittaslow” organization namely designated a “slow village.” In a slow village, the local government and the community work together to promote sustainability and quality of life. And with the quality of life, we believe there is nothing wrong with Pijao.

        This is a village where you can enjoy the tranquility and observe local life, without the crowds of villages on the tourist route such as Salento and to a lesser extent Filandia. So if you love nature and traditional villages, this village is definitely worth a detour. It is also one of the best places in the coffee region for bird watching. Special accommodation can be found on one of the fincas outside the village. In the village itself there are a few hostels and hotels. Transportation between Pijao and the fincas is by Willy Jeep “taxi.”

        Can you see yourself chilling out in this traditional coffee village? Then read our travel guide with information and tips on activities and fun things to do, transportation, restaurants and the best hotels in Pijao.

        Our tips

        What to do in and outside of Pijao

        Pijao is off the beaten track and so are some of the activities you can do around Pijao, such as hiking in the paramo scenery, on high altitudes. There are also a number of fun things to do in the village itself and in nearby Buenavista. Here are our tips for the best things to do in Pijao.

        1. Explore the colorful city center

        It’s great fun to take your time exploring the village, starting with the Plaza Principal. The red church San José de Pijao is the focal point of the central plaza and around the plaza you will see beautifully renovated houses in colonial style.

        From a terrace you can best observe local life: jeeps and trucks passing with bags of coffee beans and “campesinos” who come there to eat or drink after hard work in the fields. In the side streets you will find quaint stores and businesses where you can have a cup of coffee, fresh juice or craft beer. A nice little store to look around is El Portón on Calle 11 #5-42. Here you will find beautiful books and natural products produced locally.

        It also sells clothing by local designers. Tip: head to the village during the morning and stay for lunch. Check here the nicest restaurants and cafes in Pijao.

        2. Stroll down the Calle del Cafe

        Pijao “breathes” coffee and at the cafes you can order a cup of coffee, made with care. In the Calle del Café (Calle 11) you can find café La Floresta. Local, organic coffee has been produced here for 30 years. La Tienda del buen vivir is next to La Floresta and here they sell coffee produced exclusively by women. The Calle del Café is a cozy little street, full of color and beautiful murals.

        If you want to know more about coffee -from bean to cup-, do a coffee tour in the village of Buenavista which is near Pijao (see tip 7)

        3. Take a walk in the forest around Pijao

        From our hotel Finca Tradicional El Otoño we made a short hike to a small waterfall in the tropical rainforest. The first part of the hike was over the plantation with coffee plants and banana trees, then the landscape changed to tropical rainforest. Nature was beautiful: huge ferns, meter-long lianas and ancient trees. If you want to do more extensive hikes, check tips 9 and 10.

        4. Spot the colorful birds

        From the hammock of our finca, we could already spot many beautiful birds, but with a tour with a specialized guide you have the best chance to spot birds. Tour operator Bio-Onda tours is an expert in this field. Check their Instagram for more info. A good place in Pijao for bird watching is Casa Solaz, see tip 5.

        5. Pay a visit to Doña Olga at Casa Solaz

        Cra. 4 #9-15

        Here you can discover a whole other world without leaving Pijao. Owner Olga welcomes you with open arms in her traditional -more than 100 years old- house, which she has restored. Each room in the house has its own story, which the owner is happy to tell you. Besides learning about local traditions and culture, you can also enjoy the beautiful garden, which is home to 70 different species of birds. Reservations are necessary and can be made by calling +573108491829. More info can be found on Casa Solaz’s Instagram page or Bio-Onda tours.

        6. Learn all about medicinal plants at El Patio

        At Vivero El Patio on Cl. 10#10-22 Doña Ligia grows and sells medicinal plants and herbs and she is happy to tell you all about their use. On the cozy terrace you can taste one of the different kinds of herbal teas that are prepared for you with love.

        7. Take a side trip to Buenavista

        Buenavista is a small traditional village located 12 kilometers from Pijao. A Willy Jeep will get you there in half an hour. Buenavista is mainly put on the map by Hacienda San Alberto. The coffee beans from their plantation are among the best in Colombia, which is why many coffee lovers like to make a detour to Buenavista. Here find more information about Buenavista and Terraza San Alberto.

        9. Visit a palm grove (without the many tourists)


        Almost everyone who goes to the coffee region knows the Valle Cocora, the valley with the famous palmas de cera, the national tree of Colombia. Pijao has its own palm forest, which you can visit with a guide, including Kevin, of ecotours Pijao. Kevin can be reached at +573197750694.

        8. Go paragliding

        It’s not just coffee that rings the bell in Buenavista. You can also paraglide there, for example. We did not do this, but the driver who took us to Buenavista could heartily recommend this tour operator.

        10.Hike to the Paramo de Chile


        This paramo is located above Pijao, at an altitude of 3,700 meters. At this altitude you will find a special landscape, with the iconic Frailejones trees. You can also do a tour to the paramo de Chile -Tierra Fría as the locals call it-, with Kevin. Check out Kevin’s Instagram for more information.

        Here’s how to plan your trip to Pijao

        How to get there.

        How to get to Pijoa?

        1) The cheapest way: by bus
        There is a direct bus from Armenia to Pijao. The ride takes over 1 hour. (COP10,000/$2.50).

        If you’re staying in Salento or Filandia, you’ll catch 2 buses: first the bus to Armenia 50 min / COP6800/€$.170, then the bus to Pijao. If you arrive in Pijao, you can catch a Willy Jeep for transportation to your hotel if you stay outside the village. The trip from Salento/Filandia takes a total of about 3 hours including transfers.

        2) The most luxurious way: a car with a private driver
        Even though bus transportation is well arranged to and from Pijao, it can also be convenient to hire a car with a private driver, especially if you want to take a different route and stop in the village of Buenavista, for example. We also did this when we went from our prior accommodation –Glamping Entre Rios in Calarcá –  to Pijao via Buenavista. This was ideal because the driver stopped where and how long we wanted. Also, the car was very comfortable, a spacious “Duster”.

        We paid COP250,000/$62 for this service for two people. If you are interested in this, then driver Angelo is recommended. He is a reliable driver who comes from the region and knows a lot about it. Knowledge of Spanish is handy to communicate with him though, as his knowledge of English is basic. Angelo can be reached via WhatsApp number +573127287120. He can also pick you up from Armenia airport.

        3) The most flexible way: eand car hire from the airport in Armenia.
        The main roads are good in this region. We do recommend a sturdy, higher         car to rent such as a Jeep, due to the steep inclines and potholes in the road off the main roads.

        4) With an organized tour
        During this tour of a full day, you can visit the villages of Pijao and Buenavista. The tour includes a visit to a coffee plantation.

        How many days of Pijao?

        Pijao is a lot quieter than Salento and Filandia and there is not much to do in the village itself. In 1 day you can explore the village and take a Willy jeep to Buenavista. If you want to do the hike on the paramo and the palm grove, stay an extra day for this.

        Where to stay in Pijao?

        Pijao has a modest choice of hotels and hostels, but there are some nice accommodations to stay a few nights.

        #ColombiaMyWay hotel tip

        We stayed at Finca Tradicional El Otoño

        This finca is located in a natural reserve in the mountains one kilometer from Pijao. The finca is beautifully situated and you look out on the village of Pijao from the terrace and the room.

        There is a beautiful garden where you can see birds and in the backyard there is a heated pool with jacuzzi. We did not use that because we were too cold -:)

        The delicious breakfast was served at the communal dining table and Don Diego -retired doctor and owner of the finca- joined us in the morning.

        We exchanged stories about his hometown of Medellín, our hometown of Curaçao and Europe. Breakfast was included in the price (65$ per night for a double room) and for a reasonable amount we could order lunch (COP35,000/$8.75) or or a light dinner (COP25,000/$6.25).

        This is not a luxury accommodation, but the room was comfortable and spacious.

        We were the only guests and got a lot of attention from Diego. When he heard me sneezing from a bad cold, he rushed to his room and came back with medicine . He also took us on a walk to a small waterfall. The first part of the hike was over the plantation, where Diego gave a passionate explanation of the coffee plants. After this, the landscape changed to tropical rainforest, where we clambered over the rocks to the small waterfall.

        At times it was quite slippery and we held on to the vines and trees. Dog Kiri joined us for the guide and showed us the way!

        Hike from Finca el Otońo to Pijao
        From the finca to the village, it’s an easy, fun walk down past pastures with horses and cows. It was wonderfully quiet! We passed a small river and saw beautiful butterflies and flowers.

        Including occasional stops, it took us half an hour. The houses with their many colors in the traditional architectural style were fun to see and people were obviously very creative with the different color combinations.

        Upon arriving in the village, we immediately saw the contrast with villages like Salento and Filandia. There was activity in Pijao, but we saw only locals: school children followed by loyal dogs and people on their way to work or the square. When we returned to the finca in the afternoon, we took a Willy Jeep, to avoid the uphill hike. The Willy cost us COP30,000/$7.50. Tip: Are you going to rent a car and want to stay overnight at Finca El Otoño? Then rent a 4 WD. The driver who took us to Pijao had an SUV but no 4WD and he did not manage to get up the little hill to the Finca, after which Don Diego came to pick us up -:)

        If you prefer to stay in the village, there are also a number of hostals you can go to, such as Hostal Casa Victoria Pijao. From the hostal you look out on the beautiful nature of Pijao.

         

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        More hotels in Pijao

        Eating and drinking in Pijao

        At the Plaza Principal de Pijao are several cafes, bars and restaurants. You can also find nice places in the side streets. For example, we previously mentioned Calle 11 (Calle del café), where two nice coffee shops sit next to each other: La Tienda del buen vivir and Café La Floresta. Here are our tips for the best places for drinks and snacks in Pijao.

        Our tips

        La Tienda del buen vivir

        Calle 11 #5-67

        Here you can not only drink or buy coffee, they also sell cakes and craft brewed beers. We wanted to try the coffee-flavored beer, but we were advised to have a lighter beer and take the heavier coffee-flavored beer for the evening.

        Looking back, we were glad we took this advice, because the “coffee beer” was tasty but heavy. Too heavy at the beginning of our “sightseeing” trip through Pijao -:)

        Cafe Dimonte

        # a 11-29 Carrera 4, #111

        Perfect spot on the square for “people watching,” on the corner opposite the church. This cafe has a special “coffee of the day” every day, which is written on a board, with all the specifications of the coffee bean.

        You get a cup that is one-quarter full of coffee, with a jug of water next to it, so you can make the coffee as weak or strong as you like.

         

        Bodega Pijao

        Plaza principal Pijao

        Want to escape the bright afternoon sun and have lunch or a drink inside? Then Bodega Pijao is a nice place. The bodega sits on the central square and is tastefully decorated with wine bottles and coffee props.

        Here you can go for a traditional Colombian meal, a burger, pasta, a cup of coffee or a cheese board with a glass of wine. There are also vegan and vegetarian options.

         

        Bar Social

        Cl. 12 #41
        This cafe is a favorite with locals, who come there to drink coffee or play billiards. It is a good place to have a chat and listen to locals’ anecdotes about this historic bar. The coffee is made with a more than 100-year-old coffee machine!

        Bar los Recuerdos

        Cra. 4 #11-9

        This bar was recommended to us, but when we were there on a Monday afternoon, the bar was closed. The owner of the bar, is a fan of movies and old LPs, which shows in the interior.

        Asadero El Mana

        Insiders tip! You’ll find this restaurant just off the square. It was packed with locals when we were there. Among other things, you can get a cheap menú del día order. Toen wij er waren bestond het dagmenu uit soep met kip, banaan en ei. Het hoofdgerecht was gegrilde kip met spaghetti, rijst, banaan en koolsalade. We kregen een grote portie en de maaltijd smaakte prima!

        Including a guava fruit juice, we paid only COP24000/$6 for 2 people! This restaurant is on the little street opposite the Banco Agrario de Colombia, near the mural of the butterfly.



         

        Practical info A-Z

        Is Pijao safe? What is the weather and temperature like? What should I bring with me? What about how to withdraw money in Pijao? Check here for practical information and useful tips for your stay in Pijao.

        Drinking water

        The water from the tap is not drinkable

        Cash withdrawals

        There are two banks in Pijao, Servibanca and Banco Agrario de Colombia, but we did not see an ATM machine.

        Climate

        The temperature in Pijao ranges from 12 to 20 degrees. We did find the wind a bit chilly in the evening. We found it colder at  night than in Filandia/Salento, especially since our accommodation was in the mountains.

        Packing List
        • Thermos for water
        • Hiking shoes
        • Sunscreen
        • Hat or cap
        • Light clothes
        • Rain jacket
        • Sweater
        Vaccinations

        No vaccinations are required for Pijao.

        Safety

        Pijao is a small and friendly village and it is very peaceful and safe. This has not always been so, because In 2001 there was an invasion by the guerrillas which caused the residents to live in fear for 10 years. Fortunately, Pijao has been a peaceful village for years now, where the residents do not have to live in fear and which is also for travelers, very safe. As our Willy jeep took us to the finca, we noticed a police officer on a motorcycle stopping us. He was asked where he was going and it was actually a very friendly conversation. In such a small village like Pijao, we didn’t really expect this, but it was also kind of a good feeling to have a police presence.

        Wifi and telephone

        At the finca where we stayed, we had good internet. If your accommodation is further into the mountains, coverage may be worse. If you want a data package for your phone, provider Claro has the best coverage in Colombia.

        Stores

        We did not see large supermarkets, but we did see small stores selling all sorts of things.

        Buenavista Quindío

        Travel guide Coffee Triangle

        Home 9 Category: Travel guide Coffee Triangle

        Buenavista and Terraza San Alberto

        Updated August 2025

        Buenavista is a small traditional village of about 3,000 inhabitants in the Quindío region of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, the Eje Cafetero / Zona Cafetera. Armenia is 33km away and Salento is 60km away. It is one of those places we have wanted to visit for years. Now, Buenavista is not on the beaten path and is a detour if you are going to villages like Salento and Filandia travel. So why this detour you might think? The reason we were curious about Buenavista is that Colombia’s most awarded coffee beans are grown here, at the Hacienda San Alberto coffee plantation.

        This of course made us -being coffee “addicts” very curious. However, the coffee was certainly not the only reason for us to be curious. We were especially curious about the terrace of the Hacienda: Terrazza San Alberto. This terrace is known as one of the most beautiful places in the entire coffee region to enjoy a cup of coffee, with sweeping views of the landscape with coffee plantations.

        Therefore, Buenavista was included in the itinerary of our tour of the Colombian coffee region in September 2024, from Armenia to Calarcá, Pijao, Filandia and Salento. On the way from Glamping Entre Rios in Calarcá to Pijao, Buenavista was a perfect stopover.

        It was Sunday and it was a lively crowd, especially around bar El Mirador.

        We stopped to take a look around the square. In the middle of a square are the colorful letters “Mirador del Quindío Buenavista.” Also there is the beautiful -white and blue- Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen.

        We also saw restaurants offering a cheap daily menu, such as El Social Buenavista Restaurante Bar.

        Several people had recommended we have lunch at Restaurante Concorde, which is located between Pijao and Buenavista. Not only for the good food but also for the beautiful view over the green hills.

        photo @ Restaurant Concorde

        But…we had set our sights on a cup of coffee and -after our brief stop in the village-, we continued the ride to Terazza San Alberto.

        When we got there, the view was indeed beautiful and we chose a table with the best view.


        Meanwhile, we were given the menu and could choose from different methods of preparing coffee, using different filters.

        We kept it simple because we were in the mood for a cappuccino. Our cappuccino was ok but could have been a little stronger as far as we were concerned.

        We stayed a while to enjoy the view before getting back into the car.

        #ColombiaMyWay tip: You can also do a coffee tour or workshop at Terrazza San Alberto. You have to book this in advance, though.

        How to get to Buenavista?
        We arrived by car with driver Angelo, who took us from our glamping in Calarcá to Buenavista and Pijao, where we would stay 2 nights. The drive took about 45 minutes. If you come from Salento or Filandia, first catch the bus to Armenia and from there travel on to Buenavista. You can walk to Terrazza San Alberto, but this is steep uphill. You can also take an iconic Willy Jeep, for a short ride.

        The bus tickets to Buenavista can also be ordered online from the Coomoquin bus company, using this link.

        #ColombiaMyWay Tips

        Tip #1
        If you have a little longer, you could also stay overnight in Buenavista and take day trips to Pijao and other villages in the area.

        At Alojamiento Rural Café Yarumo you can stay overnight and do a coffee tour with Don Leo. Don Leo is a colorful, interesting man and a local celebrity! You can find more info about the coffee tour on his Instagram.

        Near Buenavista, you will also find accommodations in a higher price range, such as La Cima Eco Hotel, La Font Ecolodge, Finca Tradicional El Balcón, Casamalva villas and Eco glamping Cordillera.

        Tip #2
        Want to grab lunch or a drink at Terrazza San Alberto and Café Concorde? Then keep in mind that Sunday is a popular day among locals for visiting Buenavista. If you go early in the morning, it’s usually still quiet.

        Tip #3
        It’s not just coffee that rings the bell in Buenavista. You can also paraglide there, for example. We did not do this, but the driver who took us to Buenavista could heartily recommend this tour operator.

        You can also book a paragliding trip from Salento, with transportation there and back to Buenavista. Check the link for more info.

        Tip #4
        From Buenavista, you can easily travel on to Pijao, which is 12 kilometers away. Explore the colorful town center and observe village life from the square. You get there by Willy jeep (approx. 30 min.).

        Colombia My Way