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Discover the magical path
Western Colombian Andes
A route of living culture, coffee and nature
Explore the Way Western Andes through the departments of Caldas, Quindío y Risaralda, part of the Colombian Coffee Cultural Landscape - PCCC declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In Caldas, visit Manizales, its coffee farms, the Rio Blanco Reserve and taste the tamal manizaleño. In Quindío, visit Salento, the Cocora Valley and experience the coffee process in Montenegro. In Risaralda, discover the landscapes of Marsella, the hot springs in Santa Rosa de Cabal and the Embera culture. Chamí in Pueblo Rico, a multi-ethnic municipality where indigenous, Afro-descendants and mestizos share ancestral traditions in an ideal environment for ethno-tourism. Enjoy the local gastronomy, traditional fairs and handicrafts such as the aguadeño hat in Caldas and works in guadua. A route that awaits you with authentic and memorable experiences..
Temperature
10 °C and 24 °C
Weather
● From warm humid to temperate and cold.
● Altitude: Between 1,220 and 4,500 meters above sea level.
● Dry season: December to March and July to August, high and medium visitor season.
● Rainy season: April to June and October to November, low visitor season.
How to get there?
Find the best route to start your experience
Terrestrial Tour
For the tour you can choose to take a bus from the main terminals, rent a private vehicle or hire an organized tour. by travel agencies. If you choose to travel by bus, remember review schedules and the routes to better plan your experience.
Calarcá
Montenegro
Quimbaya
Salento
Filandia
Santa Rosa de Cabal
Marseille
Belalcazar
Sanctuary
Pueblo Rico
Chinchiná
Terrestrial Tour
For the tour you can choose to take a bus from the main terminals, rent a private vehicle or hire an organized tour. by travel agencies. If you choose to travel by bus, remember review schedules and the routes to better plan your experience.
Calarcá to Armenia (6 km / 10 min)
The journey begins at Calarcá, department of Quindío, in private vehicle or cab you can take the Armenia-Calarcá road. You can also take a bus on the Terminal from Calarcá with destination to Armenia, capital of the department of Quindío. The route offers landscapes of green mountains covered with coffee plantations with natural viewpoints that show the beauty of the coffee heartland..
In Calarcá enjoy:
● Coffee farms that offer the Coffee Culture Tour, in places such as Recuca, that invite you to a guided experience where you can learn from sowing You will also be able to enjoy tastings, learn about typical coffee dances, among others.
● Peñas Blancas Ecopark offers trails, climbing and rappelling in a natural environment full of history and legend.
● The Quindío Botanical Garden, its trails will guide you to observe birds such as the white-necked hummingbird and the green hermit.
● The National Coffee Festival, is held in June with the National Competition of the Yipao, where the iconic Willys Jeeps dazzle with their cargo and prowess. And don't miss the National Coffee Queen where the unite the tradition, culture and pride of a country that has grown among mountains and coffee beans.
● Guadua handicrafts, the most representative Andean bamboo of the region. Artisans transform this material into lamps, utensils, furniture and sculptures full of identity., visit local fairs and bring an authentic piece with you.
In Armenia be captivated by:
● Coffee farms, where you can enjoy dthe journey of coffee from the cultivation of the seed to the cup and enjoy its green coffee plantations. on local farms.
● The Quimbaya Gold Museum, a cultural treasure that pays homage to the ancestral Quimbaya civilization, housing an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art including orpersonal use items, urns and ceremonial objects that reflect the deep spiritual connection of this people with nature.
● The Park of Life, urban park with bird-watching areas, Its vegetation includes a tropical mountain forest, waterfalls and spaces for family activities.
● The Gastronomy authentic and full of tradition such as peeled corn arepas, a classic that accompanies any meal with its soft texture and unique flavor.
● EColombian coffee with denomination of origin, recognized for its exceptional aroma and flavor. Taste the different coffee preparations in the coffee shops of Armenia.
Armenia to Montenegro (12 km / 20 min)
Continued from Armenia, capital of the department of Quindío, to Montenegro, department of Quindío. En private vehicle you can take the National Route 29 to the destination. Also you can take a bus at la Terminal de Transportes de Armenia. The route offers views of coffee plantations, green mountains and charming rural landscapes.
In Montenegro visit:
● The National Coffee Park combines culture and fun with tours through the coffee process, shows artistic and exciting attractions such as roller coasters and cable cars.
● The Efarm La Valeria, enjoy educational tours, contact with animals, agro-ecological experiences, wildlife watching, and family activities that connect with nature in a sustainable and charming environment.
● Authentic coffee farms y participate in harvests, tour coffee plantations, discover artisanal roasting, taste freshly ground coffee and enjoy the warmth of the coffee of its people.
● The people Emberá Chamí, specifically in the village of Puerto Samaria, keeps its heritage alive, its presence in the territory reflects a cultural richness that is manifested in its traditions, language and handicrafts..
Montenegro to Quimbaya (11 km / 20 min)
The journey continues from Montenegro to Quimbaya. En a private vehicle you can take the Montenegro-Quimbaya road or take a bus from the Montenegro Transportation Terminal to Quimbaya.. Remember to check the schedules to better plan your experience. The route offers landscapes of coffee plantations and an atmosphere full of hospitality of its people.
In Quimbaya do not miss:
● The Parque Nacional de la Cultura Agropecuaria (PANACA) invites you to connect with rural life at interactive stations with animals and shows that celebrate rural culture.
● The Parque Temático y Cultural los Arrieros, enjoy music, humor, horseback riding, shows and themed trails.
● Coffee farms offer tours through the coffee plantations, artisan roasting, tastings and the opportunity to learn about the coffee legacy in the midst of the magical landscape of the Province of Quindio.
Quimbaya to Salento (37 km / 60 minutes)
The route continues from Quimbaya, department of Quindío, by private vehicle you can take the via Quimbaya-Filandia with direction to the destination. You can also take a bus from the Quimbaya Transportation Terminal to Salento, Department of Quindío. The route offers spectacular views of coffee plantations, colorful villages and a welcoming atmosphere.
In Salento let yourself be captivated by:
● The central square and surroundings that enamoran with its houses of colors, y its vibrant street real with craft stores and coffeeterías localis with a cozy atmosphere. On a walk to the end of Calle Real,
● Viewpoint of Salento, at the end of the royal street offers one of the best views of the region. You will be able to observe from there to Salento, the Cocora Valley and Los Nevados National Natural Park.
● Los Nevados National Natural Park, with its mountain landscapes full of frailejones (frailejones, frailejones), pou can visit the Páramo de Santa Isabel in a one-day tour or the Nevado del Tolima in a three-day tour.
● The Valley froml Cocora, It is home to the imposing wax palms that can measure up to 60 meters, Colombia's national tree. This valley offers trails for hiking, biking and paragliding.
● The La Patasola Natural Reserve, The tour allows you to walk through humid forests and enjoy the sighting of birds such as the Andean Chara and the Barranquero Coronado.
Salento to Filandia (21 km / 40 min)
The route continues from Salento, department of Quindío, by private vehicle you can take the National Route 29 and continue on the Armenia-Pereira road. to the destination. You can also take a bus from Salento Bus Terminal to Filandia, Department of Quindío. The route offers views of green hills, coffee plantations and charming panoramic viewpoints.
In Filandia marvel at:
● Snternational recognition as “Best Town for Rural Tourism 2023” by the OECD.NU Tourism, thanks to its cultural and natural richness and commitment to integral sustainability.
● El Centro de Interpretación del Bejuco y el Canasto (Bejuco and Canasto Interpretation Center), where an expert guide will show you the coffee tradition.. Cn learn about the handicraft process and participate in a micro-workshop creating your own basket with materials included
● The Pmain site surrounded from colorful facades framed by carved doors and windows, balconies with flowers and a variety of coffee shops that will allow you to taste the best coffee in the world that maintains its denomination of origin recognized by its exceptional aroma and flavor.
● Hospitality in rural villas and cabins, ideal for enjoying the tranquility of the countryside and the authenticity of the coffee culture in an environment surrounded by nature.
● Colina Iluminada viewpoint on the outskirts of the city, from where you can glimpse some of the region's towns, as well as the spectacular peaks of the western Colombian Andes.
Filandia to Pereira (30 km / 50 min)
The route continues from Filandia, department of Quindío, by private vehicle you can take the National Route 29 or take a bus from the central square to Pereira, capital of the department of Risaralda. The route offers extensive landscapes of coffee plantations with panoramic viewpoints that will captivate you.
In Pereira enjoy:
● The historic center, visit the Art Museum of Pereira, tour the Plaza de Bolivar with its emblematic Naked Bolivar and visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Poverty.
● El UTP Botanical Garden to carry out birdwatching, The park is home to about 170 species, among them Parker's ant-hill, the dacnis turquoise and the spectacled owl.
● The Pereira Fair, known as the Harvest Festival, is a vibrant celebration that fills the city with music, tradition and coffee culture every August..
● Near Pereira, at the truth Switzerland, know el Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary. Realiza birdwatching, the cloud forest reveals species such as the Caucasian guans and the piranga tufted anthill. You will also be able to meet howler monkeys.
Pereira to Santa Rosa de Cabal (15 km / 30 min)
The journey continues from Pereira, capital of the department of Risaralda, by private vehicle you can take National Route 29 or take a bus from the Pereira Transportation Terminal to Santa Rosa de Cabal., Risaralda department, Risaralda. The route offers landscapes of cextensive affetals with panoramic viewpoints that will captivate you.
In Santa Rosa de Cabal, delight yourself with:
● Las Termales de Santa Rosa, Balneario Termales and Reserva Termal San Vicente. Each resort offers stunning natural surroundings, from breathtaking waterfalls to hidden mountain wells.
● The Los Nevados National Park, accessing through Potosí towards the Nevado de Santa Isabel, walk among frailejones (frailejones) to the Lagun del Otún with an authorized guide.
● Unique flavors of its gastronomy such as the traditional chorizo sausage santarrosano, famous for its special curing and lower fat content, is a true regional culinary icon. It also enjoys the breaded trout reared in cold mountain waters that guarantee exceptional freshness and flavor
Santa Rosa de Cabal to Marsella (40 km / 1h 10 min)
The trip continues from Santa Rosa de Cabal, department of Risaralda, by private vehicle you can take National Route 29 and continue along National Route 29 and continue along National Route 29 and continue along National Route 29 and continue along National Route 29 and continue alongto Pereira-Marseille. You can also take a bus from the Transportation Terminal. from Santa Rosa de Cabal for Marseille, department of Risaralda. The route offers landscapes of coffee plantations ideal to contemplate from its panoramic viewpoints.
In Marseille you know:
● Traditional coffee farms and participates in activities of milling, tasting, barismo and tours among coffee plantations.
● The Colonial architecture Antioquian style, with balconies and bright colors. Its streets are home to murals that narrate the local history and biodiversity, turning the municipality into an open-air museum.
● The Casa de la Cultura, located in the main square, is a center for artistic and cultural promotion that houses a library, a museum and an exhibition hall.
Marseille to Belalcazar (75 km / 2 h)
The journey continues from Marseille, department of Risaralda, by private vehicle you can take the via Pereira-Carthage until you join the National Route 25 and continue along the Belalcazar-San José that will allow you to reach the destination. You can also take a bus from the Terminal de Transportes in Marseille for Belalcazar, department of Caldas. The route offers the smell of coffee and green mountains along the way.
In Belalcázar you know:
● Coffee farms The company offers activities such as guided tastings, preparation of coffee using various methods, tours of the plantations and direct purchases from the producer.
● The lookout points and the well-known Cristo Rey, located on a hill from where you can contemplate municipalities with amazing views of the coffee region. Belalcázar is known as the Balcón del Paisaje (Balcony of the Landscape) for being located on this hill privileged with panoramic views.
Belalcázar to Santuario (55 km/ 1 h 30 min)
The route continues from Belalcázar, department of Caldas, in a private vehicle you can take the Ruta Virginia–Apía or take a bus from the Transportation Terminal from Belalcázar to Santuario, department of Risaralda. Remember to check the schedules to better plan your experience. The route offers green landscapes that you can enjoy from its viewpoints.
Santuario surprises you with:
● Architecture solemn from the entrance with the arch of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and passing by the Calle Real of colorful balconies you arrive at the center of the square.l to immerse yourself in the culture of the region. coffee maker.
● Routes of abird sighting like the Planes de San Rafael route (route at the foot of Tatamá), among others.as
● FInca coffee plantations where you learn about the coffee process step by step, walk through coffee plantations and enjoy a cup of the best coffee in the world.
Sanctuary to Pueblo Rico (40 km / 1h 7 min)
The route continues from Sanctuary, department of Risaralda, by private vehicle you can take the Ruta Nacional 50 or take a bus from the Santuario Transportation Terminal to Pueblo Rico, department of Risaralda. Remember to check the schedules to better plan your experience. The route offers green landscapes with the aroma of coffee and fresh air.
Pueblo Rico you invites you to know:
● National Natural Park (PNN) Tatamá, with an extraordinary biodiversity with more than 530 species of birds registered, including the sparrowhawk collagist and the red-breasted fruit vendor.
● Additional birdwatching sites such as Montezuma, the Rionegro Regional Natural Park, the Rionegro Kaway in the Cuna de Venus Botanical Garden, the Special Management Area of the Black Communities in Alto de Amurrupá with routes such as Volga, Amurrupá and Sendero de los Micos; the Sendero del Indio in the Tatamá trail; the Sendero Pela Huevos and Sendero Vereda Yarumal in the DRMI Cuchilla del San Juan; the route to the visitors' center; and the Sendero de los Micos and Sendero de los Micos trails. Karagabi in the Tatamá National Park, and the Paramillo Trail, make up unique scenarios that make this municipality a true paradise for nature tourism and bird watching.
Pueblo Rico to Chinchiná (99 km/ 2h 30 min)
The route continues from Pueblo Rico, department of Risaralda, by private vehicle you can take National Route 50 and join National Route 29 towards destiny. You can also take a bus from the Pueblo Rico Transportation Terminal to Chinchiná, department of Caldas. The route offers views panoramicas of coffee plantations that invite you to get to know the Colombian Coffee Cultural Landscape..
In Chinchiná enjoy:
● Coffee farms with crop tours, tastings and workshops for the preparation ofhe Colombian coffee with certification of origin recognized for its quality and flavor. Highlightndo la Hacienda Guayabal and Hacienda La Gaviota.
● The Malecón Embalse Cameguadua with ecological trails, birdwatching and bird watching y picnic areas to enjoy with the family
● The 2019 Guinness World Record Coffee Cup at Bolivar Park, an iconic monument and pride that celebrates the coffee tradition.
Chinchiná to Manizales (25 km / 40 min)
The route continues from Chinchiná, in the department of Caldas, by private vehicle you can take the Manizales- Chinchiná road or take a bus from the Terminal de Transportes of Chinchiná to Manizales, capital of the department of Caldas. The route offers coffee plantations and charming viewpoints.
In Manizales surprise yourself with:
● The Historic Center, the Plaza de Bolivar and the imposing Cathedral Basilica Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora del Rosario of neo-Gothic style with its panoramic viewpoint.
● Gold Museum of Manizales, where pre-Hispanic pieces of great cultural value are preserved. of the Quimbaya culture.
● Coffee farms y learn about the types of roasting and grinding, identify aromas in guided tastings and enjoy freshly ground coffee, directly from the producer and served at the moment..
● Nevado del Ruiz within the Na National Parktural Los Nevados, enjoy guided hikes ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
● Bird watching in the Alcázares Arenillo Ecopark and observe the Spectacled Owl or the Red-headed Barbet. In addition, in the Rio Blanco Nature Reserve, with more than 4000 hectares, you can see the Toroi or Miller's Toroi dwarf.
● Gastronomy traditional and full of flavor as Sancocho triphasic, hearty soup of three meats to share. Enjoy the bandeja paisa from Caldas with beans, pork rinds and avocado. Try the tamal manizaleño. Close with grilled corn and cheese arepas.
Road Highlights
COLOMBIAN COFFEE CULTURAL LANDSCAPE
De declared a World Heritage Site, it invites you to explore lush valleys and picturesque villages y coffee farms where you can learn about the entire coffee process, from the harvest to the preparation of the cup..
MAGICAL AND COLORFUL TOWNS
Filandia, Salento and Marsella are magical towns of the Eje Cafetero, full of color and tradition. Surrounded by mountainous landscapes and coffee plantations, they offer unique ecotourism experiences, colonial architecture and an immersion into the coffee culture.
LOS NEVADOS NATIONAL NATURAL PARK
IImpressive mountain scenery, bird watching such as the Andean Condor, and views of the Nevado del Ruiz, Tolima and Santa Isabel volcanoes, ideal for hiking and photography.
THERMAL WATERS OF SANTA ROSA DE CABAL
In Risaralda, live the eUnique experience in three resorts: Termales de Santa Rosa, Balneario Termales and Reserva Termal San Vicente. Enjoy impressive waterfalls and hidden wells, as well as being the gateway to Los Nevados National Park.
The best adventure
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