Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Salento, Colombia

Salento, a quaint town in Colombia, is the most visited destination in the Coffee Triangle. Its vibrantly painted facades and close proximity to the stunning wax palms of the Cocora Valley contribute to its popularity.

Visitors are drawn here for the relaxed ambiance and the opportunity to engage with the outdoors and local culture. Activities include paragliding, hiking, horseback riding, playing tejo, exploring artisan crafts, and enjoying trout prepared in numerous ways. The town is easy to navigate on foot, with viewpoints and coffee plantations within reach, along with serene spots to relax amidst the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Here are the top activities to experience in Salento:

1. Hike the Valle de Cocora

To witness the iconic views of Colombia’s towering Quindio wax palms set against lush hills, prepare for an invigorating hike.

This approximately 5 to 6 hour trek involves an elevation change through verdant valleys, cloud forests, and streams.

The remarkable journey certainly lives up to the expectations, so embark on a 4×4 jeep from Salento’s central square early in the day to avoid larger crowds.

Be sure to pack snacks, carry sufficient water, and consider a detour to the hummingbird reserve, Acaime, along the route! However, if your arrival is later in the day or simply wish for photos of the stunning palms, opt for the direct path to the valley (avoiding the right-hand hiking trail) — this round trip is approximately one hour.

2. Play Tejo

Salento is an ideal location to engage in Colombia’s beloved explosive sport, tejo! Visit the local cancha de tejo, Los Amigos, to test your skill at launching heavy weights at gunpowder targets positioned across the room.

This venue caters to tourists and also features a “mini-tejo” court where the distances are smaller, enhancing your chances of enjoying that gratifying bang.

Located just a few blocks from the main plaza, Los Amigos does not charge an entrance fee; simply purchase a beer if you wish to partake, or relax and observe the skilled locals play.

3. Eat Trout

As a local specialty, fresh trout or trucha appears on nearly every restaurant menu in Salento.

It can be prepared in various styles — fried, grilled, or baked — with a multitude of toppings available.

A popular choice among locals includes trout baked in a creamy garlic and cheese sauce.

Served alongside substantial patacones (thin smashed and fried plantains) and a small salad, it may also come with rice, beans, soup, and juice.

Budget-friendly options are available at Rincon de Lucy and Restaurante Andrea located on Calle Real, while Donde Laurita, just off the main square, is highly recommended.

4. Tour a Coffee Plantation

As Salento is the premier tourist destination in the Eje Cafetero — Colombia’s Coffee Zone — a visit to a coffee farm is a must. Don Elias is a cherished small family-run farm where all the production processes are conducted by hand, and the coffee is exclusively sold to guests.

A tour of the vibrant property allows you to learn about the coffee plants, observe harvesting and drying processes, and enjoy a cup of coffee at the conclusion of the visit.

For a larger operation and a more extended tour, consider visiting El Ocaso nearby.

Both coffee farms are a pleasant walk downhill from the town center.

5. Reserva Natural Acaime

The hummingbird reserve, known as “Casa de los Colibris,” represents an essential stop during your Valle de Cocora hike.

Even if you arrive weary and breathless, take a moment to relax while surrounded by these vibrant, flitting hummingbirds.

Although a small entry fee is required, you will receive a hot beverage and ample time to rest and capture photographs of the multi-colored birds.

This family-run establishment maintains numerous feeders for the birds and cares for the trails, allowing visitors to enjoy their mesmerizing displays.

6. Stay at La Serrana

This magnificent eco-farm and delightful hostel on the outskirts of Salento exudes a welcoming and cozy atmosphere at an affordable price.

With 20 hectares of farmland enveloping a traditional Colombian hacienda, guests can choose from dormitory-style rooms, private accommodations, or “glamping” canvas tents.

The on-site restaurant utilizes produce from its organic gardens, serving dinner nightly with local ingredients, and all accommodations come with breakfast included.

The lodge features warm rustic decor, offering guests complimentary popcorn, a selection of DVDs, comfortable seating, and the option to purchase fresh milk from their cows.

7. Walk Up to the Mirador

From the main plaza in Salento, colorful stairs beckon you upward and away from the town.

Follow this path to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the adjacent hills and lush landscapes from the mirador, Alto de la Cruz.

Along the way, numerous shops offer handicrafts, souvenirs, and refreshments.

Upon reaching the summit, take the left trail to access a shelter with stunning views.

If you wish to continue your exploration, venture downhill to discover the river, meet local farmers, and observe cows grazing in the lush fields.

8. Check Out Salento’s Coffee Shops

This is the heart of coffee cultivation; be sure to savor a robust cup of Colombian coffee in one of Salento’s charming cafes.

Jesús Martín stands out as the most favored coffee shop in town.

This establishment boasts skilled baristas and a lively ambiance adorned with murals and eclectic decor.

Whether you prefer your coffee straight or opt for a more elaborate drink, take the opportunity to enjoy a slice of cake, cookie, or alfajor alongside.

Despite many high-quality beans being exported, you’ll find a remarkable selection of Colombian coffee available here.

9. Stroll the Plaza Bolívar and Calle Real

Venture to the vibrant center of Salento for some leisurely strolling, photo opportunities, people watching, or simply relaxing with a beer.

Don’t miss the church, Nuestra Señora del Carmen, located in the main square of Plaza Bolívar, where colorful 4×4 jeeps await journeys to the valley.

In addition to restaurants, a small supermarket, souvenir shops, and a few bars that offer outdoor relaxation.

Explore the predominantly pedestrian Calle Real, located at the plaza’s corner. The brightly colored buildings provide a backdrop for myriad restaurants, bars, hostels, souvenir shops, and a popular hangout spot.

10. Go Horseback Riding

Once you have thoroughly explored on foot, enlist a local guide and embark on horseback to discover more of the serene countryside surrounding Salento.

Arrange for trips lasting between three to five hours, traversing steep hills, dense forests, and river crossings, as well as visits to scenic waterfalls and overlooks.

Hostels can assist in organizing these excursions, or you may opt to contact companies like Cabalgatas San Pablo, known for their well-cared-for horses and excellent guides.

Horseback riding is even an option through the Valle de Cocora for those less inclined to walk; ensure you choose a reputable service.

11. Mountain Biking Tours

If you prefer cycling to exploring on foot, consider an afternoon of mountain biking, primarily downhill, to experience the Andes, coffee plantations, and dirt trails around Salento.

Different trails accommodate varying fitness levels and desired exertion. Choose to navigate through the pine forests, local farms, or venture downhill on thrilling routes like Alegrias, known for its adrenaline-inducing single track.

Alternatively, select the easier La Carbonera, a dirt road that glides past numerous wax palms. Salento Cycling offers excellent bikes, equipment, guides, and includes lunch.

12. Go Paragliding

Experience unparalleled views over the lush valleys and agricultural landscapes surrounding Salento.

Get in touch with a local tour provider that can transport you to the nearest launch site — a sizable hill approximately an hour away — and align you with an experienced guide who has extensive flying experience.

BetaTown is renowned for arranging these excursions, including a comprehensive safety briefing, insurance, and an adept pilot to guide you through the skies.

If you are feeling adventurous and your stomach permits, request to experience a couple of thrilling loop-de-loops as you glide back down.

13. Visit the Food Trucks

This culinary experience is one that you might overlook in Salento unless informed of its existence.

Located about four blocks from Plaza Bolívar, along Calle 6, lies La Estación del Food Truck.

The dining area is adorned with charming string lights, picnic tables, and shelter from the rain.

With various food trucks to select from, the atmosphere is vibrant, prices are reasonable, making it a perfect spot to sample a diversity of cuisines.

Options include Venezuelan arepas, Mexican burritos, Arabic-style kebabs, hamburgers, vegetarian fare, cocktails, and more!

14. La Aldea del Artesano

A small community of artisans resides just a short walk from the center of Salento.

Take the time to visit and observe how each artisan crafts their goods and artwork, all without any pressure to purchase.

The local government has invested in creating a space for these artists to live and work together, fostering a vibrant community.

Visitors can explore their workshops, where artisans utilize natural materials to create handmade jewelry and lamps crafted from gourds.

To discover La Aldea del Artesano (also known as Villa Flor), head slightly off the main path where Carrera 5 and Calle 12a diverge.

15. Kasaduadua Natural Reserve

This reserve remains relatively unknown compared to the prominent Valle de Cocora, yet many locals recommend it as a primary stop during your visit to Salento.

The team managing this reserve and eco-lodge exhibits great enthusiasm for their work, enhancing your experience and understanding of the famed wax palms and diverse flora and fauna in the area.

Ensure you make arrangements ahead of time for access and a two-hour guided tour of this Andean rainforest, with entry based on donations.

For those wishing to extend their stay, options for sustainable lodging are available in the main lodge or in unique geodesic domes made of bamboo, perfectly set amid nature.