Salento: Gateway to the Cocora Valley
Discover Salento, Colombia: Explore the Cocora Valley's towering palms, wander colorful streets, and savor world-class coffee in the heart of the Coffee Region.
Salento, located in the Quindío department of Colombia, is a picturesque town that serves as the perfect base for exploring the region's natural beauty and coffee culture. Founded in 1842, Salento is the oldest town in the Coffee Region and is known for its colorful houses constructed using the traditional 'bahareque' method. The town's main draw is its proximity to the Cocora Valley, home to the Quindío wax palm, Colombia's national tree and the tallest palm in the world. These majestic trees, reaching up to 60 meters in height, create a surreal and breathtaking landscape. Visitors can explore the valley through various hiking trails, horseback riding tours, or by simply enjoying the views. Beyond the Cocora Valley, Salento offers a variety of activities, including coffee farm tours where you can learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. The town itself is a delight to explore, with its colorful streets, souvenir shops, and viewpoints like the Mirador Alto de la Cruz, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Salento's charm and natural beauty make it a popular destination for both Colombian and international tourists.
Local tips
- Visit the Cocora Valley early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Take a coffee farm tour to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the region's best coffee.
- Hike to the Mirador Alto de la Cruz for panoramic views of Salento and the surrounding landscape.
- Explore the town's colorful streets and browse the souvenir shops for local crafts and goods.
- Try local specialties like trout (trucha) at one of Salento's many restaurants.
A brief summary to Salento
- Salento, Quindio, CO
Getting There
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Walking
Salento is a small town, and most attractions within the town center are easily accessible on foot. From the main square (Plaza de Bolívar), you can reach the Mirador Alto de la Cruz by walking up Carrera 6 (Calle Real) and climbing the stairs. The walk takes about 10-15 minutes. There is no cost associated with walking.
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Public Transport
For destinations outside of Salento, such as the Cocora Valley or coffee farms, the primary mode of public transport is the 'Willy,' a shared Jeep. These Jeeps depart from the Plaza de Bolívar. A one-way trip to Cocora Valley costs approximately 5,000 COP. Jeeps typically leave when they are full.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Salento, but they are not as common as the Willy Jeeps. You can ask your accommodation to book a taxi for you. A short taxi ride within the town may cost around 6,000-8,000 COP. For longer distances, such as to nearby towns, negotiate the price beforehand.
