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Palm trees and smoky mountain peaks in Cocora Valley near Salento, Colombia

Things to do in  Salento

Percolate among palms

The smell of freshly ground Colombian coffee suffuses the colorful streets of Salento, a pretty town in the heart of the Colombian Andes. Because Salento serves as the gateway to the volcanic Los Nevados National Park (Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados) and the towering palms of the Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora), things to do here often revolve around exploring the outdoors and following the coffee journey from bean to brew at countryside farms known as fincas. But with its colorfully painted houses, flower-clad balconies, and lush green surroundings, the town of Salento harbors ample charms that can keep you happily occupied for days.

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Local Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
When to visit

The best time to visit Salento weatherwise is December through February; however, this is the holiday season for Colombians, which means the town is crowded and accommodation prices are high. Avoid visiting from March to May and October to November, when the lush region sees the most rainfall and hiking paths become waterlogged. Every June, the town of Calarcá (just a 30-minute drive from Salento) hosts a fabulous coffee festival.

Getting around

The town of Salento is not much more than 10 blocks wide, so it’s easy to explore on foot. Most coffee farms are scattered throughout the countryside, so you’ll need to rent a bike or call a taxi to reach them. The start point for Cocora Valley hiking is only a 20-minute drive from the town center; taxis are the cheapest option to get there, while tours often include round-trip transfers.

Traveler tips

While most travelers flock straight to the super-famous Cocora Valley, Los Nevados National Park often gets overlooked. Comprising volcanic peaks, rivers and streams, otherworldly flora, and even a glacier, the landscapes here are some of the most unique in South America. The park is also home to Andean condors, spectacled bears, and tapirs. Trekking tours are the best way to explore the park and often last two to three days.

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People Also Ask
Q:What are the must-visit attractions in Salento, Colombia?
A:

The must-visit attractions in Salento are the colorful Calle Real shopping street with its painted buildings, the Plaza de Bolívar main square, and the Mirador de Salento lookout point. On the outskirts, the top sights to see include the incredible landscapes of Cocora Valley and Ocaso Coffee House, surrounded by lush greenery.

Q:Are there any guided coffee tours available in Salento?
A:

Yes, there are lots of guided coffee tours available in Salento: The town is part of Colombia’s Zona Cafeteria, a coffee-growing region between Medellín, Bogotá, and Cali. Coffee tours typically take you to a countryside finca, teach you about the growing and production process, and, of course, include plenty of tastings.

Q:What are the best outdoor activities in Salento?
A:

Hiking is one of the best outdoor activities in Salento, particularly among the palm trees and rivers of Corcora Valley and Los Nevados National Park's glaciers and volcanoes. Horseback riding in Corcora Valley, too, is a popular experience. For birdwatching enthusiasts, head to natural reserves to spot hummingbirds, toucans, and woodpeckers.

Q:What local food should I try in Salento?
A:

One local drink you should try is hot chocolate with white cheese, which gives the beverage a nice blend of sweet and salty. Other must-try dishes include arepas (fried cornmeal cakes); these are delicious smothered with hogao, a salsa made from tomatoes, garlic, and cilantro.

Q:What should I pack for my trip to Salento?
A:

Because of its mountainous location, Salento can experience every type of weather in just one day: Mornings and evenings are cold, and daytime temperatures can be hot and humid. Layers are key here, as is a good waterproof jacket, as Salento is also prone to rain. Plus, with so many outdoor activities on offer, sturdy hiking shoes are a must.

Q:How do I get to Salento from major Colombian cities?
A:

Salento is between Cali and Medellín; buses depart regularly from each city and take around seven hours. You can opt for a day or nighttime option, but day buses are always recommended for increased safety. You can also fly from Colombia’s capital city of Bogotá to Salento, which takes about an hour. Flights land at Matecaña International Airport, around 25 miles (40 kilometers) away.

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