Discovering Colombia: A 9-Day Adventure Travel Guide
Updated: Jun 5, 2023
In March of this year, a friend and I embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Colombia for spring break. The entire experience surpassed all expectations and easily ranks as one of the most remarkable trips of my life. Our stay lasted 9 incredible days, during which we immersed ourselves in a myriad of fascinating experiences. Our Colombian journey took us to two captivating cities: Medellin and Armenia, also known as "The coffee region" or "El Eje Cafetero."
During my trip in Colombia, I couldn't resist sharing my adventures on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where a wonderful community eagerly followed along, always anticipating my next post. The genuine excitement and positive feedback I received from these fellow viewers and friends inspired me to create a travel guide, so you too could immerse yourself in the same joys and discoveries that I experienced firsthand.
Colombia is a very affordable country, the exchange rate works overwhelmingly in your favor, amplifying the value of your currency. It is a country that truly encompasses the essence of natural beauty. Its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and warm-hearted people make it a treasure trove of exploration. I assure you that the wonders of Colombia extend far beyond what I can and will describe in this travel vlog.
And now, here I am, thrilled to present my very first travel guide, with many more to come. :)
Day 1: Travel Day
Day 2: Valle del Cocora & Filandia
Day 3: Finca del Cafe
Day 4: Termales de San Vicente
Day 5: Travel day/ Pueblito Paisa / Parque Lleras / Plaza Botero
Day 6: Piedra del Peñón & Guatape
Day 7: Metro Cable / Parque Arvi & Provenza or Mirador
Day 8: Paragliding & Comuna 13
Day 9: Travel day ( back home )
*Restaurants to dine at located at the bottom of this blog*
Day 1: Travel Day
Miami --> Bogota --> Armenia --> Filandia
When we bought our tickets we decided to travel to Bogota first early in the morning and later catch an afternoon flight to Armenia. This route offered us a faster and more affordable option, as reaching Armenia from Bogota took only a short one-hour flight... and I also needed to pick up some wedges I had left at my grandmas house back in January. The total travel time for both flights amounted to approximately three and a half hours.
When we arrived to Armenia we decided to stay in Salento as it was closer to our first adventure stop "Valle del Cocora." However, I recommend staying in Filandia as it is much nicer, vibrant, and has more food options (Therefore I will be describing this travel guide as if we had stayed in Filandia). In Filandia I recommend you stay 2 days and 2 nights. Both Salento and Filandia are small towns, therefore you'll feel very safe and it is free from heavy traffic. In order to reach these 2 towns from the airport, you'll have two options:
Take a taxi directly to your chosen town (around an hour drive)
Take a bus from the airport to another bus station around 10 minutes away that will then transport you to either town ( around an hour and a half drive)
Once you arrive to your desired destination, in order to get around you will ride "Willys" aka Jeeps. These will take you around the small towns and to outside destinations as there are no taxis in these towns. The Willys price depends on where you are headed but they are very cheap and typically arounf 6.000 pesos or $1.30. They're all located in the center of the town. Keep in mind they take off every hour.
Day 2: Valle del Cocora & Filandia
Valle del Cocora is known for its surreal landscapes and its towering wax palm trees. It is breathtaking & huge! Not to mention, these palm trees are actually the tallest in the world! Just wait and see for yourself. Once you arrive you have two options:
A) Hike on your own ( you only pay the entrance fee )
B) Trek by horse with a guide ( around 75,000 pesos or $17 )
We chose option B. It was the perfect way to navigate the challenging terrain as it was rainy and muddy when we first arrived and the best way to soak in the stunning surroundings. However, the adventure doesn't end there. After horse trekking, you can still hang around Valle del Cocora and hike to your heart's content. The place is a hiker's paradise, offering endless trails and breathtaking vistas. So, if you're up for more exploration, don't hesitate to extend your stay and keep hiking! And take many pictures & videos!
Next, head to Filandia & explore its plaza and all its many small shops. As you explore the charming streets of Filandia, you'll find artisan shops, beautiful paintings, and vibrant homes. Personally, I believe Filandia offers such a captivating experience that there may not be a strong need to visit Salento. While Salento is similar to Filandia it doesn't quite match the same level of vibrancy and meticulous care. However, if you're interested, there's certainly no harm in exploring Salento as well! It's always a matter of personal preference.
Furthermore, Filandia & Salento are known for 2 plates: Trucha ( Trout, that comes with plantain and coconut rice) & Patacon (a fried green plantain) filled with shredded beef & chicken, grated cheese, and a sweet pineapple sauce. They are both SOOOO good and a must try while over there.
For the trucha I recommend going to Jose Fernando. It is a remarkable restauraunt that captivates visitors with its stunning decor, impeccable service, and extraordinary culinary offerings. We were fortunate enough to receive a recommendation from a local to dine at this establishment, and I must say, it exceeded all expectations. From the moment we stepped inside, the ambiance was enchanting, complemented by attentive and friendly staff. However, the true highlight was the cuisine, which left us utterly satisfied and craving more. Without a doubt, this restaurant did not disappoint in any aspect.
For the patacon there are many places to get it there but since we did stay in Salento our first night, we ate it at a restauraunt called "La Picadera" and WOW.
Again, you can NOT leave salento without trying these two dishes!
Day 3: Finca del Cafe
At Finca del Cafe, an incredible coffee tour awaits, spanning approximately two hours. Time flies by, I promise! As a first-time coffee tour attendee, my expectations were surpassed in every way possible. Even my friend, who had experienced two previous coffee tours abroad, declared this the ultimate coffee tour. In this coffee tour you'll get to:
learn about the art of coffee cultivation
walk around the coffee farm
handpick your own coffee beans which you will then grate and turn into coffee
be outfitted in typical coffee farmer gear
try a refreshing coffee lemonade shake & coffee bean yogurt (sounds weird but it tastes SO GOOD)
After the tour, near la Finca del Cafe is the "Mirador del Cafe" which lets you oversee the entire coffee farm. In this area there are also many restauraunts for you to grab lunch and just sit back, listen to music, and enjoy the scenic views. We ate at a restaurant right next to it also called "Mirador del Cafe," and we really enjoyed it.
On this particular day you will check out and catch a one-hour bus to Pereira at the Salento Bus Terminal. It's advisable to leave as early as possible to ensure you arrive to the coffee tour between 10 am - 11 am. After considering the logistics, we concluded that staying overnight in Pereira instead of Salento or Filandia would be the most sensible decision since the coffee tour is closest to Pereira, and our flight to Medellin departed from Pereira at 7 am in the following days. Since Salento and Filandia are very small, it would be quite challenging to find a taxi to drive you to the airport, located an hour away from the town, at such an early time.
During our trip, we had the pleasure of staying at a hotel conveniently located just 15 minutes away from the airport, and we absolutely loved it. However, after our visit to la Finca del Cafe, we discovered that it is not only a coffee tour but also a breathtaking hotel. We realized that booking our accommodation there would have been an amazing choice as it would have allowed us to arrive directly at the coffee tour, relished in the stunning surroundings of the coffee farm, and indulged in the scenic pool. Moreover, the hotel is remarkably close to the hot springs, which was on our itinerary for the following day.
While it's worth mentioning that the hotel is around 45 minutes away from the airport, arranging early and pre-booked taxis will ensure a seamless transfer, allowing you to reach the airport in time for departure. If you have additional time to spare, I highly recommend considering a stay of two nights at la Finca del Cafe, as well as two nights at the cozy cabins near the hot springs. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of these remarkable locations.
Day 4: Termales San Vicente
Here in Pereira there are 2 options of hot springs:
Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal
Termales San Vicente
Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal is the most known and visited. I noticed Termales de San Vicente was never really talked about on Tik Tok or Instagram when I was planning our trip. I only found out about these hot springs through locals when I decided to ask them about Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal. One thing they all mentioned in common was how beautiful San Vicente was & how it was worth going there more. Therefore, we decided to head there, and we do not regret this at all!
What draws everyone in to Termales de Santa Rosa de Cabal is a huge waterfall. However, there isn't much there besides that and one huge hot spring pool right next to it ( It still is very beautiful! And if you have time why not check both out).
On the other hand, Termales San Vicente has SPECTACULAR views on your way up since it is a drive to get there and is higher up in the mountains. This hot spring offers around 15 different natural hot spring pools all around with different views & layouts. You can spend and will want to spend your entire day here. Trust me.
Termales de San Vicente also has cabins for an unforgettable overnight stay (which, regrettably, we were unaware of at the time). We highly recommend taking advantage of this option for an even more enchanting experience. Additionally, you'll find exceptional restaurants on-site, serving amazing food amidst breathtaking decor. The combination of incredible food and awe-inspiring surroundings truly elevates your visit to Termales de San Vicente.
To reach Termales de San Vicente, you have two options:
Taxi up the mountain
Take the train to the central train station, where jeeps are stationed to transport you up the hill to the hot spring
The jeeps operate from 9 am to 5 pm, and the scenic journey takes approximately one hour to reach the mountain top. Given the logistics involved, I highly recommend either staying overnight to fully enjoy a day of the hot springs and breathtaking views or arrive precisely at 9 am to make the most of your time.
It's important to note that the jeeps cease operations after 5 pm, leaving no transportation options for descending the mountain. There are no Uber or taxi services available due to the challenging and rocky road conditions. The round trip journey takes around two hours, making it essential to prearrange a ride with a jeep owner if you plan to stay longer. During off-hours, expect the price to double, as it requires the assistance of a local contact. We were fortunate enough to encounter a helpful staff member who kindly connected us with his friend who owned a jeep and who provided us with a ride back down for 70.00 pesos or $15.50.
Planning ahead and being aware of the limited transportation options ensures a smooth and enjoyable visit to Termales de San Vicente. Take advantage of the available jeep service or make necessary arrangements to secure your return trip, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the hot springs without any concerns about transportation logistics.
Day 5: Travel day/ Pueblito Paisa/ Parque Lleras/ Plaza Botero
On this day, you'll embark on a short flight to Medellin, lasting only about 30 minutes. After your arrival, I highly recommend indulging in Colombia's delightful array of traditional breakfast pastry options: Buñuelo, Pandebono, Arepas, and Empanadas. These pastries will introduce you to the rich and diverse flavors of Colombian cuisine.
Visit Pueblito Paisa, "a replica of a turn-of-the-century town located in the hills of Medellín which offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Antioquian culture." Here, you'll find cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, a beautiful church, traditional colombian snacks and amazing views of the city. In addition walk around Parque Lleras & Plaza Botero. Two parks where people are always lounging around and vendors are peddling food and drinks.
Day 6: La piedra del Peñón & Guatape
This is a full day trip. La Piedra del Peñón, located approximately two hours away from Medellin, is well worth the early wake-up call. To make the most of your visit, I highly recommend going on a weekday rather than a weekend. Trust me, it can get pretty crowded, and climbing the rock with a swarm of people around will not be fun at all.
Make La Piedra del Peñón your first stop of the day. The climb itself consists of a whopping 740 steps, taking you on a journey to breathtaking heights. Most people take about an hour to reach the top, but keep in mind that it all depends on your physical fitness level. Personally, I managed to conquer the climb in just 15 minutes without stopping, but of course, you'll want to pause along the way to snap some Instagram-worthy photos and soak in the view. Once you reach the top make sure to grab a homemade ice cream (I recommend any fruit one, especially Mora, Coco, & Maracuya). Sit back, listen to the music and enjoy the view.
To get there, we were fortunate enough to have a dedicated driver throughout our time in Medellin, which made our journey to La Piedra del Peñón seamless. However, if you don't have private transportation, there are alternative options available. While taking a taxi can be a bit costly due to the distance, it offers convenience and a direct route. Another option is to hop on a bus that will take you directly to the site. This might be a more budget-friendly choice, and you can find it on websites like Trip Advisor.
Once you've finished exploring La Piedra del Peñón, it's time to embark on a short 13-minute drive to the charming town of Guatape. Guatape is famous for its vibrant houses colorful streets, and vibrant atmosphere. As you wander through the town's cobblestone streets, be prepared to lose yourself in its enchanting atmosphere. You'll spend hours strolling through town looking into shops, watching street performers in the main square, sipping coffee from cafes, and of course, photographing everything in sight.
*In addition make sure to get a Bandeja Paisa for lunch!*
Day 7: Metrocable / Parque Arvi & Provenza or Mirador
One of the most remarkable features of Medellin is its Metrocable system. This unique transportation system allows you to explore the city from a whole new perspective, taking you on a journey that encompasses both urban landscapes and breathtaking natural surroundings.
As you ascend on the Metrocable, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Medellin, offering a captivating glimpse of the city's beauty and its diverse neighborhoods. From the heights of the cable car, you'll witness the stark contrasts that exist within the city, including the divisions between the affluent and the less privileged areas.
Once you board the Metrocable, get ready for a memorable ride up to Parque Arvi, an ecological nature preserve nestled in the mountains surrounding Medellin. As you ascend, you'll be treated to stunning views of the city gradually giving way to lush green landscapes.
Upon reaching the top, you'll find yourself in a delightful mini farmers market, brimming with local flavors and culinary delights. This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in some traditional treats and savor the vibrant tastes of Medellin.
Don't miss the chance to try "frutas con crema," a delightful combination of fresh fruits topped with creamy goodness. And an "oblea," a traditional Colombian delicacy. This thin wafer-like treat is typically filled with arequipe (a sweet caramel spread) and topped with various toppings like grated cheese, shredded coconut, or sprinkles.
Here at parque arvi youll get to hike & walk through nature trails, horsebackride, bordwatch as there is an abundant diversity of birds, rent a bycicle and enjoy the park and my perosnaly favorite canopy and ziplining. For thrill-seekers, there are canopy and ziplining experiences available in the park where you'll soar through the treetops and enjoy an adrenaline-pumping adventure while taking in breathtaking views. I highly recommend the canopy and ziplining as it's sooo fun, and if you love heights this one is definitely for you!
There are different levels in the park, so even if you don't like heights but still love an adventure there is a different route for you!
At night we recommend going out in Provenza! Provenza is part of the larger district of El Poblado, which is known for its upscale residential areas, commercial centers, and vibrant nightlife. Provenza is particularly popular among locals and tourists for its lively atmosphere, charming streets, and diverse range of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Provenza is a popular nightlife destination, where you'll find live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs.
It is packed! But so much fun. We went out to "Teatro Victoria," which offers 3 different rooms of music genres: 1.Reggeaton, 2. Alternative, 3.Mix of both. So you definetly will not get bored.
If you are not one to go out, another option is going to one of Medellins many "Miradores." Here youll get to overlook the entire city at night, relax and grab some food and drinks. We unfortunately did not have time to go here but I have seen many videos and it looks stunning! Here are some of the best ones:
Mirador El Cielo
Mirador La Bendicion
Mirador San Ateo
Image by Michael Maturana via https://www.flickr.com/photos/127053561@N02/27507041452
Day 8: Paragliding & Comuna 13
The company we decided to paraglide with was called Dragon Fly: https://parapentedragonfly.com/
To fully embrace the thrill of paragliding, it's essential to seize the day and again... wake up early! The optimal hours to paraglide are between 9 am and 12 pm. We decided to paraglide at 9 am, encountering some initial cloudiness since we were high in the mountains. However, by 9:30 - 10 am, the skies began to clear, revealing stunning vistas beneath us. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. You have the choice of either a 15 or 20-minute flight, and we opted for the 15-minute duration, which proved to be the perfect balance.
Heads up: many individuals experience dizziness or nausea due to the altitude. The effect varies from person to person, but both my friend and I felt it and I typically am not succeptible to things like this. I recommend you bring along a carbonated water at hand and a lime to combat any potential queasiness.
Next, head over to "La Picadera" and enjoy a sancocho (soup), accopmanied by a banana (which you dip in the soup) rice, and salad. It tastes soooo good, and it is probably the best sancocho I have ever had. Not to mention the restarunt which is an outdoor setting offers breathtaking views. This place is sure to give you an unforgettable dining experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Finally, you will head over to comuna 13. To fully appreciate the history and significance of this neighborhood, I highly recommend booking a walking tour so that you can be provided with insightful commentary and be guided through its streets.
I highly reccomend this tour: https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/27441-graffiti-tour-comuna-13-magic-place-free-tour
This tour offers a unique perspective on Comuna 13. The tour guide is friendly and knowledgeable, sharing fascinating stories about the town's history and evolution. What sets this tour apart is that it goes beyond the typical tourist areas and explores different parts of Comuna 13, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the neighborhood's rich culture and heritage. During the tour, you'll also have the opportunity to try a popular Colombian pastry called "Pan de Queso" & Comuna 13 most famous homemade ice cream stand.
In addition while in Comuna 13 make sure to get:
A Michelada at "Micheledas Rondamon"
Arepa Quesudas
Gelatina de Pata
Ice Cream from "Cremas de Doña Consuelo."
Michelada Pictured Below
Remember to make the most of your time in Comuna 13 by capturing memorable photographs, engaging with the locals, and embracing the unique energy that flows through its streets. It's a chance to witness the transformation and spirit of a neighborhood that has risen above challenges and emerged as a testament to the human spirit.
Day 9: Travel day ( back home )
And so, the journey comes to an end. Depending on your flight departure time, savor the last moments in Colombia by indulging in its culinary delights one more time. Treat yourself to the flavors and aromas that have delighted your taste buds throughout your stay. With a grateful heart and a suitcase filled with unforgettable memories, it's time to say "Chao Colombia!" :)
Restaurants we ate at and recommend:
- Restaurante Shalem (Salento)
- Jose Fernando (Filandia)
- Mirador del Cafe (Santa Rosa de Cabal, next to the coffee tour)
- La Picadera ( San Felix, near paragliding)
- El Cielo (Medellin)
- Relato (Medellin)
- Voraz (Medellin)
Pictures of Restaurants not featured above:
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