As the sun’s first rays crest, your hot air balloon gently lifts into the sky. Colombia’s coffee region, a triangle-shaped span of verdant terrain extending into the Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindío areas of the country. Morning mist curls up around Arabica plants. The Andean mountains are filled with a fresh coffee aroma. Colombia is an exotic destination that reveals its luxury not by extravagance or extravagant spending, but by authenticity, intimacy and connection.
What to See
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Salento, a small town on the western side of the country, is a postcard-perfect town where brightly painted balconies overlook cobblestone streets and artisanal cafés. Cocora Valley, just outside of town, offers hiking trails under the tallest wax palms in the world. Book a private sunrise balloon flight As dawn begins to illuminate the landscape, you will experience a unique perspective as you float silently over the patchwork of coffee fields.
Filandia, located 30 minutes to the west, has a more tranquil, yet equally charming atmosphere, with its panoramic views and lively artisan markets. In Calarcá, a bit south, stroll through the renowned Botanical Garden and Butterfly Sanctuary, home to over 1,500 butterfly species and lush tropical foliage. The Quimbaya gold museum in Armenia, a nearby town, offers an interesting look at Colombia’s prehispanic civilizations.
What to Do
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Coffee is more than a beverage in Colombia—it’s an art form. At San AlbertoExpert baristas will guide you on a private tasting to reveal the subtle flavors of Colombian single-origin coffee beans. Café de AlturaThe owner of a coffee shop will personally guide guests through the roasting and growing process.
Book a guided hike or a horseback riding experience through Cocora Valley There are hidden lookouts. Willys Jeep Tours are the classic way to discover the hills and stop for a gourmet snack. For a slower pace, float down the Río La Vieja on a bamboo raft, with local guides sharing stories along the way.
What to Do in the Area
Hacienda Bambusa
Columbia has many lovely accommodation options, but my two favorites are the following.
La Casa en las NubesThe rustic elegance of this hotel, nestled in the hills near Salento offers panoramic views of the valley. Birdsong begins the morning and private chefs prepare a breakfast with local ingredients.
Hacienda Bambusa Armenia offers tranquil luxury surrounded by cacao fields, bamboo groves and other natural surroundings. It’s a place for relaxation and reconnection. There are only eight rooms, all of which feature private plunge pools. You can expect personalized service, gourmet food, and a deep feeling of calm.
What to Eat
Helena Adentro
Helena Adentro celebrates Colombian cuisine with bold creativity in Filandia. The restaurant’s grilled pork and slow-cooked trout have become popular dishes. They are paired with innovative cocktails that highlight local fruits. Cerón in Armenia offers an intimate fine-dining experience, where each course pays tribute to regional produce with beautifully-plated presentations.
Travel Tips to Columbia
Visit during the months of December to March or between June and August for the best weather. Pereira (PEI), and Armenia (AXM) are the closest airports, both of which offer convenient access to this coffee region. Colombia’s coffee region offers more than just a destination to see. It’s also a place you can feel. A carefully designed itinerary and the right guide will allow you to experience a coffee region that is as rich in culture, luxury and connections as the coffee itself.
Boris Seckovic It is not a member Travel + Leisure’s A-List Sekovic specializes in Colombia trips. Sekovic will create a custom itinerary for you. [email protected]
