Salento: attractions, tours and tickets

Located in Colombia’s Quindio department and in the heart of the Coffee Triangle region, Salento is a vibrant town with a backdrop of lush green scenery and the world’s tallest palm trees. With a population of 7,000 people, the colourful locals and local way of life will captivate you when you visit. Listen to Colombian music in the streets as men in traditional sombreros and ponchos play, see parrots chilling on the rooftops in the streets, join in on a local game of Tejo, and drink one of the best cups of coffee you’ll ever try! There are plenty of hiking opportunities around national parks, valleys and even the snowcapped peaks of Nevado del Tolima.

Top three things to do in Salento

1. Visit the Valle de Cocora

This beautiful valley is famous for its Wax Palms - the world’s tallest palm trees native to Colombia and northern Peru. Look up to the sky and see how tall they stretch! You can horse ride, mountain bike, or hike the trails that pass through the lush greenery, rivers and even waterfalls. See if you can spot any birdlife too - toucans and parrots are native to this area!

2. Walk along the famous street of Calle Real

This pedestrianised street is lined with white houses brought to life with colourful windows, doors and balconies! Expect to see all different colours, in all different combinations. Shop for souvenirs, stop for a cup of coffee in a cute cafe, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. You won’t find a pot of gold at the end of this rainbow street, but you will find a staircase leading to the mirador viewpoint. Climb it for some amazing views of the city!

3. Learn about coffee or chocolate - or both!

It only makes sense to visit a coffee farm (finca) when in the middle of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle that even has UNESCO World Heritage recognition! Find out how the high-quality beans are made into the well-loved drink and try some too. If chocolate is more up your street, why not join a tour walking around beautiful cacao farms and see the cocoa beans on the trees.