Join a guided tour of Finca El Ocaso, nestled in the heart of Colombia's Coffee Cultural Landscape which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The family farm, steeped in over a century of history, invites you to explore the world of coffee cultivation. Perched 1,900 meters above sea level, it offers an immersive journey into the life cycle of coffee.
Your adventure starts in Salento's main square. From here, a classic 4x4 off-road vehicle takes you along rural routes that hug the Quindío River until the farm emerges from the verdant foliage. A bilingual guide will then lead you through each stage of the coffee process. You'll explore plantations that nurture biodiversity and slow bean maturation, and learn about the Tabi and Castillo varieties flourishing on these slopes. During peak season, you'll even have the chance to participate in hands-on harvesting.
The intricate post-harvest process is revealed in all its detail - pulping, fermentation, drying, threshering and artisanal roasting. This insight illuminates how a red coffee cherry transforms into the globally beloved beverage. The tour culminates with a specialty coffee tasting right on the farm, where you'll savour the distinctive notes of El Ocaso: caramel, red berries, balanced acidity and a creamy body.
This sensory experience connects you with the land, its people and the story behind Colombia's iconic drink. It's a round trip that begins and ends in Salento, offering a profound understanding of coffee from seed to cup.