About Salento
Salento is a captivating town located in Colombia’s renowned coffee region. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, Salento offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local traditions. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors or delving into the local coffee culture, Salento provides a rich experience.
Getting to Salento
Reaching Salento is straightforward. The nearest airport is El Edén International Airport in Armenia, which connects with major Colombian cities. From there, you can take a taxi or a shared shuttle to Salento. Alternatively, buses from Bogotá or Medellín offer a scenic journey of about 6-8 hours. For a more direct route, buses from Armenia run frequently, taking about 45 minutes and costing COP$5,900 as of October 2023.
Exploring Salento
Upon arrival, the colorful colonial architecture and lively streets of Salento will draw you in. Start at Plaza de Bolívar, the town’s main square, where you can enjoy the local atmosphere and admire the surrounding scenery.
Salento’s Coffee Culture
Salento is at the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, making it an ideal place to explore the coffee-making process. Visit one of the many local coffee fincas to learn about coffee production from bean to cup. You can even participate in coffee picking or brewing your own cup of Colombian coffee.
Valle de Cocora
Valle de Cocora is a highlight of any visit to Salento. Known for its towering wax palm trees, the valley offers stunning views and diverse birdlife. Guided hikes or horseback rides are available, providing an immersive experience in one of Colombia’s most striking landscapes. To get there, take a Willys jeep from the main square for COP$4,500.
Best Time to Visit Salento
The dry season, from December to March, is ideal for visiting Salento, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities. However, Salento’s charm is present year-round, with each season bringing its own unique appeal. Be prepared for occasional rain if visiting during the wet season.
Local Transportation
Salento is compact and best explored on foot. For trips to Valle de Cocora, jeeps depart regularly from the main square. Additionally, a local mototaxi service is available for short trips around town.
Activities and Experiences
- Visit the Mirador for panoramic views of the region.
- Try local dishes like Trucha, a regional fish specialty, available at many restaurants around the main plaza.
- Experience Tejo, a traditional Colombian game involving metal weights and gunpowder.
- Explore further afield with visits to the Butterfly House in Calarcá or the National Coffee Park.
- Rent a mountain bike from CicloSalento to explore the area’s trails, with rentals starting at COP$8,000 per hour.
Dining and Drinking
Salento offers a variety of dining options. For a local experience, try El Rincón de Lucy for affordable set lunches. Café Jesús Martín is a cozy spot for coffee lovers, offering locally grown brews and delicious desserts. For a drink, Bar Danubio provides a traditional setting with a rich history, perfect for mingling with locals.
