Wax Palms, Salento and Coffee Private Full Day Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The best way to uncover the Coffee Cultural Landscape is to connect with it, to experience the culture, nature and the many colors and shapes of the towns within. In Salento, we provide these 3 experiences for you in just the one-day.
1. In the early morning, you’ll go to the Cocora Valley where you’ll stroll under the tallest wax palms on the planet, rising up the mountainside to meet the mystical clouds in the sky.
2. Later in the afternoon you’ll visit one of the most beautiful coffee fincas in Colombia, and uncover the coffee process and learn the very best secrets to creating great Colombian Coffee.
3. To complete the third part of your experience you’ll go through the captivating streets of Salento, through the colorful main street, the plaza (the square) and checkout the best sites.
Available options
Pickup and drop-off in Pereira
Duration: 8 hours<br/>Pickup included
Pickup / Drop-off Salento
Duration: 7 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Entrance fees
Air-conditioned vehicle
Private Bilingual guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
This morning you'll start your day with some beautiful views from the Salento Mirador (Lookout), and a look down into the valley you will soon venture through.
2
Next, you'll take a trip into the lush Cocora Valley and a guided tour of the Wax Palm Forest. This valley is spectacular by itself, but when combined with the forest filled with the tallest wax palms in the world, it becomes an almost spiritual experience. You'll get to spend a few hours walking through this peaceful zone with more beautiful views in every direction.
3
After you've stopped for a wonderful lunch you'll continue onto a sensational coffee tour. This is one of the best coffee tours in Colombia and so very unique. The reason being the philosophy of this single lady owner. She has created a Finca that is completely pesticide and machinery free. Every part of the entire process is done by hand and with this, you'll discover the traditional methods of growing the perfect coffee bean. You'll also get to explore this wonderful Finca and find so much more than just coffee is grown here, such as a large variety of fruits as well. You'll learn the complete process from the seed to the cup, including handpicking a few beans yourself.
What's not included
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the plan
Experiences and transportation not mentioned in the plan
Personal expenses and tips
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Salento
Salento is a picturesque town in Colombia's Coffee Triangle, known for its vibrant streets, colonial architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a gateway to the Cocora Valley, home to the iconic wax palms, Colombia's national tree. The town's charming atmosphere and rich coffee culture make it a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions
Cocora Valley
The Cocora Valley is a stunning landscape filled with towering wax palms, Colombia's national tree. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to enter, guided tours may have a cost
Salento's Town Center
The town center of Salento is a charming area with colorful colonial buildings, vibrant streets, and a lively atmosphere.
Historical/Architecture
A few hours
Free
Finca El Ocaso
Finca El Ocaso is a traditional coffee farm offering tours and tastings, providing insight into the coffee-making process.
Cultural/Agriculture
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter featuring rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, arepa, and sometimes a fried egg. It's a must-try for its rich flavors and substantial portions.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat, gluten, and dairy.
Arepas
Corn cakes that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables. They are a staple in Colombian cuisine and can be found throughout Salento.
Snack/Breakfast
Vegetarian options available.
Coffee
Salento is in the heart of Colombia's coffee region, so trying locally grown and brewed coffee is a must. The coffee is known for its rich, smooth flavor.
Drink
Vegan and gluten-free.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Cocora Valley
Coffee farm tours
Horseback riding
Coffee tasting at local cafes
Strolling through the town center
Enjoying the scenic views
Visiting local museums
Exploring colonial architecture
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to January
The best time to visit Salento is during the dry season, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.
12-24°C
54-75°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Salento is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. It's important to take precautions to protect your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using public transportation, especially at night.
- • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially after dark.
Getting there
By air
- El Eden Airport • 45 km from Salento
By bus
Terminal de Transportes de Armenia
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Salento. They run frequently and connect the town center with nearby areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Tappx, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Cocora Valley Area
Day trips
Filandia
20 km from Salento • Half day to full day
Filandia is a charming colonial town with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It's a great place to explore the coffee region's cultural heritage.
Pijao
30 km from Salento • Full day
Pijao is a small town surrounded by lush landscapes and coffee farms. It's a great place for hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing the coffee-making process.
Festivals
Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • August
Pro tips
- Visit the Cocora Valley early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Try the local coffee at one of the many cafes in town, and consider taking a coffee farm tour to learn about the coffee-making process.
- Explore the town center on foot, as many attractions and shops are within walking distance.
- Be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain, especially in the afternoon, and bring layers and a rain jacket.
- Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals, as Salento can get crowded.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
