Salento Tour, Cocora Valley and Philandia Economic Plan

Pereira , Colombia

Salento Tour, Cocora Valley and Philandia Economic Plan

Active

6h - 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

Experience one of the most memorable days of the Coffee Axis by touring three must-see gems with Transport and Axis Tourism: Salento, the Cocora Valley and Philandia. We pick you up at the airport or hotel and you will travel by vehicle exclusively for you, to enjoy the route at your own pace, in total comfort.

Upon arrival at the destination, an expert local guide will be waiting to accompany you during the tour: you will walk among the tallest palms of the world, explore the colorful Salento with its colonial balconies and end up in Philandia, a town full of crafts, viewpoints and traditional flavor. (you can reverse the order of the experience)

This version of the tour includes exclusive transportation + guide (Spanish or English) ideal if you are looking for a more competitive rate (without losing the quality)

Available options

Salento Tour, Cocora Valley and Philandia Economic Plan

Pickup included

What's included

Tourism Guide provided by Transport and Tourism of the Axis

Private transportation

Medical assistance insurance

Detailed itinerary

In Salento travelers will explore one of the most charming villages of the Coffee Axis, known for its brightly colored houses, florid balconies and traditional atmosphere. They will walk along Calle Real, where they will find local crafts, boutique cafes and products made by artisans from the region.

You can climb to the Salento viewpoint to take in the green mountains of the coffee landscape and the beginning of the Cocora Valley. Throughout the tour, the guide will share stories about Antioquia’s colonization, traditional architecture and the coffee culture that gives identity to the place.

Stop 2 Pass by

In the Cocora Valley travelers will walk among the stunning wax palms, the national tree of Colombia, which can reach up to 60 meters high. You will enjoy a unique landscape surrounded by green mountains, mild haze and Andean birds that inhabit the fog forest.

During the walk, the guide will explain the ecological importance of the valley, the conservation history of the ecosystem and curiosities about the wax palm. Travelers can stop for panoramic photographs, breathe fresh air and connect with one of Colombia’s most iconic natural scenes.

In Filandia, travelers will discover another of the most beautiful villages on the coffee axis, famous for its brightly colored colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and quiet atmosphere. They will walk through the main park and its surroundings, visiting artisan cafes, local designer shops and natural fiber workshops such as the “bejuco”, where artisans make traditional baskets.

You can climb to the Philandia Viewpoint, where you will see spectacular valleys, coffee mountains and sunsets. The guide will share data about the local culture, typical cuisine and the history of the Antioquian colonization that shaped this charming town.

What's not included

Food

Entrance to the viewpoint in the Cocora Valley

Entrance to the Viewpoint in Philadelphia

Activities not mentioned

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Pereira

Pereira, known as the 'City of Charm' and the 'Athens of the Coffee Axis', is a vibrant city nestled in Colombia's Coffee Region. It offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with lush landscapes, coffee plantations, and a rich cultural scene.

Top Attractions

Catedral de Pereira

This beautiful cathedral is a prominent landmark in Pereira, featuring stunning architecture and a rich history. It is a must-visit for those interested in religious and historical sites.

Historical/Religious 30 minutes Free

Parque del Café

An amusement park dedicated to Colombia's coffee culture, featuring rides, shows, and interactive exhibits. It's a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Entertainment/Cultural Half day to full day Moderate to expensive (varies by attraction and season)

Catedral de Nuestra Señora de las Lajas

A stunning cathedral known for its unique architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. It is a popular pilgrimage site and a must-visit for those interested in religious and historical sites.

Historical/Religious 30 minutes Free

Jardín Botánico de Pereira

A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Museo de Arte de Pereira

A museum showcasing a diverse collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts. It is a must-visit for those interested in art and culture.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

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 those looking to experience the flavors of the region.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options are available, with modifications to the traditional dish.

Arepas

Cornmeal cakes that can be served plain, with cheese, or with various fillings. They are a staple of Colombian cuisine and can be found throughout Pereira.

Snack/Breakfast Vegetarian and vegan options are available, with modifications to the traditional dish.

Sancocho

A hearty soup made with chicken, beef, or fish, along with plantains, yuca, and other vegetables. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for cooler days.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options are available, with modifications to the traditional dish.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding mountains and nature reserves White-water rafting on the nearby rivers Soaking in the hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal Enjoying a cup of coffee at a local café Exploring the city's museums and cultural attractions Visiting local coffee plantations and tours Swimming and water sports at nearby lakes and rivers Experiencing the coffee culture of the Coffee Region

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the dry season, with plenty of sunshine and minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

18-26°C 64-79°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: Exercise caution

Pereira is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas. It's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas
• Use official taxis or app-based services, and always agree on a price before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Matecaña International Airport • 2 km (1.2 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal de Transportes de Pereira

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Pereira. It is affordable and reaches most parts of the city, but it can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

El Lago Carrera 13 El Oso

Day trips

Salento

45 km (28 miles) • Full day

A charming town in the Coffee Region, known for its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and stunning natural landscapes. It's a great place to experience the culture and beauty of the region.

Santa Rosa de Cabal

25 km (15 miles) • Half day to full day

A small town near Pereira, known for its hot springs and stunning natural landscapes. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Manizales

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

A vibrant city in the Coffee Region, known for its coffee culture, stunning architecture, and rich history. It's a great place to experience the culture and heritage of the region.

Festivals

Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • June Festival de Música del Café (Coffee Music Festival) • January

Pro tips

Try a traditional Colombian coffee at one of the city's many coffee shops and cafes
Visit the Cocora Valley and its towering wax palms, a unique and unforgettable experience in the Coffee Region
Explore the city's museums and cultural attractions, such as the Museo de Arte de Pereira and the Catedral de Pereira
Take a guided tour of a local coffee plantation to learn about the coffee-making process and taste some of the world's best coffee
Experience the vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene in Pereira, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from