Salento

Colombia, South America

Salento is the gateway to the stunning Cocora Valley, famous for its towering wax palms, vibrant coffee plantations, and colorful streets. This charming town is also a hub for adventure seekers, offering hiking, horseback riding, and a glimpse into traditional Colombian culture. Visitors can engage in coffee-tasting tours, explore nearby natural parks, and experience local markets, making Salento a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Matecana

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Salento

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Cocora Valley

Hike among towering wax palms in stunning landscape.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Salento's Coffee Farms

Experience coffee culture with local tours and tastings.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll Calle Real

Wander the colorful main street full of charm.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Try Trucha (Trout)

Savor delicious trout dishes in local restaurants.

No booking required
5

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Horseback Riding in the Countryside

Discover stunning landscapes on horseback tours.

Booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mirador de Salento

Enjoy breathtaking views of the coffee region.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Festival del Agua

Experience vibrant cultural celebrations during the festival.

No booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Coffee Cultural Landscape

Discover UNESCO-listed coffee plantations and scenery.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Colombian Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bandeja Paisa

Hearty platter with meats and beans. (National dish)

Ajiaco

Chicken and potato soup with herbs.

Arepas

VE

Corn cakes, often filled or topped.

Sancocho

Savory stew with meat and vegetables.

Empanadas

V

Fried or baked pastry with filling.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)