Salento walking route: 7 places to see in Colombia

The 1510 km route through Colombia covers Medellin, a coffee region with Indian tribes, colonial Cartagena and the picturesque cities of Salento and Guatape. The journey includes visits to authentic farms, art galleries and acquaintance with the life of local residents of different social classes.

Mode
Places
Start
Salento, Colombia
End
Coffee Region & Indigenous Tribes
Stops
6
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Salento, Colombia — Salento is inhabited by descendants of Spanish colonists with a unique dialect and preserved traditions of the coffee region of Colombia.
  2. Cartagena de Indias, Colombia — A seafood restaurant created by local chefs to preserve authentic Colombian Caribbean recipes.
  3. Picture Gallery in Guatapé — An art space in the Colorado Red Mountains with exhibitions of modern and traditional art by local artists.
  4. Felipe's House – City of Eternal Spring — Meeting with actor Felipe in his father's 40-year construction project. Conversation about life in the USA and return to Colombia.
  5. Juan's Rural Farm – Patio Bonito — Meeting with farmer Juan. Discussion of leaving capital life for rural living and sustainable tourism accommodation.
  6. Coffee Region & Indigenous Tribes — Premium coffee from the region. Discussion of Kogi, Viva, and Kanukama tribes. Historical context of the region.

Useful for your trip

Food
In Colombia, despite its status as the second largest coffee producer in the world, it is difficult to find high-quality coffee. Locals often offer instant Nescafe. Good coffee from the Sierra Nevada is made by the Arawak Indians.
Food
Visit the Mar Y Zielo restaurant in Cartagena, located in the house where the writer Gabriel García Márquez stayed. Owner Fabio will tell you about the history and popular dishes of the establishment.
Timing
In the coffee region (Salento), the weather is unpredictable, with often alternating rain and sunshine on the same day. Be prepared for anything and bring appropriate clothing.
Where to stay
Juan's Rural Farm - Patio Bonito in Jardin offers accommodation for tourists from all over the world. Owner Juan left his job as a banker in the capital to develop farm tourism.
Tip
Salento, one of the most colorful cities in the coffee region, has unique architecture. The city is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Tip
The Cocora Valley is named after a local princess who lived many years ago. The place was spiritually important to the indigenous Quimbai people.
Tip
There are about 7 volcanoes operating in the coffee region of Colombia, some above 5000 meters with ice caps (Nevadas). Volcanic ash serves as fertilizer for the soil.
Tip
Visit the art gallery of the artist Antonio in the town of Guatape, where a unique painting technique is presented.
Tip
Felipe's House in Medellin is a house that has been building for over 40 years. It mixes the influence of Alaskan architecture with traditional Colombian architecture.
Timing
Tourism in Colombia is actively developing. In every city of the country, you can meet travelers from all over the world.

Video on this route

The Land of Forbidden Pleasures. Colombia for Adults

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