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Today I share with you several recommendations on what to do every day in a itinerary seven days in the beautiful Coffee Region touring Risaralda, Quindío and Caldas.
one hears, Colombian Coffee Axis and I'm sure you imagine heat, mountains and clearing, a lot of coffee, but the truth is that there is a lot, much more to explore and places we didn't know existed.
I was there for a whole week, almost 8 days we do count the round trip from Quito, in many of the most beautiful places in the Coffee Region. Enjoy your landscapes, food, the warmth of its people and I was able to learn a lot about the culture and the pride of being Colombian.
Every time I travel I understand each country more and I also understand how they have become a world tourist power., and in the case of Colombia, despite the entire historical situation of internal conflict, They have bet all their cards on tourism being the way to get ahead, and they have achieved it.
The passion with which tourism is done, It is enviable and worth replicating. With this introduction, I am going to share with you the itinerary that I took during the beautiful tour of this area, that is growing more and more and it is all thanks to tourism.
The Coffee Axis has it all, day by day itinerary
I was part of the First International Meeting of Tourism Journalists, which gave me the opportunity to visit Risaralda, Quindío and Caldas, part of the famous axis, what's worth saying, I had never known, so the expectation was very high and believe me it did not disappoint one bit.
The idea of this itinerary is to give you an idea of what you could do, but of course, everything will depend on the time, personal tastes and budget you have, but it will surely serve as a good base to plan your own adventure..
Before starting, I leave you a large part of the tour on video, which will surely motivate you even more to get to know this coffee area of Colombia available on my YouTube channel:
We start.
Recommendations to know the Axis
First of all, I leave you some recommendations that will surely be very useful to put together your itinerary.:
- Ideal season: The best time to visit the Coffee Region is during the dry season, between December and March, although any time of the year has its charm.
- Alone or with a guide?
- Depends on your budget, but you can organize everything on your own, you will also have a good experience.
- If you are looking for a guide, I recommend Juan Diego, this is your number: +57 316 4483787
- Duration: Recommends a minimum duration of 4-5 days to enjoy the main attractions.
- Transport:
- Car rental: Ideal for greater flexibility and exploring at your own pace.
- Public transport: Local buses connect the main towns and cities, but it takes much longer.
- Organized tours: Comfortable option for those who prefer not to plan everything and whose budget is higher.
- Accommodation:
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- coffee farms: Authentic experience and direct contact with coffee culture.
- Boutique hotels: In the towns, offer comfort and charm.
- Cheap accommodations or Airbnb: Option for budget travelers.
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- Currency: colombian peso, I recommend taking it directly from an ATM to have the official change.
- Clothes:
- I recommend you wear comfortable clothes, light and also warm if you go to Los Nevados National Park.
What to do in the Coffee Axis day by day?
Let's get to the point and the second recommendation I can make is that you plan ahead of time to purchase tickets and hotel reservations., since this area is known for its many events throughout the year. With this in mind, This was my coffee trip, a very good trip full of food and great moments:
Day 1: Immersion in the world of coffee
Our adventure began in Risaralda, where we immerse ourselves in the heart of Colombian coffee culture. After arriving at Matecaña airport, We head to the Bombay Hacienda, a hostel with very traditional colonial architecture.
The next day and now formally starting the tour, We headed to the traditional El Roble restaurant and after recharging our energy we went to the Parque del Café, a theme park that allowed us to learn about the history and culture of Colombian coffee in a fun and educational way.. Here you can enjoy attractions such as the roller coaster, the cable car and live shows. The day ended with a delicious dinner at El Solar Restaurant, where we could taste typical dishes of the region.
Day 2: Between charming towns and captivating landscapes
The second day of our adventure took us to explore some of the most picturesque towns in Quindío. We begin our day in RECUCA, which is the Coffee Culture Tour, where visitors can learn in detail the coffee production process, all in a relaxed atmosphere and with very fun guides that will surely make you never forget this place..
Later, We are heading to Finland, a town that captivated me with its colonial architecture and its quiet atmosphere. We visited the Filandia Viewpoint, from where we could enjoy a panoramic view of the valley. Café Municipal was the perfect place to take a break and enjoy delicious Colombian coffee while people watching..
In the afternoon, we arrive in Salento, the heart of tourism in Quindío. We walk through its cobbled streets, admiring the colorful houses and souvenir shops. Here I recommend you arrive on a classic Willys ride, about 4 cars×4 very common in this area.
Day 3: Adventures in nature and relaxation in hot springs
The third day of our trip took us to Caldas, a department known for its natural landscapes and hot springs. Our first stop was Nevado del Ruiz, an active volcano that left us breathless with its imposing beauty. We take a walk along one of the enabled trails, and we were able to appreciate the force of nature up close. The feeling of being in front of an active volcano was indescribable..
After our adventure in Nevado del Ruiz, We head to the Ruiz Hot Springs, an ideal place to relax and unwind.
In the afternoon, We visit the city of Manizales, Known as the "City of Open Doors". We walk through its streets, admiring its colonial architecture and enjoying the nightlife on the “Calle del Tango”.
Day 4: Discovering the history and culture of Caldas
The fourth day of our adventure took us to explore some of the most picturesque towns in Caldas. We begin our day in Pueblo Rico, a town with a rich history. We walked through its streets on a mule and were able to enjoy a wonderful landscape. We found a small family restaurant where we tried a delicious typical dish of the region, which was the three-story tray paisa., crazy.
Later, we headed to Neira, a charming city with a growing tourist offer and where we tried cork, a kind of marshmallow, but with an additional ingredient, It's better to ask when you're there..
In the afternoon, we arrived at Salamis, one of the most beautiful towns in Colombia. We walk through its cobbled streets, admiring the colonial architecture and visiting the House of Culture. In the Oscar Pérez Studio House, We were able to enjoy the dishes of this renowned Colombian chef.
Day 5: Flavors and aromas of the Coffee Axis
The fifth day of our adventure was dedicated to discovering the flavors and aromas of the Coffee Region. We begin our day at the Fogón de Palo, where we learned to prepare typical dishes of the region. We were able to learn about the panela manufacturing process, without a doubt something I didn't know and a magical part of traveling, learn new things.
Later, We head to the Licorera de Caldas, one of the most important of Colombia. We took a tour of the factory and learned about the process of making different liquors. We tried some of their drinks and were surprised by their flavor and power, if you understand me.
In the afternoon, we explore the rainforest, a place full of life and color. We take a walk along trails surrounded by nature and observe various species of plants and animals. The experience was very relaxing and allowed us to connect with nature.
To end the day, We visit the Buencafé factory, where we could learn about the production process of instant coffee. We were impressed by the technology used in this process, nothing is as simple as we think. And if they didn't know, This brand is one of the most consumed in Ecuador.
We finish the day at the San Vicente Hot Springs, perfect to relax and recover in the most natural hot springs in Colombia.
Day 6: Rirasaldens flavors and traditions
The sixth day of our adventure took us to explore Risaralda, a department known for its chorizo production. We begin our day in Santa Rosa de Cabal, a small town but full of charm. We visit its central square, church and a magical restaurant called Campoalegre Bailado.
Later, We head to the Don Julio Chorizo Factory, where we could closely observe the manufacturing process of this typical product. We participated in a chorizo making workshop and learned this complex, but now ultra modern process and clear, We tried chorizo, what's worth saying?, It's not like any other I've tried..
Day 7: Final adventures in Pereira
The seventh and final day of our adventure took us exploring Pereira, the capital of Risaralda. We started our day in Ukumari, a theme park dedicated to the conservation of Colombian fauna. Over there, We were able to observe different species of animals up close., like jaguars, spectacled bears and many more. We participated in a guided tour and learned about the importance of protecting biodiversity.
We enjoyed a delicious meal at the O'Brasileiro Rodizio Restaurant and thus put an end to this enormous tour through the Colombian Coffee Axis.
At night, We go to Tuirak, what will in a very short time be the fashionable hotel on the outskirts of Pereira. Has a modern atmosphere, but that takes care of local building traditions, promises to be the new fashion place once inaugurated.
The next day we returned to Quito from the Matecaña International Airport in Pereira.
Complete itinerary
A) Yes, We reached the end of this journey that allowed me to meet wonderful people and learn how good tourism is done with a focus on people and the environment.. I couldn't close this extensive guide with the complete itinerary so that you have it on hand to plan your trip. (rotate the screen if you are watching on your cell phone):
| Department | City/Hotel/Activity |
| Is 1 | |
| Risaralda | Matecaña airport transfer – Hotel |
| Risaralda | Hacienda Bombay Transfer |
| QUINDÍO | El Roble Restaurant |
| QUINDÍO | El Roble Restaurant Transfer – Coffee Park |
| QUINDÍO | Coffee Park |
| QUINDÍO | Transfer to Montes Castellana Hotels,Trugo, Hotel Armenia |
| QUINDÍO | Restaurant El Solar |
| QUINDÍO | Iconic Pub Crawl, Two heavens and La Fogata Restaurant |
| Is 2 | |
| QUINDÍO | Hotel |
| QUINDÍO | Transfer to Recuca |
| QUINDÍO | Kick back |
| QUINDÍO | Transfer to Finland |
| QUINDÍO | Filandia Viewpoint |
| QUINDÍO | Municipal Cafe |
| QUINDÍO | Stopped Time Street – Charming Viewpoint |
| QUINDÍO | José Fernando Restaurant |
| QUINDÍO | Transfer to Salento |
| QUINDÍO | Salento Tour |
| QUINDÍO | HOTEL BARANQUERO SOLEDEN |
| Is 3 | |
| QUINDÍO | HOTEL BARANQUERO SOLEDEN |
| CALDAS | Transfer Hotel SolEden to La Esperanza |
| CALDAS | Parador La Esperanza |
| CALDAS | Nevado del Ruiz Transfer |
| CALDAS | Nevado del Ruiz |
| Transfer Hotel Termales del Ruiz | |
| Hotel Termales del Ruiz | |
| CALDAS | Manizales Transfer |
| CALDAS | Tango Time |
| CALDAS | Restaurante Giovanni |
| CALDAS | Transfer Hotel Termales del Autum |
| CALDAS | Autumn Hot Springs Hotel |
| Is 4 | |
| CALDAS | Autumn Hot Springs Hotel |
| CALDAS | Transfer Pueblo Rico |
| CALDAS | Transfer to Neira |
| CALDAS | snow |
| CALDAS | Neira Transfer – indefinitely |
| CALDAS | indefinitely |
| CALDAS | Oscar Pérez studio house |
| CALDAS | Casalola Hotel |
| Is 5 | |
| CALDAS | Casalola Hotel |
| CALDAS | Transfer Salamina Restaurant Fogon de Palo |
| CALDAS | Palo stove – Trapiche Hacienda Carrascal |
| CALDAS | Fogón de Palo Transfer – Caldas liquor store |
| CALDAS | Caldas liquor store |
| CALDAS | Liquor Store Transfer – rain forest |
| CALDAS | Granja María Restaurant and Rainforest |
| CALDAS | Buencafé Transfer |
| CALDAS | Buencafé Factory |
| CALDAS | Transfer to La Fruta Park |
| Risaralda | San Vicente Hot Springs Transfer |
| Risaralda | San Vicente Hot Springs |
| Is 6 | |
| Risaralda | SAN VICENTE THERMAL SPRINGS |
| Risaralda | Transfer to Santa Rosa de Cabal |
| Risaralda | Santa Rosa |
| Risaralda | Don Julio Chorizo Factory |
| Risaralda | San Isidro Restaurant Transfer |
| Risaralda | San Isidro Restaurant |
| Risaralda | Transfer to Pereira |
| Risaralda | Piura Restaurant |
| Risaralda | CANTINA 1810 |
| Risaralda | Sonesta Hotel Transfer |
| Is 7 | |
| PEREIRA | Hotel Sonesta |
| PEREIRA | Transfer to Ukumarí Park |
| PEREIRA | UKUMARI |
| PEREIRA | Transfer to O´Brasileiro Rodizio Restaurant |
| PEREIRA | Transfer to Tuirak |
| PEREIRA | the pipes |
I hope this guide is useful to you and you are encouraged to visit this beautiful area., you won't regret it. Any additional questions, You can ask me here or on my social networks.
Special thanks to all the companies and public entities that made this tour possible, but above all to Enfoque del Café Magazine and Big Bus Tours.
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