Salento is a small town in the Quindío department of Colombia. It is known for its traditional architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and deep-rooted coffee culture. In this post, we will explore the best areas to stay in Salento.
Located in the heart of the Colombian Coffee Triangle, Salento sits at an altitude of 6,217 feet (1,895 meters) in the Andean mountains, offering cool temperatures and lush surroundings. Additionally, the town is one of the main gateways to the Cocora Valley, home to Colombia’s towering wax palms, the country’s national tree.
Salento’s well-preserved streets, particularly along Calle Real, showcase colorful facades and intricate wooden balconies, making it one of the most picturesque towns in Colombia’s Coffee Cultural Landscape. Its central plaza, Plaza Bolívar, is a hub of local activity, with cafes, artisan shops, and the Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, an iconic landmark in the area. The viewpoint at Alto de la Cruz provides stunning panoramic views of the valley and rolling green hills that surround the town. Find accommodation in Salento’s Town Center.
While many travelers come for day trips, Salento is best enjoyed over a few days to fully experience its charm. Coffee farms in the area offer immersive tours to learn about the production process and taste some of Colombia’s finest brews. The town is also a starting point for treks into Los Nevados National Natural Park, where snow-capped peaks and high-altitude ecosystems create a dramatic backdrop for adventure seekers.
Salento enjoys a mild climate throughout the year, with frequent rain showers keeping the landscape lush and green. Bringing layers and rain gear is advisable for those planning outdoor activities. The town is easily accessible from Armenia, with frequent bus connections, making it a convenient destination for exploring Colombia’s coffee region.
This guide explores the best areas to stay in Salento, whether you prefer to be near the lively town center, in a countryside finca surrounded by coffee plantations, or close to the stunning trails of the Cocora Valley.
What are the best areas to stay in Salento, Colombia?
The best area to stay in Salento is the town center, where you’ll be close to restaurants, cafes, and cultural landmarks like Plaza Bolívar and Calle Real, home to artisan shops and stunning viewpoints. Find accommodation in Salento’s Town Center. For a quieter stay surrounded by nature, the areas near Cocora Valley feature eco-lodges and countryside fincas with incredible views of the wax palms and mountains. Find accommodation near the Cocora Valley.
1. Salento Town Center
The best area to stay in the Colombian Coffee Triangle
Salento Town Center is the best place to stay to enjoy the Coffee Region’s unique culture and landscapes.
Staying in Salento Town Center puts you in the heart of the town’s colorful streets, surrounded by colonial architecture, local markets, and traditional coffee shops. Plaza Bolívar, the central square, is a lively hub with restaurants serving classic paisa dishes and artisan shops selling handcrafted goods. The town’s main street, Calle Real, leads to the Alto de la Cruz viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Accommodations in the town center range from budget hostels to boutique hotels, many with balconies overlooking the bustling streets. This is the best area to stay if you want to be within walking distance of cafes, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. While Salento is active during the day, the evenings are relatively quiet, making it a comfortable place to stay without excessive noise.
For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, there are a few laid-back bars where you can unwind with a drink and experience the local atmosphere. The town center is also well-connected, with jeep transport (Willys), making it easy to reach Cocora Valley and nearby coffee farms.
Staying in the town center allows you to experience the best of Salento’s charm without sacrificing convenience. Whether you want to explore the local markets, enjoy authentic coffee straight from the source, or take in the breathtaking scenery, this area offers the perfect mix of activity and relaxation.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Salento Town Center
Cocli Hotel Boutique Salento
Cocli Hotel Boutique Salento provides accommodations with a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and a bar. Each room at the 4-star hotel has mountain views, and guests can enjoy access to a hot tub and a spa center.
2. Valle del Cocora
The best area to stay in Salento for nature lovers
For those who want to be surrounded by nature while still being within reach of the town, Valle del Cocora is the best area to stay in Salento
The Cocora Valley, located about a 20-minute drive from the town center, is famous for its towering wax palms, which are the tallest palm trees in the world and an iconic symbol of Colombia. It’s an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in one of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.
The main attraction here is the Cocora Valley trails, which lead through lush cloud forests and into the high-altitude ecosystems of Los Nevados National Natural Park. Hiking routes vary in difficulty, with shorter walks through the palm groves and longer treks leading up to panoramic viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. Horseback riding tours are also popular for those who want to explore the area without a strenuous hike.
Accommodations in Valle del Cocora range from eco-lodges and countryside fincas to rustic cabins with stunning mountain views. Many places offer direct access to hiking trails and opportunities to wake up to the sounds of nature. Unlike Salento Town Center, this area has fewer dining and entertainment options, but many lodges provide home-cooked meals made from fresh local ingredients. Staying here ensures a peaceful, remote experience away from the town’s activity while still being close enough for a short visit.
If you’re looking for a relaxing retreat with incredible access to nature, Valle del Cocora is the best place for nature lovers to stay in Salento. Whether you want to hike among the wax palms, enjoy birdwatching, or simply take in the spectacular Andean scenery, this area offers an unforgettable escape into Colombia’s natural beauty.
Our hand-picked accommodations near Cocora Valley
La Cabaña Ecohotel – Valle del Cocora
Featuring free WiFi, Ecohotel La Cabaña offers pet-friendly accommodations in Salento. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Free private parking is available on site.
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