Salento is a popular holiday destination for Colombian tourists. It’s also one of the most-loved small towns in Colombia among backpackers and international travelers. It’s a wonderfully laid-back place to spend a few days. Although Salento is becoming more popular if you visit on a weekday it still feels quite sleepy.

Cocora Valley

The Cocora Valley is about 45 minutes outside of Salento, the valley makes for either an easy 90-minute stroll or a slightly more challenging 5-hour day hike, depending on which route you decide to take. Either way, the views across the valley are amazing and the palm trees don’t disappoint.

Coffee Tour

This region produces some of the best coffee in the world. Colombian farmers are unique in that they pick every single bean by hand. The best way to get a glimpse of Colombian coffee culture is to visit a coffee farm. Luckily, the area around Salento has a concentration of them so there is plenty to choose from!

Try Tejo

Tejo involves throwing lead weights at targets embedded in a clay board, and identified by their little triangles of gunpowder. It’s a drinking game, and buying beer is the price of admission to most courts. Most locals love to show you how to play!

Calle Real 

Calle Real is the best place to snap photos of the colorful buildings. It is also a hive of activity and the perfect place to stroll around and do a little shopping.