The Coffee Route in Quindio, Colombia: Discovering the Coffee Region

Quindío, located in the heart of Colombia, is a renowned tourist destination, thanks to coffee. With 252 specialized coffee shops and 116 coffee roasters, the region is immersed in coffee culture. According to the 2022 Annual Report of the Coffee Observatory, people in Quindio consume an average of 3.5 cups of coffee a day, highlighting the importance of coffee culture in their lifestyle and economy.

The Beginning of the Journey

The adventure along the Coffee Route in Quindio starts in Salento, a picturesque town in the northeastern part of the department. Salento is famous for its colorful houses with flower-adorned balconies and its proximity to the Cocora Valley, home to the iconic wax palms and yellow-eared parrots.

Salento is also the perfect place to learn about coffee production, from planting to preparation. At El Ocaso farm, you can immerse yourself in extensive coffee plantations, beautiful flower gardens, and native trees of the region surrounding a traditional house with over 100 years of history.

Coffee shops and specialty stores like Cafe Jesus Martin, which roasts coffee grown in Quindio, are ideal destinations for coffee lovers looking to taste local delights.

Armenia, the Coffee Heart

Just 40 minutes from Salento is Armenia, the capital of Quindio. In the city’s streets, murals of the coffee cultural landscape tell stories about the rural population, iconic Willys jeeps, and the flora and fauna of the department.

In Armenia, you shouldn’t miss places like Cafe La Morelia, which offers barista courses, guided tastings, and tours of coffee production. Their gourmet coffee received the prestigious gold seal from the Monde Selection International Quality Institute in 2022. Other farms, such as La Marsellesa and La Aldea del Abuelo, also offer tours of their coffee plantations.

Coffee Park

Just half an hour from Armenia, Coffee Park is one of Colombia’s most iconic tourist destinations, offering a complete coffee experience. In the park, visitors can explore a museum dedicated to the history of Colombian coffee and follow an educational trail that reveals the secrets of its cultivation, harvesting, and roasting.

Coffee Park offers shows and recreational activities that will delight the whole family. It’s the perfect place to learn about coffee and enjoy a fun-filled day.

The Final Destination

The journey along the Coffee Route culminates in Filandia, approximately an hour from Coffee Park, in the northern part of Quindio. This beautiful town shares with Salento the characteristic paisa architecture, with colorful houses and balconies.

Filandia is known for its artisans who transform vine roots into baskets and decorative items. This ancient craft of basket weaving is exhibited at the “Del Bejuco al Canasto” Interpretation Center, where workshops are also offered for those interested in learning this traditional technique.

You can’t miss the Colina Iluminada viewpoint in Filandia, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the town and the beautiful coffee landscapes surrounding Pereira and other towns in northern Valle del Cauca. A visit to this viewpoint is the perfect way to conclude your journey along the Coffee Route in Quindio.

Quindio, with its rich coffee culture and beautiful landscapes, offers a unique experience for coffee lovers and travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the authentic Colombia. The Coffee Route is a journey that allows you to appreciate the region’s beauty and discover all the secrets behind your favorite cup of coffee.