Calarcá
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Calarcá's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Calarcá, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Visit the local market to indulge in fresh fruits and traditional Colombian breakfast dishes. Engage with local vendors and learn about the region's culture and history as you savor the flavors of the morning.
After lunch, explore the main square, Parque de Calarcá, where you can relax under the shade of its beautiful trees. Visit the nearby Quindio Museum to delve into the region's rich heritage and learn about its coffee production. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets, stopping at local shops for unique crafts and souvenirs.
As night falls, dine at a local restaurant known for its traditional Colombian cuisine, perhaps trying bandeja paisa or arepas. After dinner, take a scenic walk to appreciate the town's quiet charm under the stars. End your evening with a visit to a local café to sip on exquisite Colombian coffee and reflect on your day.
Begin your day with a guided tour of a nearby coffee farm, where you'll learn about the coffee cultivation process from bean to cup. Participate in hands-on activities like picking coffee cherries and observing the roasting process. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Continue your coffee adventure with a tasting session, where you can sample different varieties and learn to distinguish between their unique flavors and aromas. Have lunch at the farm, featuring local dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from the region. Spend your afternoon exploring the lush coffee plantations and taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Return to Calarcá for a relaxing evening, perhaps visiting a local artisan's workshop to see traditional crafts being made. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, trying local specialties while enjoying the ambiance of the town. Wind down your day with a leisurely walk through the quiet streets, enjoying the sounds of the evening.
Set out early for a guided hike in Los Nevados National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Enjoy the invigorating mountain air as you trek through lush forests and alpine meadows, spotting local wildlife along the way. Stop for a mid-morning snack at a scenic viewpoint, taking in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
Continue your hike, navigating through various trails that lead to impressive waterfalls and glacial lakes. Your guide will share insights about the flora and fauna, enhancing your appreciation for this biodiverse region. After a packed lunch amidst nature, make your way back while capturing the stunning scenery with your camera.
Arrive back in Calarcá in the early evening and take some time to relax and refresh at your accommodation. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, discussing the day's adventures with fellow travelers. Consider visiting a nearby bar for live music, experiencing the local nightlife and vibrant culture.
Spend your morning participating in a traditional craft workshop, where you can learn skills like pottery or weaving from local artisans. Engage with the artisans as they share stories of their craft and the significance of these traditions in Calarcá's culture. Create your own piece to take home as a memorable souvenir.
After your workshop, visit a nearby cultural center to explore exhibitions showcasing the history and art of the Quindío region. Attend a cooking class that highlights local ingredients and traditional dishes, where you can prepare a meal alongside talented chefs. Relish the fruits of your labor as you enjoy the delicious dishes you've created.
For dinner, choose a restaurant that features local music, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the culture of the region. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while tasting more traditional dishes. After dinner, stroll through the town, enjoying the lively evening atmosphere and perhaps stopping for dessert at a local café.
Kick off your day with an adrenaline-pumping experience by trying out paragliding in the stunning landscapes of the coffee region. Take in breathtaking views of the lush hills and valleys from above, feeling the rush of the wind as you soar gracefully through the air. After your adventurous start, enjoy a light breakfast at a local café.
Continue the adventure with a thrilling ATV ride through the scenic trails of the coffee farms and nearby hills. Experience the natural beauty of the region up close while navigating through dirt paths and enjoying the fresh air. Break for lunch at a scenic overlook, relishing the panoramic views of the coffee plantations below.
Return to Calarcá in the evening, where you can unwind at a local spa or wellness center, treating yourself to a relaxing massage. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table concept, savoring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Reflect on your adventurous day while enjoying a comforting dessert and coffee.
Spend the morning at the Botanical Garden of Quindío, where you can explore diverse plant species native to the region. Participate in a guided tour that educates you about the ecological significance of the various flora, as well as the importance of conservation. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquility of the gardens while capturing photos of vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
After lunch, head to the nearby Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados for a guided nature walk, focusing on the unique wildlife of the area. Spot various bird species and perhaps even some larger mammals while learning about their habitats and conservation efforts. Take advantage of the pristine surroundings for some picturesque hiking trails.
Return to Calarcá for a relaxing dinner at a restaurant that emphasizes local produce and organic ingredients. Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll through the town, perhaps stopping to visit a local artisan shop. Conclude your day with a cozy chat at a local café, reflecting on the beauty of Colombia's natural heritage.
Take a short trip to the nearby town of Salento, famous for its colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Plaza de Bolívar, where you can admire the stunning colonial architecture and lively local market. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, trying a traditional breakfast while soaking in the local culture.
After breakfast, take a scenic hike to the famous Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palm trees, Colombia's national tree. Spend your afternoon trekking through the lush landscape, capturing stunning photographs and enjoying the serene beauty of the valley. Stop for a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by breathtaking views.
As night falls, dine at a local restaurant known for its traditional Colombian cuisine, perhaps trying bandeja paisa or arepas. After dinner, take a scenic walk to appreciate the town's quiet charm under the stars. End your evening with a visit to a local café to sip on exquisite Colombian coffee and reflect on your day.
After several days of exploration and adventure, take a well-deserved break and enjoy a leisurely morning at your accommodation. Savor a relaxed breakfast, perhaps featuring fresh fruit and a rich Colombian coffee, while reading a book or enjoying the serene surroundings. Take your time to unwind and recharge for the rest of your trip.
Indulge in a spa treatment that utilizes local ingredients, such as coffee scrubs and traditional massages, to rejuvenate your body and spirit. Spend the afternoon in a tranquil environment, allowing yourself to fully relax and let go of any stress. After your spa experience, enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, relishing the local flavors while you bask in your relaxed state.
For your final evening, celebrate your trip with a special dinner at a renowned restaurant that showcases the best of Calarcá's culinary scene. Choose a tasting menu to experience a variety of local dishes, paired with exquisite Colombian wines. End your trip with a heartfelt toast, reflecting on the memorable experiences and connections made during your stay.