Things To Do
in Caldas
Nestled in the heart of Colombia's coffee region, Caldas offers a refreshing blend of mountains, coffee farms, and colonial charm. The area is known for its lush hills, cloud forests, and panoramic viewpoints over the Andean landscape. In the city, plazas, cafes, and cultural venues create a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
With mild temperatures year-round and easy access to nature, Caldas is ideal for both city strolls and day trips to coffee fincas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Manizales by visiting the iconic Cathedral Basilica Metropolitana, known for its towering spires and stunning interior. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where the aroma of fresh coffee fills the air. Take a stroll through the vibrant streets, soaking in the charm of this picturesque city.
In the afternoon, venture to the Los Nevados National Natural Park for breathtaking views and invigorating hikes. Discover the diverse ecosystems and unique wildlife that call this region home, while exploring trails that cater to all experience levels. After the hike, relax and enjoy a hearty meal at a local restaurant.
As the day winds down, return to Manizales to experience its lively nightlife. Visit a bar with live music to enjoy local drinks and the vibrant atmosphere. Engage with friendly locals and possibly join in on traditional dance.
Dedicate the morning to a guided coffee tour in the Coffee Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn about the coffee production process, from seed to cup, and participate in coffee tasting sessions. Enjoy a picturesque breakfast on a coffee farm, surrounded by lush plantations.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive through the beautiful rolling hills of the coffee region and stopping at small towns like Salento. Explore the colorful streets, local artisan shops, and try the famous bandeja paisa for lunch. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Cocora Valley, known for its towering wax palm trees.
Enjoy a tranquil evening in Salento, where you can watch the sunset over the lush valleys. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant serving regional dishes, while enjoying the warm ambiance and mingling with fellow travelers. As night falls, take a peaceful walk to experience the calm and beauty of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍷Beer in bar | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coffee country landscapes and welcoming locals
- Affordability and easy access to nature
- Rich coffee culture and culinary variety
- Compact city centers that are walkable in safe areas
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for some travelers
- Nightlife options are more low-key than in larger cities
- Limited direct international flights to the region
- Internet can be slower in rural fincas or during peak times
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está la calle X?" - Where is Street X?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you.
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I'm lost
Places to Visit in Caldas
Visit one of these nice places.
Neo-Gothic façade and a grand interior—excellent for architectural shots, especially at golden hour.
A central plaza with fountains and sculptures; dynamic people-watching and colorful backdrops.
Hilltop overlook offering sweeping panorama of the city and surrounding coffee country.
Vibrant balconies, doors, and coffee shop façades provide compelling street photography opportunities.
Food in Caldas
Caldas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty tray featuring rice, beans, plantain, arepa, eggs, sometimes chorizo or pork, and a choice of meat—an embodiment of regional comfort food.
Must-Try!
Tamales wrapped in plantain leaves with cornmeal, pork, peas, and vegetables, often served with hogao (savory sauce).
Warm cornmeal arepa stuffed or topped with local cheese and a savory sauce.
Sweet panela-based drink, sometimes served hot or cold, often with a slice of lime or a piece of cheese on the side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh fruit, coffee beans, arepas, empanadas, and hot bowls of soup; a great place to sample local snacks.
Empanadas, buñuelos, hojuelas, yuca frita, and churros sold from street stalls around plazas and transit hubs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake with eye contact is common; use usted in formal settings and with strangers. Parcero is friendly slang among peers.
Dress modestly in churches and cultural sites; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces; modest attire is appreciated in more traditional neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Caldas
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% service charge is common if included; otherwise 5-10% is appreciated. Guides and taxi drivers may appreciate small tips.
Cash (COP) and cards are widely accepted in cities; ATMs are common. Mobile payments are growing, but some small vendors prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December–February and June–August tend to be drier with pleasant daytime temperatures; mornings are often clear for outdoor plans.
April–May and September–November bring more frequent afternoon showers; plan hikes for early mornings and carry a light rain layer.
Caldas at Night
Hiking in Caldas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range of altitude hikes around Volcán Nevado del Ruiz and other peaks; requires a guide and proper gear.
Accessible hikes from the city offering cloud forest scenery and city views.
Moderate packages for birdwatching and nature walks a short drive away.
Airports
How to reach Caldas by plane.
Regional airport serving Manizales; many flights connect through major hubs and Pereira or Medellín.
Major regional gateway for the Coffee Axis; frequent domestic flights and connections to Bogotá and Medellín.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population shapes the city vibe, nightlife, and cultural events.
Residents involved in the coffee supply chain, agriculture, and service sectors.
Visitors seeking nature, coffee tours, and cultural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local teams and casual pickup games in parks.
Road cycling is popular in the coffee country, with scenic hills ideal for recreational rides.
Traditional Colombian country game enjoyed in bars and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Caldas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetables, grains, legumes, salads, and dairy; request no meat stock or lard in sauces.
Opt for rice, beans, plantains, corn tortillas, and grilled meats; confirm sauces are free of gluten-containing additives.