DISCOVER PARADISE
'Eje Cafetero', Originally home to multiple indigenous tribes including the 'Quimbaya', renowned for their spectacular gold work characterised by technical accuracy and detailed designs. Centuries later the area became home to families descended from Europe looking for wealth and fortune, most however, where cultivators and so began the introduction of coffee. Thousands of years of eruptions from volcanoes in 'Los Nevados' left their mark in the area, boulders from previous explosions can still be seen on-route to Cocora Valley but the aftermath has made the soil rich in minerals. Both the soil and altitudes here makes 'Eje Cafetero' the perfect location for coffee production and so over the next 150+ years, the culture and economy evolved around this special tree that helps kickstart our day. Today this district within Colombia is evolving as a touristic hot spot and for good reason too, scroll down to view the sights and activities in this beautiful location we refer to as Paradise.
Sights & Activities
Cocora Valley & Los Nevados
Cocora Valley is located in the Central Cordillera of the Andean mountains and is situated at an altitude of 1,800m and 2,400m above sea level. Folklore tells us "Cocora" was the name of a Quimbaya princess, daughter of the local chief Acaime, and means "star of water". Cocora Valley is the principal location of the national tree and symbol of Colombia, the Quindío wax palm (Ceroxylon quindiuense). It is also the gateway to numerous treks around 'Los Nevados', also known as the snowy mountains. Keep your eyes peeled to spot the Andean Condor too.
Colonial Towns
It's not a true holiday experience in 'Eje Cafetero' if you don't take time to visit at least one of the original colonial coffee towns that derived from the 1800's. Their captivating colours bring an energy and warmth that can only be experienced by being in it's presence. Sit back, enjoy a coffee and watch life go by in slow motion within these sleepy towns that time once forgot.
Coffee Tour
This is a must experience, after all this is the coffee axis (Eje Cafetero) of Colombia. Learn the process of how coffee is made from seed to cup and how Colombian coffee is still ranked so highly among coffee enthusiasts and consumers. It may not rank number 1 in the world for coffee production but it certainly challenges the number 1 spot as far as quality is concerned. You will also get the chance to enjoy a fresh cup of single estate coffee while admiring the wonderful views of the Andes.
Bird Watching
Colombia is home to over 1,900 species of birds, more than any other country in the world. 40% of Colombia's bird species habitat the area within 'Eje Cafetero' so that's more than 760 varieties, almost the same number of species that habitat all of Australia. If you are an avid bird watcher, you won't be disappointed by this experience.
Santa Rosa de Cabal
Located close to Pereira, Santa Rosa de Cabal hot springs make it the perfect place to unwind and soak aching muscle, whether you've been cycling the coffee zone, hiking around Cocora Valley, strolling around national parks or just simply looking to spend some time relaxing or being pampered for a time then 'Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal' is the ideal location. The hot springs here are pleasantly odorless and tasteless due to the natural filtration occurring here. The views alone are enough to keep you captivated. (Balneario and Hotel passes available)
Balsaje Rio la Vieja
This activity can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone. Experience life as it was for the Quimbaya people and set sail on rafts made from the Guadua bamboo on this slow and relaxed river known as the 'Old Woman'. This is a really enjoyable and relaxing excursion, sit back and absord the ever changing scenery, great food and great company.
Cycle Tour
Our cycle tours are a great opportunity for anyone looking to discover the coffee zone by bicycle. Mixed with valleys, local towns, challenging climbs and declines(Advanced riders only) along with wonderful views of its plantations and unique flora and fauna. Our tours are for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.
Theme Parks
A great day packed with distractions and entertainment, theme parks offer these in abundance. We have a number of options that will entertain the entire family, from rollercoasters to authentic re-enactments of the original coffee cultivators, you won't be disappointed by your choice.
The Botanical gardens in Calarca are spread over 15 hectares, it hosts a huge variety of butterflies, species of birds and animals, along with a wide diversity of flora native to the 'Eje Cafetero' zone. The trails that meander through the gardens are easy to navigate with plenty of areas where you can simply rest and admire the sights and sounds that surround you. These botanical gardens are ideal for anyone looking to get close the local wildlife, flora and fauna without the desire of a challenging trek.
Botanic Garden
Bosque Barbas de Bremen
A magical forest that lies close to the beautiful colonial town Filandia. Here you'll discover flora and fauna local to the area including unique birdlife and the wonderful Red Howler Monkey.
Canopy
Located in the heart of Montenegro's coffee and plantain zone this experience is a must for all age groups above 5 years of age. Zipline through forests, plantain and coffee plantations and absorb the stunning views of the surrounding area on another level. Both exhilarating and extremely fun this activity is highly rated.
Día Cultural
An opportunity to learn and participate in the ancient Indigenous ways and present day 'Los Cafeteros'. During the trip you'll have the chance to dine on typical cafetero cuisine and compete in the ancient sport of Tejo.
Noche Cultural
Enjoy an evening in the capital of Quindio with fine food, drinks and the best of live entertaining music playing the best of Colombian hits.
Accommodation
Apartment
Ideal for those that want the freedom to come and go as they please, the comfort of home away from home. All apartments included in our packages are fully furnished, consisting of a luxurious modern design and located in the north of Armenia, the capital of Quindio. We offer a variety of apartment types that cater for families, groups and the lone traveller.
Hacienda
The term 'Hacienda' refers to 'a large estate', traditionally in Colombia this would typically be a large plantation, normally coffee and or plantain. What would have normally been a large house for families and servants back in the 1800's have been redesigned with modernised ammenities to facilitate a more luxurious hotel setting. Hacienda's are the perfect way to enjoy your stay in 'Eje Cafetero'. Tranquil, serene and picturesque are three words to describe these hotels.
Hotel
We work with reputable hotels located throughout the 'Eje Cafetero' zone, including Armenia, Manizales and Pereira.
Hostel
We work exclusively with hostels that offer modern standards, comfortable rooms, stylish amenities, dining options and wonderful views. Perfect for those looking to mingle with other travelers to share stories and experiences.
Transport & Guides
Willys
During your time here in the coffee zone you'll get the chance to experience what it's like to travel in one of these 'mechanical mules'. Once used in the second world war by the US army, these Willys found a place in the hearts of campesinos throughout the coffee zone. Carrying weights way above their physical appearance would perceive along with four wheel drive, these jeeps became the perfect mode for transporting farming produce, especially coffee, for distribution and selling.
Panoramic Jeep
Panoramic jeeps are the perfect way to witness the wonderful views of the coffee zone while transiting from location to location. With 360 degree views you are never going to miss a beat
Guides & Touristic Informers
Our Bilingual guides are fully certified with an in-depth knowledge of the 'Eje Cafetero' zone. Our touristic informers are also extensively knowledgeable of the area ensuring you are well prepared to be led through this magical place we refer to as Paradise in a language you can understand, participate and interact in.