How to Experience Colombia’s Coffee Region Like a VIP

Your hot air balloon lifts gently into the sky as the first rays of sun crest over Colombia’s coffee region, a triangle-shaped span of verdant terrain extending into the Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindío areas of the country. The morning mist curls around Arabica plants. A fresh coffee scent mingles with the Andean mountain air. Colombia is a destination where luxury reveals itself not through extravagance, but through authenticity, intimacy, and connection.

What to See

Salento, a small town on the western side of the country, is a postcard-perfect town where brightly painted balconies overlook cobblestone streets and artisanal cafés. Just outside town, the famed Cocora Valley offers stunning hiking trails beneath the world’s tallest wax palm trees. Book a private sunrise balloon flight for an unforgettable perspective, floating silently above the rolling patchwork of coffee farms as dawn illuminates the landscape.

Just 30 minutes west, the town of Filandia has a quieter, equally charming vibe with panoramic views and vibrant artisan markets. In Calarcá, a bit south, stroll through the renowned Botanical Garden and Butterfly Sanctuary, home to over 1,500 butterfly species and lush tropical foliage. The Quimbaya Gold Museum in nearby Armenia offers a fascinating glimpse into Colombia’s pre-Hispanic civilizations.

What to Do

Coffee is more than a beverage in Colombia—it’s an art form. At San Alberto, one of Colombia’s most awarded estates, expert baristas guide you through a private tasting that reveals the nuanced flavors of single-origin beans. Café de Altura, on the other hand, offers a more intimate experience, where the owner personally leads guests through the growing and roasting process.

Outdoor enthusiasts can book a horseback ride or guided hikes through Cocora Valley that lead to hidden lookouts. A tour in a Willys Jeep is a classic way to explore the hills before stopping for a gourmet picnic. For a slower pace, float down the Río La Vieja on a bamboo raft, with local guides sharing stories along the way.

Where to Stay

There are several lovely accommodations to choose from in Columbia, but I have two favorites.

La Casa en las Nubes, tucked in the hills near Salento, offers rustic elegance with panoramic valley views. Mornings begin with birdsong and private chefs prepare breakfast using local ingredients.

Hacienda Bambusa in Armenia, on the other hand, delivers tranquil luxury in an environment of cacao fields and bamboo groves. With just eight rooms (all of which have private plunge pools) it’s a retreat designed for rest and reconnection. Expect personalized service, gourmet cuisine, and a deep sense of calm.

Where to Eat

Helena Adentro in Filandia celebrates Colombian flavors with bold creativity. The restaurant’s grilled trout and slow-cooked pork have become destination dishes, paired with inventive cocktails spotlighting local fruits. Cerón in Armenia offers an intimate fine-dining experience, where each course pays tribute to regional produce with beautifully-plated presentations.

Travel Tips for Visiting Columbia

Visit between December and March or June and September for the most pleasant weather. The nearest airports are Pereira (PEI) and Armenia (AXM), both offering convenient access to the coffee region. Colombia’s coffee region isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place to feel. With the right guide and a thoughtfully crafted itinerary, every moment here blends luxury, culture, and connection into an experience as rich and layered as the coffee itself.

Boris Seckovic is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in trips to Colombia. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Sekovic at [email protected]