7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Pereira

Pereira, nestled in the heart of the coffee region, is not only a vibrant city for digital nomads to work from but also a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding areas. With its pleasant climate, friendly locals, and rich culture, Pereira offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. For those looking to escape the city on weekends, there are numerous destinations within reach that offer everything from adventure and relaxation to a deep dive into Colombian culture. Here are seven fun weekend getaways for digital nomads living in Pereira, including some popular spots as well as hidden gems off the beaten track.

Salento

Salento is a colorful town known for its coffee estates and proximity to the stunning Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palm trees. It's a perfect spot for hiking, horseback riding, and enjoying the local coffee culture. The town itself is charming, with quaint streets lined with artisan shops and vibrant architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to play a game of tejo, a traditional Colombian throwing sport, at one of the local establishments.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Salento from Pereira is by bus, which takes about 1 hour. Buses depart regularly throughout the day from Pereira's bus terminal.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit a coffee farm for a guided tour to learn about the coffee-making process and to sample some of the freshest coffee you'll ever taste.

Where to Stay: La Serrana Eco Farm and Hostel offers a peaceful stay with stunning views of the surrounding hills. For a more luxurious experience, Hotel Salento Real features comfortable accommodations and a central location.

Where to Eat: Brunch de Salento is a cozy spot famous for its generous breakfasts and locally sourced coffee. For a taste of traditional Colombian cuisine, try the trout dishes at Restaurante El Rincon de Lucy.

Manizales

Manizales, the capital of the Caldas department, is known for its cultural scene and proximity to Los Nevados National Natural Park. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the famous Manizales Fair. For nature lovers, the nearby park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Andes.

How to Get There: A bus ride from Pereira to Manizales typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, with frequent departures available.

Travel Tip: Visit the Cathedral of Manizales for a panoramic view of the city from its tower. The climb is well worth the effort!

Where to Stay: Hotel Estelar El Cable offers modern amenities and is conveniently located in the Zona Rosa, the city's entertainment district. For a more boutique experience, try the Quo Quality Hotel.

Where to Eat: Café de la Vaca is a must-visit for its hearty Colombian dishes and rustic atmosphere. For a more upscale dining experience, try the Italian cuisine at Il Forno.

Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal

For a relaxing weekend, the hot springs at Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal are a perfect getaway. Surrounded by lush green mountains, these thermal waters are said to have healing properties. You can spend the day soaking in the hot pools, enjoying the natural waterfalls, and indulging in spa treatments.

How to Get There: The journey from Pereira to Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal takes about 1 hour by bus or car.

Travel Tip: Visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds and have a more tranquil experience.

Where to Stay: Hotel Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal offers direct access to the hot springs and comfortable accommodations. For a more intimate setting, consider staying at the nearby Matisses Hotel Campestre.

Where to Eat: The on-site restaurant at the hot springs serves traditional Colombian dishes with a view of the waterfalls. For a quick bite, try the local arepas and empanadas from street vendors in the town.

Valle del Cocora

Valle del Cocora is a must-visit for its surreal landscape dotted with the world's tallest palm trees, the wax palms. This valley offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding. The Acaime Reserve is a great spot to observe hummingbirds and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or cheese.

How to Get There: To reach Valle del Cocora, take a bus from Pereira to Salento, and then a jeep (Willys) from Salento's main square to the valley, which takes about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid afternoon rain and to have the best chance of clear views of the valley.

Where to Stay: EcoHotel La Cabaña offers a comfortable stay with stunning views of the valley. For a unique experience, consider glamping at Bosques del Cocora.

Where to Eat: Donde Juan B serves traditional Colombian cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their trout dishes are particularly popular among visitors.

Los Nevados National Natural Park

Los Nevados National Natural Park is an adventurer's paradise, featuring rugged landscapes, snow-capped volcanoes, and diverse ecosystems. It's an ideal spot for trekking, mountaineering, and bird watching. The park is also home to the indigenous communities who offer cultural experiences and insights into their traditional way of life.

How to Get There: The park can be accessed from various points, but the most common route for visitors is through Manizales, which is about a 2-hour drive from Pereira.

Travel Tip: Be prepared for high altitudes and rapidly changing weather conditions. Hiring a local guide is recommended for the best experience.

Where to Stay: There are several mountain lodges within the park, such as Termales del Ruiz, which offers hot springs and comfortable accommodations. Outside the park, Hotel Varuna in Manizales provides a cozy stay.

Where to Eat: Most meals will be provided by the lodges within the park, but in Manizales, you can enjoy a variety of dining options, including the upscale Restaurante La Suiza for international cuisine.

Jardín

Jardín is a picturesque town that remains relatively undiscovered by international tourists. Its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and the backdrop of the Andes create a postcard-perfect setting. The town is also known for its coffee production and offers tours of local coffee farms. The main square is a lively place to enjoy a drink and watch the world go by.

How to Get There: To get to Jardín from Pereira, you can take a bus, which will take approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Cueva del Esplendor, a cave with a waterfall inside, which is a unique natural attraction near Jardín.

Where to Stay: Hotel Jardín Antioquia provides a comfortable stay with traditional decor and is centrally located. For a more rural experience, consider staying at the Hacienda Balandú, a coffee farm with guest accommodations.

Where to Eat: Café Europa offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious pastries, while Bon Appetit serves up hearty meals with a local twist.

Apía

Apía is an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers a genuine experience of rural Colombian life. This small town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and tranquility. Bird watching is a popular activity here, with a variety of species to be spotted in the surrounding forests.

How to Get There: The journey from Pereira to Apía takes about 2.5 hours by bus, with a scenic route that winds through the mountains.

Travel Tip: Participate in a bird-watching tour to make the most of the region's biodiversity and to learn from local experts.

Where to Stay: Accommodations in Apía are modest but comfortable, with options like Hotel Campestre El Refugio offering a peaceful retreat.

Where to Eat: Local eateries in Apía serve traditional Colombian dishes, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Try the regional specialty of arepas with hogao, a flavorful tomato and onion sauce.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these weekend getaways from Pereira offer a diverse range of experiences for digital nomads looking to explore the beauty of Colombia.