7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Manizales

As a digital nomad living in Manizales, you're perfectly positioned to explore some of the country's most beautiful and diverse landscapes. Nestled in the heart of the coffee region, Manizales is not only a vibrant city to work from but also an excellent base for weekend getaways. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten path, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that offer a mix of culture, nature, and adventure.

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. Spend your weekend horseback riding, hiking through the lush greenery, and enjoying the local cuisine. The town's main square is lined with artisanal shops and cafes, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Don't miss the opportunity to tour a coffee farm and learn about the bean-to-cup process.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Salento from Manizales is by bus, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Buses depart regularly from Manizales' main terminal.

Travel Tip: Make sure to hike the Cocora Valley early in the morning to avoid the afternoon rain and to enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrive.

Where to Stay: La Serrana Hostel & Eco-Farm offers a rustic experience with stunning views of the valley, while Hotel Salento Real provides a more central location in town.

Where to Eat: Brunch de Salento is famous for its trout dishes and offers a cozy atmosphere with a fireplace for chilly evenings.

Termales del Ruiz

Just a short drive from Manizales, Termales del Ruiz is a thermal spa located within Los Nevados National Natural Park. It's the perfect place to unwind after a week of work, with its hot springs and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Ruiz volcano. The area also offers bird watching and nature trails, where you can spot the Andean condor if you're lucky.

How to Get There: The journey to Termales del Ruiz is best made by car or taxi, taking about 1.5 hours from Manizales.

Travel Tip: Bring a waterproof camera to capture the steamy hot springs against the backdrop of the snowy volcano.

Where to Stay: Hotel Termales del Ruiz provides comfortable accommodations with direct access to the thermal baths.

Where to Eat: The hotel's restaurant serves local Andean cuisine, which is hearty and perfect for the cooler climate.

Medellín

The city of Medellín, known as the City of Eternal Spring, is a hub of culture, innovation, and nightlife. Spend your weekend exploring the city's transformation from its tumultuous past to a vibrant future. Visit the interactive museums, take a ride on the famous cable cars for panoramic views, and explore the botanical gardens. The nightlife in the El Poblado district is not to be missed, with a plethora of bars and clubs.

How to Get There: Medellín is about a 5-hour bus ride from Manizales. Flights are also available, which take around 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit Comuna 13 to see the transformation of one of Medellín's most notorious neighborhoods into a vibrant community with street art and cultural projects.

Where to Stay: The Charlee Hotel boasts a rooftop pool and is located in the heart of El Poblado, while Diez Hotel Categoria Colombia offers a more cultural experience with its themed floors.

Where to Eat: Carmen offers a fusion of Colombian and international cuisine in an upscale setting, while Alambique blends traditional cooking with modern techniques.

Jardín

Jardín is a picturesque town that seems frozen in time, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. It's less frequented by international tourists, making it a peaceful retreat. Enjoy bird watching, visit a trout farm, or simply relax in the main square with a cup of coffee, watching the locals go about their day. The surrounding nature offers waterfalls and hiking trails for the more adventurous.

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

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to ride the garrucha, a traditional wooden cable car that offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay: Hotel Jardín Antioquia provides a comfortable stay with a central location, while Hacienda Balandú offers a more rural experience on a working farm.

Where to Eat: Café Europa is a quaint spot known for its delicious pastries and strong coffee, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Los Nevados National Natural Park

For those who love the great outdoors, Los Nevados National Natural Park is an exceptional destination. The park features several volcanoes, including the famous Nevado del Ruiz, and offers activities like hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching. The landscapes range from paramo ecosystems to glacial lakes, providing a variety of terrains to explore. It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

How to Get There: The park can be accessed from Manizales by joining a guided tour or renting a 4x4 vehicle, as the terrain can be challenging.

Travel Tip: Be prepared for altitude sickness as some parts of the park are quite high. Acclimatize properly and stay hydrated.

Where to Stay: There are several mountain lodges within the park, such as Termales del Ruiz and Ecohotel La Juanita, which offer basic but cozy accommodations.

Where to Eat: Dining options are limited within the park, so it's best to bring your own food or arrange meals with your accommodation.

La Rochela

La Rochela is a hidden gem located near the town of Santagueda. This secluded spot is known for its natural swimming holes and waterfalls, offering a tranquil escape from the digital world. It's a great place to disconnect, enjoy a picnic, and take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. The area is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

How to Get There: The best way to reach La Rochela is by car or taxi from Manizales, which takes about an hour.

Travel Tip: Bring water shoes to navigate the rocky areas around the swimming holes comfortably.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are scarce in La Rochela itself, but nearby Santagueda offers options like Finca Hotel La Tata, which has a pool and beautiful gardens.

Where to Eat: Local eateries in Santagueda serve traditional Colombian dishes; try the arepas and fresh fruit juices.

Belalcázar

Belalcázar is a small town that's off the typical tourist track, making it a perfect spot for a quiet weekend. The town is home to the tallest Christ statue in Colombia, Cristo Rey, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding coffee region. Explore the local markets, visit the nearby hot springs, and immerse yourself in the slow pace of rural Colombian life.

How to Get There: A bus from Manizales to Belalcázar takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi for a quicker journey.

Travel Tip: Climb to the top of the Cristo Rey statue for a breathtaking view, especially at sunset.

Where to Stay: Options in Belalcázar are limited, but nearby towns like Viterbo offer accommodations such as Hotel Hacienda El Diamante with its beautiful countryside setting.

Where to Eat: Local restaurants in Belalcázar serve traditional Colombian fare; try the bandeja paisa for a hearty meal.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these weekend getaways from Manizales offer a diverse range of experiences for digital nomads looking to explore Colombia's rich landscapes and vibrant communities.