Explore the Heart of Colombia: A Journey Through Salento, Cocora Valley, & Filandia

Overview

Embarking on a tour from Armenia, you’ll be swept into the heart of Colombia’s enchanting Coffee Region, where each stop is a treasure of natural beauty and cultural charm. Your journey begins with a scenic drive towards Salento, a vibrant town with colorful streets and a bohemian vibe. As you wander through its bustling plazas, you’ll discover artisan shops, cafés serving world-renowned coffee, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the lush mountains and valleys.

From Salento, the magic intensifies as you venture into the Cocora Valley, home to the towering wax palms that seem to reach the heavens. Standing over 60 meters tall, these slender giants are framed by misty mountain peaks and rolling green hills. Hiking through the valley, you’ll feel dwarfed by the grandeur of the landscape while the sound of rushing streams and birdsong fills the air.

After soaking in the serene beauty of the Cocora Valley, your tour continues to Filandia, an idyllic village often overlooked by travelers yet brimming with traditional charm. Filandia is a photographer’s dream, with its brightly painted colonial houses, cobblestone streets, and a slower pace of life that invites you to savor every moment. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, rolling coffee plantations, and maybe even a visit to a local finca, where you can witness the coffee-making process up close, all in the tranquil setting of Filandia.

As the day winds down and you return to Armenia, you’ll carry the memories of this unforgettable journey—a perfect blend of nature, culture, and the warmth of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle.

Highlights

Starting Point: Armenia

Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Armenia, we will pick you up from your hotel and you'll be greeted by your friendly, knowledgeable guide. They’ll provide insightful stories and facts throughout the day, adding depth to your experience as you explore the stunning coffee region.

First Stop: Salento

Journey to the colorful town of Salento, a charming haven known for its colonial architecture and artisan shops. As you stroll through its quaint streets, you’ll notice the vibrant balconies, lined with blooming flowers, contrasting against the misty mountain backdrop. A visit to the local craft market gives you a chance to take home unique handmade souvenirs.

Cocora Valley: The Jewel of the Andes

Next, head to the iconic Cocora Valley, home to the world’s tallest palm trees—the majestic wax palms, towering up to 60 meters high! As you hike along scenic trails, the valley opens up, revealing rolling green hills beneath the palms that stretch towards the clouds. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and take in the awe-inspiring views that feel straight out of a dream.

Optional Activity: Horseback riding through the valley, for those who want an even more immersive experience with nature.

Lunch Break: Traditional Colombian Feast

After your morning of exploration, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local finca (farmhouse) or at a local restaurant. Feast on traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa, fried plantains, freshly grilled meats, and refreshing tropical fruit juices. The flavors are simple yet hearty, giving you a real taste of the region’s culture.

Afternoon in Filandia

End your day with a visit to Filandia, a lesser known but equally charming town. Its beautifully preserved colonial buildings and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect place to wander. Here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views from the Mirador de Filandia, where the vast coffee plantations stretch as far as the eye can see.

Return to Armenia

As the day winds down, your guide will take you back to Armenia, with plenty of memories and perhaps some new friends you’ve made along the way. This tour offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, making it a highlight of any visit to Colombia’s coffee region.

This itinerary is perfect for travelers who love scenic landscapes, local culture, and a touch of adventure!

Itinerary

Explore the Heart of Colombia: A Journey Through Salento, Cocora Valley, & Filandia

Explore the Heart of Colombia: A Journey Through Salento, Cocora Valley, & Filandia

Embarking on a tour from Armenia, you’ll be swept into the heart of Colombia’s enchanting Coffee Region, where each stop is a treasure of natural beauty and cultural charm. Your journey begins with a scenic drive towards Salento, a vibrant town with colorful streets and a bohemian vibe. As you wander through its bustling plazas, you’ll discover artisan shops, cafés serving world-renowned coffee, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the lush mountains and valleys.

Downnload Broucher

What's Included?

Two or a 3-star Hotel

Four or a 5-star Hotel
Dinner

Pickups/Departures

We will pick you up from your hotel.

Transport

A mini air-conditioned bus (up to 15 passengers) or a car (up to 4 passengers).
Please note: Children over 2 years old will need their own seat.

Things to Carry

Essentials

Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially in the Cocora Valley. Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are a must.
Daypack: A small backpack to carry your daily essentials like water, snacks, and camera.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your hikes and day trips.
Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit to fuel you during hikes, especially in Cocora Valley.
Rain Jacket/Poncho: The weather can be unpredictable, and rain is common in the region.
Sunscreen: The sun can be intense even if it feels cool. Apply sunscreen regularly.
Sunglasses & Hat: For sun protection during walks and hikes.
Layers of Clothing: The weather varies from warm to cool depending on the time of day. Bring light layers to stay comfortable.
Camera/Smartphone: You’ll want to capture the stunning landscapes in Cocora Valley and the charming towns of Salento and Filandia.
Power Bank: A portable charger for your phone and camera during long days of exploring.
Binoculars: Useful for bird watching in Cocora Valley, especially if you want to spot the famous wax palms or rare species like the Andean Condor.
Trekking Poles: Helpful if you plan on doing longer hikes in Cocora Valley.

Documents & Money:

Passport/ID: Necessary for any travel checkpoints.
Cash: Small towns like Salento and Filandia may have limited access to ATMs. Bring enough Colombian pesos for food, souvenirs, and tips.

Policies

We understand that sometimes plans change. Below is our cancellation policy to ensure clarity and flexibility for your trip:

1. Cancellation Deadlines & Fees

Cancellation 15 days or more before the tour date: Full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.

Cancellation between 7 and 14 days before the tour date: 50% refund of the total tour cost.

Cancellation less than 7 days before the tour date: No refund is available.

2. Rescheduling Options

Reschedule 7 days or more before the tour date: No additional charge (subject to availability).

Reschedule less than 7 days before the tour date: A 25% rebooking fee applies.

3. No-Show Policy

If you do not appear on the day of the tour without prior notice, no refund or rescheduling option will be available.

4. Exceptions

Cancellations or rescheduling due to illness, weather disruptions, or other emergencies will be handled case-by-case. Please provide appropriate documentation (e.g., a medical certificate) and contact us immediately.

5. Tour Cancellations by Us

In rare cases where we must cancel the tour due to weather conditions or unforeseen events, you will be given the option to:

Reschedule for another date or Receive a full refund with no administrative fees.

We aim to provide a seamless experience, and should any issue arise, our team is here to assist you.

For any cancellation or rescheduling inquiries, please contact us at info@maiasura.com

Full Refund (100%): You will receive a full refund if cancellation is made 15 days or more before the scheduled departure date.

Partial Refund (50%): If a cancellation is made between 7 and 14 days before the scheduled departure date, a 50% refund of the total booking amount will be issued.

No Refund: Cancellations made less than 7 days before the scheduled departure will not be eligible for a refund.

No-Show: No refund will be issued if a participant fails to appear at the designated meeting point without prior notification.

Third-Party Costs: Any additional fees or services (e.g., hotel bookings, transportation costs) arranged through third-party providers are subject to their respective refund policies.

2. Rescheduling Policy

Complimentary Rescheduling: Subject to availability, you may reschedule your tour up to seven days before the scheduled departure date at no additional cost.

Late Rescheduling (Less than 5 days): If rescheduling is requested within 3 to 5 days of the departure date, a 20% rescheduling fee will apply.

No Rescheduling: Rescheduling is not allowed within 72 hours of the tour’s start time. If a change is necessary, it will be considered a cancellation, and the cancellation policy will apply.

3. Tour Modifications or Cancellations by the Company

If the company cancels the tour due to weather, safety concerns, or unforeseen circumstances, you will be offered the option of a full refund or a rescheduled tour date.

Refunds will not be provided during route modifications or schedule changes due to conditions beyond the company’s control (e.g., road closures, weather). Still, efforts will be made to adjust the itinerary to ensure a fulfilling experience.

4. Booking Transfer

Transferring Your Booking: If you cannot attend the tour but wish to transfer your booking to another person, you may do so up to 15 days before the scheduled departure, provided the company is notified, and all necessary details of the new participant are confirmed.

5. Payment Discrepancies

If there are any disputes regarding payment, Refund, or rescheduling, the company reserves the right to address them on a case-by-case basis.

1. Booking Process

Reservation: To secure your spot on the tour, please complete the booking form and provide all the required details, including your name, the number of participants, and your travel dates.

Deposit: When booking, you must deposit 25% of the tour price to secure your reservation.

Confirmation Email: Upon successful payment, you will receive a booking confirmation email containing your tour details, payment receipt, and additional instructions.

2. Full Payment

Payment Deadline: Full payment must be received at least 10 days before the tour departure date.

Payment Methods: We accept payments via credit/debit card, bank transfer, or secure online payment platforms.

Late Payment: Failure to pay by the deadline may cancel your booking, and the deposit may be forfeited.

3. Changes to Booking

Modifications: Any requests to modify the booking (such as date changes or participant numbers) must be made at least 15 days before the tour. Changes are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.

Name Change: If you need to change a participant's name, please notify us at least 15 days before the tour's departure. This is subject to availability and may involve an administrative fee.

4. Travel Insurance

Requirement: We highly recommend that all participants have valid travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellations, and personal liabilities. We are not responsible for any unforeseen incidents during the trip.

5. Special Requests

If you have any special requests (dietary, mobility assistance, etc.), please let us know when you book. We will do our best to accommodate these, but they cannot be guaranteed.

6. Group Size & Minimum Participation

Group Size: The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants. If this minimum is not met, we reserve the right to cancel the tour and provide a full refund or reschedule.

7. Arrival Time & Meeting Point

The meeting point for the tour will be mentioned in the tour description, with specific location details provided in the confirmation email.

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 30 minutes before departure. No refunds will be given if you arrive late and miss the departure.

8. Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour includes transportation, a guided visit to the attractions, and all meals and activities specified in the itinerary.

Participants are responsible for any additional costs, including personal expenses, optional activities, and meals not included in the program.

9. COVID-19 & Health Requirements

Participants must adhere to all current health guidelines and safety protocols, including those related to COVID-19.

If you feel unwell, please refrain from participating in the tour and contact us to arrange rescheduling assistance.

This document outlines the terms and conditions for participants booking a tour with Maiasura. By booking this tour, you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions below. Please read carefully to ensure that you understand your rights and obligations.

1. Booking and Payment

Deposit: To secure your spot when booking, you must pay a deposit of 25% of the total cost. The balance is due 15 days before the trip's start date.

Payment Methods: Payments can be made via credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal. All payments must be made in full before the trip's commencement.

Cancellation by the Client: Cancellations made more than 15 days before departure will receive a full refund minus the deposit. Please refer to the cancellation policy for all details.

2. Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

Transportation between your hotel/meeting point and attractions.

Accommodation for the duration of the tour (If specified as part of the package)

Guided tours at each destination

Breakfast /Lunch (if included in the package)

Exclusions:

Flights (Check Package details)

Travel Insurance

Personal expenses and optional activities

3. Health & Safety

Medical Conditions: The participant is responsible for informing us of any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect their participation in the tour.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants. This must cover personal accidents, medical expenses, and repatriation.

Fitness Level: Some parts of the tour may require moderate fitness. The participants are responsible for ensuring they are physically capable of participating.

4. Itinerary Changes

Alterations by the Company: While we strive to adhere to the advertised itinerary, unforeseen circumstances (such as weather or political instability) may necessitate changes. We reserve the right to modify the itinerary, transportation, and accommodations as necessary.

Customer-Requested Changes: Participants' requests for changes to the itinerary will be accommodated when possible but may incur additional fees.

5. Cancellations and Refunds

Cancellation by the Company: In the unlikely event that we must cancel the trip (due to force majeure, insufficient participant numbers, etc.), we will provide a full refund or offer an alternative tour date.

Refund Policy: Please check the "Refund/Rescheduling Policy" section for details.

6. Responsibilities

Participant Responsibility: Participants ensure they hold valid travel documents (such as a passport and visa) and comply with all entry requirements for the countries involved.

Company Responsibility: Our responsibility is limited to providing the services explicitly outlined in the tour package. We are not liable for personal injury, illness, theft, or loss of personal belongings that may occur during the trip.

Third-Party Suppliers: We work with trusted third-party suppliers for transportation, accommodation, and activities. Although we select reliable providers, we are not responsible for their operational performance.

7. Behavior and Conduct

Respectful Behavior: Participants are expected to behave respectfully toward fellow travelers, guides, and locals. Any disruptive behavior may result in removal from the tour without a refund.

Local Laws: Participants must adhere to the local laws and customs of the countries visited. Any legal issues or fines are the sole responsibility of the participant.

8. Photography and Marketing

By participating in this tour, you consent to the use of photographs or video taken during the trip for marketing purposes. If you wish to opt out, please notify us in writing before the tour begins.

9. Complaints and Disputes

Complaints: If you encounter any problems during the tour, please immediately bring them to the guide or company representative's attention so we can resolve them. Complaints made after the tour will be reviewed but may not be eligible for compensation.

Disputes: If a dispute or conflict cannot be resolved amicably, both parties agree to settle the matter through arbitration in the jurisdiction where the tour operator is based.

10. Governing Law

These terms and conditions are governed by and construed by the laws of the United States of America. Any disputes arising under or in connection with these terms and conditions shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in the United States of America.

By booking and participating in this tour, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these terms and conditions.

FAQs

What is the itinerary for the tour?

• The tour typically starts in Armenia, Quindío, followed by a scenic drive to Salento, a charming colonial town. From Salento, you will visit the Cocora Valley to see the iconic wax palms and hike through its stunning landscapes. Lastly, you'll head to Filandia, another picturesque town known for its colorful houses and artisanal crafts.

How long is the tour?

The full tour takes about 7 to 8 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each location. You can also choose a multi-day option if you want to explore at a slower pace. ** Call customer service and we can create a customizable tour for you.

What should I wear?

Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are essential, especially for the hike in Cocora Valley. The weather can change quickly, so bring a light jacket or raincoat. Layers are recommended as the mornings can be cool but it warms up later in the day.

Is the hike in Cocora Valley challenging?

The hike can be moderate to challenging, depending on your chosen route. There are shorter, more accessible trails and longer, more challenging routes for experienced hikers. Your guide can help you pick the right one for your fitness level.

What’s included in the tour price?

The tour usually includes transportation, a bilingual guide, entrance fees to Cocora Valley, and lunch. Check with your tour operator for specifics, as some offer optional extras like coffee farm visits or horseback riding.

Is lunch provided?

This tour include lunch in a local restaurant, typically offering traditional Colombian dishes.

What is the best time of year to visit?

The dry season (December to February and July to September) is the most popular time to visit as the weather is ideal for hiking. However, the region is beautiful year-round, just be prepared for possible rain during the wet season (March to June and October to November).

What should I bring on the tour?

Essentials include a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, a rain jacket or umbrella, insect repellent, and cash (many places in Salento and Filandia don’t accept cards). A camera or smartphone is a must to capture the stunning scenery.