Exploring el Quindío
Casa de los Sueños is located in the Quindío department, which is the smallest of the 32 departments (states) of Colombia. The Quindío department is also referred to as el Eje Cafetero, or the Capital of the Coffee Region. In recent years it has seen an increase in tourism and investment from departmental and national governments.
El Eje Cafetero is known for its rich history and growing some of the world’s best coffee beans and cacao, as well as its small towns that attract not only Colombians from other departments, but international tourists as well.
CULTURE
In el Quindío, there are many parks to visit that can highlight the culture of this coffee-rich region. Parque del Café and Recuca provide an opportunity to learn about the coffee production process, while dressed in typical garb (not required). There are also parks that host interactive experiences with animals local to the region and country - Panaca is a great park for all ages.
HISTORY
El Quindío is one of the most visited departments by foreigners and Colombians alike. Its landscapes with multicolored hillsides covered in coffee plants and the world’s tallest palm trees, are straight from the imagination. You can visit Salento and Filandia, which are towns known for their preserved architecture, local crafts, restaurants, and coffee shops.
ADVENTURE
The natural landscape of el Quindío department provides ample opportunity to enjoy ecotourism and adventure parks. Enjoy a relaxing rafting trip down the La Vieja river, horseback riding, hiking, water attractions, or bungee jumping. There's something here for everyone!
Places to Explore…
Quimbaya: The town closest to the Casa, located 20 km northwest of the department capital, Armenia. The name of the city derives from the name of the Pre-Columbian culture that inhabited the area.
Salento: The town is a gateway to the snow-capped peaks of Los Nevados National Park. It is known for its coffee and verdant scenery. You can explore colorful buildings and craft shops on Calle Real or check out the view from El Mirador just northeast of town.
Valle de Cocora: The Cocora Valley is located in the Central range of the Andean mountains and home to the world’s tallest palm trees. "Cocora" was the name of a Quimbayan princess, daughter of the local chief Acaime, and means "star of water".
Filandia: Located on the west side of central range of the Andes mountains, it is one of the preserved jewels of the Quindío department. Its historic town square is comprised of small stores with locally made crafts, and restaurants.
Balsaje la Berraquera: You’re in luck - these sustainable rafting trips depart from just below the farm. They are a 4-hour excursion on a raft made of local bamboo, with a warm lunch served to you in a plantain leaf.
Panaca: A 10-minute drive from the Casa, Panaca is a petting zoo / adventure park with educational shows throughout the day, ending with a daily horse show. Wear comfortable shoes!
Ukumari Park: Located just 15 minutes from the Pereira airport, this BioPark is where Disney’s Animal Kingdom meets South African Safari, with close access to animals contained in large habitats. It is a 3-4-hour experience.
Quindío Botanical Garden: Focused on conservation and education, this park boasts a large number of species of plants, 180 birds and over 1500 different types of butterflies.
Santa Rosa de Cabal Hot Springs: Located just outside Santa Rosa de Cabal, about 1.5 hours away from the Casa. These hot springs are an excellent day trip, great for relaxing with several hot pools, available spa treatments, and walking trails.
Las Bailarinas Water Park: Located in nearby Montenegro, this waterpark can be fun for all ages. It has multiple pools, slides, etc. It has a floating bridge, bungee jumping, and several walking paths to explore.
Parque Temático Quimbayas: Located in Quimbaya, it has a restaurant, large pool with a bar, water slide, floating bridge and a few great photo-op spots.
Calypso Park: Located in Santa Rosa de Cabal, a 1.5 hours from the Casa. Calypso Park is a children focused theme park with many attractions, including a reproduction house from Encanto.
Parque del Café: One of Colombia’s (and Latin America’s) best parks dedicated to its most famous export: coffee! This park has coffee tours, roller coasters, shows, shopping, cafes, you name it! Buy your tickets in advance online for a discount.
10 BEST Coffee & Tea Tours: Trip Advisor’s 2024 list of the 10 best coffee and tea tours in the Quindío Department.
Colombia Travel: Official Tourism Website for the Republic of Colombia.