Jardín, located in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, is the kind of village that captivates you the moment you arrive. Though other Colombian destinations like Salento and Guatapé often make the list of top travel spots, Jardín remains somewhat of a hidden treasure. This picturesque town, aptly named Jardín, meaning “garden,” lives up to its name with lush green landscapes, vibrant flowers, and stunning mountainous surroundings. If you’re seeking the authentic Colombian experience, Jardín offers just that—a peaceful retreat, rich with culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the best things to do in Jardín, including where to eat, where to stay, and how to get there. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or someone who just wants to soak in the laid-back atmosphere of a small Colombian town, Jardín has something for everyone. Here are 11 activities that will make your visit to Jardín unforgettable.
1. Stroll Through the Charming Streets of Jardín
The moment you set foot in Jardín, you’ll feel a sense of calm wash over you. It’s a village where time seems to slow down, and life is all about savoring the moment. People here, many of whom are elderly locals, enjoy their days leisurely sipping coffee on the terraces, chatting with friends, and breathing in the fresh mountain air. It’s an ideal place to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and embrace a slower pace of living.
The village itself is small but incredibly picturesque, with colorful colonial buildings, bustling plazas, and flower-filled balconies. Walking through the cobblestone streets feels like a journey back in time. You’ll encounter locals sitting outside their homes, greeting you with warm smiles and friendly hellos. Jardín is the kind of place where you can wander aimlessly, and yet, every corner offers something new to discover. The relaxed atmosphere of Jardín is contagious, and within minutes, you’ll find yourself unwinding and enjoying life as the locals do.
2. Embark on a Scenic Hike Through the Lush Green Mountains
Surrounded by verdant mountains and valleys, Jardín is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The village offers several trails that take you through breathtaking landscapes, where you’ll be surrounded by coffee plantations, banana trees, and a variety of birds. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, Jardín has a trail for you. Each route promises not only incredible views but also peaceful encounters with nature.
One of the shorter and easier hikes is the La Garrucha route, which spans about 4 kilometers. Starting from the town center, the path leads you to the Cascade del Amor—a small waterfall that adds a refreshing touch to the walk. After crossing the Rio Volcanes, you’ll ascend a winding road that rewards you with stunning views of the valley below. A highlight of this hike is stopping at La Herrerita, a lovely little spot where you can rest, enjoy some snacks, and take in the scenery from a hammock. The walk culminates in a ride on the La Garrucha cable car, a wooden box suspended by cables that whisks you back down to the village. If you prefer, you can also walk back, enjoying more of the tranquil countryside along the way.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Cascada La Escalera route is a 7.5-kilometer trail that starts in the village and takes you through banana groves and up to the Mirador Christo Rey, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of Jardín. From there, the path continues to Cafe Jardín, a charming coffee shop with an outdoor terrace that serves up delicious brews and snacks. After refueling, you’ll trek to Cascada La Escalera, a beautiful waterfall nestled in the forest. The hike concludes with a visit to the Revolución Bananera, a popular vegetarian restaurant beloved by locals. This hike offers a mix of adventure, beautiful scenery, and delicious food, making it one of the best ways to experience Jardín’s natural beauty.
3. Take a Ride on the La Garrucha Cable Car: A Unique Experience
The La Garrucha cable car isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s a practical mode of transportation for the locals. This unique cable car connects the lower and upper parts of Jardín, making it an essential part of daily life in the village. For travelers, however, it’s an adventure. Unlike modern cable cars, La Garrucha is essentially a wooden box suspended by strong cables, and the ride feels both exciting and slightly nerve-wracking.
The cable car ride offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, giving you a bird’s eye view of the lush greenery below. It’s a short ride but an unforgettable one. Once you reach the top, you can take a leisurely walk to La Herrerita, where you can relax in a hammock and enjoy a cold drink while taking in the stunning views. Whether you choose to take the cable car both ways or walk one leg of the journey, this experience is a must-do in Jardín. For a modest 5,000 COP, it’s an affordable and unique way to see the village from a different perspective.
4. Spot the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock: A Birdwatcher’s Delight
Jardín is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and one of the most fascinating species to observe here is the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. Known locally as the Gallitas de Rocas, these bright red birds are native to South America and are known for their striking appearance. Their vivid red feathers and distinctive crest make them stand out against the green foliage of the forest, making them a sight to behold.
The best place to spot these incredible birds is at the Parque Natural Jardín, a nature reserve located just outside the village. The birds are most active in the late afternoon, and the park opens its doors to visitors at 4 p.m. For a small fee of 10,000 COP, you can enter the garden and watch these birds from specially designed viewing platforms. The experience is peaceful and awe-inspiring, as you watch the Gallitas de Rocas engage in their mating rituals and display their colorful plumage. It’s a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the unique wildlife of Colombia.
5. Explore the Colorful Colonial Streets of Jardín
Jardín’s charm lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its vibrant streets. The village is a photographer’s dream, with its brightly colored colonial houses, intricate wooden balconies, and flower-filled gardens. The central square, Plaza Jardín, is the heart of the village and a great starting point for exploring the area.
The square is always lively, with locals gathering on the terraces of cafes to enjoy coffee and conversation. The square is dominated by the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a beautiful church with a unique architectural style. The church is just as stunning inside as it is outside, with intricate stained glass windows and ornate decorations. Take some time to wander around the square, sit at a café, and observe the daily life of Jardín. One quirky detail you’ll notice is that the wooden chairs on the terraces aren’t very comfortable, so locals have developed the habit of leaning their chairs against the wall for added support. Before you know it, you’ll be doing the same, blending in with the relaxed rhythm of life in Jardín.
6. Savor Delicious Pasta at Bon Appetit: A Taste of Italy in Colombia
If there’s one place you must dine during your stay in Jardín, it’s Bon Appetit. This cozy little restaurant serves up some of the best pasta you’ll find outside of Italy. Located just off the central square, Bon Appetit is a favorite among both locals and visitors. The menu features a variety of fresh pasta dishes, each made with care and bursting with flavor.
The ambiance of Bon Appetit is warm and inviting, with rustic décor and a relaxed vibe that makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re craving a hearty plate of spaghetti Bolognese or a lighter dish like pasta primavera, you won’t be disappointed. Pair your meal with a glass of wine, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a trattoria in the heart of Italy. The food is so good that many visitors find themselves returning to Bon Appetit multiple times during their stay in Jardín. It’s the kind of place where you come for the food but stay for the atmosphere.
7. Visit a Coffee Farm: A Journey into Colombia’s Coffee Culture
Colombia is renowned for its coffee, and there’s no better place to experience the coffee-making process than in Jardín. Visiting a coffee farm is one of the top activities in the region, and it offers a deeper understanding of how coffee goes from bean to cup. While there are several coffee farms you can visit throughout Colombia, Jardín offers a more intimate and authentic experience due to its smaller tourist crowds.
One of the best coffee farms to visit is Margus Coffee Farm, located just outside the village. The tour is led by Gustavo, a passionate coffee farmer who will take you through every step of the coffee-making process, from planting the seeds to harvesting the beans and roasting them to perfection. You’ll learn about the hard work and dedication that goes into producing some of the world’s finest coffee, and of course, you’ll get to sample a freshly brewed cup at the end of the tour.
The tour costs 110,000 COP and includes transportation to and from your hotel in Jardín. If you have extra time, consider staying overnight at the farm, where you can relax in one of the beautiful rooms and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. It’s a peaceful oasis where you can unwind and reconnect with nature.
8. Enjoy a Freshly Brewed Coffee at Jardín’s Cafés
Jardín is home to some fantastic coffee shops, each offering a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of brews. Despite the relatively small number of tourists in the village, the quality of the coffee in Jardín is exceptional, reflecting Colombia’s status as one of the world’s top coffee producers.
In Jardín, you can choose from a variety of brewing methods, from pour-over to French press to espresso. Many coffee shops offer the option to have your coffee brewed right at your table, allowing you to watch as the barista expertly prepares your cup. It’s an experience that coffee lovers will appreciate, as it adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your morning ritual.
Some of the top coffee shops in Jardín include Café Macanas, known for its delicious cakes and cozy atmosphere; Cafe de Los Andes, a local favorite with a warm and inviting ambiance; Café Cuchillas, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains; and Martin Fierro, a charming café with an excellent selection of coffee and pastries.
9. Discover Jardín’s Best Restaurants: A Culinary Journey
One of the great pleasures of visiting Jardín is the opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine. The village may be small, but it boasts an impressive variety of restaurants that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, vegan, or traditional Colombian dishes, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
Some of the best restaurants in Jardín include:
- Bon Appetit: As mentioned earlier, this is the go-to spot for pasta lovers. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed meal.
- Cocoa Café Francés: If you have a sweet tooth, this is the place to go. Cocoa Café Francés is known for its homemade ice cream and waffles, making it the perfect spot for a treat.
- Óleo Bistro: Part of the Passiflora Hotel, Óleo Bistro offers a more refined dining experience with a menu that focuses on fresh, local ingredients.
- El de Jardín: This charming eatery is full of plants and offers a fully vegan menu. It’s a great spot for a healthy and delicious meal in a serene setting.
10. Stay at a Cozy Hotel in Jardín
Jardín offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget, from luxurious boutique hotels to more affordable options for backpackers. If you’re looking to treat yourself, Casa Passiflora is one of the best places to stay in Jardín. This stylish hotel features beautifully decorated rooms, a warm jacuzzi in the inner garden, and an ambiance that encourages relaxation and tranquility. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the village and surrounding mountains.
For those on a tighter budget, Hotel Jardín is a colorful and cheerful option located right on the central square. The hotel’s bright décor and convenient location make it a great choice for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action without breaking the bank.
11. Getting to Jardín: How to Travel to This Hidden Gem
Jardín may be off the beaten path, but it’s well worth the journey. If you’re coming from Medellín, getting to Jardín is relatively straightforward. Buses depart every 1.5 hours from the South Terminal in Medellín, and the ride takes about four hours. The roads are paved and well-maintained, and the buses are comfortable, making the trip an enjoyable one.
Traveling from Salento to Jardín, however, requires a bit more planning. There’s only one daily bus from Salento to Riosucio, and it departs at 9:30 a.m. Because there’s only one bus, it’s essential to book your ticket in advance, ideally as soon as you arrive in Salento. The journey from Salento to Riosucio is relatively smooth, but once you reach Riosucio, the adventure begins.
From Riosucio, you’ll need to catch another bus to Jardín. Depending on the day and time, you may end up traveling in a Chiva, a colorful, open-air bus that’s common in rural Colombia. The journey from Riosucio to Jardín takes you through the mountains on unpaved roads, and if it’s been raining, the roads can be muddy and treacherous. Landslides are not uncommon, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. However, the stunning views of the mountains make the journey worthwhile, even if it’s a bit nerve-wracking at times. In total, the trip from Salento to Jardín takes about 11 hours, so plan accordingly.
For a shorter and more comfortable journey, many travelers choose to visit Jardín from Medellín instead. Regardless of how you get there, the effort will be well worth it once you arrive in this beautiful village.
Final Thoughts: Jardín, Colombia – A Must-Visit Destination
Jardín may not be as well-known as some of Colombia’s other tourist destinations, but that’s part of what makes it so special. It’s a place where you can experience the authentic charm of Colombia, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and a warm, welcoming community. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains, sipping coffee at a local café, or simply relaxing in the town square, Jardín offers a peaceful retreat that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Colombia, make sure to carve out some time to visit Jardín. It’s a destination that’s sure to steal your heart and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.