Pereira Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more with our comprehensive Pereira travel guide.


Introduction to Pereira

Pereira is a city located in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, also known as the Zona Cafetera. It’s the capital of the Risaralda department and is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges, green valleys, and coffee plantations. It’s a perfect destination for those who want to experience Colombia’s rich culture, delicious coffee, and natural wonders all in one place.

List of Places to Visit in Pereira

Pereira is not only known for its coffee plantations but also for its rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Here are some of the top places to visit in Pereira:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gold Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts from across Colombia. It’s a great place to learn about the indigenous cultures that once lived in this region.

  • Lucy Tejada Cultural Center: This vibrant hub of art and culture is a great place to catch a live performance or exhibition.

  • Bolivar Square: This is the main square of Pereira and is named after Simon Bolivar, a South American independence hero. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.

Natural Attractions of Pereira: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Los Nevados National Natural Park: This stunning national park is located just outside Pereira and is known for its snow-capped peaks, volcanic terrain, and Andean landscapes. It’s a great destination for hiking and trekking.

  • Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Andean Condor. It’s a great place to see Colombia’s unique biodiversity in action.

  • Matecana City Zoo: The zoo is a great place to take the whole family and offers a wide variety of species from around the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pereira

Pereira and the surrounding areas offer numerous hiking and biking trails that lead through lush forests and stunning mountain landscapes. Some popular routes include:

  • Laguna del Otun Hike: A challenging 8-hour hike that takes you up to the Otun Lagoon, located in the Los Nevados National Natural Park.

  • Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados: There are several hiking and biking trails in this park that lead to stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and valleys.

  • El Bosque Popular Hike: A moderate hike that leads through dense forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Pereira: Activities and Tours

  • Coffee Tours: A trip to Pereira wouldn’t be complete without learning about the coffee-making process and tasting some of the best coffee in the world. There are several coffee tours available.

  • Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in one of the many hot springs located in the area. The Santa Rosa de Cabal hot springs are a popular destination.

  • Parque del Cafe: This amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and a botanical garden.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pereira

Day 1: Explore the city center and Bolivar Square. Day 2: Visit the Gold Museum, Lucy Tejada Cultural Center, and the Matecana City Zoo. Day 3: Take a coffee tour and learn about the production process. Day 4: Hike the Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary. Day 5: Visit Los Nevados National Natural Park and hike to the Laguna del Otun. Day 6: Relax in the hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal. Day 7: Visit Parque del Cafe and enjoy the amusement park attractions.

Food and Drink Scene of Pereira

Pereira’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its coffee culture and the rich agricultural landscape of the surrounding region. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bandeja Paisa: This is Colombia’s national dish and is a hearty meal consisting of beans, rice, avocado, fried egg, plantains, and grilled beef.

  • Ajiaco: This is a soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and capers.

  • Chorizo Santarrosano: A type of sausage made with pork, garlic, and cumin. It’s often served with arepas (corn cakes).

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Colombia is known for producing some of the best coffee in the world, and Pereira is no exception.
  • Aguardiente: A traditional Colombian alcoholic drink made with sugar cane.

Where to Stay in Pereira: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pereira offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best options:

  • Sazagua Boutique Hotel: A luxurious and relaxing option located just outside the city.

  • Hacienda Combia by Sercotel: A rustic and charming hotel located in the heart of the coffee region.

  • Selina Hostel Pereira: This hip and trendy hostel offers budget-friendly accommodation in a central location.

What to Buy in Pereira: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Coffee: Pereira is home to some of the best coffee in the world, and you can buy locally roasted beans to take home.

  • Crafts: There are several markets and shops in Pereira that sell traditional Colombian crafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Pereira

Pereira is known for its warm and welcoming people, who are proud of their rich culture and natural heritage. Colombians are generally friendly and hospitable, so it’s recommended to be kind and respectful to locals.

Best Time to Visit Pereira

The best time to visit Pereira is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and June to September. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pereira

Do:

  • Try the coffee and local cuisine.
  • Learn about Colombia’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Be respectful and kind to locals.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Leave your belongings unattended in crowded areas.
  • Flaunt expensive items like jewelry, watches, or cameras.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pereira

As with any city, it’s important to take basic safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. It’s recommended to avoid certain neighborhoods after dark and not to carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you.

Health in Pereira

It’s recommended to drink bottled water and avoid raw foods or fruits that haven’t been washed. Pereira has several hospitals and clinics that offer medical services.

Getting to Pereira: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pereira

The main airport serving Pereira is the Matecaña International Airport (PEI), which has domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Pereira

Pereira’s main bus terminal is located in the city center and offers connections to other destinations in Colombia.

Other Options

It’s possible to hire a private car or take a taxi to Pereira from nearby cities like Medellin or Bogota.

How to Get Around in Pereira

Pereira is a relatively small city and it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. Taxis and buses are also available.

Where to Go Next from Pereira: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pereira is located in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, which offers many other destinations to explore. Some popular nearby destinations include:

  • Salento: A charming colonial town known for its colorful architecture and coffee plantations.

  • Manizales: A bustling city located in the Andes Mountains, known for its cultural heritage and gorgeous scenery.

  • Cartago: A smaller city located in Valle del Cauca, known for its colonial architecture and beautiful parks.

Conclusion

Pereira is a magical destination that offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious coffee. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, Pereira has something to offer. We hope that this guide has helped you plan your trip and that you have a wonderful time in this beautiful region of Colombia.

Bolívar Desnudo looking at the Cathedral of Pereira, Plaza Bolívar Bolívar Desnudo looking at the Cathedral of Pereira, Plaza Bolívar Pereira's historic rail station Pereira's historic rail station Pereira: Aerial view from El Mirador Pereira: Aerial view from El Mirador Gothic church and street scene Gothic church and street scene Lago Uribe Park Lago Uribe Park Another view of Plaza Bolívar Another view of Plaza Bolívar