Itinerary - Viva Colombia

Ride Colombia: Coffee, Culture & the Call of the Andes

Day 1: Pereira

Pereira, known as ‘the pearl of the Otun’, is the capital of Risaralda, and full of friendly people. There are many sites of interest to visit such as the Ukumari Park, Noah’s Farm an Eco centre and water park and Pereira Museum of Art. The town has a lively nightlife with fine restaurants and bars. There are opportunities to visit a local coffee farm and appreciate Colombia’s finest export. Touch, hear, smell, see, and taste some of the best coffee in the world.

Accommodation: Hotel (D)

Day 2: Pereira to Quimbaya 

Your first stretch leads you through undulating countryside, where emerald‑green coffee fields give way to gently rolling hills. As you pedal toward Quimbaya, you’ll pass small villages dotted with brightly painted houses and roadside vendors selling arepas and fresh fruit juice. Look out for the occasional hummingbird flitting among the flowering shrubs, and savour panoramic views of the valley floor from higher vantage points. Quimbaya itself is known for its pottery traditions—if time allows, pop into a workshop to see artisans shaping clay into intricate coffee mugs.

Cycling Distance: 35 km (22 miles)
Total Climb: 480m (1,575ft)
Total Descent: 470m (1,540 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
 

 Day 3: Quimbaya to Salento

Leaving Quimbaya, the road climbs steadily into higher altitudes, ushering you into the breathtaking landscape of the Cocora Valley. Towering wax palms—the world’s tallest palm species—dot the mist‑shrouded hillsides, creating a surreal, almost fairytale‑like atmosphere. You’ll weave through cloud forest and patches of páramo grassland, with dramatic mountain peaks rising in the distance. Arriving in Salento, pause at the main plaza to admire the colorful colonial buildings and sample a slice of traditional alcándora cake.

Cycling Distance: 38 km (24 miles)
Total Climb: 1,160m (3,805 ft)
Total Descent: 480m (1,575 ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)
 

Day 4: Salento  to Santa Rosa de Cabal

Today’s ride transitions from high‑altitude beauty to lush tropical foothills. The route descends through thick coffee groves and patches of banana plantations, with the air growing warmer and more humid. En route, you’ll cross wooden bridges spanning fast‑flowing streams and pass small roadside waterfalls perfect for a refreshing dip. Santa Rosa de Cabal is famed for its thermal springs—consider an evening soak in the warm, mineral‑rich waters to soothe tired muscles.

Cycling Distance: 50 km (31 miles)
Total Climb: 970m (3,182 ft)
Total Descent:  1,260m  (4,133 ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

Day 5: Santa Rosa de Cabal to Riosucio

After a morning transfer to Irra, you’ll cycle along winding mountain roads lined with dense rainforest with an exhilarating ascent over multiple rugged peaks, leading us on a thrilling journey towards the captivating town of Riosucio. This charming town has gained fame for hosting the biennial Carnival of the Devil, a widely attended festival in Colombia that takes place every January, drawing thousands of enthusiastic Colombians in celebration. This joyous event serves as a poignant reminder of the unification of two once-feuding communities, making it one of the most cherished festivals in the country. Furthermore, the region is renowned for its traditional production of Guarapo: a fermented sugar cane juice that adds to the festive spirit, and it's a favorite among carnival-goers during these lively celebrations.

Cycling Distance: 28km (17.5miles)
Total Climb: 1,280m (4,199 ft)
Total Descent:  260m (835 ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

 Day 6: Riosucio to Jardin

Departing from Riosucio, our cycling journey begins with a challenging uphill stretch, covering a distance of 22 kilometers. We'll encounter a blend of ascents and descents, navigating through the terrain for approximately 10 kilometers, reaching a peak altitude of 2,882 meters. From there, our route gracefully descends through the lush Andean forest, guiding us on a 20-kilometer downhill ride as we approach the charming town of Jardin, a picturesque town known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich coffee heritage.

Cycling Distance: 51km
Total Climb: 1,560m (5,118 ft)
Total Descent: 1,580 (5,183 ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

Day 7: Jardin - Rest Day

A rest day in Jardin, offers a delightful opportunity to unwind and soak in the charm of this picturesque town. Start your morning with a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets, where you can admire the vibrant, well-preserved colonial architecture. Don't miss a visit to the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a stunning church with panoramic views from its bell tower. 

For those inclined towards tranquility, a tempting option is to indulge in a rejuvenating massage. Jardín offers skilled therapists, providing the perfect setting to unwind. The gentle touch and calming atmosphere allowed you to escape into a world of bliss, setting the tone for a day of rest and rejuvenation.

Alternatively, you could decide to delve into the rich coffee culture that Colombia is renowned for. Jardín, with its picturesque coffee plantations, is an ideal setting for a coffee tour. You can go on a tour through the lush greenery, learning about the intricate process of cultivating and harvesting coffee beans. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee fills the air as you gain insights into the artistry behind creating the perfect cup.

Accommodation: Guest House (B)

Day 8: Jardin to Jerico

Todays cycle ride from Jardin to Jerico promises an exciting day of exploration in the Colombian countryside. It's worth noting that today's adventure will predominantly lead you along unpaved and gravel tracks, offering an authentic off-road experience. As you navigate these rugged terrains, you'll be immersed in the raw beauty of the landscape, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking vistas, making this cycling route an ideal choice for those seeking a taste of adventure and natural splendor. Get ready for an exhilarating ride that connects you with the untamed charm of Colombia's heartland.

A large white statue of Christ with extended arms looks down from the hillside over Jericó.   You can take a cable car from here to Las Nubes Eco Park, the name derives from its altitude and the frequent presence of clouds. It’s also possible to  hike up or down to the park on the “Camino ecológico La Gruta de la Virgen de la Peña.”

Cycling Distance: 49km (31 miles)
Total Climb: 1,590m (5,217 ft)
Total Descent: 1,450m (4,757 ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

Day 9: Jerico to La Pintada

Leave Jericó with a gentle climb that soon tips into a thrilling 28 km descent through a patchwork of coffee, plantain, and citrus farms. At the valley floor, meet the broad Cauca River, Colombia’s second largest, and follow its banks along undulating terrain for about 15 km.

From there, tackle a steady ascent before dropping down toward La Pintada, gateway to quieter routes ahead. 

Cycling Distance: 56km (35 miles)
Total Climb: 830m (2,723ft)
Total Descent: 2,130m  (7,000 ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L)

Day 10: La Pintada - Versalles - Carmen de Viboral

To bypass a busy 15 km section of road, you’ll transfer by vehicle to Versalles, saving energy for the miles to come.Today you’ll navigate rolling terrain through verdant agricultural lands. Versalles exudes small‑town charm, with its humble church and local eateries. As you approach Carmen de Viboral, the route opens onto broader plains, punctuated by the town’s famed ceramic workshops. Known for its exuberant hand‑painted tiles and pottery, Carmen de Viboral is the perfect spot for a detour into a workshop to watch artisans at work.The ultimate gratification awaits us at the hotel, where we'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view that is nothing short of majestic.

Cycling Distance: 48km (30 miles)
Total Climb: 1,030m (3,379ft)
Total Descent: 480m (480m)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

Day 11: El Carmen de Viboral to Guatape

Cycling east, you’ll skirt reservoirs and pass lush green hills dotted with cattle. The final approach to Guatapé reveals El Peñol, the massive granite monolith rising out of the landscape—climbing its 740 steps is optional but offers unforgettable 360° views. Guatapé’s town center bursts with color: every building facade is a canvas of bas‑relief zócalos depicting local life.

Cycling Distance: 51.7km (32 miles)
Total Climb: 950m (3,116 ft)
Total Descent: 1,200m (3,937 ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,)

Day 12: Guatape Rest Day

Take a well-earned break from the saddle in the vibrant lakeside town of Guatapé. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with brightly painted façades and intricate zócalos that tell stories of local life. Opt to climb the 740 steps of El Peñol for sweeping views over the reservoir, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride across its sparkling waters. Cafés along the waterfront offer the perfect spot to linger over Colombian coffee, while local craft shops invite you to browse for souvenirs. Spend the afternoon unwinding by the lake or simply soaking up the relaxed atmosphere before the final ride to Medellín.

Accommodation: Guest House (B)

Day 13:  Guatape to  Medellin

An early transfer bypasses the busiest roads into Medellín. Once in the city, the contrast is striking: ultra‑modern Metrocable lines weave above working‑class barrios ascending the mountainsides. The guided Comuna 13 tour immerses you in a story of urban renewal, showing vibrant murals, innovative escalators, and lively hip‑hop performances that celebrate community spirit.

Cycling Distance: 34km (21 miles)
Total Climb: 785m (2,575 ft)
Total Descent: 556m (1,825 ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,)

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Day 14: Home

With memories of coffee landscapes, Andean heights, and warm Colombian hospitality, you’ll be driven to Medellín Airport for your onward journey. Keep an eye out for one last panorama of the city nestled between green peaks—an apt farewell to the Andes.

(B)