the Heart of the Wind (El Corazón del Viento)! Here, you can savor the world’s finest coffee, spot a stunning variety of birds, and soar off the mountainside on an exhilarating paragliding adventure.

A Brief History of Apia Risaralda

Apía, located in the Department of Risaralda, was founded in 1884, though historical records mistakenly cite 1883. Its founders, José María Marín and his family, along with Julián Ortiz—who also established the nearby town of Santuario—played a key role in shaping the region.

The town’s name, Apía, originates from an indigenous tribe led by Chief Tucarma, whose consort, Zulayma, is part of local legend. Their story was immortalized in the theatrical work El Ocaso de un Pueblo, which narrates—through both drama and song—the conquest and colonization of Apía.

Renowned for its coffee culture, Apía has long been distinguished by its high-quality beans, grown under ample shade to enhance flavor and sustainability. The local coffee association, AsoApía, along with its founders, has spent over 25 years promoting organic coffee and preserving the area’s remaining tree coverage, ensuring a future rooted in both tradition and conservation.

Information supported by local teacher and historian Francisco Javier Azate Gallego

Apía has long been recognized for its excellence in both academics and music. Many families from surrounding areas have sent their children here for high school, drawn by the town’s reputation for quality education.

One of Apía’s cultural pillars is COMARCA (Corporación Musical para el Arte y la Cultura de Apía), which has played a key role in nurturing exceptional musical talent among local children. Beyond Apía, COMARCA has contributed to the creation of musical organizations in 14 other municipalities, strengthening the region’s artistic heritage.

How to Get There

To reach Apía from Pereira, take Trans-Apía, a bus company that departs hourly from Pereira’s terminal, stopping in La Virginia before continuing to Apía. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. By private car, you can arrive in about one hour.

If traveling from Manizales, take an Autolegal bus directly to Viterbo, then transfer to a jeep bound for Apía. Jeeps depart at 7:00 AM and 12:00 PM, with return trips at 1:30 PM and 5:30 PM.

For return trips to Manizales, it’s best to travel via Pereira, as jeep arrivals in Viterbo do not align with the Manizales-bound buses, which depart at 1:30 PM and 4:00 PM. However, buses to Pereira leave Apía every hour, providing a more flexible route.

What to do in Apia

Apía is a charming Colombian pueblo with unique qualities that set it apart. As a town deeply rooted in coffee production, a movement began several years ago to educate locals on appreciating the specialty coffee they were exporting.

The idea quickly gained traction, and today, Apía boasts nine coffee shops and three roasters—a testament to its growing coffee culture. But there’s more to Apía than just great coffee! Visitors can explore its vibrant music scene, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage.

Rutas del Viento – Bicycles and Agro-Tourism

Led by local guide Julián Mauricio Calle, this immersive tour is perfect for cycling, farm, and horseback riding enthusiasts. Experience hands-on farm activities, interactive workshops, and scenic rides—an adventure that’s both educational and fun for families with children!

Pueblo Tour

Step beyond the façades of Apía’s preserved colonial-era wooden architecture in this immersive town experience. Discover hidden gems and local traditions, culminating in a live performance from a local band showcasing a segment of El Ocaso de un Pueblo. This theatrical piece tells the powerful story of Spanish conquest and Antioqueño colonization, bringing Apía’s history to life.

Tatamá Extreme Nature

Just outside Apía, Tatamá National Park protects some of the region’s most vital ecosystems. This adventure blends cycling, hiking, and waterfall exploration, offering an unforgettable nature experience. Along the way, enjoy sightings of rare birds, exotic plants, wild orchids, and the park’s astonishing biodiversity.

Fly & Ride Adventure

Soar above the stunning Colombian Coffee Region with an exhilarating paragliding experience, then return to earth for a horseback ride through lush coffee fields. This adventure lets you experience the region like a true arriero (muleteer), riding through sugarcane fields just as the early settlers once did

To schedule your experience contact Julian Mauricio Calle by cell or WhatsApp 300 427 2010 and 312 257 6381 or online at www.bicitoursrutasdelviento.com FB: @rutasdelviento Insta: @bicitoursrutasdelviento Twitter: @bicitoursapia

AsoApia – Organic Coffee Association
Reserva Florestal La Playita

Apía, Risaralda, is a premier destination for learning about and experiencing specialty coffee. At the heart of this movement is AsoApía, a local coffee association that, alongside 350 producers and Reserva Forestal La Playita, supports farms from field to cup, ensuring the production of high-quality, sustainably grown coffee.

What makes Apía’s coffee truly unique is its shade-grown cultivation—a rare practice in Colombia that enhances flavor and quality. Whether you’re interested in coffee exports, immersive farm experiences, or expert-led cupping workshops, exciting opportunities await. Stay tuned!

For more information contact Norma via WhatsApp +57 311 324 8693

Agualinda Parque Natural Hiking Trail

Just above Apía, Agualinda Parque Natural is a stunning municipal nature reserve managed by the local conservation group Vida Silvestre. This scenic trail offers a chance to explore native plants, diverse bird species, and local wildlifein a tranquil, shaded setting.

To access Agualinda, take a jeep to the top entrance, then enjoy a leisurely 1 to 2-hour hike down the well-maintained trail. You can either catch a jeep back to town or arrange a taxi for your return.

Essential Tips for Hikers:

✅ Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain
✅ Bring an umbrella for unexpected rain
✅ Dress in long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect against insects
✅ Most of the trail is shaded, but a hat is recommended for sun-sensitive hikers

Hours & Guided Tours:
Agualinda is open from early morning to late evening, subject to local regulations. For a guided experience, contact Julián Mauricio Calle, the local tour operator mentioned earlier.

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Where to Eat & Drink in Apía

Around the main plaza, you’ll find a variety of coffee shops and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.

For breakfast, don’t miss Fanny’s, a hidden gem located across from the fire station (Bomberos)—a favorite local secret for a great start to your day!

Cafe de Mi Pueblo Apia

One of the most famous coffee shops in Apía, Café de Mi Pueblo, was a trailblazer in teaching local coffee cultivators how to enjoy the specialty coffee they had long been exporting.

The café is also the owner of the farm where the coffee is grown, ensuring that every step in the process, from farm to table, is tailored to bring out the best characteristics of each unique coffee variety. Each stage of production is carefully crafted to highlight the distinct flavors of the beans.

In 2019, they expanded by opening their own roastery, elevating their offerings even further. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a perfect cup of coffee or learn about the entire production process, Café de Mi Pueblo Apía provides an unforgettable experience for visitors. Don’t miss out on their delicious coffee-based treats, including nougat snacks, arequipe, and cookies!

To schedule your roastery to cup tour, contact them via Whatsapp or by calling 314 621 3816 – 320 675 4120 , or drop by and enjoy a cup of Colombia’s finest! FB: CafeDeMiPuebloApia

Cafe y Arte El Clavel

Tucked away in a charming alley, Café y Arte El Clavel is a must-visit coffee shop! Relax under the umbrellas, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and sip on your choice of hot or cold drinks paired with tasty snacks.

Visitors can select from three different coffee brands, each offering unique flavor profiles. Our top pick is Coffee Garden, a Castillo Rosario variety with delicious chocolate, red fruit, and panela notes.

In the evening, this cozy spot transforms into a lively hangout perfect for friends to enjoy sangria, beer, or a warm aromática de frutas—a soothing hot fruit infusion.

For more details, follow them on Instagram @cafeyarteelclavel. They also offer event services, making it an ideal venue for birthday parties or a romantic evening. (Spanish only).

Contact them via WhatsApp or by calling +57 316 247 4324

Where to Stay in Apía, Risaralda

Apía, Risaralda offers a wide range of lodging options suited for both large groups and solo travelers. Whether you’re looking for a corporate-style hotel or a fully rentable family home, you’ll find the perfect place to suit your needs and preferences.

Junior Plaza Hotel & Yuyo Bakery

Owned and operated by four brothers since 2009, Junior Plaza Hotel and its Yuyo Bakery offer a convenient location right on the corner of the main plaza. Hotel guests can enjoy a special breakfast discount at the bakery!

The hotel features 15 rooms, including options ranging from single rooms to king-sized suites, all with private bathrooms. With space for up to 30 guests, it’s an ideal choice for both small and medium-sized groups.

For the best availability, especially during high season, holidays, Holy Week, and special events, be sure to book 15 to 30 days in advance.

Hot Water – WiFi – Convenient Location – Bakery

Call or WhatsApp for reservations and booking +57 311 390 9574. Spanish only. FB: @hoteljuniorplaza juniorplazahotel@gmail.com

Abuela Casa – Descanso y Tradición

This charming family home, passed down through generations, is lovingly maintained by four siblings—three sisters and one brother—who inherited it from their grandmother. Together, they’ve preserved the warmth and traditions of the house they fondly remember growing up in.

Guests can rent either a single room or the entire house for family vacations or special multi-day events. Currently, two rooms feature private bathrooms, with plans to add private bathrooms to the other spacious bedrooms in the future.

Their mission is simple: “Descanso y Tradición” (Rest and Tradition). The goal is for every guest to feel as though they are coming home.

Amenities:

• Hot water
• WiFi
• Fully stocked kitchen

Book your stay via Airbnb: Abuela Casa – Descanso y Tradición

Don’t forget your camera! Enjoy stunning morning and afternoon views of the picturesque pueblo.

Call or WhatsApp for reservations +57 314 617 2431 – Luz Adriana Lopez, or Yoryi Lopez 314 690 7645. Or by email adriana261974@hotmail.com

Plan Your Trip

Discover Apía, Risaralda

Apía is not a place where you’ll simply stumble upon museums and shops. To truly experience the best this town has to offer, you need to plan ahead and choose the right activities. That’s why we’ve included expert recommendations and local guides in this destination guide.

Whether you’re interested in taking one of the tours, attending annual events like the rock music festival, paragliding congress, or enjoying a performance by COMARCA/theater, you’ll want to stay for at least a couple of days to fully enjoy everything.

Apía Risaralda may still be relatively unknown, but it stands out for its stunning wood architecture, unique local art and music culture, and some of the best coffee in the region!