Hey there, future (or current) Pereira lover! Here are 10 Fun Things to do in Pereira, Colombia in 2026!
If you’re tired of the Medellín hustle or Bogotá crowds, Pereira is quietly becoming everyone’s favorite “Plan B” in Colombia’s famous Coffee Triangle (Eje Cafetero). With a shiny new international airport, more direct flights than ever, and that perfect mountain weather, it’s the ideal spot for digital nomads, retirees, families, or anyone looking for an authentic Colombian vibe without the chaos.
10 Fun Things to Do in Pereira, Colombia in 2025 – The Coffee Region’s Hidden Gem!
Whether you’re here for a week or thinking of making Pereira your new home base, here’s my personal list of the 10 fun things to do in Pereira that locals actually love (and tourists are just starting to discover).
1. Waterfall Hikes & Mountain Biking in La Florida
Escape the city in 15 minutes! Head to La Florida for easy waterfall trails (Los Frailes is gorgeous and family-friendly) or join the massive weekend cycling groups tearing up the hills. Perfect way to burn off all that bandeja paisa.
2. Sunday Ciclovía on the Viaduct
Every Sunday morning until noon, the main avenue and the iconic Viaduct bridge turn into a giant car-free party. Bike, skate, walk, or just people-watch. Pro tip: Dress like you care (Colombians work out in style) and leave the bling at home.
3. Jardín Botánico – Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira
Guided tours through one of Colombia’s coolest university botanical gardens. English-speaking guides available. Great for plant nerds, homeschool families, or anyone who just wants fresh air and pretty flowers.
4. Become a Coffee Shop Regular
Pereira’s specialty coffee scene is exploding. Hit up El Barista, Toco Madera, or Jasant Café for world-class beans grown literally down the road. Follow them on Insta – they’re always hosting tastings, live music, or latte art workshops.
5. Thursday Tertulia Nights at Hotel del Café
Hands-down the most fun nightlife that doesn’t feel sketchy. Sing-alongs in English & Spanish, tango shows, salsa/bachata dancing, and zero pressure. Call ahead – it fills up fast!
6. Sunset Selfies at Cerro Canceles
Five minutes from the Zona Rosa, hike (or taxi) up to this viewpoint for insane panoramic photos of the city. Go late afternoon, bring a coffee, take your pics, and walk back down before dark.
7. Craft Beer & People-Watching at BBC (Parque Arboleda Mall)
Safe, air-conditioned, and always packed with a fun crowd. Perfect “first night out” spot when you’ve just landed and want to ease into Pereira nightlife.
8. Spot Red Howler Monkeys in Barbas-Bremen Reserve
45 minutes outside town, follow the river trail and listen for the loudest monkeys in the Americas. You’ll need a car or a local friend – totally worth it for the jungle adventure.
9. Free Art Exhibits at Colombo Americano
Rotating exhibits featuring local Risaraldense artists – and yes, most pieces are for sale. Quick, cheap culture hit right in the city center.
10. Bioparque Ukumarí – Colombia’s Coolest “New” Theme Park
The old zoo got a massive glow-up and is now a proper bio-park with huge natural habitats. Lions, giraffes, condors, and the cutest capybaras you’ll ever see. Get there at opening (9 AM) to beat the heat.
If you found these 10 fun things to do in Pereira helpful, then here’s Season 2, Episode 4 of the Coffee Axis Travel Podcast – The Walk and Talk Series! In this episode I’m going to give you a visual of Bioparque Ukumari and a few tips to make your visit smooth! Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe and enable Notifications so you don’t miss future episodes!
Season 2, Episode 4: Bioparque Ukumari 2026: Colombia’s Best ZOO in the Coffee Region!
Ready to fall in love with Pereira for real?
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Or if you want everything done-for-you (apartment hunting, school searches, lawyer intros, etc.), book a 1-hour relocation consulting call with me and I’ll make your move stupidly easy.
See you in the Coffee Capital! ☕🌴
