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Viterbo, Caldas Destination Guide

Viterbo, Caldas Destination Guide

Travel Featured

 

Viterbo, Caldas: A Hidden Gem for Nature, Coffee, and Adventure Lovers

Viterbo, Caldas—a charming pueblo with big ambitions—is rapidly emerging as a top destination for horse lovers, bird watchers, and coffee enthusiasts. Exciting new developments are transforming this once-sleepy town into a vibrant hotspot for day-trippers seeking nature, culture, and adventure. Don’t miss your chance to experience this rising gem in Colombia’s Coffee Region!

Founded in 1911, Viterbo, Caldas, was established by the descendants of settlers from Apía and Belén de Umbría. The town emerged amidst four large haciendas, with a bishop from Manizales playing a pivotal role in its early development. Recognizing its potential, he helped shape Viterbo into the thriving community it is today.

Viterbo, Caldas

Take a jeep up to this mirador for spectacular views of the valley!

Today, Viterbo is a thriving town of 12,000 residents, experiencing rapid growth and development. The newly opened Tesalia Tunnel (Túnel de Tesalia) has improved access to Manizales and Medellín, driving increased demand for local housing. On the outskirts, over 90 condominium developments are planned, marking the beginning of a new era for the town. With this expansion, residents are embracing fresh opportunities in tourism, real estate, and economic growth, solidifying Viterbo’s place as an emerging hotspot in Colombia’s Coffee Region.

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We teamed up with local tourism experts to bring you a travel guide featuring top recommendations. #SponsoredPost

Discover the best ways to plan your next weekend adventure in the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Region. Enjoy!

Where to Stay in Viterbo: Comfort Meets Elegance

Viterbo offers a charming blend of comfort and elegance, making it an ideal destination for an extended stay. Wander through the pueblo’s scenic streets, embark on a horseback adventure, or simply unwind and enjoy the town’s laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re here for relaxation or exploration, Viterbo promises a memorable stay in Colombia’s Coffee Region.

Villa LuzPi

Escape the city and unwind at this peaceful countryside getaway, perfect for two families, four couples, or solo travelers seeking relaxation. Nestled in one of Viterbo’s most picturesque veredas, this charming milk farm offers a serene stay surrounded by lush nature.

Ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers, the property is also available for day rentals, making it a perfect spot for a large family gathering or an outdoor dining experience in the on-site kiosko. Just a short distance away, another local farm (featured in this guide) offers cacao and coffee tours, as well as scenic nature hikes.

Contact for Reservations

📞 Luz Piedad (Spanish) – WhatsApp: +57 318 358 0599
📞 Erin (English) – WhatsApp: +57 312 794 8245
🔹 Reservations required at least one week in advance.

Book your stay and experience the natural beauty of Viterbo! 🌿🏡

Breakfast & Bakery

Craving something sweet or in need of a caffeine fix? Here are our top recommendations for the best coffee and baked goods in Viterbo!

Olga’s Bakery – A Taste of Home in Viterbo

After years in the U.S., Olga returned to Viterbo to fulfill her dream of bringing an authentic bakery experience to her hometown. She describes it as:
“Un sueño hecho de sabor. Esta es mi pasión.”
(“A dream made of flavor. This is my passion.”)

And that passion shines through in every detail.

At Olga’s Bakery, you’ll find freshly baked bread, traditional pastries, and rich Colombian coffee in a warm and inviting setting. A favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, the bakery also offers event services for special occasions.

Visit Olga’s Bakery

📍 Address: Carrera 7 #7-39, Viterbo
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Daily

Experience the flavors of home—one bite at a time! 🥖☕

Where to Eat Lunch or Dinner

You’ve been going hard, time for something cold and refreshing…

By the time you return to the pueblo in the afternoon, the temperature will be at its peak. Stay hydrated and refresh yourself at this must-visit spot we loved!

Wamba Juice Bar – Fresh Juices & Gourmet Burgers in Viterbo

Inspired by Jamba Juice in the U.S., Wamba Juice Bar brings a vibrant twist to Viterbo’s Parque Principal. While not a traditional coffee shop, it’s the perfect place to cool off with a refreshing drink or enjoy a gourmet burger in the evening.

Their limited aged beef burger menu starts in the early evening—don’t miss the Philadelphia Burger, a local favorite! Pair it with a smoothie made from exotic Colombian fruits or their signature Cucumber & Chia Lemonade for a truly refreshing treat.

Visit Wamba Juice Bar

📍 Location: Main Park, in front of the church
Hours:
🗓 Mon–Fri: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🗓 Sat–Sun: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Stop by, relax, and enjoy a taste of Viterbo

When the hunger comes upon you, it’s important to know where to go…

La Fonda

For a true taste of Colombia’s Coffee Region, La Fonda is a must-visit. Set in a beautifully restored historic home, this charming eatery serves up classic Colombian dishes with a nostalgic twist.

Local favorites like trucha (fresh trout) and the delicious Caesar salad are crowd-pleasers. Whether you’re gathering for a family lunch or exploring traditional Colombian cuisine, La Fonda offers something for everyone—including kid-friendly options! Their commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation guarantees a memorable dining experience.

💳 Credit cards accepted!

Visit La Fonda

📍 Location: Carrera 7 #9-54
Hours: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM, Daily

Experience the best of Colombian flavors at La Fonda! 🍽️

Al Aire Libre – Lunches – Nature, Art & Flavor

Experience open-air dining in a place that feels like paradise at Al Aire Libre, where Colombia’s rich culinary traditions come to life. Featuring authentic recipes with special touches, the menu offers hearty weekend dishes such as Sancocho de Espinazo (pork stew), Chicharrón with beans, and the classic Bandeja Paisa—a complete meal with your choice of meat, soup, rice, salad, and sides.

Nestled in the front yard of a charming historic home next to Pinceladas, this hidden gem offers a relaxed atmosphere, fresh breezes, and warm hospitality. Inside, you’ll discover two creative workshops run by the talented mother-daughter duo behind this unique dining experience—one for painting and another for jewelry making

Pinceladas de Sabor | Cafe – Bar

Experience open-air dining in a place that feels like paradise at Al Aire Libre. This charming spot offers a taste of Colombia’s rich culinary traditions, with authentic recipes and special touches. On weekends, enjoy hearty dishes like Sancocho de Espinazo (pork stew), Chicharrón with beans, or the classic Bandeja Paisa—a complete meal with your choice of meat, soup, rice, salad, and sides.

Nestled in the front yard of a charming historic house next to Pinceladas, this hidden gem provides a relaxed atmosphere with fresh breezes and warm hospitality. Inside, discover two creative workshops—one for painting and another for jewelry making—run by the talented mother-daughter duo behind this unique dining experience.

Touristic Attractions in Viterbo, Caldas

Time to get your feet wet and find your sense of adventure…

dventure awaits in Viterbo! Choose from hiking, off-road jeep tours, or horseback riding—or mix and match for the ultimate experience.

For horse lovers, we’ve found a fantastic local operator offering unforgettable rides through the scenic countryside

La Tulia – Farm Tour

f you love walking in nature, sipping fresh coffee, indulging in chocolate, and tasting exotic fruits, this tour is for you! Just 20 minutes from Viterbo, this hidden jungle paradise combines sustainable farming with nature conservation, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich agricultural traditions.

The tour takes you along a well-maintained path through a lush, productive farm that blends cultivation with its natural surroundings. While the focus is on coffee and cacao (chocolate) production, the farm also features a variety of tropical fruit trees, much like traditional Colombian fincas.

Tour Details:

✔️ Duration: 2–3 hours
✔️ Includes: Guided nature walk, chocolate & coffee tasting, and lunch
✔️ Accessibility: Easy, mostly level paths—ideal for kids and seniors
✔️ What to Bring: Long pants, sturdy shoes, and bug repellent

🚙 Transportation: Available for an additional cost, or take a public jeep from Viterbo (departs at 7:00 AM, returns at 1:30 PM).

📞 Reservations Required (24–48 hours in advance)
📲 Call or WhatsApp: +57 317 762 4888

Book your coffee and cacao adventure today for an unforgettable experience in Colombia’s Coffee Region!

Jinetes del Eden – Horse Rides

Experience the breathtaking rolling hills, creeks, and forests of Viterbo the way locals have for generations—on horseback! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, horses are carefully matched to your skill level for a safeand enjoyable journey through the stunning tropical dry forest surroundings of Viterbo, Caldas.

Tour Details:

✔️ Duration: 2–3 hours
✔️ Group Size: Minimum 2 riders, up to 15 riders per tour
✔️ Location: Scenic tropical dry forest near Viterbo, Caldas
✔️ Safety: All visitors are insured, with safety precautions taken for a diverse and scenic ride

💰 Cost: Starting at 90,000 COP (varies based on tour length)

📞 Reservations Required (4–5 days in advance)
📲 Call: +57 310 411 8221
📧 Email: cabalgatasjinetesdeleden@hotmail.com

🚙 Explore More: Jinetes del Edén also offers jeep tours and other outdoor adventures—contact them for more details!

Embark on an ecotourism adventure that lets you connect with nature and experience the beauty of Viterbo from the saddle!

Across the street from Pinceladas, you might notice a strangely peculiar place…

Cameloc Casa de Cultura – The Heaven of Music

C

Calling all music aficionados—this hidden gem is for you! With a collection of over 6,000 LP vinyl records, it’s a true paradise for audiophiles. Owned by Nelson Arturo López Díaz, a passionate collector, singer, and lifelong music lover, this spot is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the timeless sounds of classic records.

Located just across from Pinceladas de Sabor, this space exudes an eclectic, charming atmosphere. Step inside and experience where Viterbo’s art and cultural history are literally carved into the exterior bricks, creating a unique and immersive environment.

📍 Location: A few blocks from the main park, across from Pincelarte
Hours: Whenever the doors are open—just stop by and enjoy the vibe!

Don’t miss the chance to discover Viterbo’s vinyl treasure trove and immerse yourself in its soulful sounds

Monkey World Smoke Shop

As attitudes evolve and legalization edges closer, smoke shops are becoming a more familiar part of Colombian culture. Once a rarity, specialty stores like Monkey World Smoke Shop are now thriving—and this one is a must-visit!

Founded by twin brothers Marco and Santiago, Monkey World brings an American-style smoke shop experience to Viterbo. Their shop features a wide selection of tobacco accessories, survival gear, and adult novelty items, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Visit Monkey World

📍 Address: Calle 4 #11-40
Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📞 Call: +57 311 863 9484

Despite early skepticism, Monkey World has expanded to three locations—Viterbo, La Virginia, and Belén de Umbría. From popular RAW brand rolling papers to handcrafted OME artisan rolls, this is the go-to destination for high-quality smoking essentials.

🔗 Follow Monkey World Online

📸 Instagram: @monkeyworldoficial
📘 Facebook: Monkey World Oficial

Stop by and check out this one-of-a-kind novelty smoke shop—a game-changer in Viterbo’s evolving culture!

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Conclusion

This brief guide to tourism in Viterbo, Caldas highlights just a glimpse of what this charming town has to offer. Located just an hour from Pereira, Viterbo is the perfect destination for a day trip filled with adventure, culture, and relaxation. From nature tours and horseback riding to delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Viterbo
One of the most emblematic parts of Viterbo is the entrance called “Tunnel de Samanes.”

Pack your sun hat and shades, and get ready to explore the warm, sun-kissed landscapes of Tierra Caliente—the lower valleys near Pereira in Colombia’s Coffee Axis.

Viterbo is growing fast, with government investment fueling tourism projects focused on birdwatching, local culture, traditional panela production, gastronomy, and improved pueblo infrastructure. Now is the perfect time to experience this hidden gem before it becomes a well-known destination!

 

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About the author

Coffee Axis Adventures and Expat Lifestyles meet Wit and Wordpress! I have been writing my whole life in one form or another, and blogging since 2012. My career as a professional writer began in 2013 and this is what I have been doing ever since! My personal mission: Create love and appreciation for local brands, products and entrepreneurial projects of value and quality. Do my part to participate in and help create, a strong local economy that supports local people and their families!

7 Comments

  1. Carlos Orrego
    January 15, 2020 at 3:43 pm
    Reply

    Que buena presentación, excelente artículo, gracias

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