Looking for the best things to do in Pereira, Colombia? You’ve come to the right place. This vibrant city in the heart of the Coffee Region blends nature, culture, and adventure — all surrounded by lush mountains and world-class coffee. Whether you’re a backpacker, digital nomad, or someone who loves discovering hidden gems, Pereira has something for everyone.
Let’s explore the must-see spots and local favorites that make Pereira a perfect stop on your Colombia itinerary.
Top 7 Things to Do in Pereira, Colombia
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Relax at Termales de Santa Rosa – Natural hot springs surrounded by waterfalls and jungle.
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Take a coffee tour – Visit a finca cafetera and taste Colombia’s world-famous coffee.
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Explore Plaza de Bolívar – Admire the cathedral and the iconic naked Bolívar statue.
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Visit Parque Ukumarí – A modern wildlife park with eco-friendly habitats.
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Hike in Otún Quimbaya Sanctuary – Spot birds, howler monkeys, and lush cloud forest.
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Day trip to Salento & Cocora Valley – See the world’s tallest wax palms.
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Discover Filandia – A colorful, less-touristy town with amazing views and great coffee.
Explore the Best Attractions in Pereira
One of the most unforgettable things to do in Pereira is visiting the Termales de Santa Rosa, a natural hot spring paradise just 40 minutes from the city. Tucked away in the lush mountains of Risaralda, these thermal pools are surrounded by cascading waterfalls, dense jungle, and fresh mountain air — making it the perfect destination to unwind after a hike, long travel day, or coffee tour.
Whether you’re a nature lover or simply need a wellness break, soaking in these warm, mineral-rich waters is a true local experience. The site includes several natural pools, cold plunge options, changing rooms, and a small restaurant — all with stunning views of the tropical forest.
Travel Tip: Bring a swimsuit, towel, and water shoes for comfort. The best time to visit is early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
How to Get There: From Pereira, take a local bus to Santa Rosa de Cabal (approx. 25–30 minutes). Once in town, grab a jeep or taxi to the hot springs entrance (15–20 minutes more). The road is scenic but a bit curvy, so prepare accordingly.
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Pereira, a visit to Parque Ukumarí should be high on your list. As one of the largest and most modern zoos in Colombia, this ecological park is much more than a place to see animals — it’s a space dedicated to conservation, education, and creating immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.
Located just 20 minutes from Pereira’s city center, Parque Ukumarí features open-air, well-designed habitats that replicate the animals’ natural environments, with zones dedicated to the African savannah, Andean species, and more. You’ll find lions, zebras, bears, otters, exotic birds, and even a botanical garden.
What makes this park unique is its commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness. The signage, guided tours, and exhibits are highly educational, making it a perfect outing for families, backpackers, or travelers curious about Colombian biodiversity.
Travel Tip: Plan to spend around 3–4 hours here. Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes — the park is big and mostly outdoors.
How to Get There: Take a short taxi or bus ride from downtown Pereira. The park is located near the road to Cerritos and is easy to access by public transport.
No list of things to do in Pereira would be complete without a stroll through its vibrant historic center. This is where the soul of the city truly comes alive — from colonial architecture to buzzing local cafés.
Start your visit at Plaza de Bolívar, the central square where locals gather, vendors sell snacks, and street performers entertain the crowd. At its heart stands the city’s most iconic statue: Simón Bolívar riding a horse — completely naked — a bold and symbolic piece that often surprises visitors and sparks conversation.
Just across the plaza, don’t miss the Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Pobreza, a national monument and one of Pereira’s architectural treasures. Step inside to admire its wooden ceiling, stained glass windows, and peaceful atmosphere.
Once you’ve taken in the culture, grab a coffee at one of the many local cafés nearby — great for people-watching, journaling, or chatting with locals. Whether you visit in the morning or late afternoon, this area offers a snapshot of authentic Colombian life.
Travel Tip: Visit during late afternoon to enjoy golden light for photos and watch the plaza fill up with local energy.
When it comes to the top things to do in Pereira, a coffee tour is an absolute must. You’re in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region — also known as the Eje Cafetero — where the climate, altitude, and rich soil combine to produce some of the best beans in the world.
Book a visit to a local finca cafetera (coffee farm), where you’ll walk through lush plantations, learn how coffee is grown, harvested, and roasted, and of course — enjoy fresh tastings right at the source. Many farms also offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, perfect for a relaxed afternoon escape from the city.
Some farms even allow you to pick beans during the harvest season, giving you a hands-on experience of the coffee-making process from plant to cup.
Travel Tip: Look for tours with bilingual guides if your Spanish isn’t fluent. Popular farms like Finca Don Manuelo or El Ocaso (near Salento) offer full experiences with transportation and lunch options.
How to Book: Ask at your hostel’s front desk or book online in advance during high season (December–March or June–August)
For nature lovers looking for the most peaceful and immersive things to do in Pereira, a visit to the Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary is a must. This protected reserve, located about 45 minutes from the city, is part of Colombia’s lush cloud forest ecosystem, offering stunning biodiversity and pristine hiking trails.
The sanctuary is home to over 300 species of birds, including the rare Andean cock-of-the-rock, making it a paradise for bird watchers and wildlife photographers. If you’re lucky (and quiet), you might even spot howler monkeys, deer, and butterflies along the trails. The air is fresh, the jungle sounds are constant, and the experience feels like stepping into a living encyclopedia of Colombian biodiversity.
Early morning guided tours are the best way to experience the sanctuary. Local guides, often from nearby communities, share insightful information about the plants, birds, and conservation efforts happening in the area.
Travel Tip: Wear hiking shoes, bring a rain jacket (it’s a cloud forest!), and pack some snacks and water. Tours usually last around 3–4 hours depending on the trail.
How to Get There: From Pereira, you can hire a jeep or arrange transportation through a local tour operator. Some eco-lodges in the area also offer packages that include lodging, meals, and guided hikes.
Best Day Trips from Pereira
Salento & the Valle del Cocora
While Pereira is a great base, these nearby gems are just a short ride away:
Arguably one of the most iconic spots in Colombia, Salento is a colorful colonial town nestled in the Andes and known as the gateway to the stunning Valle del Cocora. The valley is home to the world’s tallest palm trees — the Quindío wax palms — which tower up to 60 meters above the cloud forest.
Hiking through the Cocora Valley is an unforgettable experience, offering green hills, wooden bridges, hummingbirds, and dramatic landscapes that look straight out of a fantasy film. After your hike, refuel with a local specialty: trucha (trout) served with patacón or rice. You can also take a classic Willys jeep ride back into town — an iconic experience in itself.
Filandia – A Hidden Gem with Fewer Tourists
If you’re looking for somewhere a bit more off the beaten path, Filandia is your perfect escape. Just 1.5 hours from Pereira, this town offers a more authentic and laid-back vibe than its popular neighbor, Salento.
The town is full of brightly painted colonial houses, cozy coffee shops, and artisan stores. It’s the kind of place where time slows down. Climb the Mirador de Filandia, a tall wooden tower with 360° views of the coffee region — it’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Food lovers will enjoy trying local fusion dishes, fresh juices, and of course, specialty coffee straight from nearby fincas.
Where to Stay in Pereira
Looking for a friendly, central, and budget-friendly place to stay?
Derequka hostel in Pereira offers cozy rooms, fast Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, and local tips that go beyond any guidebook.
Whether you’re heading to the hot springs or planning a coffee tour, we’re just a short walk from bus terminals and top spots in town.
Book your stay now and start exploring Pereira like a local.
Conclusion
Whether you’re into soaking in hot springs, sipping world-class coffee, or just wandering colorful pueblos nearby, Pereira has something for every type of traveler. And the best part? It’s not overrun with tourists — yet.
If you’re planning a trip through Colombia, don’t just pass through Pereira. Stay a few nights, explore deeply, and let this underrated city surprise you.
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