1. Mirador Colina Iluminada (Illuminated Hill Viewpoint)
Standing atop this wooden observation tower, a 360-degree panorama of the vibrant coffee landscapes, including valleys and distant towns, unfolds. With multiple levels of viewing platforms, it is ideal for capturing stunning photographs and appreciating the region's vast beauty. It is a worthwhile experience to see both day and night views, as the viewpoint has been recently renovated for evening visits.
Cost: Adults: 12,000 COP. Children and seniors: 6,000 COP.
Transport: The viewpoint is about a 15-minute walk from the town center.
2. Coffee Farm Tour
Engaging in a coffee farm tour provides an authentic journey from the seed to the final cup. Visitors learn about the entire coffee production process, including cultivation, harvesting, pulping, fermentation, and drying techniques. These tours often conclude with a tasting session, allowing one to appreciate the nuances of Colombian coffee directly from its source. Farms around Filandia are known for offering a more intimate experience compared to busier tourist spots.
Cost: Tours can range from approximately 110,000 - 120,000 COP per person for a dedicated farm experience. Private tours combining multiple sites can start from around $158 USD for a group.
Transport: Some tours include pick-up by a jeep or pickup truck from Filandia. Otherwise, local Willy jeeps or taxis may provide access to specific farms outside the town center.
3. Explore Filandia's Colorful Streets and Main Plaza
Wandering through Filandia's streets reveals an array of brightly painted colonial houses adorned with wooden balconies, a hallmark of the Coffee Region's architecture. The main plaza, Parque Bolívar, serves as a lively hub, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere. On weekends, the plaza often transforms with craft booths and street food vendors, offering a glimpse into daily life.
Cost: Free.
Transport: The streets and main plaza are centrally located and fully walkable.
4. Basketry Workshop / Bejuco Interpretation Center
Discover the traditional art of 'bejuco' basket weaving, a craft deeply rooted in the region's history, particularly in coffee cultivation. At the Bejuco and Canasto Interpretation Center, one can learn about the material and the intricate weaving process. Some workshops offer hands-on opportunities to learn basic techniques and even create a small, personalized basket.
Cost: Admission to the Interpretation Center is approximately 5,000 COP. An interactive workshop with materials can be part of a tour, potentially incurring an additional cost for an English interpreter (around 80,000 COP per group). A dedicated basketry workshop with materials can cost approximately 110,000 COP.
Transport: The Interpretation Center and many workshops are within walking distance of the main square or along the road leading to the Mirador Colina Iluminada.
5. Barbas Bremen Nature Reserve Hike
For those seeking nature immersion, a guided trek through the Barbas Bremen Nature Reserve offers an opportunity to explore lush rainforest ecosystems. The reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys and various bird species. Early morning departures are often recommended for the best chances of wildlife sightings. Guided tours are typically required to enter the reserve.
Cost: A tour including transport might cost around 35,000 COP per person (price from 2019, may have increased; it is advisable to check current prices with local tour operators).
Transport: Tours generally include shuttle transport from Filandia's main square, as the reserve is approximately 20 minutes from town.
6. Day Trip to Cocora Valley
Embarking on a day trip to the iconic Cocora Valley is a quintessential Coffee Region experience. This valley is renowned for its towering wax palm trees, the tallest in the world, which create a surreal landscape. Visitors can enjoy picturesque hikes through the valley and surrounding cloud forest. It is important to note that the valley can become very crowded on weekends.
Cost: Willy jeep from Filandia to Salento: approximately 5,500 COP one-way. Willy jeep from Salento to Cocora Valley: approximately 5,000 COP one-way or 9,000 COP return. Specific trail entrances in Cocora Valley may have small fees. Rain boot rentals are available.
Transport: Take a Willy jeep from Filandia's main square to Salento (around 35-40 minutes). From Salento's main square, another Willy jeep will take you directly to Cocora Valley (approximately 20 minutes).
