Updated on 02/19/2024
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I would also like to recommend our Colombia travel guide, which provides a perfect overview of the tourist attractions in Colombia. Enjoy reading it!
Salento is a very popular holiday destination for national and international travelers. When I traveled there, I visited various hotels. The Salento municipality is part of the cultural coffee landscape. Streets with colorful houses, neighbors with cowboy hats, a happy atmosphere and very attractive surroundings characterize it.
Located in the department of Quindío and with an average temperature of 14° C (57° F), it is the perfect destination to learn more about coffee culture and see incredible natural landscapes. A trip to Salento has to be combined with a visit to the Cocora Valley. This is a cloud forest full of Quindio wax palms, the tallest palm in the world.
The nearest airports are El Eden International Airport in Quindio, approx. 42 km (26 miles) away, and Matecaña International Airport in Pereira, approx. 41 km (25.5 miles) away.
Finding a good place to stay in Salento can make a big difference in your trip. You want to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this charming town, but also have access to all the amenities and services you need. That’s why I have compiled a list of the best hotels in Salento that I recommend for your next visit.
If you want to know the best places and activities you can enjoy in the coffee region, one of the most beautiful and cultural regions of Colombia, we recommend you to visit our travel guide to the coffee region and travel guide to Armenia.
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El Mirador del Cocora
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Calle 1 #3-01
Capacity: 16 rooms
Room types: Deluxe Double (30 m²/323 ft2) / Standard Double (20 m²/ 215 ft2) / Triple (22 m²/ 236 ft2) / Junior Suite (32 m²/ 344 ft2)
Highlights: Terrace with panoramic views of the Cocora Valley / Rooms with whirlpool / Rooms with balconies
Services: Wi-Fi / airport transfer / gourmet breakfast / security alarm / 24-hour security / souvenir shop / room service
Awards: Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2021 9/10 / TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2020 / Kayak Best Hotel Colombia 2019
The Hotel El Mirador del Cocora is certainly one of the best hotels in Salento. It is located on the flank of the hill and therefore one has a view of the whole of Salento on one side and the Cocora Valley on the other.
The property is located around 600 meters from the main square. We can highly recommend the “Balcón de Rio” junior suite. This room has a jacuzzi and offers the best views of the Cocora Valley.
Other rooms also have a balcony and a magnificent view of the valley. Some general areas are laid out in such a way that one can also enjoy the wonderful panoramic view. Visitors and guests can therefore enjoy the view while having a refreshing drink or snack.
We recommend this hotel for couples and travelers in general looking for a luxurious stay.
Hotel Terrazas de Salento
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Carrera 4 #1-30
Capacity: 7 rooms
Room types: Double rooms (21 m²/226 ft2, 24 m²/258 ft2 and 32 m²/344 ft2) / Single rooms (13 m²/139 ft2 and 23 m²/247 ft2)
Highlights: Hotel facilities / Gardens / Views over Salento
Services: Airport transfer / Room service / Free parking / Wi-Fi / Tea / coffee making facilities in all rooms / Breakfast (continental, vegetarian and à la carte) / Bike rental
Awards: TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2020
Hotel Terrazas de Salento is run by the owner, a tall Austrian who has lived in Colombia for ages. The hotel is a feast for the eyes. The loving planting is noticeable as soon as you enter. From the terrace, in the entrance area, you already have an incredible view over the town of Salento.
The furnishings and decoration within the hotel are also a real delight. Although the stem is not 100% local, it is perfectly combined. The property is a true boutique gem. The rooms are nice and simple, but offer every comfort and also a good view. Those who dare to climb the somewhat difficult stairs can also see Salento from the highest point of the hotel.
We recommend this hotel to solo travelers, couples, and groups looking for a true boutique experience.
Gran Azul Ecoresort
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Camino Nacional a Toche km 0,7
Capacity: 5 rooms / 1 family bungalow
Room types: Double room (20 m²/ 215 ft2) / Bungalow (40 m²/ 430 ft2)
Highlights: View / Rest / Snacks
Services: Wi-Fi / Airport transfer / Packed lunches / Various sporting activities
The Gran Azul Ecoresort is one of the most charming hotels in Salento. The owner and host is Spanish and has lived in Colombia for many years. The hotel is a bit outside of Salento and is surrounded by nature. However, you can walk to the village in 10 minutes. The hotel is built in a terrace style, which guarantees a good view from every point.
The main house is upstairs and is connected by a staircase to the terrace corridor, which leads to the rooms. The 5 rooms are all identical but have different color schemes. They are also very spacious and have very comfortable beds. I was able to see it for myself.
There is also a bungalow above the main house, which offers enough space for a whole family. This is particularly suitable for families with small children.
I recommend the Gran Azul Ecoresort to all travelers looking for peace and quiet.
La Cabaña Ecohotel
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Vía al Valle del Cocora Kilómetro 2
Capacity: 9 rooms
Room types: Double rooms 1 or 2 beds (15 m²/161 ft2, 16 m²/172 ft2, and 18 m²/193 ft2) / Four-bed rooms (17 m²/182 ft2 and 29 m²/312 ft2)
Highlights: Natural surroundings / River sounds
Services: Airport transfer / Wi-Fi / Free parking / Breakfast buffet
Awards: TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2020
The eco-hotel is located in the Cocora Valley and has classic local architecture with traditional colors. The rooms are spartan but nicely furnished, the hotel follows the local culture. La Cabaña is run by the owners, father and daughter, themselves. This is one of the hotels in Salento that allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature and the tranquility of the countryside.
The accommodation offers a lot of freedom of movement because the nearest neighbors are far away. You, therefore, have the opportunity to move freely on the very large property.
The hotel has 2 accommodations:
“La Casa de montaña”
This is the main building. All rooms are connected via the large terrace.
“River House”
The annex offers four more bedrooms with the same comfort. However, the house is next to the river and you can hear it constantly. Good sleep is therefore guaranteed. The La Cabaña Ecohotel is located around 2 kilometers from Salento.
We recommend this hotel above all to travelers who are looking for accommodation in nature and who want to enjoy peace and harmony.
Montana Glamping
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Vereda Palestina 1,5km
Capacity: 12 people
Room types: Junior Suite (20 m²/ 215 ft2) / Deluxe Double (150 m²/ 1614 ft2) / Deluxe Villa (160 m²/ 1722 ft2) / Tent (17 m²/ 182 ft2)
Highlights: No internet / View / Privacy
Services: Airport transfer / Free parking / Kettle & coffee maker in all rooms / Breakfast buffet
Hotel Montana is the perfect place to rest and get away from the noise of the city. The hotel has a solid building and glamping tents right next door. The property is large and also offers a good view of the region. It is one of the best hotels in Salento for nature lovers.
The hotel is located around 3 kilometers from Salento. In Montana, you will find luxurious and sophisticated tents with personal attention and a fantastic view of the mountains.
Montana is certainly one of the most spectacular places to stay in Salento. For all groups or families who are looking for privacy, Montana glamping is a very good option.
Hotel Salento Plaza
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Carrera 7 #6-26
Capacity: 10 rooms
Room types: Deluxe (25 m²/ 269 ft2) / Deluxe family (40 m²/ 430 ft2) / Deluxe three-bed room (35 m²/ 376 ft2) / Deluxe four-bed room (35 m²/ 376 ft2)
Highlights: Buildings in the coffee region style
Services: Airport transfer / Wi-Fi / Breakfast (continental, American and vegetarian)
Awards: TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2020
The hotel is housed in a typical building in the regional style and is reminiscent of the buildings on the coffee fincas. Its white and yellow colors highlight the typical architecture. The hotel has a beautiful garden which is perfect for relaxing.
The property is located around 100 meters from the main square. The rooms are also simply but nicely furnished and leave nothing to be desired.
We recommend this hotel to single travelers, couples and groups looking for an unforgettable experience in the traditional atmosphere of the region.
Terasu Hotel
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Carrera 5 #11-43
Capacity: 9 rooms
Room types: Deluxe (46 m²/ 495 ft2) / Double room (37 m²/ 398 ft2) / Family (46 m²/ 495 ft2)
Highlights: Rooms with balconies and hammocks
Services: Airport Transfer / Free Parking / Pets Allowed / Wi-Fi / Breakfast
Awards: TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2020
The Hotel Terasu is one of the newest hotels in Salento and it stands out for its wooden construction. All rooms are modernly furnished and have a balcony.
The garden also offers lush vegetation and the viewing terrace offers a view of Salento. The main square of the town is 600 m from the hotel on foot.
We recommend this hotel to travelers who are looking for a quiet hotel with comfortable and modern furnishings.
Hotel La Masia
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Calle 8 #8-50
Capacity: 11 rooms
Room types: Suite with hydromassage (38 m²/ 409 ft2) / Double room (11 m²/ 118 ft2 and 14 m²/ 150 ft2) / Four-bed room (12 m²/ 129 ft2) / Independent apartments (110 m²/ 1184 ft2)
Highlights: View / Spa / Picnic area
Services: Wi-Fi / Airport transfer / American breakfast / Special diet menus (on request)
The hotel consists of 2 buildings and has a cafeteria and a bar with a view. The rooms are spacious and comfortable. They offer garden and mountain views. We recommend the suite with a whirlpool bathtub. It is not only pleasantly large, but also has a terrace with a view.
The hotel is one of the best hotels in salento for groups who need flexibility in their room occupancy.
Hotel La Tía Emiss
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Carrera 4 #No 5 – 38
Capacity: 23 rooms
Room types: Double room (8 m²/ 86 ft2) / Double room – 2 beds (11 m²/ 118 ft2) / Family (12 m²/ 129 ft2) / Four-bed room (12 m² / 129 ft2)
Highlights: Classic local style / Games room
Services: 24-hour reception / Airport transfer / Wi-Fi / Tour desk
This cozy hotel is located 200 meters from Salento’s village square. This hotel is one of the hotels in Salento that will make you feel at home. The house has a typical local architecture with the inner courtyard, which is classic for the region. The trees growing through the building are also very vivid. For this purpose, special openings were planned in the structure.
All rooms in the hotel have a terrace, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a simple design. In the general areas of the hotel, there are also various seating areas with classic furniture. Breakfast is not available at this hotel.
We recommend this hotel for explorers, couples and business travelers and in general for people who are looking for accommodation without a lot of luxury.
Hotel Rancho San Antonio
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Camino Los Indios, 4 kilómetros antes de Salento
Capacity: 6 rooms
Room types: Junior Suite (33 m²/ 356 ft2) / Four-bed room (22 m²/ 236 ft2) / Family suite (42 m²/ 452 ft2) / Double room (19 m²/ 204 ft2)
Highlights: Pool / Jacuzzi
Services: Wi-Fi / Airport transfer / Room service / Free parking / American breakfast / Bike rental / Packed lunches / Spa
If you are looking for hotels in Salento that offer a rural, modern design and a relaxing outdoor swimming pool, you might want to consider the Hotel Finca San Antonio. This classic country hotel is located outside of Salento. It is characterized by a rural, modern design. The outdoor swimming pool is complemented by 2 Jacuzzis and is made of stone. With blue lighting, this place turns into a real eye-catcher at night.
The Finca Hotel Rancho San Antonio has a capacity for 18 people and features a common area, a garden, and a terrace.
We recommend this hotel to travelers who are looking for the comfort of a country hotel.
Hotel Salento Real
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Calle 3 #4-31
Room types: Double room (16 m²/ 172 ft2 and 21 m²/ 226 ft2) / Double room 2 beds (28 m²/ 301 ft2) / Family (39 m²/ 419 ft2) / Four-bed room (23 m²/ 247 ft2)
Highlights: Restaurant / Terrace
Services: Airport Transfer / Room Service / Free Parking / Wi-Fi / Bar & Breakfast Buffet
Awards: TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2020
One of the hotels in Salento that you can choose from is the Hotel Salento Real. This hotel is relatively large and has many rooms. The building was built in the Spanish colonial style and impresses with its bright colors. All rooms have colonial-inspired furniture with Quindio handicrafts.
The hotel also has a traditional cuisine inspired by local flavors and products in the Quindú restaurant. It is located 2 minutes by car from the commercial area of Salento.
Salento Real Hotel is suitable for couples, families and groups of friends who want to enjoy tranquility in a traditionally warm Quindío environment.
La Posada de la Plaza
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Carrera 6 #5-34
Capacity: 11 rooms
Room types: Double room (15 m²/ 161 ft2) / Triple room (18 m²/ 193 ft2)
Highlights: Location right on the main square
Services: Wi-Fi / Room service / 24-hour reception
If you are looking for hotels in Salento that are central and affordable, you might want to check out the Hotel La Posada de la Plaza. This hotel is situated right on the main square of Salento, close to the ‘royal street’ where you can find many craft shops. The rooms are simple but cozy. It has a fully equipped kitchen for preparing breakfast. On the balcony at the back of the building, you can overlook part of Salento.
We recommend this hotel to travelers who are looking for a central and affordable place to stay.
Is Salento Safe?
The answer is yes, Salento is safe to visit with some precautions and common sense. In recent years, Salento has undergone a remarkable transformation from a no-go zone due to guerrilla activity to one of the most peaceful and welcoming places in Colombia. Nevertheless, there are still risks and dangers in Salento. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and enjoy your time in Salento:
- Travel only in daylight on main roads. Some places may be unsafe or have bad roads. Use a good taxi or hotel transport at night.
- Be respectful and modest in Salento. It’s a traditional town with proud people and culture. Don’t do anything that may upset or insult them. Dress well for sacred places. Ask before taking photos, especially of kids or natives. Smile and say “buenos días”.
- Be aware of the altitude and weather. Salento is located at an altitude of about 1,900 meters (6,200 feet) above sea level, which means that the air is thinner, and you may experience some symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and take it easy for the first few days until you acclimatize. The weather in Salento can also be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and rainfall. Pack layers of clothing, a rain jacket, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
To make the most of your trip, consider staying at one of the best hotels in Salento that fits your needs and budget. There are a variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from cozy hostels to luxury resorts, all offering excellent service and facilities. Simply scroll up and check out my recommendations.
When is the best time to visit Salento?
The ideal time to visit Salento depends on your preferences. Certain factors can impact your travel experience, such as rainfall, crowds, and festivals. It’s also recommended to book your accommodation in advance, since hotels in Salento can fill up quickly during peak months.
The best times to visit Salento for ideal weather are from November 12th to December 30th, based on average temperature and humidity. These months are also relatively dry, with the lowest chance of rain. However, if you don’t mind some showers, you can also visit Salento during the rest of the year, as the rain is usually not too heavy or frequent.
The busiest month for tourism in Salento is April, followed by January and May. These months coincide with the Easter holidays and the Colombian summer vacation. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere, you might want to visit Salento during the low season, which is from June to September. However, keep in mind that some businesses and attractions might be closed or have reduced hours during this time.
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