Looking for a peaceful escape in the Colombian countryside? Jardin, Colombia is your answer! We spent 7 weeks travelling around Colombia and Jardin was one of our favourite places.
Hidden in the heart of the coffee region, Jardin offers stunning landscapes, delicious coffee, and a slower pace of life. Imagine strolling through colourful streets lined with traditional colonial houses, hiking through lush cloud forests, or simply relaxing in a cozy cafe. Also, like many of the smaller towns in Colombia, Jardin is very safe and friendly to travellers. Jardin has it all!
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How to get there
Bus from Medellin
From Medellin, you can take a direct bus to Jardin. Several bus companies offer this route, and the journey generally takes around 3-4 hours from Medellin. Alternatively you can also arrive up from Salento, however that trip can’t be booked online and requires a couple extra steps which we cover in our blog on Salento.
Travel Tips
Birdwatching
Jardin is one of the few in the world where you can see the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock! This cute little town is made for nature lovers and people looking for a relaxed and slower pace of life.
Detour to the Hot Springs
Most people visiting Jardin are either coming from Medellin on the way to Salento or the other way around. Why not make it a trip and stop by the Santa Rosa Hot Springs on the way? Sandwiched between Jardin and Salento, this Santa Rosa is slightly off the regular backpacker route and a perfect place to relax.
Must see spots
Reserva Natural Jardin de Rocas
Reserva Natural Jardin de Rocas is a birdwatcher’s paradise, particularly for those seeking a glimpse of the elusive Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. We were recommended this place by our Spanish teacher, Daniela, back in Medellin, who told us it’s very rare to be able to see this bird out in the wild. Fun fact: it’s also the national bird of Peru! This adorable bird, known for its striking red plumage, performs a fun courtship display right in the middle of the sanctuary for all to see.
Take a hike and CAble Car ride across the valley
There are so many waterfalls and hiking trails in Jardin, which makes it a perfect nature lover’s weekend getaway from Medellin.
In particular, there is trail you will want to look for: Charco Corazon – Cascada del Amor. This is a super easy 1.5 hour trail which is mostly on the road. The reason we recommend this trail is not for the views or the trail itself, but for the cable car! It’s very rudimentary (think flying porta-loo), but super fun and definitely a memorable highlight of our stay in Jardin. Did we mention that the local dogs also take this cable car to meet their friends? Adorable.
Where to stay
Jardin offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From cozy guesthouses to luxurious boutique hotels, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your head. Consider staying in the heart of town (around the square) for easy access to shops, restaurants, and the main square. For a more tranquil experience, opt for a hotel or eco-lodge nestled in the surrounding hills.
Eat and drink
Jardín offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa, a hearty platter featuring beans, rice, chicharron, chorizo, and a fried egg. For a lighter option, try arepas, a type of corn cake, served with various toppings.
If you’re looking for snacks, plenty of local vendors set up shop all around the town square every afternoon and evening, so you’ll be sure to find something to eat!
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Jardin is during the dry season from December to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, which making it perfect for hiking!
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