Embark on a six-day gravel adventure through Colombia’s coffee region — 138.5 miles (223 kilometers) of challenging rides, rich culture, vibrant towns and unforgettable experiences on and off the bike.
Get ready and grab your gravel bike — our team is waiting to welcome you on a six-day journey across the unpaved roads and winding paths of Colombia’s legendary coffee region: Caldas, Risaralda and Quindío.
Starting in Manizales, the capital of Caldas, this gravel cycling adventure takes you all the way to the scenic outskirts of Armenia, capital of Quindío. Along the way, you’ll pass through some of the region’s most picturesque towns — Santa Rosa de Cabal, Filandia and Salento — each offering a unique glimpse into Colombia’s cultural richness.
This four-stage tour covers 138.5 miles (223 kilometers) and climbs 24,711 feet (7,532 meters) — a demanding route that rewards your effort with stunning landscapes, vibrant local life and the unmistakable spirit of the coffee lands.
More than a challenge, this is a full cultural immersion: taste traditional cuisine, discover Colombia’s renowned coffee heritage and connect with welcoming communities in every town.
At Road Hunters, we don’t just guide you through the ride — we curate every detail. From premium lodging and delicious local food to seamless logistics and expert support, our mission is to make this experience both safe and extraordinary.
This isn’t just gravel riding. It’s a transformative adventure — physically thrilling, culturally rich and utterly unforgettable.
The gravel cycling tour kicks off in Manizales, the capital of Colombia’s Caldas department — often called the “Mountain Capital of Colombia.”
To reach Manizales, you can fly into Matecaña International Airport (PEI), conveniently located in nearby Pereira.
Our dedicated Road Hunters staff will be ready to greet you at the airport gate or provide transport from anywhere in the coffee region.
Upon your arrival, our expert team will assist with your luggage and ensure the safe transfer of your gravel bike and gear to our top-tier accommodations.
We’ll also make sure your fellow cyclists are comfortably settled in.
Your gravel bike will be professionally assembled and maintained, and any cycling-related needs will be promptly addressed by our experienced crew.
In the evening, we invite you to enjoy a welcome dinner, where we’ll introduce the itinerary and routes for the exciting days ahead.
Today marks the exciting start of our journey through Colombia’s stunning coffee region.
The first stage of our gravel cycling adventure begins in Manizales, as we ride through captivating coffee farms, enjoying rich Colombian coffee flavors and breathtaking views.
Today’s route covers over 53 kilometers (more than 33 miles), leading us to Santa Rosa de Cabal. Its charming central park awaits, a perfect spot to relax and soak in local life.
After significant climbs and thrilling descents, we’ll enjoy a delicious Colombian lunch. The afternoon is free to explore the town, savor world-class coffee, and immerse ourselves in the region’s coffee culture.
Our Santa Rosa stay includes a comfortable hotel featuring the town’s unique natural hot springs.
Prepare to conquer the second stage of this gravel cycling tour: an impressive 46-kilometer (28.5-mile) route.
We’ll ride from Santa Rosa de Cabal (Risaralda) to the picturesque heritage town of Filandia (Quindío), known for its vibrant, colorful atmosphere.
Our adventure unfolds against the stunning Andean forest, crossing the pristine landscapes of the Otún Quimbaya Wildlife Sanctuary and the Okumary Natural Reserve.
Upon arrival in Filandia, a delicious lunch and drinks await. Our traditional hotel offers a comfortable retreat. Relax with a cold beer or explore Filandia’s enchanting historic center, filled with Antioquian architecture and colorful streets, perfect for immersing yourself in the town’s beauty and culture.
Saddle up for the third stage of our thrilling cycling tour: a breathtaking 59-kilometer (36.6-mile) ride. This route leads from colorful Filandia to the iconic Cocora Valley, near Los Nevados National Natural Park. This protected area is home to Colombia’s national tree, the endangered Quindío wax palm (Ceroxylon quindiuense), a towering symbol of ecological and cultural identity.
Along the way, ride through crystal-clear creeks, vibrant coffee farms, and the majestic tropical Andes. The inspiring and challenging route fully immerses you in the natural beauty and traditions of Colombia’s coffee region.
After exploring Cocora, enjoy lunch and drinks. The day ends in Salento, a picturesque town known for its colonial architecture and warm hospitality. Our traditional hotel in Salento offers a comfortable setting to relax or explore the town’s colorful streets and lively culture. It’s the perfect end to a day of adventure and authentic Colombian charm.
Early morning starts the queen stage of our gravel cycling tour with a transfer to Cajamarca, Tolima.
Stage four is a challenging 65-kilometer (40.3-mile) ride to Salento, gaining 2,399 meters (7,871 feet) through the La Línea pass.
We’ll climb the Central Andes on the El Toche gravel road, named for the midpoint settlement.
El Toche hosts the best-preserved sanctuary of Colombia’s national tree, the endangered wax palm (Ceroxylon quindiuense).
Cycling here offers a unique chance to appreciate and support its conservation. The Road Hunters team will fully support you with hydration, snacks, and motivation.
After this unforgettable route, we return to our Salento hotel for a well-earned lunch. Your task: relax, celebrate, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Colombia’s coffee region.
After one last joyful breakfast together, we’ll take you to the nearest transport station or airport for your journey home.
We hope your week was filled with thrilling rides, vibrant culture and unforgettable memories. You’re leaving with more than just miles conquered — you carry adventure, laughter and new connections in your heart.
Thank you for riding with us and making this journey truly special. We can’t wait to welcome you back for another Road Hunters adventure!
