Armenia is the capital
city of the department of Quindio and makes up a significant
portion of Colombia’s famous coffee region. Second only to the
Caribbean coast of Colombia, the coffee region attracts vast
numbers of tourists annually due to its breathtaking
landscapes, cultural cities, national parks and friendly
locals.
The rich history of Armenia began with the ancient indigenous
empire of the Quimbaya tribe who once inhabited these fertile
lands, fought against the early Spanish colonisers and
produced some of the most intricate and overwhelmingly
beautiful gold artefacts ever discovered
anywhere in the world.
In the surrounding area around Armenia and Quindio are many
lush forests, fast-flowing rivers and rolling hills which
supply the perfect backdrop for excitement-seekers to engage
themselves in adventurous pursuits such as parasailing from
the slopes of Andean peaks, canopying amongst the tree-tops,
kayaking and rafting the waters of the many rivers of the
region, horse-riding while admiring the green hues of the
countryside and trekking in the Los Nevados National Park.
For the family and a more relaxing visit to Armenia, visit the
National Coffee Park which has rides, cable cars and the
Coffee Museum or Panaca animal park and petting zoo which
never fails to delight the children.
Armenia epitomises the spirit and love for life that is
embedded deep in the hearts of the citizens of the coffee
region.
Climate:
Warm/Humid – Cold (In the
mountainous National Parks)
Temperature:
Average 19 - 28 degrees centigrade (15 – 20 in the townships
located at higher altitude)
The
valleys display a warm, sunny, agreeable climate with
frequent showers and low cloud cover. Warm-weather
clothing is advised for visits to Los Nevados National
Park and other attractions set at higher altitudes.
Armenia was originally
inhabited by various indigenous tribes including the Quimbaya
who were impeccable gold-workers whose legacy has left the
world with mind-blowing gold artefacts to admire forever.
Following the downfall of the Quimbayan empire Spanish
colonisers poured into the region in search of gold and
eventually settled and began to farm coffee which has now
become the smoothest and most recognisable in the world. The
coffee culture now attracts many visitors and traditional
dress and architecture are still preserved to this day.
Quindio is also home to the national tree of Colombia; the Wax
Palm which is the tallest species of palm tree in the world
and the only palm tree to be found in cold climates.
January:
The Wax Palm Parties.
March:
Anniversary Parties (Buenavista).
April:
Bamboo Parties.
June:
National Queen of
Coffee Beauty Pageant.
Parade of Yipao.
Culture Week.
Hamper Parties.
Beauty Queen of the
Chapolera International Aero-Festival.
Equine Fayre.
Anniversary Parties (Montenegro).
Departmental Queen of Coffee Beauty Pageant.
December:
National Candle & Lamp
Festival
Valle de Cocora
This amazing place is scattered with hundreds of giant
wax palm-trees which is the national tree of Colombia.
Visitors will be astounded by this alien landscape and
upon arrival at the peak, will be able to relax in
restaurants and enjoy typical food of the region.
Quindio Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Farm
Walk amongst the tropical vegetation of Colombia and feel
in heaven as paradisiacal butterflies glide through the
air and other animals can be observed in a man-made habit.
One for the lovers of the natural world.
Los Nevados National Natural Park
This National Park is set in the coffee region and
incorporates the snow-capped peaks of various giant
mountains. Adventurous spirits will be delighted exploring
the paramos, rivers, forests and perpetual snows of this
National Park.
Coffee Farms
Agro-tourism is a booming industry in the coffee region as
coffee-farmers open their homes and warmly welcome
visitors to immerse themselves in the calming ambience
amidst the deep-green hills that surround their farms.
Tourists can also take part in the coffee-production
process and learn how their morning sip comes to be.
National Coffee-Park
The National Coffee Park is a proud, pretty celebration of
the region’s rich history of coffee production.
Throughout the park are breathtaking panoramas, theme-park
rides and museums, all presented in the typical bright and
vibrant colours of the coffee region.
Panaca
One for the family, Panaca is an agricultural animal farm
where visitors can feed and interact with all manner of
farm animals. Throughout the day, animal shows such as
horse riding wow the crowds and create memories to be
treasured for eternity.
Request a personal quotation
or speak to one of our Experience Specialists; 0121 588 3827
