At any time, thinking about hiking through green mountains and coffee farms in Colombia, it feels exciting for many travelers. Jardin, a beautiful town in the coffee region, offers some of the best hikes that test your energy and let you enjoy beautiful nature.
In this guide, we explore six amazing Jardin hikes, with trail maps and special attractions that make your trip memorable. You will see why Jardin should be at the top of your adventure list. All Trails is a helpful website with maps and reviews for most hikes. It makes finding your way easy and helps you avoid getting lost.
1. Cueva de los Guacharos to Salto del Angel (Our Favorite Jardin Hike)
| 🥾 8.5 km (5.2 mi) ⏱️ 5-6 hours 💪 Difficult 🗺️ Use Maps.me |
This hike is special because it has a mix of challenge and beauty. It is great for those who want an exciting adventure and to enjoy nature. The trail changes from steep hills to gentle slopes, making every step fun, while the sights and sounds of the jungle make the experience amazing.
As you get closer to Salto del Angel, excitement grows, and the huge waterfall is a reward worth the effort. Hiking in Jardin is not just an activity but a chance to explore the lively heart of Colombia.
| Tip: The trail is muddy with some river crossings. Waterproof shoes help, but I did it in Vans, any shoes can work. |
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Also known as Los Siete Cascadas / 7 Waterfall Hike Jardin
Set in the green areas around Jardin, the Los Siete Cascadas hike shows the beauty of nature. This amazing trail goes through green jungles, full of birds and the sounds of moving leaves. Each waterfall you find is like a hidden treasure, with clear water perfect for a refreshing dip. The exciting sound of falling water makes the experience even better, making every step worth it.
Starting Point of Cueva de los Guacharos Hike
Cueva de los Guácharos hike, you’ll immediately hear the many sounds of the rainforest around you. This starting point is not just the beginning of an adventure, it is a doorway into the lively nature of Jardín, where you can hear birds calling and leaves moving in the wind.
The green plants and tall trees give shade and a peaceful feeling, welcoming both experienced hikers and beginners to enjoy the natural beauty. The hike starts at Cascada La Escalera. Walk past the waterfall for 20–30 minutes to reach a farmhouse.
| Tip: You can skip the full Cueva de los Guacharos hike and still see Cascada La Escalera via the Cristo Rey loop. |
First Stop: Dragon Falls
Tucked away in the lush hills near Laureles, Dragon Falls in Medellín is a hidden gem that promises calm and adventure for hikers. As you walk along the farmland trails, each step takes you deeper into a vibrant landscape of rolling hills and rich greenery. The walk is not just about reaching the falls, it’s about enjoying the symphony of nature, the rustling leaves, and distant bird songs create a peaceful backdrop that makes the experience even better.Eat healthy and cheap here
| Tip: At Dragon Falls, there is a path on the right side when you face the falls. It looks like the way forward, but it goes up a cliff and needs hard climbing. The easier way is to go up the left side of the falls, where you will find a path that goes up the hill and crosses the river above the falls. |
Dragon Falls to Cueva de los Guacharos
As you walk along the Dragon Falls trail, the journey becomes a beautiful mix of sights and sounds that lead to the magical Cueva de los Guacharos. This hike is not just a walk through nature, it’s a full experience showing the lively ecosystems of Colombia. With every step, the lush greenery brushes past you, while birds fly through the trees, giving a lovely symphony of rustling leaves and distant calls. The muddy paths make the hike more exciting, testing your determination but giving you amazing views of unique waterfalls that flow into calm serene pools.
Arriving at Cueva de los Guacharos
Arriving at Cueva de los Guacharos is an exciting experience that starts long before you reach the cave. On the Cueva de los Guacharos hike, the steep hiking trails twist and turn through lush Colombian greenery, opening up to stunning panoramic vistas that capture every adventurer’s heart. Each turn shows hidden waterfalls falling in the distance, their soft roar inviting you closer and adding to the thrill. With every step, you are not just moving forward; you are fully immersed in the rich ecosystem of Jardin, where colorful flora and fauna thrive.Soon, you will reach a fork in the path. Take the right path, which goes downhill to Cueva de los Guacharos. You can find it on Maps.me.
| Tip: At the falls, you can climb under the water and go behind them. It is a small space but lots of fun! |
Cueva de los Guacharos to Salto del Angel
Going on a hiking adventure near Cueva de los Guacharos takes you through a stunning landscape of lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls. The trails are full of hidden treasures, including the magical Salto del Angel waterfall, which falls down rocky cliffs, creating a scene of wonder and calm. These easy hiking paths around Jardin, Colombia, are great for experienced hikers and also welcome casual explorers who want to enjoy the beauty of nature.
| Tip: Salto del Angel is a nice place to eat your packed lunch. There are rocks to sit on in the sun and enjoy the waterfall. |
Returning to Jardin
Returning to Jardin shows not only the magical landscapes but also the excitement of adventure waiting in every part of this lovely Colombian town. The Salto del Angel return route gives hikers an amazing journey, with falling waterfalls and green verdant valleys combining into a scene of natural beauty. This 5-hour hike is great for people looking for both challenge and wonder, offering vistas that inspire and refresh the spirit.
2. Cueva del Esplendor (Jardin Waterfall Hike)
| 🥾 6 km (3.7mi) ⏱️ 5-7 hours 💪 Moderate to difficult 🗺️ Use Maps.me |
Hiking to Cueva del Esplendor in Jardin, Colombia, gives an unforgettable mix of adventure and natural beauty. Walking along the coffee farm trails, the bright green landscapes and fragrant coffee plants create a unique sensory experience. Excitement grows as you get closer to the waterfall, the sound of rushing water calling you forward. When you arrive, the amazing view of cascading water falling into a sparkling pool leaves visitors amazed, making it one of the most popular waterfalls in the Medellin area.
3. Cerro de Cristo Rey Loop (Best Jardin Hike for Foodies)
| 🥾 3.5 km (2.1 mi) ⏱️ 1 hour 💪 Easy 🗺️ Use Alltrails |
The Cerro de Cristo Rey Loop in Jardin, Colombia, is a great hike for nature lovers and food fans. The easy Sendero Cristo Rey trail has beautiful views, green landscapes, and a calm, peaceful feel. After the hike, visit Cafe Jardin to enjoy fresh local fruit and a cup of Jardin’s famous coffee while enjoying the amazing scenery. The mix of nature and tasty treats makes this hike a favorite for visitors.
Optional Detour to Cascada La Escalera
If you are in Jardin, Colombia, a fun adventure waits at Cascada La Escalera. This beautiful waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flora, gives a peaceful escape just a short hike from town. The trip to the cascade is exciting, perfect for those wanting a little adventure. As you walk the trails, you’ll see amazing vistas showing the untouched beauty of Colombia’s landscapes. The local wildlife adds magic, with colorful birds flying between the trees, inviting nature enthusiasts to enjoy the scenery a bit longer.
Best places to eat & drink on the Cristo Rey Loop
Nestled along the Cristo Rey Loop in Jardin, Cafe Jardin offers a peaceful escape with bright decor, green surroundings, and fresh Colombian cuisine. Don’t miss their popular fruit platter and vegan-friendly dishes. A short walk from Mirador Cristo Rey leads to Revolucion Bananera , where you can enjoy hearty Bandeja Paisa and creative vegan meals. La Terraza provides beautiful scenic views, delicious Colombian dishes like trout, and a warm atmosphere for groups or romantic meals. For a final stop, the 4th café on the loop is perfect for a quick coffee break, letting you relax and enjoy the lush landscapes. Together, these places make the Cristo Rey Loop a must-visit for food lovers exploring Jardin.
4. Charco Corazon and Cascada del Amor Loop (Quirky Attractions)
| 🥾 4.3 km (2.7 mi) ⏱️ 1,5 hours 💪 Easy 🗺️ Use Alltrails |
Charco Corazon and Cascada del Amor Loop invite hikers to enjoy the magical charm of Jardin, Colombia. This easy hike gives not only amazing vistas but also a special sensory experience, with bright foliage, peaceful trails, and the sounds of cascading water. As you walk through this beautiful landscape, the playful hearts carved in the rocks at Charco Corazon make a fun photo stop, perfect for couples and friends.
Visit the Bat Cave
Nestled in the green hills near Jardin, Colombia, the Bat Cave, or Cueva de los Murcielagos gives a fascinating view of nature with colorful bats and striking stalactites. The handmade tunnel leading to the cave adds excitement, and a short walk afterward takes you to a hidden waterfall for a refreshing break.
Along the way, Mirador la Herrerita offers panoramic views of Jardin, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee, while La Casa de la Mazamorra serves traditional food in a charming garden. Walking the farm trails through the verdant landscape completes this full experience, combining amazing scenery, local cuisine, and unique outdoor attractions in Jardin.
Ride the Jardin Cable Car
High above the green landscapes of Jardin, Colombia, the La Garrucha cable car gives a special view of the town from above. As you glide over bright green hills and cascading waterfalls, you’ll appreciate the rich biodiversity around you even more. This aerial ride not only links you to some of the best hiking trails in the area but also opens up many outdoor activities, perfect for both thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
5. Mirador El Bosque (Awesome View Restaurant)
| 🥾 4 km (2.5 mi) ⏱️ 45 minutes 💪 Easy 🗺️ Use Google Maps |
Nestled in the rolling hills just outside Jardin, Colombia, Mirador El Bosque is a top spot for outdoor dining with amazing vistas. As you climb the steep trails to reach this unique restaurant, the journey becomes an adventure, surrounded by lush greenery and bright landscapes. Once you arrive, the panoramic views of the nearby valleys and mountains provide an unforgettable backdrop for a meal, making every step worth it.
6. Chorro Blanco Waterfall (Hidden Jardin Hike)
Nestled in the green areas around Jardin, the Chorro Blanco Waterfall hike reveals a hidden treasure that goes beyond a normal trekking experience. This off-the-beaten-path adventure not only takes you to a beautiful waterfall but also offers a scenic walk along farmland trails. As you walk through the bright rolling farmland, you’ll see the mix of traditional Colombian agriculture and amazing vistas, giving plenty of chances for photography and quiet reflection.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Jardin, Colombia, is not only a paradise for hiking enthusiasts but also full of unique attractions that will delight any traveler. From the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains to the charming local cafes, there is something for everyone. While walking through the green landscapes, take a moment to enjoy the lively culture the town offers. Every step on these trails is a chance to make lasting memories, making your adventure even more special. So put on your hiking boots and bring your camera, Jardin is ready for your exploration!
FAQS
What are the best hiking trails in Jardin, Colombia?
The top hiking paths include the Camino de los Ocotales and the trail to the Wild Quindio Wax Palm Forest. Both offer amazing views and chances to see unique wildlife.
Is Jardin safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Jardin is usually safe for travelers alone, but it’s smart to take normal precautions, like avoiding dark areas at night.
What is the best time of year to hike in Jardin?
The best season for hiking is the dry months, usually from December to March, when trails are easier to walk and the weather is nice.
Are there any quirky attractions in Jardin?
Yes! Visit the local butterfly farm and the unusual Hummingbird House, where you can get close to colorful birds.
Can I hire a guide for hikes in Jardin?
Absolutely! Local guides are available and give helpful information about the plants, animals, and culture of the area.