Enjoy cool mountain breezes in Santa Rosa de Cabal. The town is set on the western slopes of the Cordillera Central and features a charming historic centre. Soak in natural hot springs, sample street food in the lively main square and sip freshly roasted coffee grown in surrounding plantations.
Things to do in Santa Rosa de Cabal
Jump in a shared Jeep and hitch a ride to the Balneario Santa Rosa hot springs. Hidden away down a bumpy dirt road, the hot springs are set beneath a cascading waterfall. Follow the short trail upstream until you reach the crystalline pools. They usually stay open until midnight which means you can stay for sunset and soak under the stars.
Unlock sweeping views over the surrounding mountains and valleys from the Tambo el Privilege Viewpoint. The views stretch all the way to nearby cities like Pereira and Dosquebradas on clear days. Stock up on locally grown coffee beans and handmade souvenirs from the colourful stalls.
Tree-lined Araucarias Park is the beating heart of Santa Rosa de Cabal. The bustling public square is a great place to sip coffee and watch locals go about their business. Our Lady of Victories Basilica watches over the square and features a picturesque white-and-yellow façade. A statue of beloved leader Simón Bolívar lends even more grandeur to the square.
From deep-fried “arepas” cornbread and cheese-stuffed empanadas to sugar-dusted Colombian churros, it’s hard to resist the street food in Santa Rosa de Cabal. Quench your thirst with a cup of “avena”, a rich and creamy oat-based drink flavoured with cinnamon, cloves and sugar.
Getting around Santa Rosa de Cabal
Santa Rosa de Cabal is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Shared taxis are a fast and affordable way to get around the town and visit nearby sights and attractions. Pereira, the closest major city and capital of the Risaralda department, is a 25-minute drive away. Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport near Cali is a 3.5-hour drive away.