Filandia

As soon as you take a couple of steps along the little streets of Filandia, pass under its brightly colored wooden balconies and see the baskets of fresh flowers that adorn them, you will understand why the town is considered one of the most attractive in the Western Colombian Andes.

Filandia is perched on top of a hill that offers panoramic views of some of the most magnificent landscapes of the eje cafetero. Furthermore, it brings together charming traditional architecture, lush nature, and a rich coffee culture all in one place, which is also very easy to visit.

For a long time, Filandia was overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Salento, but nowadays, it has rightfully earned its popularity and is a must-stop regardless of your itinerary through the coffee country.

The town perfectly embodies the essence of the Paisaje Cultural Cafetero and is an ideal introduction to the people, architecture, and traditions of one of the most dynamic regions. Here, you will find an elegant main square, guaranteed parking for the collection of classic jeeps that abound in the town and paint it with every color of the rainbow. You will also witness the moment when friendly farmers come down to the town to sell their fragrant and fresh harvest.

Views and experiences

Mirador Colina Iluminada

Because the town stands atop a hill between two impressive mountain ranges, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Filandia from many spots. However, none can compete with those from the Mirador Colina Iluminada, located on the outskirts of town. With a distinctive crown-shaped design, the wooden structure is 27 meters tall and offers several observation platforms. From them, you can glimpse most of the region’s towns, as well as the spectacular peaks of the Western Colombian Andes.

Viewpoint

Parque Regional Natural Barbas Bremen

This protected area is responsible for safeguarding vast stretches of pristine nature to the north and east of Filandia, including the 790 hectares of dense Andean rainforest that line the Barbas River Canyon. The nature reserve is a must for both hikers and bird lovers. One of the main reasons the reserve receives so many visitors is because it offers the chance to see and hear howler monkeys in their natural habitat, but the forest is also home to sloths, agoutis, and a stunning variety of birds, including the endemic pava caucana. Several trails dare to cross the reserve, which is why it is recommended to hire an expert guide in town to show you the way and point out the best places to observe wildlife.

Keep in mind that the Barbas River is prone to sudden flooding, so it is recommended not to cross the canyon if it is raining.

Centro de interpretación "del Bejuco al Canasto"

Filandia is famous for its skilled weavers, who take on the tortuous task of turning native plant fibers into wonderful baskets and ornaments. Originally, this craft arose from the need to create lightweight, durable containers that coffee pickers could use to store their harvest while in the fields. Today, weavers let their creativity run wild and produce pieces of all shapes and sizes, and visitors can see them in action and explore their products in this small yet fascinating museum and gift shop. The art is so central to Filandia that every August the Fiestas del Canasto are held, when balconies all over town are decked out with finely crafted baskets. During the festival, you will find many master weavers leading workshops and passing on their knowledge for posterity.

Culture

Practical details

Accommodation

The streets surrounding Filandia’s main square are full of mid-range hotels and guesthouses, while in the rural areas of the town, you can choose from several boutique accommodations. If you do not wish to spend the night in Filandia, this town is close enough to visit on a day trip from Armenia, Pereira, or Salento, where you will find a wide range of lodging options.

Arrival

The closest airport to Filandia is Pereira’s airport, which was recently renovated and is less than an hour away. It offers direct flights to destinations throughout the country, as well as services to Panama and Miami. Nearby, you will also find Armenia’s El Edén Airport, although it offers fewer destinations.

If you decide to drive, Filandia is located off the main Pereira-Armenia road, about 45 minutes from Pereira and 40 minutes from Armenia.

Useful tip

During the week, when the town is quiet, restaurants in Filandia close very early; plan ahead so you don’t go hungry.