High in the coffee region of southwestern Antioquia lies the charming town of Jericó, a true stronghold of mountain culture where visitors can immerse themselves
in the fascinating rural traditions of the Paisa people.
Thanks to its elegant republican-era architecture, it is a pleasure to explore Jericó's town center on foot. Take your time visiting its numerous historic buildings before pausing to try the town's award-winning coffee in one of the many gourmet cafés.
The town rises around one of the most beautiful squares in the region, dominated by a large brick church. Around it, you'll see countless colorful houses with wooden balconies typical of Antioquian colonial settlements. Several traditional houses have been converted into interesting museums, giving visitors the chance to admire both the architecture and art exhibitions.
Jericó is also an important religious tourism destination, as it is the birthplace of Mother Laura, Colombia's first saint, known for working with remote indigenous communities. You can visit her childhood home, now a small museum and sanctuary.
And if you think the town is beautiful, wait until you see the surrounding countryside. The steep mountain slopes are painted in endless shades of green and host charming coffee farms, pristine nature reserves, and panoramic viewpoints.
Attractions and Experiences
Parque Las Nubes
On the mountains surrounding the town, this nature reserve protects over 100 hectares of forest where visitors can observe countless birds, butterflies, monkeys, and armadillos. There is no doubt: biodiversity is present in every corner of the reserve. Trails allow for multiple hikes, making it easy to get close to the species you want to see.
Nature, Wildlife
Cerro El Salvador
If you dare to climb this stone path, you will reach its enormous Christ the Redeemer statue and be ready to enjoy magnificent views of the town and the mountains dotted with farms on the horizon.
Viewpoint
Jardín Botánico Los Balsos
Hidden behind what appear to be colorful walls of a traditional house on the edge of the urban area, this peaceful botanical garden is a stunning place to relax or observe, with minimal effort, some of the many bird and butterfly species that flutter around.
Nature
Experiences
Paisa Carriel Workshops
Jericó is the birthplace of one of Colombia's most beloved accessories, the Paisa carriel, a small expandable leather bag shaped like an accordion with numerous inner pockets. While modern designs now feature shiny patterns and colorful combinations, originally these bags were purely functional, used by legendary muleteers to carry tools, letters, and other items across the country.
Determining the origin of the first carriels is controversial, but there is no doubt that the best bags are still made in Jericó. The town has a long tradition in leatherwork, and visitors can watch the craft in workshops before admiring the finished products and choosing one to take home as a souvenir. These are authentic pieces representing the region's rich rural traditions.
Shopping, Handicrafts
Coffee Tasting
Renowned nationwide for its first-class coffee cultivation, Jericó is the perfect place to learn the art of coffee tasting. Visitors can take classes with professional baristas who teach roasting, identifying flavor notes, and brewing techniques. Once skilled, be sure to buy a few bags of fresh beans to impress friends back home.
Coffee Details
Practical Information
Accommodation
To make the most of Jericó, it is recommended to spend the night in a traditional country house on a coffee farm outside the town. Here, you will wake up to birdsong and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee made by hospitable hosts. Alternatively, there are many good hotels downtown for those who enjoy the bustling streets and proximity to restaurants and cafés.
Arrival
Jericó is about three hours by car from southwestern Medellín, which offers flights to destinations throughout Colombia and beyond. Keep in mind that on weekends, the roads in and out of the town can be crowded, slightly increasing travel time.
Helpful Tip
Jericó is near another main destination in Antioquia's coffee region, Jardín, and it is recommended to visit both on the same trip to truly experience this attractive region.
