Things To Do
in Manizales
Manizales is a vibrant city located in the heart of Colombia's coffee region, known for its stunning mountainous landscape and warm climate. The city is famous for its charming colonial architecture, lively cultural scene, and friendly locals. Manizales is also home to numerous universities, making it a hub for education and research.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the nearby coffee plantations, hiking in the surrounding mountains, and experiencing the rich coffee culture of the region.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to a local coffee farm. Learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy tastings of freshly brewed Colombian coffee.
Take a leisurely hike through the lush green hills surrounding the farm. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the coffee plantations and the Andes.
Return to Manizales and dine at a traditional Colombian restaurant. Savor local dishes while enjoying live music.
Visit the Recinto del Pensamiento Ecological Park. Explore trails filled with unique flora and fauna, ideal for nature lovers.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the serene lake in the park. Try to spot the various bird species that inhabit the area.
Head to a local bar for a taste of artisanal craft beers. Share stories with locals and fellow travelers in a lively atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful mountainous landscape and pleasant climate.
- Rich coffee culture, offering opportunities for coffee tourism.
- Vibrant and friendly local community.
- Cultural events and festivals that showcase local traditions.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
- Lower cost of living compared to larger Colombian cities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Public transportation can be less reliable than in major cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
- Risk of natural phenomena such as landslides in the rainy season.
- Healthcare facilities may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Occasional issues with safety and crime, common in many urban areas.
Best Activities in Manizales
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems of the Andes mountains while hiking in Los Nevados National Natural Park.
Visit a local coffee farm to learn about the coffee production process and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the coffee region.
Relax in the natural hot springs at Termales del Otoño and take in the surrounding mountain views.
Experience sustainable ecotourism activities such as birdwatching, nature walks, and horseback riding at Recinto del Pensamiento.
Tours
Uncover the best of Manizales with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Manizales
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning aerial views of the city and surrounding landscape, perfect for photography.
A popular spot with panoramic views of Manizales and the surrounding mountains, great for capturing beautiful landscapes.
Provides a unique opportunity for photographing a majestic volcano and its surroundings, offering breathtaking views.
Food in Manizales
Manizales Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish featuring red beans, rice, ground beef, chorizo, chicharrón, fried egg, plantains, arepa, and avocado. Best enjoyed at Restaurante La Galeria for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A comforting chicken and potato soup infused with guascas (a local herb) and served with corn on the cob and avocado. Try this traditional dish at Cafe Jesús Martin for a delightful experience.
A savory tamale filled with pork, chicken, vegetables, and rice, wrapped in banana leaves. Head to Mercado de la Villa for a delicious version of this local favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Manizales better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local snacks. Don't miss trying the empanadas, arepas, and exotic fruits while exploring the market.
Every evening, Calle 17 comes alive with street food vendors offering a variety of Colombian delicacies such as lechona, chuzos, and buñuelos. It's a great place to sample authentic street food and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Manizales, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It's important to use titles such as 'Senor' or 'Senora' when addressing older individuals as a sign of respect.
Colombians value personal space, so it's important to maintain an appropriate distance when engaging in conversations. Physical contact like hugging or kissing on the cheek is common among friends and family, but it's best to follow the lead of the person you're interacting with.
Respecting elders is a significant cultural norm in Manizales. It's customary to show deference to older individuals, listen to their advice, and address them with respect.
Safety
Tipping in Manizales
Ensure a smooth experience
In Manizales, Colombia, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for taxi drivers. A 10% tip is customary for good service, but it is not expected in every situation.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Manizales, especially for smaller establishments and street vendors. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger businesses and hotels. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for transactions in smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Manizales, with warm and sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
Expect frequent rain showers, lush green landscapes, and the possibility of cooler temperatures. However, it's a great time for visiting hot springs and enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
Manizales at Night
Hiking in Manizales
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large national park featuring diverse ecosystems, stunning landscapes, and opportunities for trekking and exploring volcanic peaks.
A popular hiking destination near Manizales with beautiful panoramic views of the mountains and coffee plantations.
A scenic hike leading to picturesque waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape.
A serene forest trail offering a peaceful hiking experience amid diverse fauna and flora, ideal for birdwatching.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Aiports
How to reach Manizales by plane.
Located in Armenia, about 66 km from Manizales, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Situated in Pereira, approximately 30 km from Manizales, it is one of the main airports in the region offering various domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Cartago, around 80 km from Manizales, it serves both domestic and international routes, but is smaller compared to others.
Located near Medellín, about 200 km from Manizales, this is a major international airport serving numerous airlines with a wide range of international destinations.
Though farther away, located in Santa Marta, this airport offers international flights and is about 470 km from Manizales.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Manizales, mestizos are individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, representing a significant portion of the population.
This group includes individuals of African descent, who have contributed significantly to the cultural, social, and economic fabric of Manizales.
This demographic includes various Indigenous groups who have historically inhabited the region, though they represent a smaller percentage of the total population.
A vibrant minority group in Manizales, the LGBTQ+ community is increasingly recognized and celebrated for its cultural contributions and activism.
A diverse group comprising people from various countries, including Venezuelans and other Latin American nationals, who have moved to Manizales for work or refuge.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Manizales, with a passionate following, largely due to the presence of teams like Once Caldas.
Cycling is a favored sport in Manizales, known for its mountainous terrain which attracts both recreational cyclists and competitive racers.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Manizales, with local leagues and schools promoting the sport among youth.
Volleyball is widely played recreationally in Manizales, both indoors and on the beach, with many local tournaments held throughout the year.
Athletics enjoys popularity in Manizales, with local schools and clubs offering training and participation in various track and field events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manizales.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Manizales offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a variety of fresh salads, vegetable soups, and plant-based options available. La Sarten Dorada and Moliendo Cafe are known for their delicious vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at several eateries in Manizales. El Rincon Gaucho and El Solar Cocina Artesanal offer gluten-free choices and are accommodating to specific dietary needs.