Things To Do
in Palestina
Palestina is a small Andean town in Colombia’s coffee region, known for its friendly locals and colorful streets. It sits among rolling hills and coffee fincas, offering easy access to scenic viewpoints and lush nature. The town has a relaxed pace that invites leisurely mornings with a cup of locally grown coffee and conversations at the plaza.
Surrounding countryside rewards visitors with nature, waterfalls, and opportunities to learn about traditional farming and craft making.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the picturesque town of Palestina and check into your charming hotel, where you'll be welcomed with local coffee. Spend the morning exploring the town square, where you can admire the colonial architecture and vibrant street life. Don't miss the chance to visit a local café for a warm arepa before your adventures begin.
After lunch, embark on a leisurely hike through the scenic Cocora Valley, known for its stunning wax palm trees. Capture breathtaking vistas as you walk along the lush trails thriving with diverse flora and fauna. Return to Palestina in the late afternoon and pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment at your hotel.
As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the local culture by dining at a traditional restaurant serving authentic Colombian cuisine. Engage with friendly locals while sampling dishes like bandeja paisa, renowned in the region. End your evening with a stroll through the town, delighting in the enchanting ambiance.
Begin your day with a visit to a nearby coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup. Participate in a guided tour, where you'll observe the meticulous cultivation and harvesting of coffee beans. Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring fresh coffee brewed right from the farm's beans.
Delve deeper into the world of Colombian coffee with a barista workshop, where you can practice brewing techniques and learn how to create latte art. Afterward, savor a farm-to-table lunch with fresh local ingredients. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the farm, surrounded by the fragrant coffee plants and scenic views.
Return to Palestina and take in the starlit sky while enjoying a cozy dinner at a café known for its intimate atmosphere. Share your experiences from the day with fellow travelers as you taste local desserts like tres leches cake. Wind down with a leisurely walk, appreciating the peaceful vibe of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a local cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚎Public transportation ride (short trip) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-70 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, friendly ambiance with strong coffee culture
- Accessibility to nature and easy day trips from town
- Smaller town with limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Medical facilities are basic locally; plan for larger centers in case of serious needs
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar para comer?" - Could you recommend a place to eat?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido/a." - I am lost.
- "Gracias." - Thank you.
Places to Visit in Palestina
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square with vibrant storefronts and colonial architecture, best lit in the morning or late afternoon.
Narrow streets with charming balconies and craft stalls—great for candid street photography.
Elevated overlooks on the edge of town offering sweeping views of hills and coffee farms, ideal for sunset shots.
Food in Palestina
Palestina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn arepa served as a snack or side, often enjoyed with cheese or presa. Look for it at markets or small eateries.
Must-Try!
Corn dough wrapped in plantain leaf with meat, vegetables, and seasonings; typically served with rice and potatoes.
Hearty broth-based soups featuring meat and vegetables, a comforting choice on cooler days.
Coffee prepared in the traditional style, enjoyed black or with a splash of milk to showcase the bean character of the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Municipal market offering fresh produce, cheeses, arepas, empanadas, and fruit. A great place to sample snack foods and observe daily life.
Small stalls offering arepas, fried plantains, empanadas, and skewered chuzos; ideal for a quick, affordable bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet shop staff with a polite 'Buenos días' or 'Hola.' Use a handshake with adults; a friendly smile is appreciated. Dress modestly in rural areas, and show appreciation for local customs and crafts.
Safety
Tipping in Palestina
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leaving about 5-10% for good service is common. Street vendors typically do not expect tips. Audiences for guided tours or coffee farms often appreciate small tips for guides.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dryer mornings with the possibility of afternoon showers; pleasant to warm temperatures. Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings and carry water for walks.
Palestina at Night
Hiking in Palestina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails that offer scenic overlooks and opportunities for nature photography.
Elevated routes with cooler air and lush vegetation; ideal for a day hike with panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Palestina by plane.
Closest major airport with regional and international connections; from Palestina, access typically by road via a short domestic flight or a longer overland trip to Pereira.
A larger international gateway some distance away; useful for international travelers connecting elsewhere in Colombia or to other countries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly descendants of mixed heritage (mestizo) with rural agricultural roots; vibrant local culture and strong family networks.
Some nearby rural areas are home to indigenous groups with distinct traditions and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Colombia, enjoyed in parks, schools, and community leagues.
Hilly terrain and scenic routes make cycling a common pastime for locals and visitors.
A traditional Colombian pastime often played in social settings with friends or family.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Palestina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries as vegetables, beans, corn, and cheese are common staples. Ask for plant-based preparations or substitutions, and keep in mind some dishes may include lard or meat stock; when in doubt, request no meat or dairy-free options.