On a ridge in the westernmost point of the Andes, some 6,975 feet above sea-level, stands Manizales. The halfway point between Bogota and Medellin, the city is the beating-heart of the coffee-producing regions of Colombia. Founded in 1848 by colonists seeking to escape the Civil War, Manizales is flanked by gorgeous scenery and filled with clean mountain air. Standing apart from much of Colombia Manizales is known for its moderate climate. A fun-loving, hip and happening place, the best places to stay in Manizales will give you a taste of the real Latin spirit.

Getting round Manizales is a sightseeing trip in itself: cable-cars are the main modes of public transport, and seeing this city perched in the mountains from up high or from the rising terrain of Los Nevados National Park is a glory to behold. The scenery is one of the city's greatest selling-points: due to the earthquakes of 1875, 1878 and the fire of 1925, there isn't much in the way of historical sites, but that needn't matter. The National Park is unbelievably beautiful and you can do everything from fishing and hiking to rock climbing and mountain biking. Manizales is also a Mecca for birdwatchers.

A peculiar aspect to the city lies in the fact that it has eight micro climates, depending on the elevation: where Chipre District is cool and foggy the La Linda District is warm and balmy. If you're looking for a great place to party, then Manizales certainly doesn't dissapoint. Students make up at least a quarter of the population and it has numerous universities, both public and private, giving it a vibrant and fun nightlife. If it’s a party you're looking for, head down to the Milan area. Over fifty restaurants and a host of lively bars make this a great place to unwind in.

What Not to miss

• Recinto del Pensamiento is a breath-taking park with some truly amazing plant and wildlife. A great place to unwind in.

• Trek up the other worldly Nevado del Ruiz and find stunning waterfalls, landscapes and wildlife making this a fantastic day trip.

• Visit Cathedral de Manizales for some peace and quiet amongst glorious architecture. And if you’ve the stomach for it, climb the tower and look out across the city from an amazing vantage point. The spire is 110 meters high, the third-tallest in South America, and it can be seen for miles around.

For the best places to stay in Manizales we suggest looking at options that make the most of the areas spectacular vistas.

The best places to stay in Manizales

For the great outdoors

• Hotel Hacienda Venecia is a small family owned coffee farm. It offers hostel style accommodation at very reasonable prices. From here you can enjoy a host of outdoor activities, from horse-riding to coffee tours. There’s also a small outdoor pool so you can cool off at the end of the day!

For an apartment or villa

• Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments.

Travel information

• Due to its high altitude, Manizales has a cooler climate than other regions in Colombia, and as such the temperature rarely rises above 25 degrees. To avoid the rain, go between January and March or July and August.
• Manizales has an airport, La Nubia, that is served by domestic flights. Comfortable buses also run to and from various locations across the country.
• If you would prefer to have your own vehicle we suggest you rent a car with our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure where to book?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Manizales,
• Expand your search to include our recommendations in Pereira.
• Or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Manizales