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.
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.
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!
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Manizales (Manizales)
Family owned coffee farm hacienda in the heart of Colombia's coffee triangle. Colonial style main house with simple homely accommodation and outbuildings offering cheap hostel style dormitory rooms. Wholesome rustic local food. Great for trekking, horse riding and learning about coffee growing.
