Colombia’s coffee heartland, Manizales, delivers two standout tour experiences for coffee enthusiasts. The practical Coffee Wings tour combines coffee culture with excellent birdwatching over 8 memorable days. It’s a smart choice for nature lovers who want to spot rare species while learning about coffee production. The Viterbo Artisan Tour earns my recommendation for its hands-on approach – you’ll walk through working plantations, watch coffee roasting in action, and even try chocolate-making. Both tours include all the essentials: transportation, places to stay, meals, and knowledgeable guides who know their stuff.
Let’s explore these top coffee tours in detail…
Key Points
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The Coffee Wings Tour in Colombia’s coffee region offers an 8-day birdwatching adventure, including visits to Tinamú Birding Reserve and Río Blanco Nature Reserve.
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The Viterbo Artisan Tour provides a 4-hour immersive experience focused on the artisanal craftsmanship of coffee and cacao, with hands-on activities and cultural insights.
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The tours feature private transportation, accommodation, and all meals, as well as the expertise of professional bird guides for an enhanced experience.
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The Termales del Ruiz Hotel, located within the tour itinerary, offers opportunities to spot notable bird species such as the Aglaeactis cupripennis.
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Flexible booking options, private group options, and an emphasis on traditional production methods ensure a personalized and authentic coffee and cacao experience in Manizales.
Coffee Wings: 8 Day Birdwatching in Colombia Coffee Region
Immersed in the captivating aroma of Colombia’s renowned coffee region, the “Coffee Wings” tour offers an eight-day birdwatching adventure. Priced from $3,900 per person, the tour promises an intimate experience with the area’s diverse avian life, including a visit to the Tinamú Birding reserve, home to 477 bird species.
Exploring the Río Blanco Nature Reserve, participants can witness 372 bird species, including 33 varieties of hummingbirds. At the Hacienda El Bosque, 293 registered species can be observed at altitudes ranging from 2,800 to 3,900 meters.
The tour also includes a stay at the Glamping El Color de Mis Revés, where 489 bird species have been recorded, with 142 found within the glamping site itself. The journey concludes at the Termales del Ruiz Hotel, where 167 bird species, including the stunning Aglaeactis cupripennis, can be spotted.
Throughout the tour, you will enjoy private transportation, accommodation, meals, and the expertise of a professional bird guide, all while seeing the region’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Coffee Wings: 8 Day Birdwatching in Colombia Coffee Region Review
Book now: Check availability
VITERBO: Coffee and Cacao Artisan Tour
Situated in the heart of Colombia’s renowned coffee and cacao region, the Viterbo: Coffee and Cacao Artisan Tour offers a captivating hands-on experience for those seeking to explore the artisanal craftsmanship behind these beloved ingredients.
Priced at $178.93 per person for a 4-hour tour, this immersive experience allows participants to explore the production processes of coffee and cacao, from roasting the beans to crafting the final products.
Visitors will be greeted with refreshing fruit juices upon arrival at the 120-year-old Bahareque house, before embarking on a guided tour through the lush plantations and bamboo forests.
The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to make and savor the freshest coffee and richest chocolate, following traditional methods that have been used for centuries.
With options for private groups and free cancellation, this tour offers a unique and memorable way to discover the artisanal side of Colombia’s renowned coffee and cacao industries.
Read our full review: VITERBO: Coffee and Cacao Artisan Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Coffee Region?
The best time to visit the coffee region is during the harvest season, typically between October and December. This is when the coffee cherries are at their ripest, offering visitors the chance to witness the full coffee production cycle.
Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Options for the Tours?
Many coffee tours offer vegetarian and vegan options for tasting and dining. Visitors can often request these dietary preferences when booking their tours, ensuring they have an enjoyable and accommodating experience exploring the coffee region.
Can the Tours Be Customized for Larger Groups or Private Parties?
Yes, many coffee tour providers offer customized experiences for larger groups or private parties. Clients can often tailor the itinerary, group size, and tour duration to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Starting Point?
Many coffee tour providers offer transportation services to and from the starting point. This can be especially convenient for larger groups or private parties, as it eliminates the need for participants to arrange their own transportation.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for the Tours?
Many coffee tour providers offer discounts and package deals to customers. These may include reduced prices for group bookings, combined tours with other activities, or bundled experiences like coffee tastings and winery visits. It’s worth checking for any special offers.
Recap
Manizales offers a variety of coffee tours and tastings for visitors. The Coffee Wings tour provides an 8-day birdwatching experience in the Colombian coffee region, while the VITERBO tour focuses on coffee and cacao artisanal production. Travelers can explore the area’s rich coffee culture and discover the unique flavors and processes that make the region’s coffee renowned worldwide.