A Complete Travel Guide to Jardín Antioquia: An Incredible Town in Colombia

Are you trying to find useful advice for your trip to Jardín Antioquia? This article gives you a complete travel guide to Jardín, including what to do, where to stay, where to eat, and many other essential tips for your trip.

A Bit About Jardín in Colombia

Jardín is a coffee town located in the southern part of the Antioquia department, nestled among many mountains. It’s 133 kilometers (82.64 miles) from Medellín, 60 kilometers (37.28 miles) from Jericó, and 195 kilometers (121.16 miles) from Salento. It’s a popular destination for tourists looking for adventure activities, especially hiking trails.

In Jardín, you’ll find a charming town with colorful houses and plenty of attractions to explore—most of them surrounded by nature. Plus, Jardín is one of the 17 towns recognized as a cultural heritage site of Colombia.

Even though it’s a favorite among travelers, Jardín still feels very authentic. It has that true small-town Colombian vibe while also offering excellent infrastructure for visitors.

Around the Main Square (the town plaza), you’ll see locals sipping their coffee or having a beer in the late afternoon—not just tourists, like in many other destinations.

One detail we found especially charming was seeing some locals arrive in town on horseback. It’s common for them to show up in the early evening to have a beer and enjoy the start of the night.

How to Get to Jardín, Antioquia?

How to get to Jardín from Jericó?

That was the route we took to reach Jardín, Antioquia.

From Jericó, the most common way to get there is by chiva. You could take a bus, but that would mean making a big detour through another city and then catching another bus—so in the end, the chiva turns out to be the most relaxing option.

FUN FACT! The chiva is a very common way to get around between towns in Colombia, mainly because most of the roads are unpaved, and it rains a lot—leaving them muddy and hard to drive on. With the roads in such rough shape, buses simply can’t make it through. Similar to a truck, a chiva has open sides and benches in the back. It’s a pretty rustic way to travel, but it gets the job done!

The chiva leaves every day at 7 a.m. from a side street near Jericó’s main square. You buy your ticket on the spot, and there’s only one chiva per day. It doesn’t go all the way to Jardín, so you’ll still need to switch to other forms of transport.

We hopped on that first chiva and rode for about 3 hours until we reached a small wooden bridge. After crossing the bridge, there was another chiva waiting to pick up passengers. That one took us to the bus terminal in the Andes, a nearby town close to Jardín. That leg of the trip was pretty short.

Once at the terminal, we still had to catch a bus to Jardín, Antioquia. The terminal can get quite busy, so make sure to ask which bus to take. The ticket for the chiva from Jericó to the bridge cost 17,000 COP; the second ride was just 2,000 COP. Finally, the bus from the Andes to Jardín cost 8,000 COP per person.

How to get to Jardín from Medellín?

If you’re heading to Jardín from Medellín, no worries—it’s not nearly as adventurous as taking a chiva from Jericó.

The companies that operate this route are Rápido Ochoa and Transportes Suroeste Antioqueño; to make this trip, simply go to the Terminal del Sur and look for them.

You’ll find direct buses to Jardín, but there are also some that only go as far as Andes, in which case you’ll need to catch another bus from there. A direct bus ticket from Medellín to Jardín starts at 43,000 COP.

How to get to Jardín from Salento?

The trip between Salento and Jardín—whether you’re going one way or the other—is a pretty popular route among travelers. We actually did it the other way around, leaving Jardín for Salento, but here’s how to go from Salento to Jardín. Just like other rural routes in Colombia, you’ll need to switch between different types of transport, including a chiva.

To start, you’ll need to catch a bus from Salento to the terminal in Riosucio. This bus only runs once a day, so make sure to check the schedule carefully. Once you get to Riosucio, you’ll need to hop on a chiva. It’s not exactly easy to miss, so just ask around to find out where it departs from!

The chiva also runs just once a day, and luckily, its schedule lines up with the bus from Salento. Once you’re on the chiva, all that’s left is a long ride down a dirt road. So get ready—bring some snacks and water, because there’s only one stop for food and a bathroom break.

Oh, and if nature calls before that stop, you’ll quite literally have to go in nature. On a couple of our chiva rides, the driver actually stopped so that people could use “el montecito,” or the bushes!

PRO TIP! From all the places we mentioned above, you can also make the trip to Jardín by car. Just use Google Maps or another navigation app to plan your route. Keep in mind that Colombian roads often have tolls, and it’s pretty common to run into road work along the way. Discover Cars is a reliable choice for car rentals in Colombia, so give them a look if you’re considering doing so.

What to do in Jardín Antioquia?

See the top suggestions for things to do in Jardín. In this list, we’ve included unmissable tours and everything you can explore in the city.

1. Take a tour of the Immaculate Conception Minor Basilica and El Libertador Main Park

The main attraction in Jardín is El Libertador Main Park (the town square), which is surrounded by several restaurants, bars, cafés, and places to stay. The square is always lively, and at night, there’s a fair with lots of typical local foods. You’ll also find the Basílica Menor de la Inmaculada Concepción in the park—an impressive religious site worth visiting and admiring.

2. Stroll Through Jardín’s Colorful Streets

Walking through the streets of Jardín, Antioquia, is a must on your itinerary. As you wander around, you’ll see colorful colonial-style doors, windows, and balconies decorated with flowers. You can take this tour on foot or hop on a tuk-tuk for a fun ride.

3. Check out Café Macanas

Located in the main square, right next to the Basílica Menor de la Inmaculada Concepción, Café Macanas is a popular spot among tourists and a great place to try traditional Colombian dishes. The café is quite spacious and has different seating areas with distinct vibes.

They offer a menu with classic Colombian meals—we had one for lunch that came with rice, beans, egg, avocado, and other tasty ingredients. The menu also features pastries, cakes, breads, coffee, and more, perfect for treating yourself to something delicious.

4. Hike to Cristo Rey and Take a Break at Café Jardín

Cristo Rey sits at the top of a hill and offers a panoramic view of Jardín. You can reach this spot by taking a hike that takes about 40 minutes on average and is fairly easy. You can take a tuk-tuk if hiking isn’t your thing, but you still want to go; the cost is typically decided upon at the time of the trip.

Furthermore, you can also combine this visit with other nearby attractions, like Café Jardín. The 4×4 tour of Jardín and the trip to the Escalera de Cristal waterfall also include stops at these places.

5. Ride the La Garrucha Cable Car Up to the Viewpoint

La Garrucha cable car is a form of transportation used by locals to get around and carry goods to the rural areas of Jardín in Colombia. But if you’re visiting, it’s also a great way to enjoy a ride and see the town from above.

To catch the cable car, head to the end of Calle 12. The ride costs 5,000 COP and departs every 30 minutes.

6. Hike to the Cueva del Esplendor and take a refreshing dip while you’re there

To visit the Cueva del Esplendor, you need to book a tour through the authorized agency that manages access to the site. The agency is located at Carrera 2 #14-118, just six blocks from the main square.

The tour to the Cueva del Esplendor costs 80,000 COP (around USD 18) and includes transportation by jeep to the entrance of the nature reserve, a guide, bottled water, a granola bar, and a snack.

7. Hike the Waterfalls Trail

This one’s for hiking lovers—it’s a challenging trek that takes about 7 hours and is considered high in difficulty. On the Travesía de las Cascadas (Waterfall Trek), you’ll get to experience the rich biodiversity of Jardín’s mountains and see some truly breathtaking waterfalls along the way.

8. Visit a coffee farm

Since Jardín is a coffee town, visiting a coffee farm is a must on your itinerary. During the tour, you’ll explore the entire farm, including the coffee plantations, and learn all about the production process—from bean to cup.

9. Take a tour or hike around the outskirts of Jardín

Exploring the areas around town is also a must when it comes to the best things to do in Jardín. If you enjoy walking, you can do this on your own. But to really get to know the surroundings, we recommend taking the 4×4 tour of Jardín. This tour lasts about 3 hours and includes stops at spots like the Casa de la Mazmorra, the La Garrucha viewpoint, the viewpoints at Cristo Rey and Café Jardín, and more.

10. Go birdwatching at the Rocas Nature Reserve

One of the most interesting activities to do in Jardín is birdwatching at the Rocas Nature Reserve. There, you’ll get the chance to see the vibrant plumage of the Andean cock-of-the-rock, which is also the national bird of Peru. You can visit the reserve on your own or go with a guide. Entry to the reserve costs 12,000 COP, but it’s included if you book a tour.

11. Enjoy a trout meal

When it comes to food, trying a trout dish is definitely one of the top things to do in Jardín. It’s a traditional meal from the Antioquia and Quindío regions that you can enjoy during your trip. Just outside of Jardín—about a 20-minute walk—you’ll find trout farms where you can taste this local delicacy fresh from the source.

12. Visit the Cascada del Amor (Waterfall of Love)

If you’re looking for more nature-filled adventures to add to your Jardín, Antioquia itinerary, don’t miss the Cascada del Amor. You can get there on your own or join a guided tour—it’s a beautiful spot worth checking out.

13. Unwind in nature in Jardín

To end your trip on a high note, set aside half a day—or even a full day—to relax and unwind in nature. For this kind of experience, I recommend staying at a hotel a bit farther from the center of Jardín Antioquia.

For all the details on these activities, be sure to check out our full guide on what to do in Jardín Antioquia.

When to visit Jardín in Colombia?

If you want to visit Jardín and other destinations in Colombia, the best time to travel is between December and April. During this period, there’s less chance of rain, so if you want to avoid anything that could disrupt your plans, it’s a great time to go.

We visited Jardín in September—summer here—and it rained a little almost every day, mostly in the afternoons, you know, those typical summer showers. Another interesting thing about Jardín is that it gets pretty chilly at night, but luckily, we came prepared with warm clothes.

Even though we traveled in September, we were able to explore the whole town and even go hiking. So, those light rains didn’t affect our trip at all.

How many days should you stay in Jardín Antioquia?

Jardín is a small town, but it offers plenty of excursions, including some more challenging hiking routes. So when deciding how many days to stay, it’s worth thinking about how many activities you want to do.

We spent three full days in Jardín, and that was enough time to see everything. That’s why we recommend staying for 3 to 4 days—one day to explore the town itself, since there’s so much to see, and the rest for the tours and excursions.

If you prefer, set aside a day just to relax, especially if you’re heading to another town afterward. Jardín is perfect for unwinding, and the most common mode of transport in the region is the chiva—a colorful, traditional bus that’s part of the experience.

Suggested Itinerary for Jardín Antioquia:

• Day 1: Visit the Main Square, the Basílica Menor de la Inmaculada Concepción, and take a walk up to Cristo Rey.
• Day 2: Hike to the Cueva del Esplendor and either join a town tour or visit a coffee farm.
• Day 3: Do the Waterfall Trek and have a meal at a local restaurant—try one of the trout farms for something traditional.
• Day 4: Spend the day relaxing in nature.

How to get around in Jardín, Antioquia?

Jardín is quite a small town, so getting around on foot is easy. But if you’re heading to attractions that are farther out—like a farm, a restaurant, or a waterfall—you’ll find tuk-tuks in town. These small motorbikes fit up to three passengers, and you just agree on the price directly with the driver.

You can also rent a car to get around. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to rent it in a larger city that offers the service and then drive to Jardín in Colombia.

Where to stay in Jardín Antioquia?

You’ll find plenty of lodging options in Jardín, Antioquia, although there are no large hotel chains. Most places are small hotels with great infrastructure and plenty of charm. Here are some amazing options for where to stay in Jardín, Colombia:

• Casa Passiflora Hotel Boutique: A charming and sophisticated boutique hotel located just steps from El Libertador Park.
• Hotel Kantarrana Urbana Jardín: This vibrant hotel is just a few steps from the main square and features a wellness center, a restaurant, and a delicious breakfast that feels like something straight from the countryside.
• Hotel Valdivia Plaza: Located right on El Libertador Park, it’s perfect for travelers who want to be in the heart of the town’s buzz.
• Casa NATIVO: Set 3.9 kilometers (24.23 miles) from El Libertador Park, this cozy guesthouse is ideal for those looking for peace, comfort, and a deep connection with nature.

Where to eat in Jardín Antioquia?

Jardín is home to some great cafés and restaurants. We got to try a variety of spots, including different types of cuisine—though we did miss out on a few popular places because they were full and we didn’t have a reservation. Here are some of the places we visited and absolutely loved:

• Café Macanas: Located right in the main square, this café has a beautiful setting that’s perfect for photos. The menu features some classic local dishes.
• Toscana Pizza y Pasta Artesanal: If you’re a pasta lover, this place is a must. They offer a wide selection of pizzas and pasta dishes.
• Café El Jardín de Jardín: Just a few blocks from the main square, this café is a great option for vegan visitors.
• Artesana Cocina Gourmet: A small place, but the food is delicious and thoughtfully prepared.
• Café de Los Andes: Also located in the main square, this café has a tasty menu and a second-floor seating area with panoramic views of the plaza.
• Restaurante Bon Appétit: We didn’t get a chance to try this one, but it came highly recommended. It’s quite small and always busy. The day we planned to go, there was a short line, so we chose another spot instead. If you’re interested, it’s a good idea to make a reservation.

Travel costs to Jardín Antioquia

• Accommodation: A room in a simple hotel in the center of Jardín costs around USD 14 per night. For a stay with more comfort and amenities, expect to pay about USD 60 per night. If you’re going for a luxury experience, prices start at USD 137 per night.
• Transportation: You won’t need much transport to explore Jardín and its nearby attractions, since most places are easily accessible on foot. Still, tuk-tuks are available, and fares are agreed directly with the driver, depending on the distance.
• Food: If you enjoy diving into local flavors, make sure to set aside a decent food budget. In restaurants, meals generally range from USD 5.11 to USD 17.05.
• Excursions: There’s a lot to do in Jardín, so plan to invest in a few tours. One must-do activity is the excursion to Cueva del Esplendor, which costs around USD 30.34.

Travel guide to Jardín: Suggested Budget

	Accommodation	Transportation	Food	Attractions	Average Daily Cost
Budget-friendly	USD 14	–	USD 26	USD 31	USD 71
Mid-Range	USD 60	–	USD 51	USD 63	USD 174
Luxury	USD 137	–	USD 102	USD 119	USD 358

Budget Trip (Around USD 71 per day): This budget includes a stay at a simple hotel in the town center and at least one major activity, like the Cueva del Esplendor tour. To explore other attractions, you can walk or take a tuk-tuk, depending on the distance.

Standard Trip (Around USD 174 per day): With this budget, you can stay in a hotel with basic services and breakfast included. Dining at local restaurants is a great option—they offer tasty dishes at very reasonable prices. In terms of activities, you could visit the Cueva del Esplendor and take a coffee farm tour.

Luxury Trip (Around USD 358 per day): This budget includes accommodation in a high-end hotel, meals at top-rated restaurants and cafés, and private transport—either by rental car or tuk-tuk (note: specific transport costs vary). For activities, we recommend doing at least three excursions to really get to know the area.

Fun Facts About Jardín Antioquia

• Most of the attractions in Jardín involve hiking routes, some of which are moderately challenging. So if you enjoy this kind of adventure, it’s a good idea to be in decent physical shape for your trip.
• Even though it’s a small town, Jardín has plenty of bars, restaurants, cafés, and guesthouses—that’s one of the reasons we fell in love with the place.
• Nearly all the activity and businesses are centered around the Main Square (Parque Principal).
• You’ll see colorful colonial-style houses all over Jardín, even the ones farther from the square—it’s a town full of color and charm.
• The Main Square itself was declared a National Monument in 1985, thanks to its stone construction, classic architecture, and windows in the Republican style.

Travel Guide to Jardín: Must-Know Tips

To make the most of your trip to Jardín in Colombia, here are some must-know tips:

• Don’t forget to pack waterproof clothing. Bring a rain jacket—it’s a must when exploring Colombian towns, as rain is pretty common. For example, on the day we hiked to the Cueva del Esplendor, our windbreaker came in super handy. It rained a bit, but nothing that stopped the adventure.
• Pack at least one warm jacket and a pair of long pants. Nights in Jardín can get quite chilly, so these are essential.
• Bring insect repellent, especially if you’re allergic to mosquito bites and plan on doing any hiking.
• Carry Colombian pesos in cash. Some places don’t accept cards, and if you want to ride the chiva (the colorful local bus), it’s cash-only.
• Nights in Jardín are pretty quiet, but if you’re up for a drink, there are several bars around the Main Square—just pick the one that suits your vibe.

Travel Guide to Jardín: Is It Safe to Travel to Colombia?

Before traveling to Colombia, it’s common to wonder about safety, since the country was once known as one of the most dangerous in the world.

During the months we spent traveling around Colombia, we found it to be a very safe country. We visited many different places and never experienced anything that made us feel unsafe.

Jardín is also a very safe town to visit, but like with any trip, it’s important to take basic precautions to avoid any issues.

• Make a copy of all your important documents and keep it stored in a safe place.
• Always share your travel itinerary with a family member. Even though Colombia is a safe country to visit, it’s always smart for someone to know your plans.
• When you arrive at your accommodation, check if it feels safe. If you’re uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to change. When we’re unsure about a place, we usually book just one night so we can easily leave if needed.
• Even though Jardín is a peaceful town, avoid hiking alone to remote places. It’s better to book a tour or arrange for a tuk-tuk driver to drop you off and pick you up.
• If you have an emergency and need help, dial 123.

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Also check out where to stay in Guatapé with suggestions for the best accommodations.