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Picture of Manizales, Caldas, Colombia

Travel Guide for
Manizales

Colombia

Mild, subtropical highland, frequent rainfall

Introduction

Manizales, nestled in Colombia's lush Coffee Triangle, sits high in the Andes with panoramic mountain and valley views. Founded in 1849, the city blends colonial charm with a vibrant student culture, making it lively yet welcoming. February in Manizales brings mild weather—days hover around 18°C (64°F), perfect for strolling and café-hopping.

For digital nomads, Manizales offers reliable Wi-Fi, cozy coffee shops, and affordable coworking spaces. Explore local markets, savor fresh coffee, and unwind in nearby hot springs after work—a wonderful balance of productivity and relaxation in a uniquely Colombian setting.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates09-16 February 2026

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, hostel, villa

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturenightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuressightseeing and toursgastronomy

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Picture of Manizales, Caldas, Colombia

Key Facts

Location

Caldas, Colombia

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

434,403

Language

Spanish

Electricity

110V, 60Hz, plug types A & B

Time zone

UTCColombia Standard Time (UTC-5)

Country code

+57

Internet access

Broadband, mobile 4G widely available

Climate

Mild, subtropical highland, frequent rainfall

See More Colombia Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-ohs)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta esto? (kwan-to kwes-ta es-to)
  • please

    por favor (por fah-vor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-see-ahs)
  • excuse me

    disculpe (dees-kool-peh)

Map

Logistics

To reach Manizales, the most convenient option is flying into La Nubia Airport from Bogotá or Medellín, though flights can be limited and occasionally disrupted by fog or rain in February. For more flexible schedules, you can fly into Pereira’s Matecaña International Airport (about 1.5 hours away) and then take a comfortable bus or taxi to Manizales.

Buses connect Manizales to major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, offering affordable fares and reliable service, ideal for digital nomads on a budget. While Manizales is not accessible by train or boat, the city’s well-connected bus system makes local and regional travel easy. Always account for possible weather delays, especially in Colombia's rainy season.

Weather

Manizales enjoys a mild, spring-like climate year-round due to its altitude in the Andean mountains. Temperatures typically range from 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F), with frequent light rain showers that keep the surroundings lush and green. There is no distinct dry or wet season, but rainfall is common throughout the year.

From February 09 to February 16, you can expect pleasant temperatures and occasional rain, perfect for exploring the city’s arts, culture, and gastronomy. Extreme weather during this period is rare, so outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and nightlife are all easily accessible. Just bring a light jacket and umbrella, and you’ll be ready to enjoy Manizales!

Food & Drink

Manizales is known for hearty dishes like bandeja paisa, calentado, arepas, and sancocho, alongside fresh trout from local rivers. Don’t miss delicious Colombian coffee at Café La Terraza or Tazzioli Café, and sample pastries at Pío Rico. Local aguardiente is the drink of choice for a night out.

Popular restaurants for digital nomads on a budget include La Suiza and Restaurante & Pizzería La Cava. You’ll find vegetarian and vegan options at KuidaTé and Café La Ricotta. Most places do not automatically add a tip, so a 10% gratuity is customary if you’re pleased with the service.

Manizales has a laid-back vibe, with many eateries offering Wi-Fi and cozy spaces to work. Lunch specials (almuerzos) are affordable and often feature soup, a main, and juice. Remember, many restaurants close after lunch and reopen for dinner.

A picture of Ajiaco

Ajiaco

Ajiaco is a hearty Colombian soup made with chicken, corn, potatoes, and a variety of herbs. It's a...

A picture of Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa is a traditional Colombian platter featuring a generous serving of rice, ground beef, chicharrón, chorizo, black...

A picture of Arepa

Arepa

Arepa is a popular Colombian staple made of corn dough and often filled with cheese, meat, or eggs....

A picture of Sancocho

Sancocho

Sancocho is a traditional Colombian stew featuring a variety of meats, including chicken, pork, and beef, along with...

A picture of Lechona

Lechona

Lechona is a popular Colombian pork dish made by stuffing a whole pig with rice, peas, and a...

Accommodation

For digital nomads on an average budget, staying in central Manizales—especially in neighborhoods like El Cable or Palermo—offers both convenience and vibrant nightlife. Top-rated mid-range hotels such as Hotel Varuna and Estelar El Cable provide comfortable workspaces and reliable Wi-Fi. Use Hotels.com to find the best deals and availability.

If you prefer a hostel vibe with social opportunities, check out Kaleidoscopio Hostel or Hostal de la 57, both popular with remote workers. Villas and boutique hotels are also scattered around Manizales’ lush outskirts for a more tranquil stay. Book early for February 09 to February 16, as Manizales sometimes hosts cultural events that increase demand for accommodations.

Itinerary

Settle into Manizales and orient yourself with its vibrant neighborhoods, taking time to explore the artistry and atmosphere of this mountainous city.

Stroll the Historic Center and Plaza de Bolívar

Begin your exploration in the heart of Manizales at Plaza de Bolívar, surrounded by colonial architecture and lively cafés. Take time to admire the Catedral Basílica de Manizales and its impressive inside, perfect for orienting yourself and absorbing local life.

Coffee Tasting and Introduction at Café La Terraza

Enjoy your first cup of locally grown coffee at Café La Terraza, known for its quality Manizales brews. Learn about the coffee culture in the region from friendly baristas in a casual, artsy space—perfect for digital nomads meeting locals.

Walkthrough of the Artistic Cable District

Roam the vibrant Cable neighborhood, a trendy and artistic area with colorful wall murals, galleries, and cozy bars. The walk gives a real sense of Manizales' youthful culture, and you’ll discover several spots to work remotely or people-watch.

Walking Tour Cartagena Old City with Gold Museum and Plaza de Bolivar

Walking Tour Cartagena Old City with Gold Museum and Plaza de Bolivar

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Cartagena's rich history and beautiful colonial architecture on a guided walking tour of the city's traditional historic center. Visit the Zenú Gold Museum, an original collection of ancient Indian artifacts that explain the history of the region. Learn about Cartagena's culture and interesting architecture from your expert guide, and visit such beautiful sites as Plaza de Bolivar, Cartagena Cathedral, Plaza de San Pedro Claver and San Pedro Church.

4.6 (28 reviews)

From $67 USD

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Attractions

4.9 (75 reviews)
Cocora Valley and Salento Hike Tour

Cocora Valley and Salento Hike Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Coming to the Coffee Region is letting yourself be in connection with nature. If this is what you are looking for, join us in this 6-hour tour across the Cocora Valley, and imposing open field, home to the wax palm. Hike some of its mountains, learn about the national tree and about Colombian coffee farming culture (not a coffee farm visit) and finish your day having a tasteful and humble local meal (not included). All of this with the company of an expert guide. • A walk to remember around the Cocora Valley • A brief lesson about the Coffee Triangle and the Wax Palm Trees for its environmental and popular importance • An expert guide who will walk you through the mountains • Bunch of photo spots of the imposing nature

From $99 USD

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4.8 (78 reviews)
ATV | Medellín: the REAL 4x4 Quad Tour

ATV | Medellín: the REAL 4x4 Quad Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Why we are the Best? -NO previous experience required! -REAL 4X4 QUADS! -most STUNNING location and destination TO RIDE SAFE! ..-the Most/Best reviews...for YEARS!!! -full day!! Meet at our Official Meeting Point, JUAN VALDEZ (Parque Lleras) -you receive a 10% discount at ALL JV in COLOMBIA ;) A 9 HOUR adventure, TOO MUCH TO LIST!!! ...enjoy the majestic mountains of Antioquia, surrounded by pure nature, various trees, flowers, and fauna, creeks and little rivers! Return back to camp, those who qualify, can take a few laps on our REAL 4X4 trail. (this part for capable riders only, it´s more dangerous), ...and those who do not, are WELCOME to take a swim in the infinity pool at eh location with an ice cold beverage! (ALL INCLUDED!) This adrenaline-packed tour requires NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE !!! (but those who do have experience will have a BLAST also on all the different terrains AND private 4x4 trail! ;)

From $145 USD

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4.9 (27 reviews)
Snowy Ruiz + Hot Springs from Pereira

Snowy Ruiz + Hot Springs from Pereira

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This is a tour that combines the experience of high mountains (4450 meters) with impressive volcanic-Andean landscapes and thermalism, allowing the visitor to discover 2 very interesting attractions of Manizales such as the Nevado del Ruiz and the Termales del Otoño.

From $140 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
Santa Rita Waterfall and Salento Hike Tour

Santa Rita Waterfall and Salento Hike Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Coming to the Coffee Region is about letting yourself be in connection with nature and learning about the most popular beverage of the world, but there is more than what meets the eye, if you want to hike some of its forests walk through old tunnels for finding a hidden waterfall, we got you covered! After beautiful hiking, you will have a sightseeing walking tour through the streets of Salento.

From $56 USD

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5.0 (17 reviews)
Cocora Valley and Salento Hike Tour

Cocora Valley and Salento Hike Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Coming to the Coffee Region is letting yourself be in connection with nature. If this is what you are looking for, join us in this 6-hour tour across the Cocora Valley, and imposing open field, home to the wax palm. Hike some of its mountains, learn about the national tree and about Colombian coffee farming culture and finish your day having a tasteful and humble local meal (not included). All of this with the company of an expert guide. • A walk to remember around the Cocora Valley • A brief lesson about the Coffee Triangle and the Wax Palm Trees for its environmental and popular importance • An expert guide who will walk you through the mountains • Bunch of photo spots of the imposing nature

From $99 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Nevado del Tolima Volcano Excursion

Nevado del Tolima Volcano Excursion

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Located in the Central Cordillera of the Andes of Colombia, El Nevado del Tolima is one of the favorite destinations for mountaineers and enthusiasts who seek to find themselves on a journey full of diversity, landscapes and ancestral stories. Apart from enjoying the best views from the top, our adventurers can take advantage of a comforting bath in the hot springs.

From $539149 USD

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4.9 (8 reviews)
Parque del Café with Private Transportation and Tickets

Parque del Café with Private Transportation and Tickets

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Parque del Café is one of the top Colombians' favorite destinations because it’s a fun way of getting to know more about the coffee we are so proud of, and spending quality time with their loved ones. If you like discovering an authentic side of Colombia like this one, let us take you there. One of our friendly and helpful drivers will take you from your lodgings to the park and we will provide you with the tickets so you feel free to visit the places you prefer. Time will be all yours, so you can ride in the attractions, visit the coffee museums, learn about coffee-based food, have local snacks, and more. • Comfortable and safe transportation from your hotel to Parque del Café and then back to your hotel • Not struggling with the ticket purchase • Learning about this huge and important coffee culture • Having fun like a kid with a non-touristic (for foreigners) experience • The chance to meet friendly, kind and happy Colombian people

From $84 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Flying Paragliding Day Trip at Calarca

Flying Paragliding Day Trip at Calarca

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you are looking for a completely different experience, we recommend this paragliding trip in Calarca small town. You will be headed from your hotel to this town and then guided by a professional paraglider who will record and photograph the whole time, so you remember seeing the stunning landscapes from the heights. We will make sure you fly free through our Colombian skies. • A safe paragliding trip with professionals • Video and pictures for you to remember the experience • The unique view of the small town and its surroundings from the heights • 15 minutes of a breathtaking joy that you won’t forget

From $96 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Cocora Valley and Salento Horseback Riding Day Tour

Cocora Valley and Salento Horseback Riding Day Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you enjoy natural destinations but you like levelling up your experiences: ride your horses and discover Colombia’s beauty through its national parks. In this tour, you will be guided along the mountains of Cocora Valley. You will learn about Colombian farming traditions, and have the chance of taking incredible pictures of the breathtaking landscapes. We have designed this for you to have a fulfilling trip. - Visiting Salento on the back of a horse - Exploring stunning landscapes - Getting in touch with locals - Learning about the Coffee Region, its fauna and flora like the National Palm Tree - Unforgettable memories of your trip to Cocora Valley

From $152 USD

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