CicloSalento began in late 2008, filling the void of a much needed bike hire facility in the beautiful surrounding countryside around Salento. The Plantation House organises all the excursions and can provide more information about cycling options.
Because of the terrain,Ciclo Salento uses only top quality mountain bikes - Trek 4300 Disc which have front suspension forks and Shimano components in addition to disc brakes. There are also a range of frames to suit both men and women of all sizes. Prices are 8,000 Pesos per hour or 30,000 Pesos for the whole day.
14km short loop
1.5 to 3 hours
This ride if for those who are looking for a less demanding (or shorter) ride around the beautiful countryside with the possibility of adding a visit to the coffee farm of Don Elias.
Leaving Salento at around 9am, the circuit follows the dirt road down to the village of Palestina where Don Elias resides. After Palestina, the road continues before crossing a river and heading further on to the small village of Boquia. After a brief rest where riders can take refreshments, the road continues uphill back to Salento.
28km long loop
3 to 5 hours
Leaving Salento after breakfast, the trip follows the same route as the short loop out to Palestina but before reaching the village itself it turns off and heads down in to the valley to meet the Rio Quindio. The trail follows the river for around 5km then climbs to the village of La Nubia. The scenery at this point is spectacular as you will pass through a variety of fruit plantations, and coffee fincas. The lowest point of the loop is at 1450m where you will cross the river and follow the old rail route back to the village of Boquia for a rest stop before climbing back up to Salento.
For those looking for a real challenge, you can cycle 16km uphill to El Rocio, which is at 3000m, above the clouds. The views are spectacular and well worth the climb.Then its a fun downhill ride back to Salento. If you don`t feel like the climb, a jeep can be arranged for 40 000 Pesos.
You need to bring...
Included in the price is the hire of the bike - a Trek 4300 with disc brakes and front suspension, helmet, spare tube and tyre levers. The group will also receive a mobile phone and an English-speaking emergency contact number in case of emergency or if you get lost as well as a small first aid kit.
All riders should take a small day pack with at least 1 litre of water, some snacks, waterproofs, sunscreen and sunglasses. It's also a good idea to take your camera and also some money for buying drinks and food on the way.
How 2 get there...
The bus makes a stop by the fire station just as it arrives in Salento. Take the road that runs opposite to the fire station and then the next right turn. This road leads to the Plantation House Hostel. Contact reception if you would like to reserve a bike tour.
