We’ve left behind pulsing city vibes of Medellin with its noisy traffic and endless nightlife for a dip into the serene tropical cloud forests of Salento, Colombia. We’re spending most of our time working from hammocks which is awesome, but not quite as awesome as living here:
We’re staying on the Kasaguadua Natural Reserve operated by a former IT recruiter (represent!) from London and an architect from Bogota (Colombia’s largest and capital city) who decided they wanted to create a sustainable lodge and rainforest preserve. It’s absolutely incredible what you can do with a dream and a lot of hard work.
But more on that later.
Living that digital nomad life from a hammock.
Initial Reactions On Salento:
- So. Many. Tourists. We knew Salento was a backpacker haven, but we didn’t expect it to dominate the town as much as it does. We see more backpackers than locals and have heard more English in two days than we did our entire 19 days in Medellin combined.
- Stunning views. This is a tropical rainforest ecosystem, but due to the elevation is classified as a cloud forest. The greenery is all so beautiful up close and as seen from across the valley. And today we even saw a wild, endangered monkey! It’s incredible.
- Small-town vibe. I love cities, but I grew up in a small town and every so often it’s nice to find my way back to one. It’s just nice being able to say hello to everyone you come across while running (because they’re so few and far between compared to Chicago where you’d be out of breath trying to say hi to every runner you pass) or even just a friendly smile from everyone in town. It’s quaint.
What you need to know:
- Population: approx 7,000
- Exchange Rate: 3,002.37 Colombian Pesos to $1 USD
- Primary Language: Spanish, but many speak English
- Walking Tour: NA
- Time Zone: Central
- Taxi: Yes, but primary transport provided by Jeeps that drive certain routes (almost like a bus)
- Public Transit: No, but the Jeeps again operate like buses.
- Emergency Number: 123
- Running: No real paths but lots of routes available along the winding mountain roads. The views are great but be sure to stop when you want to look at them because you should always be watching your footing while running!
- American Football: No, but I’d bet that they had it!
- Coffee Price: 6,000 – 8,000 COP (~ $2 – $2.50 USD) for cold brew or iced latte
- Beer Price: 5,000 – 8,000 COP (~ $1.50 – $2.50 USD) for one low-end local beer