Viewpoint · Salento, Quindío
Mirador Alto de la Cruz
Lookout at the top of the stairway that starts at the end of Calle Real, with views of the valley of the Quindío River, the mountains and, in the distance, the Valle de Cocora.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mirador Alto de la Cruz
The Mirador Alto de la Cruz sits at the top of a stairway of about 250 steps, at the end of Calle Real in Salento. The stairs are painted and marked with the Stations of the Cross, and at the top there is a cross and a terrace with benches.
From there you can see the valley of the Quindío River, the mountains covered in pastures and forest, the coffee plantations on the lower slopes and, to the east, the start of the Valle de Cocora. On clear days the mountains of the cordillera appear in the background. A short trail continues to another viewpoint, with the town of Salento below.
The climb is quick but strenuous because of the altitude, close to 1,900 meters. There are benches along the way for resting.
Late afternoon is the most popular time, with low light over the valley.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 to 45 minutes including the climb.
Best time
In the late afternoon for the light over the valley, or early in the morning with clearer skies.
How to get there
The stairway begins at the end of Calle Real, about a 5-minute walk from the Plaza de Bolívar in Salento. There's also a road that reaches the top, for those who prefer not to climb the steps.
Tip
Go up in the late afternoon, after a day in Cocora, and come down to have dinner on Calle Real. Follow the short trail at the top to see the town from above.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mirador Alto de la Cruz
How many steps are there in the climb?
About 250, with benches along the way and the Stations of the Cross.
What can you see from the viewpoint?
The valley of the Quindío River, the mountains, the coffee plantations and, to the east, the entrance to the Valle de Cocora.
Can you get there without climbing the steps?
Yes, by a road that reaches the top, by car or on foot.
