In the center of the western region of the Colombia, located in a small valley that descends from a part of the western Andes mountain chain, the picturesque university city of Pereira typically serves as a convenient base to explore the nearby postcard-perfect town of Salento. The region is backed by an exquisite landscape of lush, green undulating hills dotted with coffee plantations producing some of the world’s best coffee. It is also known as the gateway to Parque Ucumarí and Santuario Otún Quimbaya, a pair of impressive nature reserves; and the relaxing thermal springs of Santa Rosa and San Vicente.