Salento Loop
Salento
Long Run·27.94 km·630 m elevation
About this route
This is a serious route. Thirty kilometers of mixed terrain — dirt roads, paved stretches, and a short single-track section — looping out from Salento through coffee country with 630 m of climbing. No towns along the way, just fincas, valley views, and a few small river crossings that are welcome in the heat. Follow Carrera 5 out past the cemetery, same start as the tempo route. The loop takes you through the surrounding coffee farms and eventually brings you back via Boquia. If at any point the distance or conditions feel like too much, the out-and-back nature of the early section means you can simply turn around and retrace your steps. The problem with this run is the heat. Start at first light and you're still finishing in full sun. There's no way around it. Not recommended for beginners or anyone who underestimates Colombian highland temperatures.
Safety
Start as early as possible. The heat is the main risk, not the terrain. The final stretch from Boquia into Salento runs along the main road with heavy traffic and no shoulder — take the bus from Boquia instead.
Water & drinks
Shops at certain points but long gaps in between. Always carry enough to reach the next stop. The river crossings are a nice refresh but not a water source to rely on.
Dogs
More encounters than the tempo route simply due to distance. Same behavior — mostly behind finca gates, a few loose ones that bark and trail you briefly before losing interest.
Start point
Anywhere along Carrera 5 in central Salento.
Distance
27.94 km
Elevation Gain
630 m
Est. Time
2 h 58 min
Surface
Mixed