An Authentic Coffee Experience in Jardin: Jeep Ride, Bean-Picking, and Tasting at Finca Mariposa
Imagine climbing into a vintage 1954 Willys Jeep, bouncing along a mountain road, and arriving at a coffee farm with stunning views and over 6,000 coffee trees. For just $51 per person, you get about three hours of hands-on coffee fun—a perfect blend of adventure, education, and relaxation. This tour is based in Jardin, Colombia, and offers an authentic glimpse into Colombian coffee culture, with plenty of chances to get your hands dirty and savor a fresh cup of joe.
We love how this experience combines scenic jeep rides with interactive coffee picking, giving you a taste of what local farmers do daily. The guide’s passion and the chance to walk through lush coffee and banana trees make it a memorable way to connect with the land. Plus, ending with a home-baked snack and a cup of freshly brewed coffee makes it a worthwhile buy.
One thing to keep in mind is that transportation from Medellín is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own trip to Jardin. That aside, this tour is well-suited for anyone interested in authentic agricultural experiences or looking for a relaxing, educational outing in Colombia’s coffee region.
Key Points
- Authentic experience: Pick coffee beans just like local farmers.
- Scenic jeep ride: Explore the mountains with a vintage vehicle.
- Beautiful views: Overlooked by lush mountains, perfect for photos.
- Educational insights: Learn about Colombian coffee history and process.
- Tasty ending: Enjoy coffee and homemade snacks.
- Small group size: Up to 6 travelers for a personalized experience.
Planning more time in Jardin? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An In-Depth Look at the Finca Mariposa Coffee and Jeep Tour
Starting with a Vintage Ride and Scenic Drive
The adventure begins at Café Cuchillas in Jardin, where you’re picked up in a classic 1954 Willys Jeep. If you appreciate vintage vehicles or enjoy that sense of stepping back in time, this adds a lovely nostalgic touch to your day. The jeep takes you deep into the mountain coffee region, making the journey part of the experience rather than just transportation. The rugged ride itself offers spectacular views, with a sense of adventure that sets the tone for the day.
The road winds through lush greenery, passing coffee and banana trees—a reminder of Colombia’s fertile land. The drive lasts about 30 minutes, giving you ample opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and perhaps snap some photos.
Arrival at Finca Mariposa: A Coffee Lover’s Paradise
At around 1800 meters elevation, you arrive at Finca Mariposa, a farm that boasts over 6,000 coffee trees. The panoramic mountain views here are truly breathtaking—think rolling hills and lush forests, perfect for those Instagram shots. The farm is not just a coffee plantation; it’s a slice of local life and an excellent place to understand Colombian coffee cultivation.
Your guide, possibly a local with family roots in coffee farming, kicks off with an introduction to the history and significance of Colombian coffee. The passion and knowledge they bring make the story much more compelling than just a textbook lecture.
Hands-On Bean Picking and Walking Tour
What makes this tour stand out is the hands-on bean-picking activity. Equipped with a traditional coffee basket, you’ll walk into the fields and try your hand at picking beans just like local farmers do. It’s surprisingly fun—some visitors mention “seeing how much coffee you can pick” as a highlight. This activity gives you a real appreciation for how labor-intensive coffee production is and how vital it is to the local economy.
You’ll walk along coffee and banana trees, learning about each plant’s role in the farm ecosystem. The guide shares insights into how coffee trees grow, the different stages of production, and how the beans are harvested at just the right time.
From Cherry to Cup: Coffee Processing
After picking, the tour guides you into the processing area, where the beans are washed, fermented, and dried in the sun on flat beds. Watching the drying process is particularly interesting—seeing how nature’s sun and airflow turn fresh beans into the dark, aromatic coffee we love.
Climbing onto the drying flat bed gives a tangible sense of the scale and effort involved. The guide explains the importance of drying to prevent mold and ensure quality, helping you appreciate the craftsmanship behind every cup.
Relaxation and Coffee Tasting
The tour concludes with a moment to sit back and relax, enjoying a cup of Mariposa coffee. This isn’t instant or diluted; it’s freshly brewed, aromatic, and full of flavor. Alongside, you’ll be served a homemade traditional pastry, adding a sweet touch to your coffee break.
Many reviewers rave about the delicious coffee, with one noting, “We learned a lot and drank the most delicious coffee ever!” The personal touch—home-baked treats and a warm welcome—really makes this part of the experience special.
Practical Details and What You Should Know
Duration and Group Size
This tour lasts approximately three hours, making it a manageable outing without feeling rushed. It’s limited to six travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience. The small group setting allows for personalized interactions and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
Price and Value
At $51 per person, the tour offers excellent value, considering the inclusion of private transportation, a guided experience, coffee tasting, snacks, and the hands-on activity. It’s a well-rounded package for travelers who want a genuine, interactive experience without paying a hefty premium.
Booking and Availability
Most travelers book about 18 days in advance—a good idea if your schedule is tight, especially during peak travel times. The tour runs Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:30 am to 11:30 am, so plan accordingly.
Additional Considerations
- Transport from Medellín to Jardin isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer.
- Service animals are allowed, which is helpful for travelers with disabilities or pets.
- Confirmations are received within 48 hours, and free cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance—flexibility worth noting.
What Travelers Say
The overwhelmingly positive 5-star reviews highlight the authenticity and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer raved, “So much fun. Our guide Daniel was so kind and comes from generations of pickers. We learned a lot and drank the most delicious coffee ever!” This personal touch and the opportunity to see and do rather than just observe make it stand out.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re a coffee enthusiast or someone interested in seeing how Colombian coffee is grown and processed, this tour is perfect. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive, hands-on experiences and want to get off the beaten path with a small group. Nature lovers will appreciate the spectacular mountain views and the chance to walk among coffee plants. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this tour engaging and educational.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Tour and Jeep Tour at Finca Mariposa offers a compelling blend of adventure, culture, and flavor. The vintage jeep ride adds a fun touch of nostalgia, while the chance to pick coffee beans and see the process firsthand makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a genuine peek into the heart of Colombia’s coffee industry.
The warm hospitality, beautiful scenery, and delicious coffee make it a standout experience in Jardin. Whether you’re a dedicated coffee lover or simply curious about Colombia’s agricultural roots, this tour provides an authentic, memorable outing worth every peso.
If you’re in the area and want an experience that combines scenic beauty, hands-on activity, and cultural insight, this trip should be at the top of your list. Just remember, a little planning for transport from Medellín will ensure everything runs smoothly.
FAQ
Is transportation from Medellín included in the tour?
No, transportation from Medellín to Jardin is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to start the tour at Café Cuchillas.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about three hours, making it a good half-day activity that fits easily into most travel plans.
What is the group size?
The tour is capped at six travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention from guides.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers private transportation to and from Finca Mariposa, the guided coffee and jeep tour, coffee and snacks, and an English translator.
Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, an English translator is included, ensuring you understand and can fully engage with the experience.
Is this tour suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the activity involves walking in the fields and climbing onto the drying beds. Service animals are allowed, and it’s best to check if you have specific accessibility needs.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.
This carefully curated tour exemplifies Colombia’s rich coffee heritage, combined with the scenic beauty and warm hospitality that the region offers. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the land, learn about the origins of your morning brew, and enjoy a memorable adventure in Jardin.