In the western part of Colombia is the city of Pereira (Pereira), which is part of the so-called "Coffee triangle" of the country. The settlement is the administrative center of the department of Risaralda. Recently, it has become effective and developed.
general information
In the western part of Colombia is the city of Pereira (Pereira), which is part of the so-called "Coffee triangle" of the country. The settlement is the administrative center of the department of Risaralda. Recently, it has become effective and developed.
general information
The city was founded in 1863, on August 30. Pereira is located in the Eastern Cordillera of Colombian Andes. It is located in the Otun River valley at an altitude of 1411 m above sea level. The area of the settlement is 702 square meters. km, and the number of local residents is 472,023 people.
Pereira is considered one of the most prosperous and wealthy areas of Colombia. There are no large industrial enterprises in the city, while the coffee industry is quite developed. He makes a significant contribution to the economy of the whole country.
Historical background
Before the arrival of the colonialists, representatives of two nationalities lived here: Pichao and Kimbai. They were famous for the skillful production of gold products. The first Europeans appeared on this territory in 1540 and formed the settlement of Cartago on this site, which, after 150 years, was moved a bit to the east.
In 1816, on the site of a modern settlement, the brothers Pereira, Manuel and Francisco Rodriguez hid, after the army of Simon Bolivar was defeated in the battle with the Spanish soldiers. After this, a priest named Antonio Remigo Canyarte decided to establish a city here, and this territory received a modern name in honor of these soldiers.
The climate in the city
Pereira is dominated by unique weather, which varies according to height and location. Most of the territory of the village is occupied by a region with a temperate climate, the average air temperature is +21 ° C. The warmest month is March, the mercury column at this time holds a mark of +22 ° C, and the coldest - in October (+19 ° C).
In the city, a lot of precipitation falls, the average annual rate is 2441 mm. Most rains come in September (282 mm), and the driest month is January (139 mm).
What to see in the city?
Pereira is considered the center of national tourism in Colombia. Travelers come here to see the "cultural landscapes" of the state, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most popular sights in the city are:
- Parque Consota - an outdoor water park with a lot of slides, swimming pools and water attractions. On the territory of the institution there is a field for playing football and basketball.
- Jardin Exotico Kamala is a garden where you can see tropical reptiles and a variety of marine life. The territory of the park is decorated with sculptures of mammals and planted with fragrant flowers.
- Lagoon Otun (Otun Lagoon) - a picturesque place, located a few hours drive from the center of Pereira. The reservoir is at an altitude of 4200 m above sea level. Here you can pit a tent and fish.
- Parque El Lago - it is characterized by a small area, which is planted with trees and decorated with a large fountain.
- Zoo Matecana City Zoo - its territory is divided into thematic zones. Basically here live animals from South America, although you can also meet African animals.
- The Parque Regional Natural Ucumari is an ideal place for those tourists who wish to spend a few days in the bosom of wildlife. There are places for camping.
- Nevado Santa Isabel is a mountain top that is covered with snow. If you decide to conquer it, then take with you warm and comfortable clothes.
- The Cathedral of Our Lady of Poverty (Pereira) is a Catholic church built of wood in the 19th century. Here, services and church rites are still held here.
- Plaza de Bolivar - famous for the fact that it is a statue of a naked former Colombian President - Simon Bolivar.
- Kesar Gaviria Trujillo Viaduct is a helical bridge, which is considered the largest on the continent. Its total length reaches 440 m, and the central span is 211 m. The height of the roadway, thrown across the river, is 55 m. The sights were erected over 3 years and opened in 1997.
Where to stay in the city?
In Pereira there are about 200 establishments where you can spend the night. Tourists are provided with luxury apartments, budget hostels, luxury hotels and holiday homes. The most popular among them are:
- Sonesta Hotel Pereira is a five-star hotel with a fitness center, a swimming pool, a tennis court and an aqua park. Guests can use the laundry and concierge services.
- Zi One Luxury Hotel - the institution has a wellness center, sauna, massage room and conference room.
- Chalet Pereira - accommodation with animals is allowed here. Guests can use the Internet, parking, children's playroom and a shared kitchen.
Where to eat?
While in Pereira, travelers will be able to taste the traditional soup of green bananas, as well as rice with meat and kohlrabi. From drinks it is worth paying attention to freshly squeezed juices and famous local coffee. The most popular institutions here are:
- Lenos y Parrilla - a steakhouse with a barbecue and a Latin American menu;
- Sayonara - fast food, which is suitable for vegetarians;
- El Lugar Restaurant is a French restaurant specializing in seafood.
Shopping
The largest shopping center in the city is Centro Comercial Pereira Plaza. Here you can buy food, clothing and essential goods. If you want to purchase unique souvenirs and delicacies, then visit Antartica Muebles y Decoracion, which sells exclusive textile products.
How to get there?
Pereira borders with such cities as Armenia , Manizales and Doskebradas. To reach them to the settlement is possible on the roads No. 29Q / Pereira-Armenia, 29RSC or Av. Ferrocarril / Cra.10, respectively. The distance is from 3 to 45 km.