In brief
Perched in the mountains of the Risaralda region, in the heart of Colombia’s famous Eje Cafetero, Santa Rosa de Cabal is a small town that hides a natural treasure: its spectacular thermal baths. Fed by natural hot springs, Santa Rosa’s thermal baths offer a unique experience, between deep relaxation and total immersion in nature. Imagine yourself immersed in a steaming pool, surrounded by lush jungle, against the backdrop of an immense waterfall tumbling down the rocks.
This postcard setting attracts locals and wellness-seeking travellers alike. Easily accessible from Pereira or Salento, Santa Rosa is the ideal place to take a rejuvenating break in the middle of a Colombian travel itinerary. Whether you come to relax your body or simply to admire the beauty of the place, this getaway won’t leave you indifferent.
Those looking for a more confidential and less crowded spa can opt for the San Vicente spa. Although a little further away from Santa Rosa de Cabal, they offer a much more peaceful atmosphere.
Santa Rosa de Cabal Spa
- County: Risaralda (Andes)
- Founded: 1939
- Altitude: 2,150 m
- Ecosystems: mountains
- Climate: temperate
- Access from Santa Rosa de Cabal
Our verdict: relax in the heart of the Andes ★
We had the opportunity to visit the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths, and overall it was a very pleasant experience because we knew what to expect. The setting is truly splendid: nestled in the heart of the mountains, the natural hot-water pools are surrounded by lush vegetation and the green spaces are very well kept. A beautiful 95m-high waterfall in the background adds a spectacular touch. It’s a perfect place to relax, especially thanks to the variety of pool temperatures and the high quality of the facilities, which are clean and well-maintained. That said, a few points may qualify the experience. Access by public transport can be time-consuming, as there are no direct lines to other tourist sites such as Salento, Filandia, etc. The site is very busy at weekends and during the vacations, which takes away some of its charm if you’re looking for peace and quiet. The entrance fee may seem high, and several services (locker, towel) are extra. Finally, even if the place remains natural, don’t expect to find it isolated: the atmosphere is quite touristy, Colombian-style. Despite this, if you choose the right time (ideally early morning on weekdays), you can really enjoy a relaxing interlude in an enchanting setting.
Tourist numbers at the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths
The Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths are one of the most popular attractions in Colombia’s coffee region. Their exceptional natural setting attracts foreign travellers and Colombians alike, who come to enjoy a moment of relaxation. However, tourist numbers vary greatly depending on the day and season. Weekends and public holidays are often very busy. The baths are very busy with local families and tourist groups, which can make the experience less peaceful. Conversely, on weekdays, especially in the morning or at the end of the day, the atmosphere is calmer, conducive to relaxation. Arriving early, as soon as the pool opens (around 7 a.m.), or in the evening, generally allows you to enjoy the premises in a quieter atmosphere, sometimes even enchanted by the lighting around the pools. In terms of seasonality, high season corresponds to the Colombian school vacations of December-January and July-August, as well as Semana Santa (Easter week). During these periods, visitor numbers are considerably higher. If you want to avoid the crowds, prefer the months of February to March, when the crowds are more moderate.
Climate at the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths
The climate at the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths is temperate and humid throughout the year, due to the altitude (around 1,800 to 2,000 meters depending on the area). Temperatures remain pleasant, generally fluctuating between 18°C and 25°C during the day, and between 10°C and 15°C at night. This coolness makes hot-water baths even more enjoyable, especially at the end of the day or in the evening. The region is very humid, with regular downpours, particularly during the rainy seasons, which extend mainly fromApril to May andOctober to November. For a sunnier experience, January to March and June to August are the most recommended months, although the thermal baths remain accessible all year round.
Find out more about the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths
Nestled in the mountains of Colombia’s coffee region, the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths are synonymous with nature, relaxation and spectacular scenery. Increasingly popular with local and foreign travellers alike, this unique destination offers an experience that combines natural thermal waters, majestic scenery and a well-developed tourist infrastructure. But as with any booming tourist destination, there are also certain aspects to consider.
A little history: from discovery to tourist attraction
The thermal waters, naturally rich in minerals, originate in the active volcanic system of Los Nevados National Natural Park. Stemming from rainwater seeping deep underground, they are heated by geothermal activity before rising to the surface in this region. Many of these springs gush out at a temperature of around 70°C, then cascade down to the thermal pools, where their heat stabilizes at around 40°C. The site exploits these outcrops to offer an authentic, rejuvenating spa experience. The 95-metre-high Santa Helena cascade is one of the most beautiful in the area, dividing into a multitude of smaller waterfalls.
Over time, particularly from the mid-20th century onwards, the site began to attract visitors, first out of curiosity, then out of loyalty. Since 1939, there have been 7 thermal springs spread over 8 hectares of unspoilt countryside.
The evolution of the thermal baths is remarkable. From a freely accessible, undeveloped natural site, they have become a well-structured tourist complex, with hotels, restaurants, ecological trails, spas and wellness services. This transformation has enabled the site to be discovered by as many people as possible, but not without consequences.
The benefits of thermal baths
1. An exceptional natural landscape:
One of the most impressive features is the setting. The thermal baths are located in a mountain valley covered in tropical forest. A cascade of cold water cascades down the cliffs in the background, contrasting with the hot-water pools. An unforgettable sight.
2. Waters with curative properties:
Thanks to their mineral composition, the waters are reputed to be beneficial for the skin, respiratory system and muscular pains. Many visitors find that their aches and pains improve after a prolonged bath.
3. Well-thought-out infrastructure:
The resort has been significantly upgraded. There’s accommodation to suit all budgets, a good range of restaurants and well-marked trails. It’s an accessible and comfortable destination, even for families and the elderly.
4. Proximity to other places of interest:
Located just a few minutes from Pereira and close to other attractions in the Coffee Triangle, such as Salento, the Cocora Valley or the Quindío theme parks, it fits easily into a wider tourist itinerary.
Aspects to consider
1. Too much marketing?
For some, the site’s natural charm has been altered by over-intensive tourism. In high season, the site can become overcrowded, detracting from the desired tranquillity. In high season, the site can become overcrowded, giving it the appearance of an amusement park. It’s also worth bearing in mind that the layout reflects a typically Colombian style: cafés and food outlets are located right next to the pools, often with little separating space. This can run counter to the peaceful, intimate atmosphere usually sought in a relaxation area.
2. High prices:
Access is not particularly cheap. Admission and some on-site services may seem expensive compared with other natural sites in Colombia.
3. A worrying environmental impact:
Despite efforts to maintain cleanliness and order, the growing number of visitors poses an ecological challenge. The balance between tourism and sustainability is still being found.
4. Difficult access without a car:
Although there are connections from Santa Rosa de Cabal, they’re not that frequent, and when you’re coming from Salento or Filandia, for example, the journeys take up a lot of time… For travelers without their own vehicle, getting there can be complicated, especially in the evening.
Practical information
The different basins
The water springs from the ground at a temperature of 70°C and cascades down to the thermal pools, where it reaches a temperature of around 40°C. The pools are not natural, but were built in this area to take advantage of the thermal waters that originate here.
You’ll find :
- 3 thermal pools for adults: These pools have a temperature of 40°C.
- 1 thermal pool for children: Specially designed for the little ones, with reduced depth and adapted temperature.
- Cascade Santa Helena: An impressive 95-meter-high waterfall with branches of cold water that bathe the mountain, creating a dreamlike landscape.
Pool time: We recommend alternating thermal water baths with cold water showers every 20 minutes to avoid overheating.
Rates
Prices at public spas(Balneario) vary according to day, season and time slot. Here’s a rough estimate if you buy online, which is cheaper than at the ticket office.
| Options | Included | Adult rate | Children’s rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Termal offer | Access to the four thermal pools, the Santa Helena waterfall and the changing rooms during the selected time slot. | Between 50,000 and 86,000 COP | Between 38,000 and 53,000 COP |
| Natural offer | Access, during the selected time slot, to the four thermal pools, the Santa Helena waterfall, the changing rooms + daily menu and one drink | Between 82,000 and 108,000 COP | Between 64,000 and 81,000 COP |
| conexión” offer | Access, during the selected time slot, to the four thermal pools, the Santa Helena waterfall, the changing rooms + menu of the day and a drink + thermal expedition¹ (from 09:00 to 13:00) | Between 106,000 and 125,000 COP | Not eligible |
| Energético” offer | Access, during the selected time slot, to the four thermal pools, the Santa Helena waterfall, the changing rooms + menu of the day and a drink + mud mask for the face | Between 106,000 and 125,000 COP | Not eligible |
Rates vary according to season (low, normal or high).
¹ In the heart of the mountains of the coffee cultural landscape, embark on an unforgettable hike through Colombia’s central cordillera on the Thermal Expedition. You’ll discover hot springs bubbling directly from the ground, a spectacular cold-water cascade, a natural hammam formed by steam from the earth, and a wide variety of unique flora and fauna.
Useful information :
- Once the reservation has been made, you have (in theory) 90 minutes to finalize payment. After this time, the reservation will be automatically cancelled.
- Children between 90 cm and 1.20 m tall benefit from reduced admission. Admission is free for children under 90 cm.
- The ticket office is open every day from 6.30am to 9.30pm, both for on-site purchases and for tickets with advance booking.
Booking & Schedules
Reservation
It’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends, public holidays and Semana Santa, to guarantee your place and benefit from advantageous rates (booking online saves 2,000 COP per person). You can book via :
- Official website: termales.com.co
- Telephone: +57 (606) 365 3421
- WhatsApp: +57 318 215 2455
- Email: termales@termales.com.co
To make a reservation, you need to provide the following information: full name, ID number, date of visit, desired time slot and number of people. Once the reservation has been confirmed, you’ll receive payment instructions.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
For reservations, visit the official website.
Opening hours
The public thermal baths(Balneario), have a timetable that differs according to the day of the week, to adapt to variations in visitor numbers. The site is theoretically capable of accommodating 800 people at a time.
- Monday to Thursday (low season): free access from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., with no time limit.
- Saturday and Sunday, public holidays and during Semana Santa: access in three time slots(turnos) of 4 hours each to regulate the flow of high visitors
– Time slot 1: 6:30 – 10:30
– Time slot 2: 11:30 – 17:00
– Time slot 3: 18:00 – 23:30
How do I get to the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths?
The Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths can only be reached by public transport from…Santa Rosa de Cabal (yes, incredible!), just 10 km away. If you’re coming from other cities such as Bogotá, Medellín or Cali, or from relatively nearby villages such as Salento or Filandia, you’ll need to get to Santa Rosa de Cabal first.
The nearest airport is Matecaña de Pereira International Airport, around 27 km from the spa. There is no direct public transport link between the airport and the spa. You have two options: first go to the Pereira bus terminal to catch a bus to Santa Rosa de Cabal, or take a cab directly from the airport (approx. 100,000 COP).
How to get to Santa Rosa de Cabal
From Pereira
Departure: Pereira bus terminal
Arrival: Santa Rosa de Cabal main square
Timetable: every 20-30 minutes between 06:00 and 20:00
Duration: 25 minutes
Price (one way): 2,500 COP / person
From Manizales
Departure: Manizales bus terminal
Arrival: Santa Rosa de Cabal
Timetable: every 20-30 minutes between 06:00 and 20:00
Duration: 1h
Price (one way): 9,500 COP / person
How to get to the spa from Santa Rosa de Cabal
In the town of Santa Rosa de Cabal, buses to the hot springs leave from the main park (near the Alcaldía, the town hall). This service runs every 2 hours from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. The journey takes around 25 minutes and costs 2,500 Colombian pesos.
You can also take a Jeep from the Plaza de Mercado (Galeria). They usually leave when they’re full, so there’s no precise timetable.
Private transport is also available for 35,000 – 40,000 COP.
For the return journey, buses run between the public thermal baths (Termales Balneario) and the town of Santa Rosa de Cabal between 07:15 and 18:50, every 2 hours on average.
Where to stay at the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths?
You can also stay overnight at the Santa Rosa de Cabal thermal baths.
This allows you to extend your wellness experience in a pleasant natural setting. By staying on site, you can access the baths early in the morning or in the evening, at calmer, more soothing times, away from the crowds. It’s also a real logistical convenience: no need to chase after a bus.
We haven’t yet had a chance to try out the accommodation offered by the spa, but the feedback seems positive overall. In this particular case, there’s little point in spending the night in another off-site establishment: the real advantage of staying on site is that you can enjoy the pools outside peak hours, maximizing the relaxation experience.
The hotel offers three distinct accommodation areas, each with access to guest-only natural thermal pools. The Cascada (main complex, public thermal baths), Montaña (thermal baths reserved for hotel guests, and a 20-minute walk from the public thermal baths) and Rio (thermal baths reserved for hotel guests, and a 20-minute walk from the public thermal baths) areas offer comfortable, fully-equipped rooms for a relaxing stay in the heart of nature.
Remarks
Reservations recommended
Even if booking is not compulsory, it is highly recommended, especially at weekends, on public holidays and during vacation periods, as some slots quickly sell out due to overcrowding. What’s more, booking online often gives you a better price than buying your ticket on the spot!
Careful use of lockers
The thermal baths offer lockers so that you can leave your belongings safely while you enjoy the baths. However, they are not included in the price of admission and are subject to a charge: each use costs 1,000 COP. So remember to take some change with you, and make sure you don’t have to open your locker too often.
Don’t forget your bathing suit!
It may seem obvious, but don’t forget to pack a swimsuit if you’re planning to visit the thermal baths at Santa Rosa de Cabal!
Towels are provided
The thermal baths provide towels, but you can of course bring your own if you prefer.
Raincoat (poncho, K-Way)
In the mountains, the weather can change very quickly, and sudden showers, sometimes heavy, are common. So it’s best to bring waterproof clothing, such as a poncho or K-Way.
Sunscreen + Sunglasses
Even if the altitude makes temperatures more pleasant, the sun beats down hard: UV rays are particularly powerful on a clear day. So it’s crucial to protect your skin, which is more fragile than you think!
No food allowed
Visitors are not allowed to bring their own food or drink into the complex. Food and beverage outlets (cafés, snacks) are available on site.
Thinking about the return journey
If you’re not planning to stay overnight, remember to organize your return journey from the spa. The last bus from Santa Rosa de Cabal to Pereira leaves at 9.30pm.
