• The Secret Garden is located in the countryside across the valley from Manizales, on the outskirts of the small town of Villamaria, in the heart of Colombia's coffee growing region.
• Although just 30 minutes from the center of Manizales, or 15 minutes from the Terminal, we are a world away. Our authentic rural community is warm and friendly, and the bird life, butterflies and flowers spectacular.
• There are several ways to arrive by public transport or we are happy to arrange private transport.
• From the Bus Terminal - Terminal de Transporte de Manizales
• Take a Taxi all the way here. This is a good option if you have lots of luggage or are coming after 9:00 pm. It's also the most expensive. If need be, have the taxi call us.
• Take the CableAereo from the Terminal to the Parque de Villamaria. Then take a taxi from the parque. This is a the best option in terms of speed and experience.
• Take the CableAereo from the Terminal to the Parque de Villamaria. Then take a Chiva, or traditional bus found on the opposite side of the park at 12:30 pm, 3:30 and 5:30 PM. You will get off just after the road changes from paved to gravel. Look out for The Secret Garden sign and then walk 200 meters until you see our second sign at our Bistro.
• If you decide to walk, leave the Parque Principal and travel along Carrera 5 for two blocks until you meet the intersection of Carrera 5 and Calle 6. Turn left on to Calle 6 and follow this road until it leaves town. Continue on this road another 2 KM. The road is paved until about 200 meters before arriving at our lane on the right - look for our sign. The hostel and bistro are 200 meters down the lane.
• Please note: If you arrive after dark, it is preferable to pre-arrange a private transport with us as many taxis are not keen to drive on a non-paved road.
• From the Airport
• Take the taxi in the queue. Give them our address. Have them call us if necessary.