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Boquía is a settlement belonging to the municipality of Salento. It’s located in the Coffee Region of Colombia and part of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia.We’ve passed through Boquía countless times on the way to and from Salento. On one trip, we stayed at Finca Santa Rita on the Santa Rita Nature Reserve just a few kilometers away. During that trip, we went back and forth mainly for meals.
History of Boquía
Boquía is actually where the first settlement of Salento was officially established on January 5, 1842, while Salento was originally the site of Barcinales, a penal colony for political prisoners. The prisoners’ families settled down in Boquía. After completing their sentences, the prisoners were given a plot of land in the region.
Around 1854, the Quindío River flooded and destroyed the town. The survivors moved to the modern site of Salento and retained the name Boquía while the old settlement was renamed Pueblo Viejo. In 1865, Boquía was renamed in honor of Salento, Italy, while the name Boquía was returned to the original settlement.
Today, Boquía is just a small village on the way to Salento. There are a few restaurants and entertainment venues lining the road as well as numerous fincas and hotels dotting the area.
Explanation Bridge
The only real historic site in Boquía is Explanation Bridge (Puente de la Explanación). It’s a railroad bridge built between 1929 and 1948 by architects from Asturias, Spain. The bridge is 13 meters high and sits on four curved arches. It was part of the Armenia–Ibagué railway and is considered the oldest of its kind in Colombia. Unfortunately, I was only able to drive over the bridge and couldn’t see it from below. There’s a resort situated next to the bridge that I plan to stay at, and I’ll update with pictures when I have the chance.
Where to Eat in Boquía
Boquía is a good place to stop for food on the way in and out of Salento.
Roasted Corn
On some trips to Salento, we often stop for roasted corn on the way out. Places like La Mona or Parador La Isla sell corn as well as other treats along the road.
Tierra Maravilla
We had dinner one night at Tierra Maravilla. They offer different regional dishes, international cuisine, and fast food. In addition to the dining room, there’s also seating on a covered terrace.
I had a burger while Marisol had the spring roll. The food was good and service was friendly and efficient.
La Cabaña
The next night, we had dinner at La Cabaña. It’s a fun place with interesting decorations and an outdoor seating area with picnic tables. We enjoyed the atmosphere although it was empty.
La Cabaña has a decent menu full of international specialties, such as pulled pork sandwiches, salads, wraps, soups, and other items. We decided to eat light, starting with empanadas and sharing a veggie sandwich. We also ordered a tomato soup and an onion soup. The soups were watery and didn’t have much flavor, but we enjoyed the empanadas and sandwich.
Where to Stay in Boquía
Boquía is also an option for accommodation if you want to stay away from the crowds in Salento. This is especially true on holiday weekends and high season.
Tierra Maravilla
Tierra Maravilla is also a hotel, and the owner gave us a quick tour of the property. Although we didn’t stay there, it looks like a pleasant and peaceful place to stay. Rooms are spacious and modern and the hotel is situated right next to the river.
Boca Loca Mini Golf
The most enjoyable time we had in Boquía was at Boca Loca Mini Golf. It’s run by an expat couple and is a great place for families. We took our toddler there for his first golf experience and he loved it.
There are ten holes of mini golf in a beautiful setting next to the Quindío River. In addition to the golf course, there’s a trampoline, kiddie park, zip lining, and and observation platform. Drinks and snacks are available as well.
