City Park in Manizales

By Brenda Yun

The social and physical atmosphere in Manizales very much resembles a small San Francisco. Most of the best sights and activities in the area involve being outdoors, in the fresh, crisp, cool climate. There are several parks spread around the hilly city where you can spend a few hours if the weather is nice. The Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados should be high on your list of activities, but try to time your visit on a sunny or clear day. The weather here will rule what you choose to do. Unfortunately, if it’s wet and gray outside, you’ll have to just brave the conditions if you’re to see any of what Manizales has to offer. The good news: only about a third of the year will make you wish you were indoors. The rest of the time, Manizales is the ideal stomping ground for outdoorsy and adventurous types that are looking for fresh air and good fun.