Planadas | Colombia

Planadas is a hidden gem in Colombia's coffee scene. Nestled in the heart of the Andes, it's a region of 48 small villages, each home to hundreds of coffee farms. These farms are small in size, averaging just a few hectares each, but they're turning out some of the best coffee in the country. They're famous for their specialty micro-lots, but their everyday brews are getting a good reputation too.

Getting there isn't easy. Planadas is one of the most isolated coffee regions in Colombia. It's tucked between two massive national parks, accessible mainly by bumpy dirt roads. It's a full day's drive from the capital city, Ibague.

For many years, this region struggled. It was caught in the middle of a conflict zone, and farmers had to follow the rules set by rebel groups. They could only sell their beans to specific buyers and weren't getting the best prices.

But despite the challenges, Planadas persevered. The high altitude, volcanic soil, and fresh mountain streams create perfect conditions for growing high-quality coffee.