This is your chance to walk historic sugar cane fields at Hacienda El Paraíso near Cali, learn how locals turn cane into drinks and sweets, and sit down to a real valluno lunch under shady trees. Taste fresh-pressed juice straight from the plant and hear stories you won’t find in any guidebook—perfect for anyone curious about Colombia’s countryside roots.
“You ever tried this before?” our guide asked, handing me a small cup filled with a cloudy, sweet liquid. We’d just watched the machine squeeze fresh juice from thick green stalks—sticky hands, a faint grassy smell in the air, and the sound of birds somewhere in the trees. The drive out from Cali was quiet at first, but as we got closer to Hacienda El Paraíso, the landscape turned lush and wide open. Even before stepping out of the car, I could see rows of sugar cane stretching off toward low hills.
Walking through the old hacienda felt like stepping into another time. Our local expert pointed out faded family photos on the walls and explained how sugar cane shaped life here—everything from brown sugar blocks to local spirits starts in these fields. The sun was already warming up by mid-morning, so we took it slow along shaded paths while he described each step of planting and harvesting. I noticed how everyone working there seemed to know each other; someone waved from across the field and called out a joke in Spanish that made our guide laugh.
Lunch was served under a big tree—a plate piled high with rice, beans, tender meat, and fried plantain. It tasted simple but rich, especially after walking all morning. By early afternoon, we were back in the car heading for Cali again, shoes dusted with dry earth and heads full of new stories about Cauca Valley’s sugar cane traditions.
The tour usually lasts most of the day—expect around 7-8 hours including travel time to and from Hacienda El Paraíso.
Yes, a traditional valluno lunch is included as part of your experience at the hacienda.
No worries if you don’t speak Spanish—the guide speaks English and will explain everything clearly during your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking in fields, light clothes for warm weather, and maybe bring sunscreen or a hat since much of the tour is outdoors.
Your experience covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Cali with a friendly driver, guidance from a knowledgeable local who’ll share stories along every step, plus all-risk insurance for peace of mind. Lunch is included too—expect classic Cauca Valley flavors—and you’ll get to sample fresh sugar cane drinks right where they’re made.
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