TITLE_2: Manizales with children: unmissable family plans beyond Parque de la Vida

Manizales, a family-friendly city

Manizales, known for its cool climate and friendly people, is an ideal destination for families. This city not only offers beautiful landscapes and a rich coffee culture, but also a variety of activities that are attractive to the little ones in the house. Whether you are visiting or are a local, there are family plans you cannot miss.

Adventure and nature: Ecoparks and reserves ideal for children

Manizales' ecoparks are perfect for children to connect with nature and learn about the region's biodiversity. Two of the most outstanding are:

• Ecoparque Los Yarumos: Located in the upper part of the city, this ecopark offers ecological trails, picnic areas, and a butterfly garden. Children can participate in guided activities and learn about local flora and fauna. Open daily, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and bring enough water.
• Recinto del Pensamiento: This space combines nature and culture. Here, families can enjoy trails, a lake, and environmental education workshops. Additionally, they have interactive activities that are very entertaining for children. It is advisable to visit during the week to avoid crowds.

Culture and learning: museums and interactive experiences

In Manizales, culture is also a family plan. Some places that should not be missing from your itinerary are:

• Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): Here children can learn about the history of gold in Colombia and see impressive pre-Columbian pieces. Admission is free and there are interactive activities that keep the little ones' interest.
• Parque Temático Los Fundadores: This park offers a unique experience that combines the history of Manizales with playful activities. Children can play and learn at the same time, which is ideal for combining fun with education.

Rest and fun: parks, ice cream parlors, and safe spaces

After a day full of adventures, it is essential to find spaces where children can relax and have fun. Manizales has several parks and ice cream parlors that are perfect for ending the day:

• Parque de la Vida: Although we have already mentioned it, this park is a must. It has playgrounds, trails, and green areas where children can run and play freely.
• Heladería La Galleta: A popular spot among locals. They offer a variety of flavors and the opportunity to enjoy artisanal ice cream in a family atmosphere.

Additionally, there are other parks like Parque La Estrella, which has children's games and is ideal for a family picnic.

Available options

• Ecoparque Los Yarumos

  This ecopark is a true green lung in the city, perfect for children to run and learn about biodiversity. It has trails, suspension bridges, and picnic areas. Insider Tip: Don't forget to bring binoculars to observe birds; there are over 200 registered species.

Address: Calle 73 # 14-50, Manizales. Price range: Free admission.

Address: Kilómetro 2.5 via al Valle de Cauca, Manizales. Price range: Admission COP $7,000.

Address: Carrera 20 # 34-32, Manizales. Price range: Free admission.

Address: Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados, Manizales. Price range: Free admission, but there may be costs for guides.

Address: Vereda el Otoño, Manizales. Price range: Around COP $30,000 per person.

Essential tips for family travel: mobility, prices, and comfort

• Mobility: Manizales has a public transport system that includes buses and taxis. However, for greater convenience, you can rent a vehicle or use transport apps.
• Prices: Reference prices in April 2026 for attractions are accessible. For example, museum entrance fees usually range from COP $5,000 to $10,000. It is recommended to check prices before visiting.
• Comfort: Always carry a backpack with essentials: water, snacks, sunscreen, and a light jacket, as the weather can vary. It is also useful to have a basic first-aid kit for any eventuality.

Frequently asked questions

What activities are recommended for the little ones in Manizales?

In addition to ecoparks and museums, children can enjoy outdoor activities in parks and recreational spaces, such as Parque de la Vida and Parque Temático Los Fundadores.

What are the opening hours of the ecoparks?

Ecoparks are generally open from Monday to Sunday, but it is recommended to check the specific hours on their official websites or social media before visiting.

Are there food options suitable for children in Manizales?

Yes, Manizales offers various family dining options, from restaurants with children's menus to ice cream parlors and cafes that have healthy and delicious options for the little ones.

Looking for the perfect place to stay with your family? Check out our guide to family hotels in Manizales.

Estimated times

Ecoparque Los Yarumos

An ideal space for children to connect with nature. It offers trails, viewpoints, and educational activities. It's perfect for a day of hiking and outdoor games.

Insider Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy an outdoor meal in its designated areas. Admission costs around COP $5,000 per person.

Recinto del Pensamiento

This place combines nature and culture, with trails and a butterfly garden that fascinates the little ones. There are also interactive activities that teach about biodiversity.

Insider Tip: Make sure to visit the butterfly garden first thing in the morning when the butterflies are most active. Admission costs approximately COP $6,000.

Parque de los Colonizadores

A park with children's playgrounds and ample green areas, ideal for children to run and play. There are also sports courts and walking trails.

Insider Tip: Recreational activities are often held on weekends, so it's worth visiting on those days. Admission is free.

Parque Temático Los Nevados

This park offers a unique experience about coffee culture and the area's biodiversity. There are activities for children and shows that highlight the richness of Colombian coffee.

Insider Tip: Schedule your visit to coincide with the coffee cultivation demonstrations; it's an experience that children love. Admission costs around COP $10,000 per person.

Practical tips

1. Ecoparque Los Yarumos

This ecopark is perfect for children to connect with nature. It offers trails, picnic areas, and a spectacular view of the city. Don't forget to bring a camera, as the panoramic view from the viewpoint is impressive.

Insider Tip: Visit on weekends when they often organize guided activities for the little ones. Address: Calle 70 # 5-80, Manizales. Free admission.

2. Recinto del Pensamiento

An ideal place for family interaction, with gardens, trails, and a butterfly garden. Children can learn about the region's biodiversity while enjoying the outdoors. It's a space that invites curiosity.

Insider Tip: Ask about their environmental education activities; they are very entertaining. Address: Avenida 12 de Octubre, Manizales. Admission: COP $5,000.

3. Parque de la Vida

A green space where children can run and play. There are playgrounds and picnic areas. It's an ideal place to relax after a day of tourism. The vegetation is abundant and refreshing.

Insider Tip: Bring a ball or frisbee to enjoy an active afternoon. Address: Calle 65 with Carrera 23, Manizales. Free admission.

4. Parque El Recuerdo

This park is perfect for children to have fun. It has a large play area and rest areas. Ideal for a family picnic day. The trees offer shade and a cool atmosphere.

Insider Tip: Visit in the afternoons when there are fewer people and children can play freely. Address: Carrera 18 # 19-45, Manizales. Free admission.

5. Heladería La Galleta

A place that will delight the little ones, with a variety of artisanal ice creams. The flavor combinations are creative and refreshing. Ideal for a sweet break after a day of activities.

Insider Tip: Try the soursop ice cream; it's a local favorite. Address: Calle 48 # 22-39, Manizales. Prices start from COP $3,000.

6. La Candelaria

This historic neighborhood is perfect for a family walk. Its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture offer a picturesque atmosphere. You can find small cafes and craft shops. A space to enjoy local culture.

Insider Tip: Visit the local market that sets up on Sundays; there are activities for children and fresh produce. Address: La Candelaria, Manizales. Free admission.

“We took our 4 and 7-year-old children to the Recinto del Pensamiento and it was a magical experience. They loved the butterfly house, but what they enjoyed most was the plant planting workshop. We spent the whole morning there and didn't have time to get bored. I recommend going early, because by mid-morning it's already very crowded.”

“The Ecoparque Los Yarumos is ideal if you're looking for an active plan. My 9-year-old son was fascinated by the climbing wall and the giant slides. Also, the trails are very safe and well-marked. What we valued most was that, even though there were many children, it always felt calm and family-friendly.”

“For us, the Parque de la Vida was the perfect end to the day. After visiting the Gold Museum, we went for a snack at the park. The kids ran non-stop through the green areas and we enjoyed a coffee at the nearby tables. It's a place that invites you to relax and connect as a family.”

• Appropriate clothing and footwear: The weather in Manizales is unpredictable. Always bring a waterproof jacket and closed, non-slip shoes, especially if you plan to walk on trails or in eco-parks.
• Hydration and snacks: Although there are vendors in most parks, it's advisable to bring water and healthy snacks (fruit, granola bars) to prevent children from getting dehydrated or cranky from hunger.
• Plan your schedule: Eco-parks are usually open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Take advantage of the early morning hours for outdoor activities when the weather is cooler and there are fewer people. Afternoons are ideal for visiting museums or ice cream parlors.
• Safety first: Manizales is a safe city, but as with any destination, keep children close in crowded areas. In eco-parks, respect the signs and stay on marked trails.
• Accessibility: Most major parks and museums have ramps and restrooms adapted for strollers. However, some trails in eco-parks may have steep slopes; check beforehand if your plan is suitable for very young children or those with reduced mobility.
• Sunscreen and repellent: Even though the weather is cool, solar radiation at high altitudes can be intense. Don't forget to apply sunscreen and insect repellent, especially if you visit green areas or near bodies of water.

• Feria de Manizales (January): The city's most important festival includes parades, concerts, food fairs, and children's activities like the “Children's Fair,” with amusement rides, art workshops, and puppet shows.
• Festival Internacional de la Imagen (April/May): A cultural event that, although aimed at a general audience, offers photography and film workshops for children, as well as interactive exhibits that fascinate the little ones.
• Children's Day (April): During this month, many parks and museums hold special days with free entry or discounts, along with fun activities like painting, storytelling, and traditional games.
• Feria de la Ciencia, la Tecnología y la Innovación (September): An ideal event to spark children's scientific curiosity. It includes interactive experiments, robotics workshops, and astronomy demonstrations.
• Christmas in Manizales (December): The city lights up with Christmas decorations, and the Parque de la Vida becomes a stage of lights and shows. There are also craft fairs and children's activities like “Santa's House.”

For exact dates and programming for each event, we recommend checking the official websites of the Manizales Mayor's Office or the social media pages of the parks and museums mentioned in this guide.