Cocora Valley Travel Guide: How to Explore Colombia’s Most Iconic Landscape

Welcome to Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora), one of Colombia’s most iconic and surreal natural destinations. Tucked within the green hills of the Quindío Department, Cocora Valley is famous for its wax palm trees — the tallest palm species in the world — that stretch up to 60 meters into the sky. Their otherworldly appearance, often shrouded in mist, makes this valley look like a scene from a dream.
 

Located just outside the colorful town of Salento, Cocora Valley is a top choice for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're here for a short stroll or a full-day trek, the views will leave you in awe.

📍 Where Is Cocora Valley?

Cocora Valley is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park, situated in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle in the Andes Mountains.

📍 Department: Quindío

🏞️ Altitude: ~1,800 to 2,400 meters above sea level

🚙 Distance from Salento: 25 minutes by Jeep Willys

This protected area lies in the central Andean cloud forest ecosystem, rich with biodiversity and home to numerous species of birds, orchids, and more.

What Makes Cocora Valley Special?

✅ Home to Ceroxylon quindiuense, Colombia’s national tree and the world’s tallest palm species
✅ Unforgettable hiking trails through misty cloud forests, rivers, and pastureland
✅ Jaw-dropping scenic viewpoints ideal for photography
✅ Gateway to Los Nevados National Park, where volcanoes and glaciers await
✅ Unique ecosystem with hummingbirds, toucans, and endemic flora

If you're visiting Colombia, Cocora Valley is an absolute must-see — a natural wonder that showcases the country’s ecological richness and scenic beauty.

🌿 A Brief Natural History of Cocora Valley

The valley gets its name from “Cocora,” the daughter of a local Quimbaya chief. According to legend, her name means “star of water.” The area was once sacred to indigenous communities and remains a critical ecological corridor in modern times.

The wax palm thrives here thanks to high elevation, cool climate, and volcanic soils. Today, conservation efforts are in place to protect this endangered species and its habitat.

🛣️ How to Get to Cocora Valley

From Salento

Most travelers stay in Salento, just 11 km away. Here's how to get from Salento to Cocora Valley:

🚙 Jeep Willys: Departs from the main plaza every 30 minutes (7 AM–5 PM)

💵 Cost: ~COP 10,000 round-trip

🕒 Ride time: ~25 minutes

👉 Pro tip: Arrive early (around 7 AM) to beat the crowds and afternoon rain.

From Other Cities

From Armenia or Pereira: Take a bus to Salento first

From Bogotá: Fly to Armenia or Pereira, then proceed to Salento and Cocora Valley

🎒 What to Bring

🥾 Sturdy hiking boots

🧥 Rain jacket (cloud forest = frequent rain)

🎒 Water bottle and snacks

🧢 Hat and sunscreen

📷 Camera (you’ll want lots of photos)

💵 Cash (no ATMs in the valley)

🥾 Hiking in Cocora Valley: Trail Options

Option 1: Full Loop Hike (Approx. 5–6 Hours)

This circular trail is the best way to experience everything Cocora Valley offers:

Route:

Start at the trailhead (beyond the parking lot)

Walk through pastures and wooden bridges

Reach Acaime Hummingbird Reserve (~2 hours in)

Optional: Pay ~COP 20,000 to enter and get a drink while spotting hummingbirds

Continue climbing toward Finca La Montaña

Descend into the wax palm valley (best views)

Loop back to the starting point

🕒 Duration: 5–6 hours
💰 Entrance Fee: COP 10,000 at the entrance of the valley + optional COP 20,000 for Acaime
🎯 Best for: Hikers who want variety, from cloud forest to mountain views to iconic palms

Option 2: Out-and-Back to Wax Palms (1–2 Hours)

Short on time or not into hiking? This easier option leads straight to the valley’s most iconic wax palm grove.

Route:

Take the right fork at the trail split (not the full loop)

Walk uphill directly into the wax palm forest

Spend time admiring and photographing the landscape

Return the same way

🕒 Duration: ~1.5 hours
💰 Entrance Fee: COP 10,000
🎯 Best for: Families, photographers, or visitors with limited time or mobility

Option 3: Horseback Riding

Guided horseback tours are also available and typically last 1–2 hours. Local guides take you through scenic routes including rivers, forests, and farms.

🐎 Cost: ~COP 50,000–80,000 per person
🎯 Best for: Those who want a unique and relaxed way to explore the valley

📸 Best Photo Spots in Cocora Valley

Wax Palm Grove near the Loop Descent

Mirador de las Palmas – Reachable on the full hike loop

Aerial shots near the entrance if you have a drone

Horseback riders among palms – Iconic Colombian countryside look

📷 The lighting is usually best in the morning before 10 AM or in the golden hour before sunset.

🐦 Wildlife in Cocora Valley

Despite its popularity, Cocora Valley is still a wildlife haven, especially for birdwatchers. You may see:

Hummingbirds (over 15 species!)

Andean guans

Spectacled bears (very rare)

Toucans and parrots

Butterflies and orchids

🌿 Visit early for the best wildlife sightings.

🌦️ Weather and Best Time to Visit Cocora Valley

Cocora Valley has a mild but rainy climate, typical of Andean cloud forests.

🌤️ Dry season: December–March and July–August

🌧️ Rainiest months: April–May, October–November

🌡️ Average daytime temp: 15–22°C (59–72°F)

🚨 Afternoon rains are common year-round, so start your hike early (by 8–9 AM).

🍴 Food and Drink Near Cocora Valley

There are basic food stalls and restaurants near the parking area offering:

Freshly grilled trucha (trout)

Arepas and empanadas

Coffee and hot chocolate

Fruit juice and snacks

Most people eat breakfast in Salento and return there for lunch or dinner.

🏨 Where to Stay Near Cocora Valley

In Salento (Recommended)

Budget: Viajero Hostel, La Floresta

Mid-range: Hotel Salento Real, Casa La Eliana

Luxury: Terasu Hotel, Montana Eco Lodge

Near the Valley (for nature immersion)

Cabañas Kasaguadua – Eco-lodge in the cloud forest

EcoHotel La Cabaña – Quiet, surrounded by farmland and birdsong

🏡 Staying in Salento gives you easy access to transport and restaurants.

🌱 Sustainability and Conservation

Cocora Valley is protected under Colombia’s national park system and is crucial for biodiversity and water conservation.

As a visitor:

🚮 Take all trash with you

🥾 Stay on marked trails

🙅‍♂️ Don’t climb trees or damage plants

🐴 Choose ethical horseback tours

Your actions help preserve this fragile ecosystem for generations to come.

Suggested 1-Day Cocora Valley Itinerary

7:00 AM: Breakfast in Salento

8:00 AM: Jeep to Cocora Valley

8:30 AM–2:00 PM: Full loop hike with Acaime stop

2:30 PM: Return to Salento

3:00 PM: Lunch and relax

4:30 PM: Visit a coffee farm or enjoy sunset at a mirador

👣 Tips for First-Time Visitors

Start early to avoid fog and rain

Bring a waterproof backpack cover

Don’t underestimate the mud — wear proper shoes

Keep your ticket from the entrance for multiple checkpoints

Be respectful to local farmers and livestock on the trail

Nearby Places to Explore

🏘️ Salento – Colonial charm, craft shops, and cafes

☕ Finca El Ocaso – Authentic coffee tour

🌄 Mirador de Salento – Panoramic town and valley views

🧗 Los Nevados Park – High-altitude trekking and adventure

Final Thoughts: Why Cocora Valley Should Be on Your Bucket List

Cocora Valley is one of those rare places where natural beauty, cultural heritage, and eco-tourism converge. With its dramatic wax palm forests, lush trails, and mountain magic, it’s no wonder Cocora has become one of Colombia’s most beloved destinations.

Whether you come for a few hours or stay for days, Cocora Valley will reward you with a sense of wonder and peace that only nature can provide.