Cocora: A Lush Paradise in Salento
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cocora, home to Colombia's iconic wax palms and stunning landscapes perfect for hiking and nature photography.
A brief summary to Cocora
- Salento, Quindio, CO
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Cocora is a breathtaking park situated in the lush landscapes of Salento, Quindio, Colombia, famous for its iconic wax palm trees that soar majestically into the sky, creating a unique and picturesque backdrop. As you embark on your journey through the park, you will be captivated by the vibrant green hills, diverse flora, and serene atmosphere that make this location a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The park offers various trails that cater to different hiking levels, allowing visitors to explore the stunning scenery at their own pace. These trails lead you through enchanting valleys and up to viewpoints where you can admire the incredible panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In addition to its natural beauty, Cocora is also a hub for eco-tourism, offering opportunities for bird watching and glimpses of local wildlife. The park is home to a variety of species, including the colorful Colombian hummingbirds that flit about the flowers. After your hike, take a moment to relax in the peaceful environment, perhaps enjoying a picnic amidst the towering palms. The best time to visit is early in the morning, when the mist adds a mystical quality to the landscape, or during the golden hour for stunning sunset views. With its enchanting beauty and tranquility, Cocora is an idyllic destination for those looking to escape the bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Colombia.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the misty beauty.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the trails can be steep and uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the towering palm trees.
- Consider a guided tour for a more informative experience about the local ecosystem.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head to Salento, Quindio, which is the closest town to Cocora. From the main plaza in Salento, take the road towards Cocora Valley. The road is well-marked, and it takes about 30 minutes to reach the Cocora Valley entrance. Be prepared for some winding mountain roads and beautiful scenery along the way. There are no tolls on this route.
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Public Transportation (Jeep)
For those using public transportation, you can catch a Willys Jeep from Salento to Cocora. The jeep station is located near the main plaza. The ride costs around 3,000 COP (Colombian Pesos) and takes about 30 minutes. The jeeps run regularly, approximately every 30 minutes, but it’s best to check the current schedule. Sit back and enjoy the scenic views as you make your way to Cocora.
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Walking
Once you arrive at the Cocora Valley entrance, you can explore the area on foot. There are various hiking trails that lead you through the stunning wax palm forests and other natural attractions. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as some trails can be steep and challenging.
Attractions Nearby to Cocora
- Forest of the Palms
- El Bosque de Las Palmas
- Mirador 1 Viewpoint Valle de Cocora
- Manos de Cocora | Deslizadora Tricolor
- Parador Fotografico - La Vida Bella
- La vida es bella
- Cocora Valley Trail
- Sendero hasta el río Cárdenas, valle de Cocorá
- Viewpoint 2 - Cocora Valley
- Valle del Cocora
- Quindio valle del cocora
- Cocora Valley
- Cocora Xtreme
- Sendero rio cárdenas
- Sendero cascada cárdenas
Landmarks nearby to Cocora
- Donde Juan B Bosques de Cocora Valle De cocora
- Finca Los Portones
- Valle de Cocora
- The pastora (regional park, natural Ucumari)
- RESERVA GUADALAJARA - COCORA VALLEY
- Valle de las Cecropias
- Alto de la Cruz viewpoint
- Salento viewpoint
- Cocoratours, Valle del cocora
- El Mirador del Cocora
- Calle Real
- Andariego!
- Plaza de Bolívar Salento
- Viajero Hostel Salento
- Territorio Cocora