Cocora Valley: Home of the Wax Palm
Hike amidst Colombia's iconic wax palms in the stunning Cocora Valley. Explore cloud forests, coffee farms, and breathtaking landscapes near Salento.
Cocora Valley, near Salento, Colombia, is famed for its towering Quindío wax palms, Colombia's national tree. Visitors can hike or horseback ride through stunning landscapes, exploring cloud forests and farmlands dotted with these iconic, endangered palms. The valley offers various trails for different fitness levels, with options to visit hummingbird reserves and coffee farms.
A brief summary to Cocora Valley
- Vía al Valle de Cocora, Km 11, Salento, Quindio, CO
- +573102275091
- 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
Local tips
- Wear appropriate footwear, as trails can be muddy, especially during the rainy season. Hiking boots or mud boots are recommended.
- Bring cash for entrance fees to trails, attractions like the Acaime Hummingbird Sanctuary, and transportation.
- Arrive early in the morning, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and ensure you catch a Willy jeep back to Salento.
- Consider hiking the loop counter-clockwise to save the most scenic views of the wax palm valley for the end of your hike.
- Pack a light rain jacket and long pants, as the weather can be unpredictable, and some plants along the trail can cause scratches.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The most common way to reach Cocora Valley from Salento is by taking a 'Willy,' a vintage Jeep repurposed for public transport. Head to Plaza de Bolivar, Salento's main square, where you'll find the Willy terminal. Round-trip tickets cost approximately 10,000 COP per person. Jeeps typically leave every half hour or when full, with the first departures around 6:30 AM. The ride to Cocora Valley takes about 25-30 minutes. Be prepared for a bumpy ride, as some passengers may need to stand on the back. The Willy will drop you off at a parking lot, which serves as the trailhead for most hikes.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Salento and can take you directly to Cocora Valley. Negotiate the fare beforehand. A one-way trip will likely cost between 20,000 and 30,000 COP, depending on the taxi and your negotiation skills. Taxis offer a more direct and comfortable option, especially if you're traveling in a group or prefer a private ride. The journey takes about 25-30 minutes. The taxi will drop you off at the parking lot, the starting point for the Cocora Valley hikes.
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Walking
While it is possible to hike from Salento to Cocora Valley, it is not generally recommended due to traffic and the distance. The walk is approximately 11km and takes around 2-3 hours. If you choose to walk, follow the main road leading out of Salento towards Cocora Valley. Be cautious of vehicles and wear reflective clothing. Once you arrive in Cocora Valley, you can begin your chosen hike from the parking lot.
Discover more about Cocora Valley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Valle de Cocora
0.0 km
Explore the enchanting Valle de Cocora, home to Colombia's iconic wax palm trees and breathtaking hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Donde Juan B Bosques de Cocora Valle De cocora
0.1 km
Experience the flavors of Colombia at Donde Juan B Bosques de Cocora, where exquisite cuisine meets breathtaking views in Valle de Cocora.
Cocora Xtreme
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of adventure sports at Cocora Xtreme, set against the stunning backdrop of Colombia's iconic Cocora Valley.
Finca Los Portones
1.2 km
Discover the beauty of Cocora Valley at Finca Los Portones, a serene farmstay offering breathtaking views and authentic local experiences in Salento, Quindío.
Cocora Waterfalls
2.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cocora Waterfalls, a serene nature preserve in Colombia's Quindío region, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
RESERVA GUADALAJARA - COCORA VALLEY
7.1 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Reserva Guadalajara, Cocora Valley, where luxury meets nature in Colombia's stunning coffee region.
Valle de las Cecropias
8.1 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Valle de las Cecropias, a perfect camping farm escape in the heart of Quindío, Colombia.
Cocoratours, Valle del cocora
8.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Valle del Cocora with Cocoratours – your ultimate travel agency for unforgettable horseback riding and sport tours in Colombia.
El Mirador del Cocora
8.8 km
Discover the enchanting El Mirador del Cocora, a tranquil hotel in the heart of the stunning Cocora Valley, offering breathtaking views and adventure in nature.
Andariego!
8.9 km
Discover Andariego, an artisanal coffee shop in Salento, where the rich flavors of Colombian coffee come alive in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Plaza de Bolívar Salento
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Salento at Plaza de Bolívar, a cultural gem surrounded by stunning architecture and lush landscapes.
Viajero Hostel Salento
9.0 km
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Territorio Cocora
9.1 km
Explore Territorio Cocora: A unique technology park in Colombia where innovation meets breathtaking nature.
Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel
9.1 km
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Paramo Trek
9.3 km
Experience breathtaking hikes and explore the stunning Cocora Valley with Paramo Trek, your gateway to Colombia's natural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Quindio valle del cocora
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Explore Valle del Cocora, a natural paradise in Salento renowned for its majestic wax palms and scenic hiking trails in Colombia's coffee region.
Cocora
0.1 km
Discover the majestic beauty of Cocora Park, home to Colombia's iconic wax palms, lush landscapes, and serene hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers.
Cocora Valley Trail
0.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Cocora Valley Trail in Salento, Colombia, home to the iconic wax palm trees and breathtaking hiking experiences.
La vida es bella
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Salento at La Vida Es Bella, a premier tourist attraction in Colombia's coffee region.
Parador Fotografico - La Vida Bella
0.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views at Parador Fotografico - La Vida Bella, a must-visit destination in Salento, Quindio, Colombia for all nature lovers.
El Bosque de Las Palmas
0.8 km
Explore El Bosque de Las Palmas: Home to Colombia's iconic wax palms and a stunning national park filled with breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Forest of the Palms
0.8 km
Hike amidst the world's tallest palm trees in Colombia's stunning Valle de Cocora, a surreal landscape in the heart of the Coffee Region.
Sendero hasta el río Cárdenas, valle de Cocorá
1.5 km
Explore the stunning Sendero hasta el Río Cárdenas in Valle de Cocorá, a hiking paradise with breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
Mirador Águila real
2.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene glamping experience at Mirador Águila Real, a must-visit tourist attraction in Salento, Quindio, Colombia.
Sendero rio cárdenas
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Sendero Río Cárdenas in Salento, an exhilarating hiking area amidst Colombia's stunning Cocora Valley.
Sendero cascada cárdenas
2.2 km
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Sendero Recorrido Ecológico El Portón
2.5 km
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Bosque De Niebla
2.5 km
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Rio Quindio
2.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Rio Quindio, where towering wax palms meet rich biodiversity in Colombia's stunning Quindio region.
Morrogacho montain
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Morrogacho Mountain in Salento, Quindio, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Essential places to dine
Cabalgatas En Cocora
0.1 km
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Eco Hotel Restaurant The Palms of Cocora
0.1 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Eco Hotel Restaurant The Palms of Cocora in Quindío, Colombia.
Restaurante Valle Del Cocora
0.1 km
Experience authentic Colombian flavors in the heart of Salento at Restaurante Valle Del Cocora - where every meal tells a story.
Restaurante Juan B Jaramillo
0.1 km
Experience authentic Colombian cuisine at Restaurante Juan B Jaramillo while enjoying breathtaking views in Salento's picturesque landscape.
Restaurante Donde Kike Cocora
0.2 km
Discover authentic Colombian cuisine at Restaurante Donde Kike Cocora amidst breathtaking landscapes in Valle del Cocora.
TRUCHAS COCORA
0.5 km
Experience authentic Colombian cuisine at Truchas Cocora in Salento - where local flavors meet breathtaking scenery.
Restaurante Aires De Cocora
0.5 km
Experience authentic Colombian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Restaurante Aires De Cocora in Valle del Cocora.
Restaurante Donde Laurita Campestre
6.9 km
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Coco Bowl
8.7 km
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MIRADOR DE COCORA
8.7 km
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Quindu Restaurante
8.8 km
Experience authentic Colombian cuisine at Quindu Restaurante in Salento – where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.
La Fonda de los Arrieros
8.8 km
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Etnia Arte & Sabor
8.8 km
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Cocora's
8.9 km
Discover authentic Colombian cuisine at Cocora's in Salento – where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Casa Willys
8.9 km
Experience authentic Colombian cuisine at Casa Willys in Salento – where every dish tells a story and every sip delights.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Comidas Rapidas, Cafetería DELICIAS COCORA
0.2 km
Experience the finest Colombian coffee and delightful snacks at Cafetería DELICIAS COCORA in the stunning Cocora Valley.
Cafeteria y Comidas Rapidas DELICIAS COCORA
0.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Colombian coffee at Delicias Cocora, a charming café nestled in the breathtaking Cocora Valley.
Cocoraland
0.4 km
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Cascadas de cocora
2.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cascadas de Cocora, a nature preserve filled with stunning waterfalls, unique wildlife, and iconic wax palm trees.
Reserva Natural Acaime
4.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Acaime Nature Reserve in Salento, Quindio – a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Finca Ceilan
7.9 km
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MN Tienda
8.8 km
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Finca la Primavera - Páramo Romerales
8.8 km
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Pietra joyeros
8.8 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Pietra Joyeros in Salento, where each jewelry piece reflects the rich culture of Quindío.
Magicalnight
8.9 km
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Montana Glamping
10.3 km
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SEVEN/SEVEN ARMENIA PORTAL EL QUINDIO
20.3 km
Discover the essence of Colombian fashion at SEVEN/SEVEN Armenia Portal El Quindio, your go-to clothing store in Quindio.
Mattelsa Armenia - Tienda de Ropa
20.3 km
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Portal del Quindío
20.4 km
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Agua Bendita - CC Portal del Quindio
20.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Casa Willys Campestre
0.1 km
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Picnic
0.2 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Salento at Picnic Restaurant, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a charming setting.
Restaurante de Orillos
0.3 km
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Pedrinchi el de los Arequipes
0.5 km
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Restaurante El Rincón De la Tiznada
0.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Colombia at Restaurante El Rincón De la Tiznada in Salento, where local flavors meet stunning views.
El Tejadito De Salento
8.8 km
Discover El Tejadito De Salento, where exceptional coffee and local beverages meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Colombia.
Cancha De Tejo Los Amigos
8.9 km
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Bar Danubio
8.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Danubio in Salento, a top destination for pool enthusiasts and socializers in Colombia's coffee region.
DONDE MI APA FONDA
9.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Donde Mi Apa Fonda in Salento, a bar that embodies Colombian warmth and vibrant local culture.
La Retretta Resto Bar
17.6 km
La Retretta Resto Bar: A vibrant gastropub in Armenia, Quindío, offering delicious cuisine, refreshing drinks, and lively karaoke nights for an unforgettable experience.
Icónico Terraza
19.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious tapas at Icónico Terraza, a must-visit bar in Armenia, Quindío for every traveler.
Builes Cocktails Armenia
20.0 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Builes Cocktails Armenia, where local flavors meet creative mixology in a lively atmosphere.
The cantina corona
20.4 km
Discover the pulse of Armenia's nightlife at The Cantina Corona, where vibrant culture and exquisite drinks come together.
Sky Blue
20.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sky Blue, a premier bar in Armenia, Quindío, with expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
The City Pub
20.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The City Pub in Armenia, Quindio, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.
