Discover the Enchanting Cocora Valley
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cocora Valley, home to Colombia's iconic wax palms, diverse wildlife, and stunning hiking trails.
Cocora Valley, a breathtaking national park in Colombia, offers tourists stunning landscapes, incredible biodiversity, and thrilling hiking trails amidst towering wax palms.
A brief summary to Cocora Valley
- Vía al Valle de Cocora, Km 11, Salento, Quindio, CO
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- 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
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cocora Valley.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the valley.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trails can be muddy and steep in places.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and unique wildlife you will encounter.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience and to learn about the flora and fauna.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.
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Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Santanderes, take Route 50 towards Manizales. Once you reach Manizales, follow Route 29 south towards Salento. As you approach Salento, follow the signs for Cocora Valley. The road will take you directly to Vía al Valle de Cocora, where you will find the entrance to the valley approximately 11 km from Salento. Make sure to have your GPS handy, as cell service may be spotty in rural areas. The drive should take about 2-3 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
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Public Transportation
To reach Cocora Valley via public transport, start by taking a bus from any major town in Santanderes to Salento. Buses to Salento can be found at terminals in larger towns like Bucaramanga. Once you arrive in Salento, head to the main square (Plaza de Bolívar) where you can find jeeps or 'Willys' that go directly to Cocora Valley. The jeep ride costs around 3,000 to 4,000 COP (Colombian Pesos) and takes about 30 minutes. Make sure to check the schedule for the last returning jeep to Salento to avoid getting stranded.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more comfortable and direct route, you can hire a taxi from Salento to Cocora Valley. This option is more expensive, with fares typically around 20,000 to 30,000 COP. The taxi ride will take approximately 20-30 minutes. You can arrange for a taxi at your hotel or find one in the main square.
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Hiking
For the adventurous, if you are already in Salento, you can hike to Cocora Valley. The trail starts just outside of Salento and offers a scenic route through the lush coffee plantations and mountainous terrain. It is approximately a 2-hour hike to reach the main area of Cocora Valley. Make sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes and carry water and snacks.
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