Hiking Guide to Cocora Valley: Everything You Need to Know
The Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora) is one of the best things to see and do near Salento, Colombia. Read our hiking guide on Cocora Valley, including tips on how to get there, what to expect, how much things cost, what to pack, and how to best enjoy the absolute highlight, tall wax palms.
The Cocora Valley alias Valle de Cocora is a wonderful place near the colonial town Salento, and it is easy to see why most of the Colombia travel itineraries include both sightseeing in the town and hiking in Cocora Valley.
Simply put, it is not possible to visit Salento without traveling to Cocora Valley and vice versa.
Why is Cocora Valley considered a hikers' paradise?
First of all, it is an entrance point to one of the most beautiful places in Colombia, Los Nevados National Park.
Second of all, it offers renowned trails that take travelers to cloud forest and jungle, across farmlands, it boasts incredible scenery and views, and the absolute highlight that makes this place so alluring is the almost 60 meters high wax palms.
These palms are national trees of Colombia, and they are not only insanely photogenic but what makes them special is the fact they grow 2500 meters above sea level on steep grassy hills all over the valley.
If you plan on visiting Cocora Valley, read this hiking guide first.
COCORA VALLEY
Even though Cocora Valley is on every Colombia bucket list, and maybe because of that, many travelers do not realize that we talk here about a serious trek, and it is better to be well-prepared.
Yes, we are talking about walking the whole loop around Cocora Valley, which we think is absolutely worth it.
What makes this trek particularly hard is the often muddy trail and high altitude. In our case, it was also general travel fatigue, as we had been already traveling for more than a month in Colombia.
Plus it's recommended to first acclimatize properly by hiking in Cocora Valley first before heading to Los Nevados National Park.
In this travel post, we are going to cover how to get to Cocora Valley, where to stay, how the trail looks like, how much things cost, or what to pack.
We cannot wait to show you one of the most beautiful places in Colombia!
HOW TO GET TO COCORA VALLEY
As hiking in Cocora Valley is one of the top things to do in the area, getting there is very straightforward.
The valley is approximately 30 minutes' drive from Salento, so the usual way to get there is by shared jeeps called Willys. If you want, it is possible to book private transport, but as budget travelers, we have opted for the regular one.
Jeeps leave from a booth on the main square in Salento.
Rumors say that jeeps leave from a different point on weekends, but no worries. Salento is a small town, and there's nothing easier than to ask around.
According to a schedule, jeeps leave almost every hour between 6:30 AM and 4 PM, but we had a feeling they simply leave when full.
Morning times are more popular, therefore they go almost immediately.
In case you decide to start the hike later (which we do not recommend), you might wait a bit.
The absolutely most busy time to leave for Cocora Valley is at 9 AM, so if you want to avoid crowds, it is better to start earlier.
At the time of our visit, it was not possible to book a ticket for a certain time in advance, we just had to show up.
The ticket costs 3600 COP per person one way.
We were the last two passengers the driver was waiting for, and Lucie was lucky enough to seize the last available seat next to the driver.
I had to stand on a small rear bumper and had to hold on hard, as there were four of us who were not able to fit on regular seats.
The jeep then dropped us off at the parking lot, which is basically the trailhead.
To get back from Cocora Valley to Salento, you have to return to this parking lot and find an available jeep.
Even though we do not want you to hurry up, it is better to return by 4 PM to the parking lot as it might be much harder to find transport later in the afternoon.
In case there are not enough travelers, but you want to get to Salento immediately, you can arrange your transport but it is going to be more expensive.
WHICH DIRECTION SHOULD I HIKE?
If you want to see iconic wax palms, you have two options. From the parking lot, it is possible to walk directly to the valley, which takes approximately 30 minutes.
Here, you can decide whether you want to make the full loop, or you will return back to the parking lot. Or you can first enjoy the hike and leave the highlight, wax palms, for the very end of the hike.
We decided on the latter option, so we did the Cocora Valley loop counterclockwise, and that's why seeing wax palms was a cherry on the top.
This alternative has only one flaw. By the time you reach the most famous spot with a view of wax palms, the place will be filled with people.
We did not find it that bad, but if you want to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere among the giants, consider walking to see the wax palms first.
Some people say hiking in this direction is harder, but we do not think it makes such a difference.
Officially, the trek should take you up to six hours. It took us five, and we walked at a leisure pace and took many stops to take photos.
The trail is not very physically demanding and is easy to navigate. What can make the trail difficult is the mud, which can turn the path into a mess.
There is only one steeper climb on the way, which makes this activity perfect for almost every moderately fit hiker.
COCORA VALLEY HIKE
Ok. So once the car dropped us off, we started the hike. The well-maintained trail leads straight - this is the path directly to the valley with wax palms.
In case you want to follow in our footsteps, you have to walk through the blue gate on your right-hand side.
The path initially walks through farmland.
The trail here is flat and very easy, but it can get muddy after rain.
We crossed several creeks, and then we continued, accompanied only by a strayed dog and wonderful views.
The scenery was all green, and we could see only a few private farms in the distance.
After approximately 40 minutes, we entered the cloud forest.
The trail then continues along the creek, and you start to slowly ascend.
Be prepared to cross the creek several times via suspension bridges that are sometimes a bit rickety.
The jungle is really dense at times, and even though you should pay attention to where you step, make sure to look around as well.
Once we got deeper into the forest, the trail got muddier.
On several occasions, there was a little stream running through the trail, and we were glad, that we had our hiking boots on.
We believe that when it rains a lot, the path can get really slippery, and the hike can be eventually much harder. But it is a part of the adventure, right?
After some time, we emerged on a junction with two signs, both pointing right.
We didn't follow the signs, as one of them shows the way to Los Nevados National Park (we visited the park on a separate trip), and the other one was for Acaime Finca, where you can do birdwatching and have refreshment.
The entrance fee to Acaime Finca is COP 6 000, and as it was almost noon, which is not the best time for birdwatching we decided not to take this detour.
Instead, we sharply turned left and started to climb the hill, but firstly, we had to go through another gate.
This section of the hike was steep but carrying just a small daypack made it so much easier.
There were no views along the way, but we made several stops and read educational signs (in Spanish) about fauna and flora in the area.
The forest is a natural habitat for spectacled bears (only native bears in South America), cougars, tapirs, and many others.
All sweaty, we emerged just slightly under the Finca La Montana, and shortly after, we could admire a beautiful view of 3450m high Cerro Morrogacho towering above the valley.
From now on, the trail was much easier, but not that entertaining.
But we knew that we were slowly getting closer to the valley, and this excitement provided us with much-needed energy.
It did not take long, and we finally arrived at the first viewpoint called Mirador II, and shortly after at another, again simply named Mirador I.
It was the proper getaway to the area with wax palms.
The views were absolutely incredible, so we just walked around the trees and then found one that provided us with shade, and we ate lunch.
After a short break, we got back on the main road and carried on down the road to the valley.
The valley itself is absolutely stunning and it is definitely worth your time.
The hills are insanely green, and wax palms look exactly like on the pictures - tall, majestic, and peaceful. Cocora Valley is really breathtaking, so take your time, and enjoy the views.
Later, it’s time to get back to the parking lot.
This part of the valley was significantly more trafficked than the whole loop we did, so we could meet here many locals and foreigners coming back.
Also, this stretch of the road is lined with stalls and you can hire a horse here because horseback riding under wax palms is very popular.
We did horseback riding tour in San Agustin in the south of Colombia, and it was enough for the entire trip.
ENTRANCE FEE TO COCORA VALLEY
Hiking in the Cocora Valley is not free. In case you plan on doing the loop, you will end up paying 7000 COP per person.
You will pay 3000 COP once you enter the hike (behind the blue gate), and then 4000 COP at the booth in the valley itself.
It is a bit confusing. At the time of our visit, we did not meet any money collector on the trail, and we paid only in the valley after actually seeing it all.
Prices and conditions can change, and it is also good to have cash on you, just in case.
If you prefer to travel with a guide, there's a large number of Cocora Valley guided tours that include transport, plus you will learn more about the area.
Our Tip: We had a great experience with a local travel agency Paramo Trek, as we hiked with them for four days in Los Nevados National Park.
They also offer one-day trips in the Cocora Valley and area around Salento.
We are happy to share a special 5% discount on all their tours with our readers. Get in touch with Paramo Trek via this contact form and do not forget to mention in the email our special promo code, 'laidbacktrip'.
COCORA VALLEY AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
Cocora Valley is the real tourist gem of the region. But we should always see the whole picture.
Despite the fact that the valley itself is breathtaking and the giant wax palms spectacular, it's also a sad reminder, how humans can affect and change nature as the natural habitat of palms are not deforested hills but dense jungle forest.
The first problem is the growing number of farmlands and their owners who deforest the hills in the area to enlarge pastures for their stock.
The second problem, unfortunately, is tourism.
Of course, it is much prettier to see wax palms on the green slopes with no other trees around - this is also one of the reasons why locals cut the forest.
Wax palms then do not grow in the natural habitat, and the full grownup trees we see around are actually dying without a chance to reproduce.
How is that possible? Well, there is not any wildlife left to spread the seeds, farmers burn the land (and seeds), and cattle eats the leftovers.
Places like Cocora Valley often make us think about what we can do better ourselves, which always brings us back to a question of sustainable tourism.
It’s not late. Yet.
That's why we think it is important to educate ourselves and always learn about our travel destinations.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
WHERE TO STAY IN SALENTO
The best thing about staying in Salento is that accommodation options are plentiful for every type of traveler.
Salento is a small pueblo, so even f you decide to stay on the town's outskirts, all must-visit places will be within walking distance.
In the high season is Salento is one of the most visited places in Colombia, that's why book your hotel in advance, especially if you travel on a strict budget.
We've handpicked the best hotels in Salento for every type of traveler.
Budget | Hospedaje Vista Hermosa Salento - Budget, yet nice and newly renovated family-run hostel is a good choice for all travelers looking for an affordable place to stay.
Mid-range | Casa de las Dos Palmas - This hotel has an authentic feel and is well-kept. It has a jacuzzi which you will surely enjoy after a long day out.
Luxury | Hotel Terasu Salento - Amazing views, private garden, modernly furnished rooms, all of that for a very reasonable price - surely the top pick in Salento.
Alternatively, search for your accommodation via Hostelworld.
WEATHER
Salento and Cocora Valley are best to be visited in the dry season between December and February, and then between July and September.
Temperatures are pleasant all year round with a little difference. It is fine to hike in the Cocora Valley out of the season, but it is good to know that rain can turn a decent path into a muddy slide.
On the other hand, the proximity of high mountains often guarantee showers even in the dry season, and mist and rolling clouds are a quite common phenomenon.
If possible, plan a few days in Salento, so you can wait out in case the weather forecast does not look promising.
WHAT TO PACK
What should you pack for hiking the loop in Cocora Valley?
Make sure to have hiking boots, a rain poncho, and a water bottle . These three things are absolutely essential.
Think of bringing trekking poles, especially if you suffer from knee issues.
We experienced warm, sunny weather, but still, we had in our daypack a fleece jacket and hiking pants, just in case.
We've written an in-depth South America packing list, in case you are looking for a more comprehensive guide for your travels.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
