Hiking Valle de Cocora
Valle de Cocora is a really cool part of Los Nevados National Park. A short jeep ride away from Pueblito de Salento (read guide here). It’s full of the tallest species of palm in the world. The same wax palm is one of Colombia’s national symbols. If you’re in the area go check out the park. It will remind you of how small we are as individuals in the grand scheme of the world. 🙂
How to Arrive
From Salento – Take one of the shared jeeps along calle 2 or calle 3. They start running around 6 am and leave when full. Cost $4,00COP (~$1.25USD) one way.
The Short Trail
After parking or getting dropped off in the parking lot head straight up the trail. Continue straight into the valley.Do NOT make the right hand turn at the blue gate and sign. Continue forward and before you know it you’ll be surrounded by the massive iconic palms. Wander around the valley for as long as you like and then return the way you came. Entrance fee $3,000COP ($1USD).
The Long Trail
If you have the time I would definitely recommend this route. Once you arrive to the parking lot head a few hundred meters up the path where you will come to a blue gate and welcome sign. Take the trail on your right hand side. Follow this trail through the park zig-zagging across the river by suspension bridge. Up the side of the mountain and finally descending into the valley of trees. Trail time around 4 hours plus however long you want to spend in the valley.
Note:
- There is a hummingbird sanctuary along the route. Entrance is $5,000COP (<$2USD). This price includes a beverage. If hard up for time don’t make this optional side trip a priority. I did enjoy it but it was far from a highlight of the day.
- Along the route you’ll see signs for Estrella de Agua. Do NOT take this path! It’s part of a multi day hike.
- The long trail can be taken in reverse by following the short trail instructions from above. By taking the long trail path to the right you save the valley of palms for the grand finale.
- $3,000COP entrance fee to trail ($1USD)
- Horses & guides available for hire at the parking lot.
Returning to Salento
Returning to Salento is as easy as walking back to the parking lot that you arrived at. Last return is said to be 5 pm. Cost $4,000COP ($1.25USD).
Best Salento crew to date 🙂
Denmark, USA, USA, Finland, Singapore, Norway, Norway 🙂
