Discover the home of the world's tallest wax palms, in the heart of Colombia's Coffee Region.
All the information you need to visit the Valle del Cocora. The Valle del Cocora is a rural area located about 25 minutes from Salento, Quindío (known as the colorful little town of traditional houses in Colombia's Coffee Region), just 11 kilometers away by road.
This stunning valley is part of Los Nevados National Natural Park and lies about 11 kilometers from Salento, surrounded by the mountains of the Andes' Central Cordillera, which gives it its tremendous natural beauty and biodiversity.
Set your route to the nearest capital cities (about 1 hour away): Pereira or Armenia. From there, head to Salento and then on to the Valle del Cocora.
The final stretch, from Salento to the Valle del Cocora, is about 11 km and takes approximately 25 minutes by car or in the traditional Jeep Willys. Travel time may vary depending on weather, road conditions, and visitor traffic.
Flying in? We also offer airport transportation (Pereira or Armenia) to Salento and the Valle del Cocora.
See airport and transfer servicesThe valley is famous for its unmistakable wax palms, which reach up to 60 meters and are Colombia's national symbol. The mist and rain create an ecosystem that supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The valley sits between 1,800 and 2,700 m above sea level, with a cool climate ranging from 12 °C to 20 °C. Morning mist and frequent rain are part of its charm, so the weather can change in a matter of minutes.
Its cloud forest ecosystem is home to tremendous biodiversity: besides the wax palms, it shelters hummingbirds, toucans, parrots, and a wide variety of birds, ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.
Visiting Cocora means immersing yourself in a setting of hiking, birdwatching, horseback rides, and unique panoramic views. From sunrises to biodiversity, every visit invites outdoor exploration.
The Valle del Cocora is the gateway to Los Nevados National Natural Park. Entry to the park is only allowed with a certified guide.
Access price for the main attractions within the valley. The cost is per person and applies to ages 4 and up.
The Valle del Cocora doesn't charge an entrance fee as such. The access fee only applies to the trails and viewpoints located on private land, where the famous wax palms are. It's not mandatory: you can also enjoy the scenery completely free, without entering any photo park or trail. Plus, the valley has spots to grab a coffee, have lunch, and relax while you take in one of the most beautiful views in the Coffee Region.
Note about Finca El Portón: we don't include passage through Finca El Portón, as it only charges for crossing (like a toll). It costs $6.000 COP per person and only applies if you do the hummingbird route or loop.
Buy your pass or book a guided tour and forget about lines, transportation and logistics. We take care of everything so you can just enjoy the scenery.
Natives of the Valle del Cocora who know every trail and story.
Plans with transportation and access included: less hassle, more fun.
Buy your pass or tour online with instant confirmation.
Special rates for families, groups and travel agencies.
WhatsApp support (+57) 313 759 3013 · Book ahead during high season.
The Valle del Cocora offers everything from easily accessible viewpoints for the whole family to longer hiking loops. Choose based on your available time and fitness level.
Spots like La Vida Bella and La Mano are right by the road and ideal for enjoying the wax palms, taking photos and soaking in the scenery without long hikes.
Trails with two palm viewpoints, the blue hand, a café and attractions. A moderate option, perfect for those who want to walk a bit while still enjoying some comforts.
The most complete route: a loop of about 12 kilometers through a traditional farm, cloud forest and Indigenous history, with hummingbird watching. Designed for those looking for a long hike surrounded by nature.
The Hummingbird Loop takes approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and stops. Remember that access to Parque Los Nevados is only allowed with a certified guide.
Book a Cocoratours guided tour and experience the valley safely, with stories and the best viewpoints.
Traveling in a group or representing a travel agency? We have options designed especially for you.
If you're an agency or traveling with a group of more than 20 people, we offer a personalized experience tailored to your needs, with a unique itinerary full of activities and surprises.
From guided tours to exclusive entertainment options, every detail is designed so each member of the group enjoys an enriching experience. Let us make your trip an unforgettable adventure!
Each jeep holds 10 people. You must book in advance. Terms and conditions apply.
You can drive in your own vehicle (the road is mostly paved) or take public transportation from Salento's main square (the Jeep Willys). If you need private transportation, we can help with that too.
The road is mostly paved. Valle del Cocora has more than 5 parking lots spread throughout the area (such as La Esperanza), with a one-time fee of $15,000 to $20,000 COP for as long as you want to stay.
Public transportation in the traditional Jeep Willys from Salento's main square. It costs $12,000 to $13,000 COP per person (round trip). In high season, jeeps depart from Calle 3 and Carrera 3 in Salento, since they can't park in the main square.
We offer private transportation to Valle del Cocora by jeep, Duster, or van, with a driver, hotel pickup, and a schedule tailored to you. Ideal for families, groups, and agencies looking for comfort, safety, and punctuality.
See transportation serviceBefore visiting Valle del Cocora, keep these key details in mind to better plan your day and make the most of the experience.
Open every day of the year, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Prices apply to ages 4 and up. Rates updated as of October 2026.
Distances are measured from the jeep parking area in the center of the valley.
The valley is the gateway to the park. Access is only allowed with a certified guide.
Between 1,800 and 2,700 m (5,900–8,900 ft) above sea level, with temperatures from 12 °C to 20 °C. Bring layers.
Pets are welcome on select tours, on a leash and with responsible waste cleanup.
The valley itself doesn't charge an entrance fee, but the trails and viewpoints are on private land where you do pay an access fee (from $20,000 COP per person).
Access fees apply to children over 4. Ask us directly about rates and group discounts.
It's not required for the viewpoints and access trails, but entry to Parque Los Nevados is only allowed with a certified guide. A guide always enriches the experience.
We accept cards, bank transfers and cash. We recommend bringing some cash for access fees and crossing private farms.
We're Pet Friendly on select tours. We just ask that your pet stays on a leash and that you clean up after it.
It depends on the plan: the viewpoints don't take long, while the hummingbird loop can take 4 to 6 hours. Add the ~25 min from Salento.
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