Admission to Bosque de Palmas Nature Park, Valle del Cocora

About this tour

The Wax Palm Forest is one of the most impressive spots in the Valle del Cocora, in Salento. With your ticket you can venture into the forest and walk among the tallest wax palms in the world —Colombia's national tree—, which exceed 60 meters (200 ft) in height and only grow in this region of the Andes. A must-do to connect with nature and take home the best photos of the valley.

Quick facts

• Location: Valle del Cocora, Salento (Quindío).
• Altitude and climate: ~2,400 m (7,900 ft) above sea level; mountain climate, mild to cold, with frequent afternoon rain.
• Duration: About 3 hours, at your own pace.
• Type: Admission to the nature park (self-guided tour).
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; mountain trails.
• Includes: Admission to the Wax Palm Forest.
• Transportation: Not included; see the options in the “Transportation” section.

What will you experience?

During the experience you'll enjoy:

• Walk among the tallest wax palms in the world.
• Explore trails surrounded by forest and mountains.
• Enjoy viewpoints with panoramic views of the Valle del Cocora.
• Find perfect spots for unforgettable photos.
• Get up close to Colombia's national tree.

Why choose this experience?

The Valle del Cocora is home to the wax palm, and the Palm Forest is the perfect place to admire them up close.

• Natural icon: the tallest wax palms in the world (over 60 meters).
• Unique landscape: these palms only grow in this region of the Andes.
• At your own pace: explore the forest with no rush.
• For the whole family: accessible, well-marked trails.
• Photography: viewpoints with 360° panoramic views.

Entry hours

The Valle del Cocora is open every day of the year, including holidays. Entry to the Palm Forest opens early in the morning. We recommend arriving between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to enjoy the hike with better weather, fewer crowds and the best light for your photos.

• Open: every day, including weekends and holidays.
• Park hours: (8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.).
• Latest recommended entry time: mid-afternoon, so you can finish the hike in daylight.
• Advance booking: recommended to secure your spot, especially in high season, on weekends and holidays.

Keep in mind that cloud cover and the chance of rain tend to increase in the afternoon, so the morning is the best time to visit.

What to bring and tips

• Comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking on natural terrain.
• Light clothing and a waterproof jacket (the weather changes quickly).
• A cap or hat and sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.
• Water to stay hydrated.
• Camera or phone for your photos.

Tip: the weather in the valley is changeable; start early and wear shoes with good grip for the trails.

Transportation

Transportation is not included with admission. To get to the Valle del Cocora, you have these options:

• Traditional transportation from Salento: Jeep Willys leave from Plaza de Bolívar (Salento's main square) for the Valle del Cocora; it's the most affordable option and a cultural experience in itself.
• Private transportation: we can arrange door-to-door transfers; just ask when you book.
• In your own vehicle: you can get there on your own using Google Maps or GPS.

If you need help arranging your transportation, message us and we'll be happy to assist.

Parking

If you arrive in your own vehicle, you'll find several parking areas in the Valle del Cocora. We recommend La Esperanza parking lot, the best choice and best located to start the hike. It charges a flat rate of $15.000 to $20.000 for as long as you want to stay (no hourly charges), so you can explore the valley and the forest at ease without watching the clock.

• Rate: $15.000 to $20.000 for the whole day (flat rate, no hourly charges).
• Why La Esperanza: it's the best-located parking lot to start the hike.
• Arrive early: during high season and on weekends, spots fill up fast.