8 Tips for Hiking Cocora Valley, Colombia
Cocora Valley, in Colombia’s Coffee Region near Salento, is a highland landscape of rolling green hills and towering wax palms. You’ve most likely heard of it for its iconic palms, the tallest in the world, reaching up to 60 meters (197 feet). With misty mountains and scenic hiking trails, this guide to hiking Cocora Valley will help you plan your visit and explore the best Cocora Valley trails. Read on for a complete guide on how to get there and the best hikes.
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Cocora Valley
8 Tips for Hiking Cocora Valley, Colombia
8 Essential Tips for Hiking Cocora Valley Colombia Travel Guide
1. How to get to Valle de Cocora from Salento?
If you’re starting from Salento, reaching Cocora Valley is straightforward. The most popular option is to take a Willy jeep, the classic open-air vehicles that have been part of the region for decades. Each jeep can carry around 15 passengers and leaves from Salento’s main square once full. For the best views during the ride, try to secure a spot at the back where you can stand up. We did this on the way back as we left really early so it was too chilly to do this on the way there.
Jeeps run frequently from early morning until late afternoon, with the first departures around 6:30–7:00 AM. The trip takes roughly 30 minutes and costs about 10,000 COP for a round trip (around $2–3 USD). Leaving early is recommended to enjoy the valley before it becomes crowded.
On the return journey, jeeps are available at the Cocora Valley parking area. You can simply queue to get on the jeeps, which are constantly arriving and departing throughout the day.
2. The Long Hiking Route
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in Cocora Valley, the long hiking route is the best option. This trail is roughly 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) and usually takes around five hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll walk through cloud forests, cross small streams, and climb to scenic viewpoints offering endless views of the famous valley. The towering wax palms appear throughout the hike, giving you countless photo opportunities.
The path is well-marked and manageable for anyone with a moderate level of fitness, making it possible for most travelers who enjoy a good hike. This long Cocora Valley trail lets you experience all the different landscapes and is our top recommendation for anyone hiking Cocora Valley. Plan to take your time, enjoy the scenery, and snap photos along the way — there’s plenty to see!
3. The Short Hiking Route
If a longer hike isn’t really your thing or you’re short on time, the short hiking route is a great way to still see the heart of Cocora Valley without committing to a full-day hike. This trail takes about 1.5 hours round trip and follows a mostly flat path from the parking area straight into the valley.
Once you arrive, you can explore a nearby viewpoint and enjoy the iconic wax palms up close. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a gentler walk or aren’t confident hiking for several hours but still want to see the most famous part of Cocora Valley. Even on the shorter route, you’ll get a chance to experience one of the main Cocora Valley trails and enjoy its signature scenery.
4. Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise – Choosing a Direction
My preferred way to hike Cocora Valley is starting in the Cocora Valley itself and doing the loop counterclockwise. This means you reach the famous wax palm viewpoint first, which is a huge bonus because it gets extremely busy later in the day. Arriving early guarantees fewer crowds at the main photo spots and much better lighting, as you won’t be there under the harsh midday sun. The valley also tends to look its best in the morning before clouds roll in, so starting this way gives you the most peaceful experience and the best conditions for photos before tackling the longer, quieter sections of the hike.
5. Clockwise Information
If you choose to hike the Cocora Valley loop clockwise, you’ll start by heading away from the palm trees and into the cloud forest. This section feels quieter and more rugged, with narrow trails, muddy patches, and several hanging bridges crossing a flowing river. The forest is lush and shaded, and you’ll gradually climb higher as the trail goes uphill.
After reaching the highest point of the hike, the route opens back out and begins to descend. The final stretch brings you into the Cocora Valley itself, where the famous wax palms suddenly appear. Finishing here feels rewarding, but this area can be busy later in the day, especially around midday.
6. Anti-Clockwise Information
Hiking the loop anti-clockwise means starting directly in Cocora Valley, walking straight towards the iconic wax palms. This is our preferred direction, especially if you start early. Reaching the valley first means fewer crowds at the main photo spots and much softer light for photos, before tour groups arrive.
After passing through the palms, the trail gradually climbs and leads you away from the open valley and into the cloud forest. From here, you’ll walk through dense greenery, cross several suspension bridges over the river, and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere as the hike continues.
7. Entrance Fees & Timings
Cocora Valley is open daily, with hiking trails accessible from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Most visitors arrive early, between 6:30 and 8:00 AM, to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light. There’s a small entrance fee, usually paid in two parts at different gates, totaling around 6,000–8,000 COP per person. Bring cash in small bills, as cards are not accepted.
Check the Cocora Valley trail listing on AllTrails for maps and up‑to‑date visitor info.
8. What to Bring
To make the most of your Cocora Valley hike, it’s important to be prepared. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are a must, as trails can be muddy or slippery. Bring a light jacket or raincoat, since weather in the highlands can change quickly and mornings can be chilly. Don’t forget sun protection — a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen — and plenty of water to stay hydrated. A small snack or packed lunch is useful if you plan to hike the long route. Finally, bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning wax palms and cloud forests along the way. Most public toilets around Colombia do not have tissue so this is something to always carry on you also.
Going to Salento?
If you are planning to visit Salento, do not miss my guide on the the best things to do in Salento. Click here to discover the best spots, hidden gems, and must-see experiences in the city.
