Valle de Cocora Travel Guide

Everything you need to know about Valle de Cocora, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, getting there and getting around, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to Valle de Cocora

Valle de Cocora is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the Andes, in the Zona Cafetera region of Colombia, this valley is known for its towering wax palms, colorful hummingbirds, and sweeping mountain vistas. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a leisurely bike ride, or simply a scenic escape, Valle de Cocora has plenty to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Valle de Cocora

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Casa Museo de la Cultura
  • Salento History Museum

Natural Attractions of Valle de Cocora: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Valle de Cocora Wax Palm Forest
  • Los Nevados National Natural Park
  • Mirador de la Secreta (Secret Viewpoint)
  • Estrella de Agua Hot Springs
  • Acaime Natural Reserve

Hiking/Biking Routes of Valle de Cocora

  • Valle de Cocora to Acaime Coffee Farm Hike
  • La Primavera to Finca El Ocaso Hike
  • Salento to Boquia Bike Ride

Best Things to Do in Valle de Cocora: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback riding in Valle de Cocora
  • Birdwatching in Los Nevados National Natural Park
  • Coffee farm tour in Acaime Coffee Farm
  • Jeep tour to the Secret Viewpoint
  • Whitewater rafting in Rio Quindio

Week-Long Itinerary for Valle de Cocora

Day Activity
1 Arrival and Relaxation
2 Hike to Acaime Coffee Farm
3 Horseback Riding in Valle de Cocora
4 Jeep Tour to Secret Viewpoint
5 Coffee farm tour in Acaime Coffee Farm
6 Whitewater Rafting in Rio Quindio
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Valle de Cocora

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ajiaco Santafereño (Traditional Colombian soup)
  • Arepas (Cornmeal cakes)
  • Lechona Tolimense (Traditional pork dish)

Local Beverages

  • Coffee
  • Aguapanela (Sugar cane juice)
  • Chicha (Fermented corn drink)

Where to Stay in Valle de Cocora: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • La Serrana Hostel
  • Finca Hotel Los Álamos
  • Hotel Salento Real
  • Hostal Donde Juancho

What to Buy in Valle de Cocora: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Coffee beans
  • Handcrafted pottery
  • Colorful woven textiles

Local Culture and Customs of Valle de Cocora

Valle de Cocora is home to the Quindian people, who are known for their rich culture and traditions. Visitors should be aware of the following customs:

  • Dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites
  • Do not litter or disturb the natural environment
  • Respect the local community and their customs

Best Time to Visit Valle de Cocora

The best time to visit Valle de Cocora is during the dry season, between December and February. The weather is mild and there is less chance of rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Valle de Cocora

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife
  • Support the local community by buying locally made souvenirs
  • Try the local cuisine and coffee
  • Learn about the local culture and customs

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the natural environment
  • Disrespect the local community or their customs
  • Swim in the hot springs without a guide

Safety and Health

Safety in Valle de Cocora

  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas
  • Stay on marked trails during hikes and bike rides
  • Follow the instructions of your guide during adventure activities

Health in Valle de Cocora

  • Make sure you have proper vaccinations before traveling to Colombia
  • Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when outdoors

Getting to Valle de Cocora: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Valle de Cocora

  • El Edén International Airport (AXM)

Bus Stations Near Valle de Cocora

  • Salento Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Private car or shuttle services

How to Get Around in Valle de Cocora

  • On foot
  • Bike rentals
  • Jeep tours

Where to Go Next from Valle de Cocora: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Medellin
  • Bogota
  • Cartagena

Conclusion

Valle de Cocora is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and exciting activities, there’s something for everyone in this enchanted valley. Whether you’re hiking to a coffee farm, relaxing in hot springs, or simply soaking up the scenery, Valle de Cocora will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Wax palms dwarfing a cow, along the descent from Finca la Montaña Wax palms dwarfing a cow, along the descent from Finca la Montaña The Quindío River inside the cloud forest The Quindío River inside the cloud forest Arresting topography outshone only by the wax palms Arresting topography outshone only by the wax palms View from near the farm View from near the farm