Valle de Cocora is a jewel in the treasure chest that is Colombia’s natural scenery. Its name translates to Valley of Water Star. The name Cocora comes from a Quimbayan princess.
The valley itself is located within Los Nevados National Natural Park and it contains, among other wonders, the Quindío Wax Palms. These palms are the national tree of Colombia, are the tallest in the world, and are shockingly mesmerizing as they punch through the forest canopy and loom over the valley with ethereal grace.
Accessible by Jeep or taxi from the nearby town of Salento, visitors can travel by vehicle up until the restaurants and campsites at Cocora. From there the rest of the park can be accessed by foot or horseback.
Visitors can also enjoy bird watching, rafting, mountain biking, swimming in the rivers, and scenic flights.
Considered to be a subtropical highland, rain falls most days due to Andes Mountains trapping the wind and moisture blowing west from the Pacific Ocean. So, it’s usually a good idea to bring a rain jacket, just in case.
