Salento , Colombia

Cocora Valley and Salento Hike Tour

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(71 reviews)

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About this experience

Coming to the Coffee Region is letting yourself be in connection with nature. If this is what you are looking for, join us in this 6-hour tour across the Cocora Valley, and imposing open field, home to the wax palm. Hike some of its mountains, learn about the national tree and about Colombian coffee farming culture (not a coffee farm visit) and finish your day having a tasteful and humble local meal (not included). All of this with the company of an expert guide.

• A walk to remember around the Cocora Valley
• A brief lesson about the Coffee Triangle and the Wax Palm Trees for its environmental and popular importance
• An expert guide who will walk you through the mountains
• Bunch of photo spots of the imposing nature

Available options

PIck-up in Filandia

From Filandia<br/>Pickup included

Pick-up in Armenia

From Armenia<br/>Pickup included

Pick-up in Salento

From Salento<br/>Pickup included

Pick-up in Pereira

From Pereira<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Cocora Valley entrance

All-risk insurance

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Tours Guide

Detailed itinerary

Cocora Valley, in Salento (one of the places that belong to the Coffee Triangle) is one of the few entrance areas to Los Nevados National Natural Park, an environmentally protected park of snowy peak mountains. Besides, the valley was considered as Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Pick-up and drop-off point

Stop 5

From the very beginning you will easily appreciate tall and stunning Wax Palm Trees: our national emblematic tree, that has environmental and popular importance to the region and the country. You will have the chance to take a ride in a traditional willys car, the old jeeps that were used by coffee growers to transport themselves across wild roads and from farm to farm.

Guided visit

What's not included

Lunch

Extra purchases

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

56 reviews

5★

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2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Hike will go up and down through hills and rugged trails so bring comfortable hiking shoes, and a cane if you need it

Don’t forget your camera

Bring comfortable shoes and water

Keep hydrating constantly and use sunscreen

Jeep only available from Salento or Filandia

You do not visti a coffee farm

About Salento

Salento is a picturesque town in Colombia's Coffee Triangle, known for its vibrant streets, colonial architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a gateway to the Cocora Valley, home to the iconic wax palms, Colombia's national tree. The town's charming atmosphere and rich coffee culture make it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Cocora Valley

The Cocora Valley is a stunning landscape filled with towering wax palms, Colombia's national tree. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.

Nature Half day to full day Free to enter, guided tours may have a cost

Salento's Town Center

The town center of Salento is a charming area with colorful colonial buildings, vibrant streets, and a lively atmosphere.

Historical/Architecture A few hours Free

Finca El Ocaso

Finca El Ocaso is a traditional coffee farm offering tours and tastings, providing insight into the coffee-making process.

Cultural/Agriculture 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, arepa, and sometimes a fried egg. It's a must-try for its rich flavors and substantial portions.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, gluten, and dairy.

Arepas

Corn cakes that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables. They are a staple in Colombian cuisine and can be found throughout Salento.

Snack/Breakfast Vegetarian options available.

Coffee

Salento is in the heart of Colombia's coffee region, so trying locally grown and brewed coffee is a must. The coffee is known for its rich, smooth flavor.

Drink Vegan and gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Cocora Valley Coffee farm tours Horseback riding Coffee tasting at local cafes Strolling through the town center Enjoying the scenic views Visiting local museums Exploring colonial architecture

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to January

The best time to visit Salento is during the dry season, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.

12-24°C 54-75°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Salento is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. It's important to take precautions to protect your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using public transportation, especially at night.
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially after dark.

Getting there

By air

El Eden Airport • 45 km from Salento

By bus

Terminal de Transportes de Armenia

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Salento. They run frequently and connect the town center with nearby areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Tappx, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Cocora Valley Area

Day trips

Filandia

20 km from Salento • Half day to full day

Filandia is a charming colonial town with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It's a great place to explore the coffee region's cultural heritage.

Pijao

30 km from Salento • Full day

Pijao is a small town surrounded by lush landscapes and coffee farms. It's a great place for hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing the coffee-making process.

Festivals

Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • August

Pro tips

Visit the Cocora Valley early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Try the local coffee at one of the many cafes in town, and consider taking a coffee farm tour to learn about the coffee-making process.
Explore the town center on foot, as many attractions and shops are within walking distance.
Be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain, especially in the afternoon, and bring layers and a rain jacket.
Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals, as Salento can get crowded.