Cocora Valley is nestled just 13 kilometers away from Salento, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. In Salento, you’ll find a Willy Jeeps station (Figure 1) offering a special route to this breathtaking valley: Salento ↔ Valle de Cocora. A round-trip ticket costs only 10,000 COP and comes with two detachable tickets—one for your outbound journey and the other for your return trip.
Hand one ticket to the driver as you depart, and keep the second one safe for when you head back. You’ll disembark near the entrance of the scenic area (Figure 4), where you can reboard at the same spot for your return.
As you approach the valley, prepare to be amazed by an expansive forest of towering wax palms. These majestic trees feature long, slender trunks crowned with lush green leaves, creating a surreal landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Along the way, you’ll encounter several ticket booths catering to different trails and attractions, so make sure you know which one aligns with your adventure plans.
At the entrance, you can rent sturdy rain boots for 6,000 COP—a wise investment given the muddy terrain ahead.
I embarked on the grand loop trail, following a serene stream through the heart of the valley. The path was no walk in the park—slippery rocks, steep inclines, and deep ravines tested my resolve at every turn. At one point, my GPS directed me straight into the water. Skeptical, I veered alongside the stream, weaving around boulders and tree roots, only to discover that the “wrong” route was, in fact, the correct path.
Further along, the trail seemed to vanish entirely, forcing me to scramble over massive rocks by the riverbank. Just when doubt crept in, I stumbled upon a hidden bridge leading onward. It became clear: whether crossing water or rounding corners, there’s always a way forward. Trust the journey and press ahead.
The highlight of my trek came during the descent, when I crossed paths with a charming Chinese couple. We exchanged warm greetings and confirmed details about the trail and fees. They were a delightful pair—the man tall and striking, the woman graceful and refined. Both exuded impeccable manners and spoke with elegance.
Meeting fellow countrymen in such a remote place felt like fate, but what truly astonished me was their pristine appearance despite navigating the same muddy trail. Meanwhile, I resembled a blackened monkey leaping through the wilderness, caked in mud from head to toe. I even worried that if questioned about my origins, I might embarrass my compatriots.
Had anyone been nearby, I would have proudly proclaimed, “These two are from China—and so am I!”
Upon completing my hike, I paid 8,000 COP for the exit fee, bringing my total expenses for the day to 18,000 COP. Despite the challenges, the Cocora Valley left an indelible mark on my soul, reminding me of the raw beauty and untamed spirit of Colombia’s natural wonders.
