One of the challenges of traveling to so many incredible places is that it becomes hard not to compare your current destination with those you’ve already visited. Naturally, this raises your expectations. After experiencing the breathtaking outdoor wonderland of Peru, the Andes here felt slightly less awe-inspiring.
When I was researching hiking trails in Colombia, nothing seemed to spark my interest. I even considered becoming a lazy tourist during my time there. Luckily, a great friend flew all the way from Paris for a one-week vacation and suggested we tackle an unforgettable 4-day, 3-night journey: Cocora Valley to Pereira, crossing Los Nevados National Park (Valle de Cocora – Pereira – Parque Nacional de Los Nevados).
In just 58 kilometers, this gem offers more than you could ever imagine.
Not only will you encounter the world’s tallest wax palm trees, but you’ll also be surrounded by the surreal beauty of Frailejón plants, a type of giant daisy that grows a mere centimeter per year. These high-altitude wonders create the illusion of being on another planet entirely—despite their name, they have nothing floral about them.
If fortune smiles upon you, you might catch a glimpse of rare Andean wildlife such as spectacled bears, tapirs, or toucans. Another highlight? Otún Lake, nestled at an altitude of 3,900 meters, where you can camp under the stars and witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
What makes this experience truly special? It’s almost untouched by tourism! Most visitors merely stop by Cocora Valley for a quick day hike, snap some photos, and move on. This means you’ll likely have vast stretches of this trail—and its stunning landscapes—all to yourself.
Tips:
🔸 Difficulty
Moderate
The trail is generally manageable, except for the first two days, which involve a 1,000-meter ascent each. On the second day, you’ll also need to cross a 4,600-meter pass—a true test of endurance! However, the rest of the journey is relatively gentle. While there aren’t official trail markers, the path remains easy to follow since locals frequently use it to graze their livestock. With a good map in hand, getting lost is unlikely.
A handful of farmhouses along the route offer simple accommodations and hearty meals, allowing you to travel light without worrying about supplies. One important note: there’s no cell phone signal anywhere on the trail, so prepare to disconnect from the outside world.
🔸 Season
The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from late December through March and again from July to August. I embarked on my trek in mid-December, and although it rained daily leading up to my departure, I was lucky enough to enjoy several glorious sunny days on the trail.
During the day, especially when the wind dies down, it can get warm enough for short sleeves. But don’t underestimate the chill at night—temperatures often dip close to freezing, so pack some cozy layers and a reliable sleeping bag.
🔸 Route
This adventure typically takes 3 to 4 days. If you skip the highest lake, you can complete it in just three days. However, if you’d like to spend an extra day camping by the serene Otún Lake (highly recommended!), plan for four days instead. Unfortunately, my friend hit her limit on day three, so we had to abandon our plans to reach the lake this time around.
For those craving more exploration, the park offers numerous alternative routes, including an epic nine-day trek. For a detailed breakdown of the route, refer to Figure 9.
🔸 Accommodation
Farmhouses provide basic dormitory-style beds with blankets, though cleanliness standards may vary. If roughing it isn’t your thing, camping is always an option. You can still access their facilities, such as toilets and water sources, though hot showers come with a small additional fee.
🔸 Cost
An all-inclusive outdoor tour will set you back $280. Since the trek is designed for lightweight packing, porters aren’t necessary. However, if carrying even a small daypack seems daunting, you can rent a mule for $13 per day. Your guide will enrich your experience by sharing fascinating insights into the local flora and fauna.
Here’s a quick breakdown of costs:
– Dorm bed: $4
– Meals: $2–3 per meal
– Camping fee: $2
– Hot shower: $1
These prices are so affordable, they might bring tears to your eyes!
If hiking is your passion, this trail deserves a spot on your bucket list. Don’t miss out!
