Cocora Valley and Its Wax Palms

About this place

A green valley in Colombia's central mountains whose hillsides are dotted with towering wax palms, Colombia's national tree and the world's tallest palms, some reaching sixty metres, their slender trunks seeming to touch the clouds. The valley has been part of Los Nevados National Park since 1985, protecting these rare palms and many birds and animals. Trips start in Salento in colourful old «Willys» jeeps, with visitors sometimes riding standing on the back. The best-known route is a five- to six-hour loop: it starts among pastures, enters dense cloud forest over swinging bridges across the river, passes a hummingbird house, then climbs and descends into the heart of the towering palm forest. Those not wanting the full loop can walk straight to the palms in less time. Trails are often muddy, so wear proper shoes, and it can be cold and wet. Fees are paid in cash in stages to the farm owners whose land the route crosses.