Magical Salento & Cocora Valley: A Colombian Adventure
Welcome to Salento, Colombia: A Mountain Paradise
Nestled high in the Colombian Andes, the charming town of Salento offers a unique blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. This travel guide will take you on a journey through Salento and its surrounding wonders, including the iconic Cocora Valley, renowned for its towering wax palm trees.
The Thrill of the Willy: Reaching Cocora Valley
The adventure begins with a ride on a "Willy," a colorful, open-air jeep that's the primary mode of transport to Cocora Valley. Hold on tight as you traverse the winding mountain roads, enjoying breathtaking views along the 20-25 minute journey. This exhilarating ride is an experience in itself!
The journey offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a memorable start to your Cocora Valley exploration.
Exploring the Magical Cocora Valley
Cocora Valley is a sight to behold. Home to the Quindío wax palm, the tallest palm tree species in the world, the valley boasts a unique and otherworldly landscape. These majestic trees, reaching heights of up to 70 meters, create a dramatic backdrop against the vibrant green hills.
Beyond the palm trees, the valley offers various activities. Horse trekking is a popular option, allowing you to explore the area on horseback. For those who prefer to walk, numerous trails wind through the valley, providing opportunities for hiking and enjoying the stunning scenery. We opted for a 5-hour hike which offered breathtaking panoramic views.
The valley also features colorful photo setups and tourist attractions, adding a touch of whimsy to the natural beauty.
The Quindío Wax Palm: A National Treasure
These iconic palm trees are native to the Andes Mountains of Colombia and Peru and thrive at high altitudes. Interestingly, their trunks are coated in wax, which was historically used for candle making. Today, these trees are protected, and harvesting the wax is prohibited.
Colombian Coffee: From Bean to Cup
No trip to Salento is complete without experiencing the rich coffee culture. A visit to a local coffee farm offers a fascinating insight into the coffee-making process, from harvesting the bright red coffee cherries to the final roasting and brewing.
Colombia is renowned for its high-quality Arabica beans, and Salento's temperate climate and high altitude provide ideal growing conditions. A coffee tour provides a firsthand look at the meticulous process involved in producing some of the world's finest coffee.
We visited a small, family-run coffee farm just outside of Salento, where we learned about the entire process from our guide, Sergio. The freshly brewed coffee at the end of the tour was incredibly smooth and flavorful, a testament to the quality of the beans and the expertise of the local farmers.
Experiencing Salento's Charm
Salento itself is a vibrant town with colorful streets, lively music, and a welcoming atmosphere. The main square is a hub of activity, and the surrounding streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Despite its popularity with tourists, Salento retains a safe and relaxed feel.
In the evenings, the town comes alive with music and a bustling atmosphere. We enjoyed exploring the streets, sampling local delicacies, and soaking in the vibrant culture.
Where to Stay and Eat in Salento
We found comfortable and affordable accommodation in the heart of Salento, with rooms including breakfast for around $28 a night. For a healthy and delicious meal, we highly recommend the smoothie bowls at a local cafe. We also enjoyed a satisfying vegetarian meal at a restaurant called s Pia.
Final Thoughts
Salento and Cocora Valley offer a truly unforgettable Colombian experience. From the thrill of the Willy ride to the majestic beauty of the wax palm trees and the rich coffee culture, this region has something to offer every traveler. We highly recommend adding Salento to your Colombian itinerary.
