Explore the Magnificent Cocora Valley in Salento, Near Pereira

Are you looking for an unforgettable guided trekking experience near Pereira and Salento, Colombia? Then you should definitely check out the Cocora Valley! This stunningly beautiful natural area is located approximately 20 kilometers from Salento, and is truly one of the most special places in the region.

The Cocora Valley is home to Colombia’s majestic wax palm trees (Ceroxylon quindiuense), the tallest of its kind in the world. Other trees and vegetation sought out in the valley are pine, oak, clouds of bromeliads, guadua, eucalyptus, and many more species. The Wax Palm is an emblematic figure in the valley that even the Colombian people are proud to have. For most of its history, the wax palm has been largely protected as a natural paradise that continually fascinates both locals, and travelers coming in from across the globe.

The nearby town of Salento is known for its low white-washed houses with bright-colored doors and windows that create a unique landscape when combined with the surrounding green expanses of grassy hilltops, coffee plantations and cloud-topped mountains.

In the Cocora Valley, we offer a guided trekking experience that takes the tourist through a 3 hour, 7 kilometer walk enhanced by bird watching and incredible views of nature and wildlife. This activity starts in the town of Salento, where we usually pick up tourists from at 8am for safety reasons. Then we go to Cocora Valley by van, where we start the trekking activity at around 9am. The trekking follows pre-determined paths marked with blue paint, leading us through coffee fields, primary forest and cloud forests. We can also observe colorful birds and wild animals during the walking tour.

This guided trekking experience can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, depending on your walking pace and the time you stop to take pictures. During the walk, you can also visit one of the most famous farms; “San Jose”. This is one of the primary customers of Cafe La Nogalera – One of the most famous Colombian coffee brands. During our visit to this farm you will get to learn more about Colombian coffee production.

At the end of our tour, we’ll have time to explore the town of Salento, famous for its historical features like its massive architecture churches, its traditional street food, and items such as leather bags, handicrafts and clothing made by locals.

This tour is perfect if you want to discover a different part of Colombia and learn about its natural beauty. Even if it requires some effort from your part, it’s worth it if you want to discover gentle valleys, imposing mountaintops, captivating nature and get a glimpse into a different way of life. In my opinion this trekking experience is definitely one of the best tours Colombia has to offer for travellers coming from across the globe, so if you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience in Pereira/Salento worthy of a lifetime souvenir – look no further!

Ready to book your guided trekking in Cocora Valley near Salento experience? Book it now on GetYourGuide with just a few clicks!

An Insider’s Guide to Pereira, Colombia: Must-See Local Attractions and Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for a destination that boasts a perfect blend of modernity, culture, and history, Pereira is a great choice. As the capital city of the Risaralda department of Colombia, the city offers a lot of opportunities to explore the best of the region’s natural beauty with Cocora Valley as the highlight. Below are my recommendations for what to do, where to eat, and unique experiences to have in Pereira.

Local Attractions

1. Cocora Valley

Cocora Valley in Salento is one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting Colombia. It’s a vast valley filled with towering wax palms (Colombia’s national tree), several hiking trails, and charming rivers. The best time to visit is during the dry season between July and September. You can hire a local tour guide or easily hike yourself through the valley’s beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to bring a camera because you’ll want to capture the memorable landscape and the numerous bird species.

2. Matecana City Zoo

If you’re traveling with children or simply love wildlife, head over to the Matecana City Zoo. The zoo hosts over 1,000 animals, featuring both exotic and local species. It’s roughly a 15-minute drive from the city center, and the entry fee is economical. The zoo is open every day, and you can spend a whole day interacting with the animals, learning about their habitats and how they are cared for.

3. Plaza de Bolívar and Cathedral of Our Lady of Poverty

Located right at the center of Pereira is the Plaza de Bolívar surrounded by the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady of Poverty, City Hall, the Government Palace, and several colonial-era buildings. The plaza is the perfect spot for tourists who love taking photos and appreciating history. It’s an early 19th-century plaza that’s a popular spot for locals to meet up and showcase their cultural dances and music.

Dining Spots

1. Las Delicias de la Abuela

This restaurant is a must-visit for tourists in Pereira. Its menu is filled with traditional Colombian-style dishes, such as Sancocho, a soup made of chicken, and Cazuela, a stew-like dish with vegetables, rice, and meat. Don’t miss trying their refreshing natural fruit juices and desserts like the popular “arroz con leche” (rice pudding). This quaint restaurant has lovely decor, friendly waitstaff, and reasonable prices.

2. La Villa Restaurant

La Villa is a popular dining destination that combines unique tastes with sophisticated plating. They serve both regional and international cuisine paired with a range of cocktails. The signature Steak dish, made with Colombia’s prime meats and served with a creamy topping, is a must-try. Plus, the atmosphere is intimate and cozy, setting the perfect ambiance for a date night or upscale dinner.

Cultural Experiences

1. Ukumari Cultural Center

The Ukumari Cultural Center is a cultural institution located in Pereira, which aims to promote the Colombian culture and arts. The center hosts several events such as music concerts, art exhibitions, and workshops throughout the year. You can easily spend an entire day soaking up the creative vibes and learning more about the country’s culture and history.

2. El Oso y el Libro Cafe Cultural

If you love reading, sipping coffee, and chatting with locals, the El Oso y el Libro Cafe Cultural should be on your list of places to visit. It’s a relaxing environment that showcases artistic performances and a broad collection of books to peruse. The cafe’s menu features a range of coffee options, local fruit juices, and sandwiches.

Local History

1. Pereira Cathedral

The Pereira Cathedral is a historic church that tells the story of how Pereira was founded in the 19th century. It’s the oldest church in the city, known for its beautiful paintings, sculptures, and stained-glass windows. The cathedral is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

2. Bolivarian Museum

Located in the heart of Pereira, the Bolivarian Museum is a historical museum dedicated to showcasing the life of Simon Bolivar, the iconic military leader who liberated South America from Spanish rule. The museum offers guided tours in Spanish and English and is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Colombia’s history and the fight for independence.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Santa Isabel Hot Springs

Near the city center, you’ll find the Santa Isabel Hot Springs, a natural thermal spa that’s been in Pereiran culture for years. The spa has private and public baths, surrounded by lush greenery, and overlooks the Andes mountains. It’s a beautiful place to relax, rejuvenate and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

2. Biking along the Otún River

Biking alongside the Otún River is the perfect opportunity to explore the countryside and rural life of Pereira. You’ll get to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings and see how the locals work and interact with their environment. You can hire bikes from several locations around the city such as public Bike Stations, and you won’t be disappointed by the experience.

In summary, Pereira offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, fascinating history, and modernity within the Colombian context. Exploring the Cocora Valley and visiting the Plaza de Bolívar with a stopover a local restaurant will give you the perfect snapshot of this wonderous city. Beyond that, there are plenty of unique and authentic experiences to be had that will leave lasting memories for years to come.