The Cocora Valley is home to Colombia’s national tree — the wax palm, the tallest palm species in the world, reaching up to 60 metres high. These impossibly tall, slender palms rising from the green valley floor create one of the most surreal landscapes in South America.

The hiking trail loops through cloud forest, across hanging bridges, and past hummingbird sanctuaries before opening up to the iconic valley views.

Pro tip: Start the hike counter-clockwise (uphill through the forest first) to finish with the best palm tree views. The full loop takes 4-5 hours. Bring a rain jacket — weather changes fast.