Cocora Valley: Route of the Hummingbirds + Breakfast & Lunch

Situated in the heart of Colombia’s lush coffee region, the Cocora Valley offers an unparalleled outdoor adventure that captivates adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. The "Route of the Hummingbirds" tour promises an immersive experience, combining guided hiking, birdwatching, and a scenic picnic atop a mountain. With its iconic wax palm trees, tranquil bridges, and vibrant hummingbird house, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore one of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking a day of rejuvenation or a chance to marvel at the vibrant biodiversity of the Andes, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

• This 6-8 hour tour in Cocora Valley combines hiking, birdwatching, and adventure, priced at $135 per person for a small group of up to 8 participants.
• The itinerary includes a 30-minute breakfast stop, a 25-minute Jeep/SUV ride to the valley, a 7km hike along the river with scenic crossings, and a visit to the Hummingbird House.
• Participants can enjoy a picnic lunch at a mountaintop with panoramic views, followed by a 4.5km descent with continued birdwatching and exploration of the wax palm trees.
• The tour provides a comprehensive package with private round-trip transportation, entrance fees, high-quality binoculars, and professional guides in English, Spanish, and French.
• The tour receives generally positive reviews, with highlights including the scenic picnic, comfortable transportation, and personalized experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Cocora Valley: Route of the Hummingbirds tour is a half-day excursion that combines hiking, birdwatching, and adventure in the stunning natural surroundings of the Cocora Valley.

Priced from $135 per person, the activity lasts 6-8 hours and accommodates a small group of up to 8 participants. Guided in English, Spanish, and French, the tour includes a 30-minute breakfast, a 25-minute drive to the valley, a 7km hike along the river, visiting a hummingbird house, and a picnic with panoramic views.

The descent covers 4.5km of continued birdwatching and palm tree exploration before returning to the starting point. With expert guides and included amenities, this tour highlights the best of the Cocora Valley.

Itinerary Details

Starting from the Brunch de Salento in Salento, Colombia, the tour kicks off with a 30-minute breakfast stop. Next, participants hop in a Jeep/SUV for a 25-minute ride to the iconic Cocora Valley. The hiking journey begins, covering 7km along the river and crossing six bridges. At the Hummingbird House, visitors can spot up to six species of these captivating birds. Afterwards, a picnic is enjoyed at a mountaintop with panoramic views of the valley. The descent takes 4.5km, allowing for continued birdwatching and exploration of the remarkable palm trees. Finally, the group returns by car to the starting point at Brunch de Salento.

Stage	Duration	Location
Breakfast	30 minutes	Brunch de Salento
Travel to Cocora Valley	25 minutes	Jeep/SUV ride
Hiking in Cocora Valley	7km	Along the river, crossing 6 bridges
Picnic	At mountaintop	Panoramic valley views

Hiking and Birdwatching

Hiking through the Cocora Valley, visitors enjoy a verdant wonderland, trekking along the river and crossing six bridges that span its gently flowing waters.

The highlight of the hike is the Hummingbird House, where up to six species of the vibrant birds can be spotted flitting among the lush foliage.

Along the way, guests enjoy a picnic lunch with panoramic views from the mountaintop.

The descent continues the birdwatching experience and exploration of the towering wax palm trees, the tallest type of palm in the world.

• Scenic river crossings on six bridges
• Spotting up to six hummingbird species
• Panoramic picnic lunch at the mountaintop
• Continued birdwatching and palm tree discovery
• Immersive nature experience in the Cocora Valley

Scenic Picnic Experience

A picturesque mountaintop serves as the perfect setting for the group’s midday respite, where they’ll savor a hearty picnic lunch against the backdrop of the Cocora Valley’s majestic landscapes.

Nestled among the towering wax palms, you will enjoy an array of delectable offerings, including a big sandwich, fresh fruits, and refreshing bottled water.

This scenic picnic provides a chance to recharge and take in the breathtaking vistas that surround them.

With the hummingbirds flitting nearby, the group can relax and reflect on the morning’s adventures as they prepare for the descent back down the mountain.

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Transportation and Logistics

Departing from the charming town of Salento, guests embark on a brief 25-minute jeep or SUV transfer that whisks them away to the enchanting Cocora Valley.

This efficient transportation ensures a seamless transition from the urban setting to the lush, verdant landscape of the valley. The comfortable ride allows participants to relax and prepare for the upcoming hiking and birdwatching adventure.

Key features of the transportation include:

• Private, round-trip transport between Salento and Cocora Valley
• Customized vehicles for small groups of up to 8 participants
• Experienced drivers who navigate the scenic routes with care
• Complimentary bottled water provided during the transfers
• Smooth, hassle-free logistics to maximize the time spent in the valley.

Inclusion and Amenities

The tour includes a variety of amenities and services designed to enhance the overall experience.

Breakfast and a picnic lunch are provided, featuring a hearty sandwich, snacks, fruits, and bottled water.

Transportation is handled with private round-trip shuttles between Salento and the Cocora Valley.

Entrance fees are covered, and participants are equipped with high-quality vortex binoculars to aid in birdwatching.

The expertise of professional guides ensures a personalized and informative journey.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the Route of the Hummingbirds tour offers a seamless and enriching adventure in the Cocora Valley.

Customer Feedback

Based on the customer feedback provided, the tour appears to have received generally positive reviews. The lone reviewer, George from Aruba, praised the tour guide’s knowledge and care for the participants.

Key areas of praise include:

• Expert guidance and personalized experiences
• Scenic picnic with panoramic valley views
• Combination of hiking, birdwatching, and adventure
• Comfortable transportation and quality inclusions
• Overall satisfaction with the 4/5 rating

While a single review is a limited sample size, the positive feedback suggests the tour delivers on its promises and provides a memorable experience for guests.

Booking and Cancellation

To book the Cocora Valley: Route of the Hummingbirds tour, customers can conveniently do so through the tour provider’s website or by contacting their customer service team.

The tour has a group size limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for participants.

The tour is available in English, Spanish, and French, catering to a diverse audience.

With the inclusion of round-trip transport, breakfast, a picnic, entrance fees, and professional guides, the Cocora Valley tour offers a comprehensive package for those seeking an unforgettable birdwatching and hiking adventure in the heart of Colombia’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for participants of all ages, though young children may require extra supervision during the hiking portions of the activity.

Is This Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with significant mobility issues, as it involves a 7km hike along uneven terrain. However, the guides can accommodate guests with minor mobility challenges on a case-by-case basis.

What Should Participants Bring for the Hike?

Participants should bring sturdy hiking shoes, a light jacket, sun protection, insect repellent, and plenty of water. They’ll also want to pack a small backpack to carry personal items during the hike.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?

Yes, dietary restrictions can typically be accommodated. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking, and the guides will work to provide suitable meal options during the picnic and throughout the day.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Participants are encouraged to capture the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural elements they encounter throughout the experience. The guides will provide guidance to ensure the best photographic opportunities.

Recap

The Cocora Valley: Route of the Hummingbirds + Breakfast & Lunch offers an unforgettable full-day experience blending hiking, birdwatching, and stunning scenery. With a guided tour, delectable meals, and breathtaking vistas, this tour provides an immersive adventure in one of Colombia’s most picturesque natural wonders. It’s an exceptional opportunity to witness the valley’s iconic wax palms and diverse hummingbird species while enjoying the region’s renowned hospitality.

You can check if your dates are available here: