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Hike among giant wax palms, visit a hidden waterfall, and bike 20 km back to Salento. A thrilling and scenic experience in Colombia’s green heart!

Tour Description

Experience an unforgettable adventure through mountains, cloud forests, and Colombia’s iconic wax palms with our Hiking and Biking Tour in La Carbonera. This unique full-day experience in the heart of Quindío blends nature, adrenaline, and culture, taking you deep into one of the most spectacular and hidden reserves of Colombia’s Coffee Region.

The journey begins in Salento, in front of the “Parroquia del Carmen” Church, where you'll board a private 4x4 vehicle that takes you off the beaten path through mountain trails, coffee farms, and breathtaking Andean landscapes. Your destination: La Carbonera, home to the largest concentration of wax palms in the world—Colombia’s national tree, reaching up to 70 meters tall.

Upon arrival, enjoy a traditional country-style breakfast, before starting a guided hike through this majestic wax palm forest. Along the way, your bilingual guide will share fascinating insights into the biodiversity of the region, the ecological importance of the wax palm, the cultural legacy of local farmers, and conservation efforts in the area. You’ll also visit the Great Waterfall, a hidden natural gem nestled in the Andean jungle—perfect for relaxing, refreshing, and taking unforgettable photos.

After your hike, get ready for the adventure to shift gears. You’ll begin an epic 20 km downhill bike ride along scenic dirt roads that lead all the way back to Salento. Equipped with a full-suspension mountain bike, helmet, gloves, and windbreaker, and always accompanied by your guide, you’ll enjoy an exhilarating ride filled with fresh air and panoramic views. This section is of moderate difficulty, ideal for active travelers and bike lovers with some basic experience.

At the end of your descent, you’ll return to Salento to enjoy a well-deserved typical lunch, and cap off your journey with a refreshing local juice or fresh coffee. The experience also includes travel insurance, so you can relax and focus on enjoying every moment.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore La Carbonera in an active, meaningful, and thrilling way—combining hiking, biking, nature, and cultural discovery in a single unforgettable day.

Beyond Colombia | Tour: La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike
Beyond Colombia | Tour: La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike

Check out our tour details and click on the book now button below to join us!

Beyond Colombia Tours | La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike

Meeting Point

In front of Salento's Church “Parroquia del Carmen” (GMaps)

Beyond Colombia Tours | La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike

Finish Point

At Salento's Main Square (GMaps)

Beyond Colombia Tours | La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike

Schedule: From Monday to Sunday at 06:30

Beyond Colombia Tours | La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike

Duration: 10 hours

Beyond Colombia Tours | La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike

Language: English & Spanish

Beyond Colombia Tours | La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike

Cost: $270.000

  • Andean forest ecosystem and the wax palm
  • Biodiversity and conservation in the Coffee Region
  • Rural life and cultural traditions in Quindío
  • Sustainable tourism in protected natural areas
  • Mountain biking basics and trail etiquette
  • Symbolic and national importance of the wax palm
  • Geography and hydrology of the region

  • Be in good physical condition and ready for adventure
  • Wear comfortable, athletic, quick-dry clothing
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Don’t forget your camera or fully charged phone
  • Bring a change of clothes if desired after the hike
  • Always follow your guide’s instructions
  • Respect wildlife, plants, and community trails

  • Round-trip 4x4 transportation from Salento
  • Traditional breakfast
  • Entry to the wax palm reserve and the Great Waterfall
  • Guided hike through La Carbonera
  • 20 km downhill ride with full-suspension mountain bike
  • Full gear: helmet, gloves, windbreaker
  • Bilingual guide (Spanish-English)
  • Traditional lunch and drink
  • Travel insurance

  • Tips (optional)
  • Personal expenses
  • Additional snacks or drinks not specified
  • Services not mentioned in the itinerary

Private Tour

Beyond Colombia Tours | La Carbonera Wax Palm Forest Hike & Downhill on Bike Free Tours

If you are a group of more than 4 people or if you want to take a private experience of this tour, let us guide you through this experience with an exclusive tour guide. Click the following button and request your personalized tour.

Once you send your request, please check your email for our confirmation and further instructions to enjoy your vacations to the fullest!

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