Pico de Loro hike in Cali: Cloud forest to mountain peak

The hike climbs through fog forest and thick jungle to a peak overlooking the Valle del Cauca and the Farallones themselves.

Pico de Loro is a mountain hike in the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park near Cali, Colombia, where you climb from 1,600 meters to 2,860 meters through cloud forest, waterfalls and rivers with a Spanish-speaking guide. The trek takes 6 to 8 hours depending on your pace, and you'll need to bring your own water and snacks. The route is 4.5 km one way on terrain that can be muddy and slippery, so solid hiking boots with good grip are essential.

The experience

You start at 7am at a meeting point you arrange in advance, where a ranger or environmental interpreter briefs you on the park and the climb ahead. The Farallones de Cali National Natural Park is home to over 540 bird species, many found nowhere else in the world, and more than 30 rivers that supply water to southwest Colombia originate here. The hike itself is steep and sustained: you're climbing 1,260 meters of elevation gain over 4.5 km, and the path stays muddy and slippery even when it's not raining.

The forest changes as you go higher. Lower sections are thick jungle with rivers and waterfalls running alongside the trail. Higher up, you enter the cloud forest where mist hangs between the trees and visibility drops. At the summit, the clouds often part enough to see the Valle del Cauca spread below and the Farallones ridge itself. The whole round trip takes 6 to 8 hours depending on how fit you are and how often you stop. You're carrying your own water and snacks the entire way. There's nowhere to buy anything once you leave the trailhead.

This hike demands serious physical fitness and mountain experience. You need to be comfortable on steep, slippery ground, have strong knees and hips, and be able to sustain hard cardio effort for hours. Wear long sleeves and pants to protect against insects and plants, bring a rain jacket, and pack extra clothes and a small towel. Your guide speaks Spanish only, and you must carry ID with you at all times.

What’s included

• Expert guide in mountaineering who speaks Spanish.
• entrance to the Farallones de Cali National Natural Park.
• medical assistance policy.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to FridayDeparts at 07:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (18 to 60 years) · Under 18: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 7

Live guideSpanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Demanding physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Valley Adventours

Is this one for you?The hike takes 6 to 8 hours round trip, which means you're committed to the mountain for most of the day and won't have time for other activities in Cali. Book this if you're a fit, experienced hiker with strong knees and good cardiovascular health who can handle steep, muddy terrain and wants to reach a high-altitude peak, not if you're new to mountain hiking or have any joint or heart concerns.

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Top questions

How long does the Pico de Loro hike actually take?

The complete hike takes 6 to 8 hours depending on your physical fitness and how often you stop to rest. The 4.5 km climb from 1,600 to 2,860 meters is steep and sustained, so the time varies by individual pace and endurance.

What birds and wildlife will I see in the Farallones de Cali?

The Farallones de Cali National Natural Park is home to more than 540 bird species, including species found nowhere else in Colombia and the world. The park also protects species in danger of extinction, though specific wildlife sightings depend on the time of day and season you hike.

What should I bring on this hike besides water and snacks?

Pack extra clothes, water shoes or aqua-hoes, a small towel, flip-flops, a rain poncho or waterproof jacket, a plastic bag, a hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and hiking poles if you have them. Wear hiking boots or sneakers with strong grip, long sleeves and pants, and bring your ID document.

Is this hike suitable if I have knee or back problems?

No. The hike is not recommended for anyone with knee, hip, back or shoulder problems, or recent bone and joint injuries. You need to be in very good physical condition with no pain in these areas to safely complete the climb.

What time does the hike start and where do I meet the guide?

The hike begins at 7am at a meeting point you arrange in advance with the operator. You'll receive instructions from the ranger or environmental interpreter before the climb starts.