Mocoa

Where to stay

The town is small and compact, with the bus terminal sitting downhill from the main square (Plaza de Bolívar). Most budget places cluster around these two points: near the terminal for transport convenience, or around the square for access to the cheap almuerzo spots and the market. A few hostels sit a couple of kilometers out on the road to Villagarzón, closer to the trailheads for the waterfalls.

Getting around

• The road to Pasto, known as the Trampolín de la Muerte, is legendary for its steep, winding cliffs. You can ride in the back of a jeep for a fraction of the cost of a small bus, but the journey is long and rough; go early and expect delays.
• El Fin del Mundo and Hornoyaco waterfalls are the main draws, both reached by heading down the road toward Villagarzón. You can walk, hitch a ride on a motorcycle, or take a colectivo. Bring cash for entrance fees and meals, as prices on the trail are significantly higher than in town.
• Mocoa is the gateway to the western Colombian Amazon. The Centro Experimental Amazónica near town is worth a visit for rescued wildlife and free exhibits on indigenous culture. For deeper jungle trips, agencies around the square can arrange transport to Puerto Asís or San Agustín.

When to go

The heaviest rains fall from April through July, which can make the roads and waterfall trails muddy and slippery, but this is typically the quietest and cheapest time for hostels. The drier periods, roughly December through March, see more visitors and higher rates, especially around the December-January holiday stretch.