This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Mocoa.
Mocoa is a town in the Colombian Amazonian jungle, in the Putumayo department. It is in the far southern part of Colombia; the nearest large town is Pitalito. Because Mocoa is still off the tourist trail, it takes a bit of time to get to, but worth it once you are there. The easiest way to get there is via night bus from Bogota. If you are outside of Bogota, you should look into buses from Pitalito or Pasto, because both will get you into Mocoa.
There are a few small hostels in Mocoa. As mentioned, Mocoa is still off the beaten track, but you can find great inexpensive accommodation in town. Don’t expect hostels in Mocoa to have wifi, but you’ll find at least phone service in town. Most hostels also offer a free breakfast and (since this is Colombia) good coffee, which is great since you’ll need your energy for the many outdoor activities.
Mocoa is full of mainly free attractions like jungle hikes, swimming holes, and waterfalls. One of the most popular hikes in Mocoa is to Fin del Mundo, or End of the World, waterfall. If you have time and want to keep going, you can also walk on to Ojos del Dios. If cannonballing off rocks doesn’t sound like your cup of coffee, you can always relax leisurely in the swimming holes. While many are up in the mountains, there are a few right in town where you can mingle with the locals.
If you want to see jungle animals without venturing too far off the beaten track, you should stop at the Paway Centro Ecoturistico Amazonico. They are an animal rescue and rehabilitation centre near town. Most of the animals they have are being cared for until they can return to the jungle, so you may not get the chance to interact, but you can play with the tame monkeys while chatting with the staff about their work.
Written by local enthusiast for Mocoa hostels
Jakob Lombardi
