Wax Palms of Cocora Valley

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The Wax Palms of Cocora Valley are perhaps one of the most iconic sights in Colombia. The country’s national tree, which can grow up to 200 feet tall, thrives in high altitude environments. After facing a crisis from over-harvesting, habitat loss, and disease, the Colombian government gave the tree government protection, and made the entire Cocora Valley a national park. Along with the tall, spindly wax palms, the park is home to rare animals ranging from the Spectacled Bear to the endangered yellow-eared parrot.