Eje Cafetero Explorer Trail
Ride ridgetops with 360 degree views, canter through Andean cloud forests, cross rivers,
swim in waterfalls and experience the warm welcome of Colombian hospitality.
- 9 days
- USD 3,420
Description
Traverse the “Eje Cafetero” – the Colombian coffee axis, also known as the coffee triangle. Escape into the most unspoilt parts of this region. Ride ridgetops with 360 degree views, canter through Andean cloud forests, cross rivers, swim in waterfalls, spend nights in nature reserves home to howler and capuchin monkeys and experience the warm welcome of Colombian hospitality.
Your holiday starts with a day to relax, acclimatise and meet your horse at
our stunning 150 year old ranch house. From here we begin your Colombian horseback adventure, 6 days on horseback, crossing the lush green mountains in this UNESCO world heritage site. Staying overnight in unique and luxurious locations. . All luggage will be transported between overnight stops for you
An unforgettable experience
From the moment you touch down in Pereira we will be on hand to share with you this beautiful area we are lucky enough to call home. Our traditionally restored ranch house is set in 12 acres of sub tropical farmland. You’ll have time to relax by the pool as well as to meet the herd and get to know your horse. Enjoy a chef prepared family style evening meal before beginning your 100 mile adventure the following day.
Over the next six days you and your horse will ride varied terrain, with views that span three departments. You’ll enjoy nights in a variety of spectacular settings, glamping locations, luxurious converted coffee farms, treetop cabins and traditional haciendas. A true trail ride for adventure lovers!
Accommodation
Throughout your trip, you’ll stay in a combination of comfortable guesthouses, luxury farm houses, glamping resorts, treetop cabins located in national park and boutique hotels, all hand picked by us. You’ll stay with us at our stunning 150 year old colonial home for a night before and after the trail ride, with the option to book a longer stay if you’d like to.
Food and drink
All meals and drinks are included in the cost of your trail. This includes breakfast, lunch, evening meal, refreshments and drinks in the evening. Dietary requirements will be catered for and noted at point of booking.
Itinerary
Day 1
Our courtesy vehicle will pick you up from the airport or bus terminal in Pereira and bring you to Rancho Saman. Here you will be welcomed into our home, with time to relax by the pool, explore the grounds and meet your horse. The evening will include a poolside BBQ and an explanation of the terrain you will be covering over the following 6 days.
Day 2
Depart Rancho Saman after a relaxed breakfast and head to the hills of Risaralda courtesy of our equibus. This short ride will give you a chance to view the terrain you’ll be riding over the next 6 days. After lunch in the picturesque town of Marsella, you’ll head out for an afternoon sunset ride and your first taste of trail riding in Colombia! Your evening spent at newly restored accomodations close to the town square. Enjoy an evening meal in the historic town center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this welcoming traditional town.
Day 3
Out on trail all day. Follow the old mule trail, the most spectacular, hidden grassy trails with 360 degree views taking you to the most northern tip of Risaralda and crossing into the department of Caldas. Ride alongside rivers as we make our way to an unspoiled nature reserve, home to howler and capuchin monkeys, anteaters, hummingbirds and also our overnight stop. Spend your evening in the treetops surrounded by wildlife in the most spectacular wooden cabins.
Day 4
Out on trail all day, folowing the old cofee canal deep in the heart of the Colombian coffee axis. Endless views as you climb your way through the Andes, ending your day at a traditional coffee farm with over 200 years of production history.
Day 5
Out on trail half day winding your way through the highest of the three branches of the Colombian Andes. Passing coffee, plantain and cattle farms before ending your day at your luxurious accommodation, a coffee farm high up in the mountains with endless views to enjoy from the infinity pool.
Day 6
Out on trail half day riding through protected ancient Andean forestry ending at a stunning glamping resort a stones throw from the spectacular natural thermal hot springs of Santa Rosa. After lunch you will pass the afternoon enjoying the thermal hot springs, soaking in the therapeutic waters. Spend an evening under the stars enjoying the warmth of a camp fire.
Day 7
Out on trail all day. Climbing forest trails, long canters along eucalyptus lined avenues, along ridge tops with spectacular views, passing by waterfalls and crossing rivers as we lead you to our next overnight stop. A beautiful riverside chalet, take a dip in the river, soak in the outdoor jacuzzi , relax in the steam room and enjoy dinner at this secluded spot in the middle of the Andean rainforest.
Day 8
Relaxed breakfast before the short ride returning to Rancho Saman. Back at our ranch house you’ll enjoy a chef prepared meal and relive the last 7 days.
Day 9
Breakfast before our courtesy transportation takes you either to the airport or bus terminal depending on your plans.
Summary
- Riding - 6 days, 5 to 8 hours per day
- Horses - Colombian Criollo, Appaloosa, Appaloosa crosses, Paso Fino, Percheron
- Riding ability - intermediate to advanced
- Weight limit - 90 kgs (14 st 2lbs)
- Accommodation - ranch houses, treetop cabins, glamping destinations, haciendas, country guest houses
- Group size - maximum 6
- Season - year round
- Ride type - true trail ride
- Age limit. Riders must be over 18 years old. 14-17 year olds will be considered, but must be accompanied by at least one riding parent or guardian and have the required riding ability
- What's included? - The price of this trail includes airport pick up and drop off from Pereira airport, or Pereira bus station; all accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) refreshments and evening drinks (wine and local beer will be available). It does NOT include flights
Trail dates
2025
February – 15th – 23rd – Fully booked
June – 21st – 29th – 4 saddles available
September – 6th – 14th
October – 23rd – 31st
November – 15th – 23rd
2026
January – 10th – 18th
February – 7th – 15th
May – 16th – 24th
June – 6th – 14th
October – 3rd – 11th
