Eje Cafetero Explorer Trail
Ride ridgetops with 360 degree views, canter through Andean cloud forests, wind your way through coffee plantations, 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 54 acre working horse and cattle ranch. 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. Within minutes of leaving the airport you will be in the lush green mountains, roads lined with coffee trees as we make our way to the charming town of Marsella, our home base and start point for your horse riding holiday. We are located just a 40 minute journey from Pereira airport. After settling into your accommodations and a chance to rest after your journey we head to the ranch Set in 54 acres of fertile grazing, you will have time to relax and meet the herd – and of course your horse. Enjoy a chef prepared, family style evening meal before beginning your 100 mile horseback adventure the following day.
Over the next six days you and your horse will ride varied terrain, with views that span the three departments of Risaralda, Quindio and Caldas that make up the Colombian coffee region. 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, traditional haciendas and boutique hotels, all hand picked by us.
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 be there to meet you at Pereira airport and we head straight into coffee country. This short drive gives you a chance to see the terrain you will be riding over the next 6 days. Once settled into your newly restored accommodations close to the charming town square of Marsella we head to the ranch. here you will be welcomed into our home nestled in the foothills of the Andes mountains. A 54 acre working cattle and horse ranch. Meet your horse, enjoy the clean mountain air and explore the grounds and stables before a relaxed, chef prepared evening meal.
Day 2
After breakfast we saddle up and head out through our property as we ride the open pastures and make our way to the picturesque village of Marsella, enjoy coffee in the square with your horse by your side. Your evening spent at a stunning mountain hacienda with views of the terrain you will covering over the next few days to enjoy from the hot tub. Enjoy an evening meal in the historic centre of nearby Marsella, 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 courtesy of our equibus returning to Rancho Saman. Your evening spent once more in the welcoming town of Marsella. Explore the artisan stalls and enjoy a coffee watching the world go by in the town square 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
2026
January – 3rd – 11th
February – 7th – 15th – 2 saddles available
May – 16th – 24th
June – 6th – 14th – 3 saddles available
October – 3rd – 11th
2027
Coming soon …
