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. Travel across the 3 departments of Risaralda, Caldas and Quindio and 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 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 110 mile adventure the following day.
Over the next six days you and your horse will ride challenging terrain, with views that span three departments. You’ll enjoy nights in a variety of spectacular settings, glamping locations, luxurious converted coffee farms 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 and 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. Also you will be given the chance to learn how to tack up western style. and if you wish get a little time in the saddle in our arena. 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!
Day 3
Your horse will be groomed and tacked up for you, but feel free to join in and help. Out on trail all day, taking you to the most northern tip of Risaralda and crossing into the department of Caldas. 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 4
Your horse will be groomed and tacked up for you, but feel free to join in and help. Out on trail all day 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 5
Out on trail all day. A stunning day’s ride 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 and enjoy dinner at this secluded spot in the middle of the Andean Rainforest.
Day 6
Your horse will be groomed and tacked up for you, but feel free to join in and help. Out on trail half day, A beautiful days ride through national parkland with the possibility of spotting howler monkeys and sloths. Soak in views that span from our start location to our end destination, enjoy your evening poolside on the edge of protected forest.
Day 7
Day 7: Out on trail all day. Today we make our way through tropical forest and climb into the department of Quindio and towards the picturesque village of Filandia. Crossing streams and surrounded by countless species of butterfly and birdlife. An incredible day’s ride ending at a welcoming horse ranch located high in the Andes mountains.
Day 8
Breakfast before a brief trip into Filandia. A chance to visit this beautiful traditional Colombian town, enjoy coffee in the town square and browse the artisan stalls before making our way back to Rancho Saman. Back at the 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, 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
2024
April – 23rd – 1st May – 3 Saddles Available
August – 17th – 25th
November – 4th – 12th – 2 Saddles Available
2025
January – 11th – 19th
February – 15th – 23rd – 3 Saddles Available
