The Jewel of Risaralda
A 9 day trail from Marsella to the thermal springs of Santa Rosa, traversing the Colombian Andes.
Saddle up for an unforgettable Colombian Horseback adventure!
- 9 days
- USD 3,320
Description
This 9 day horseback adventure shows you the very best of the department of Risaralda, in the heart of the coffee triangle of Colombia. You will ride from the “green capital of Colombia” – Marsella, to the thermal springs of Santa Rosa. Traversing the Colombian Andes, an area rich in wildlife. Riding grassy trails winding through coffee plantations with endless views, enjoy nights around camp fires, soak in the therapeutic waters of the natural thermal hot pools and discover what makes this part of Colombia so special.
Experience rural Colombia at its finest, riding open trails that lead you through over 100 miles of beautiful landscape. The open grasslands high up in the Andes mountains provide plenty of opportunity to canter. Suitable for those who are confident cantering and have a sense of adventure! Our trails have been created using the knowledge of local guides to take you to the most unspoilt and untrodden parts.
Your holiday starts with a day to relax, acclimatise and meet your horse at our new headquarters on the outskirts of Marsella. Our home base is a 54 acre horse and cattle ranch with endless views of the surrounding valley . Here you will begin your
Colombian trail riding experience: 7 days on horseback, enjoying the clean air and lush green mountains in this area world famous for its coffee production. Staying overnight in truly memorable accommodations. Enjoy stunning scenery by day and the most spectacular sunsets and starlit skies at nightfall. 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.. Our traditionally restored ranch house is set in 54 acres of fertile grazing. You’ll 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 adventure the following day.
This trail takes you through a beautifully preserved Unesco World heritage site, an area with a very proud and rich horse culture. Over the next seven 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 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 7 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
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. 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
Out on trail all day winding your way through the Central Andes, 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 5
Out on trail half day riding through ancient 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 6
Out on trail half day. A stunning day’s ride climbing open trails with spectacular views, passing by waterfalls and crossing rivers as we lead you to our next overnight stop. Soak in the hot tub before heading to nearby restaurant famous for its Colombian fusion cuisine.
Day 7
A full day’s ride through an area steeped in history, once home to the Quimbaya, you’ll see petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. This area is home to countless species of birdlife, giant butterflies, capybaras and more. Evening spent at private hacienda with views of the terrain you have ridden over the last 6 days.
Day 8
Breakfast before saddling up for a short ride back to our home base on the outskirts of Marsella, stopping off for one last coffee with your horse. Relaxed afternoon with chance to visit local artisan stall, cultural house or simply watch the world go by in the town square. Accommodations just a short stroll from the iconic plaza Bolivar Evening meal at Rancho Saman.
Day 9
Breakfast before our courtesy transportation takes you either to the airport or bus terminal depending on your plans.
Summary
- Riding - 7 days, 3 to 6 hours per day
- Horses - Colombian Criollo, Appaloosa, Appaloosa crosses, Paso Fino, Quarter horse
- 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 - circular route
- 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 at dinner). It does NOT include flights
Trail dates
2025
December – 24th – 1st January – 2 saddles available
2026
March 7th- 15th
June- 20th – 28th – 2 saddles available
July – 4th – 12th
August – 22nd – 30th – 4 saddles available
September – 12th – 20th
November – 7th – 15th