7 Day Rivers and Ridge-tops Trail

7 Day Rivers & Ridge-tops Trail

This stunning 7 day trail takes you through the most varied terrain of all our trails.

Ride through eucalyptus lined avenues, through ancient Andean forests, canter along ridge tops with 360 degree views all in the heart of the Colombian coffee region.

See countless species of butterflies and hummingbirds, visiting charming traditional mountain villages and immerse yourself in Colombian horse culture.

A true trail riding adventure!

Description

This route begins in the stunning area of Santa Rosa, Risaralda in the Central Andes mountains of Colombia. From here we head deep into coffee country, riding untouched ancient Andean forests, ridge-tops with spectacular 360 degree views, canter along grass trails through coffee plantations and explore the brightly coloured, welcoming villages of rural Colombia, finishing up at our stunning new cattle ranch on the outskirts of Marsella.

Covering 80 miles of extremely varied terrain, passing alongside waterfalls and crossing rivers, traversing lush ravines, ride atop mountains and canter through open grasslands. 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.

We will be there to meet you at Pereira airport and are excited to share this unique horseback adventure with you. Stay at memorable accommodations, enjoying the best of Colombian hospitality. Soak in the breathtaking scenery by day, the most spectacular sunsets by night. All luggage will be transported between overnight stops for you.

An unforgettable experience

We’re here to welcome you to our cattle ranch located just 40 minutes from Pereira aiport. Here enjoy endless views and meet our herd of fit and friendly horses, all trained to respond to both English and Western riding styles. Enjoy a chef prepared family style evening meal before heading out the following day to begin your 80 mile adventure.

This trail is designed to show you the best of this beautiful area, an area rich in horse culture and with a landscape that lends itself to horseback travel. Over the five days on trail you and your horse will pass breathtaking scenery and enjoy nights in a variety of spectacular settings, from lodges nestled in the foothills of the andes mountains to luxurious y renovated traditional properties and traditional haciendas. A Colombian adventure awaits!

Accommodation

Throughout your trip, you’ll stay in a combination of comfortable guesthouses, tree top log cabins, farm houses and lodges, all hand picked by us. You’ll stay with us at our stunning 150 year old colonial home for a night before your 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 explore the grounds of our 54 acre cattle ranch and meet your horse. The evening will include family style meal and an explanation of the terrain you will be covering over the following 5 days

Day 2

Depart Rancho Saman after a relaxed breakfast and head to the hills of Risaralda and our start point for this trail – “La Herradura” on the outskirts of Santa Rosa and just a stones throw from the thermal hot springs. Afternoon ride to spectacular waterfall before making our way to the thermal hot springs.

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 winding your way through the Central Andes, the highest of the three branches of the Colombian Andes. Passing forestry 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. (4hrs riding)

Day 4

Out on trail all day ending at “La Gaviota”, 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. (6hrs riding)

Day 5

Ride alongside rivers following the old coffee canal deep in the heart of the Colombian coffee axis 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. (5hrs riding)

Day 6

Today we make our way to the town of Marsella. Follow the old mule trail, the most spectacular, hidden grassy trails with 360 degree views. A full day’s ride through a stunning section of trail that is home to countless species of birdlife, giant butterflies, ant eaters, sloths and more. Ride the most breathtaking ridge top with endless views in all directions, a section of trail that dates back to the conquistadors At the end of your day ride into the town of Marsella, staying at newly restored accommodations close to the town square. Enjoy an evening meal in the historic town centre, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this welcoming traditional town. (6-7hrs riding)

Day 7

Breakfast before our courtesy transportation takes you to Pereira airport or bus terminal depending on your plans.

Summary

Riding - 5 days, 4 - 6 hours per day
Horses - Colombian Criollo, Appaloosa, Appaloosa crosses, Paso Fino
Riding ability - intermediate to advanced
Weight limit - 90 kgs (14 st 2lbs)
Accommodation - ranch houses, luxury yurts, 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