The Central Colombia Trail

7 Nights: From USD $3,530 pp sharing

Head Out On A Central Colombian Horse Riding Adventure

Ride from hacienda to hacienda along centuries-old bridle paths through the Andean Highlands, colonial villages, and the semi-desert of La Candelaria.

The Central Colombia Trail Ride is an unforgettable horse riding holiday through the heart of Colombia’s Andean Highlands. Designed for adventurous riders looking to experience the country beyond the tourist trail, this journey follows centuries-old bridle paths linking traditional haciendas, colourful colonial villages and the striking semi-desert landscapes of La Candelaria. Staying in welcoming family-run haciendas along the way offers a genuine insight into Colombia’s rich equestrian heritage and warm hospitality, making this far more than simply a riding holiday.

Located just a few hours from Bogotá, the ride explores one of Colombia’s most beautiful and undiscovered regions. Days are spent riding through rolling mountain scenery, fertile valleys, coffee farms, eucalyptus forests and open countryside, with plenty of opportunities for long canters along ancient trails once used by traders and local farmers. Along the way, you’ll visit charming colonial towns, discover spectacular viewpoints and enjoy traditional Colombian cuisine prepared by your hosts each evening.

This trail ride is best suited to intermediate and above riders who are confident and balanced in all paces, as there are regular opportunities for long trots, canters and faster riding across varied terrain. The horses are fit, responsive and sure-footed Colombian Criollos, carefully matched to each rider and perfectly adapted to the mountains.

More than just a horse riding holiday, this is a chance to experience the real Colombia. As you travel from hacienda to hacienda, you’ll be welcomed by friendly local families, share traditional home-cooked meals and gain a genuine insight into rural Colombian life. From the warm hospitality of the Latin American people to the country’s rich equestrian traditions and vibrant culture, the Central Colombia Trail Ride offers an authentic and immersive adventure both in and out of the saddle.

Quick Facts

Location: Cundinamarca & Boyacá, Colombia
Airport: El Dorado (Bogotá) International Airport
Month: May – August
Duration: 7 Nights
Group Size: Max 18 / Min 6
Riding Level: Intermediate & Above
Weight Limit: 120kg / 265lbs
Accommodation: Local Haciendas
Solo Traveller Friendly: Great for solo travellers who are willing to share. Single rooms are subject to availability and with an extra cost.

AN IDEA ON WHAT TO EXPECT

This itinerary is subject to change – it is an example and not an exact timetable. The chosen route and overnight stops may vary from the example below depending on weather, terrain and accommodation availability, with any changes always made with your comfort, safety and enjoyment in mind.

Your adventure begins in Bogotá, where you’ll meet your guides before heading into the beautiful Andean countryside. Along the way, you’ll stop at a traditional Colombian saddlery to learn about the country’s unique riding culture before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.

Later, you’ll visit one of Colombia’s renowned Paso Fino breeding farms, where you’ll experience these remarkable horses and discover why they are famous for their incredibly smooth ride. From here, continue to the charming colonial village of Cucunubá, where you’ll settle into your accommodation and enjoy your first evening together.

After breakfast, you’ll meet your horse for the week ahead before setting off on the trail. Riding through the Andean Highlands, you’ll follow centuries-old bridle paths across rolling mountains and open countryside, with spectacular views throughout the day.

A traditional Colombian barbecue lunch is enjoyed along the route before continuing to your overnight stop, where dinner awaits after a rewarding first full day in the saddle.

Today’s ride follows winding forest trails through rolling hills and valleys to the charming village of Sutatausa. Here, you’ll visit the historic cathedral and learn about the area’s colonial history before continuing towards the rocky landscapes surrounding the Hato Dam.

After a traditional Colombian lunch, you’ll ride back through the countryside to your accommodation, where you’ll spend the evening relaxing after another memorable day on horseback.

Today’s ride takes you through the lush countryside of rural Colombia, passing dairy farms, rolling hills and quiet country trails. After lunch at another historic hacienda, continue onto your next overnight stop, where you’ll spend the night enjoying the warm hospitality that makes this ride so special.

As you leave the green landscapes behind, the scenery begins to change. Ride through forests, open countryside and beautiful valleys before crossing into the province of Boyacá and reaching the striking semi-desert landscapes surrounding Ráquira.

This evening you’ll stay at a traditional countryside farmhouse, where local music, delicious food and plenty of Colombian hospitality make for a memorable night.

After a leisurely breakfast, today’s ride descends through the striking semi-desert hills towards the colourful town of Ráquira, famous throughout Colombia for its pottery and handcrafted goods.

You’ll have time to wander through its vibrant streets, browse the artisan shops and enjoy lunch before continuing on horseback to one of Colombia’s oldest monasteries, founded in 1604.

Today’s ride showcases yet another dramatic change in scenery as you leave the monastery behind and venture into the rugged Candelaria Desert. Rocky trails and wide-open landscapes lead you to the mysterious Patio de Brujas, an area steeped in local folklore and indigenous history.

By late afternoon you’ll arrive in the beautiful colonial town of Villa de Leyva, one of Colombia’s best-preserved historic towns. Spend some free time exploring its cobbled streets and impressive central square before gathering for a final dinner to celebrate the week’s adventure.

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your guides, horses and new friends. A road transfer returns you to Bogotá, bringing your unforgettable Central Colombia Trail Ride to an end. 

RIDE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Ride from hacienda to hacienda through Colombia's spectacular Andean Highlands
  • Experience the famously smooth Colombian Paso Fino horses at a renowned breeding farm
  • Experience the famously smooth Colombian Paso Fino horses at a renowned breeding farm
  • Immerse yourself in authentic Colombian culture with warm hospitality, local cuisine and traditional folk music
  • Follow ancient bridle paths once used to connect Colombia's remote mountain communities

ACTIVITIES ON THE CENTRAL COLOMBIAN TRAIL RIDE

Here are some of the unforgettable activities you can do while on The Central Colombian Trail Ride in Colombia

HORSES & TACK ON THE RIDERS OF THE COLOMBIA BEYOND TRAILS RIDE

THE HORSES

The Central Colombia Trail is ridden on a carefully selected combination of Colombian Criollo horses, crossbred horses, and experienced mules, each chosen for its calm temperament, endurance, and ability to handle the region's varied landscapes. From mountain tracks and river crossings to remote countryside trails, these dependable animals are well prepared for every stage of the journey.

THE TACK

You will ride in traditional Colombian trail saddles, selected for the comfort and stability they provide throughout long days on the trail. Their practical design offers a secure seat across steep mountain paths, river crossings, and uneven terrain, allowing you to ride with confidence while enjoying Colombia's spectacular landscapes. All saddles and bridles are regularly inspected, adjusted, and maintained to ensure a comfortable fit for both horse and rider. Combined with the support of reserve horses and pack animals, the carefully managed tack and equipment help create a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable riding experience from beginning to end.

DATES & RATES

Set departure dates with a limited number of scheduled group departures each year between May and August. Please enquire about exact dates and availability.

2026 SEASON:

18 – 25 July 2026
7 Nights From: USD $3,530 per person sharing

2027 SEASON:

01 – 08 May 2027
20 – 27 August 2027
7 Nights From: USD $3,990 per person sharing

EXTRAS (Subject to Change)
Single Supplement if not willing to share (please note that a single room is not always possible) From: USD $65 per night. It is recommended to stay an extra night in Bogotá before the ride, we can arrange this for you and the cost will be approx. USD $85 * per night

*subject to change depending on the exchange rate

TRANSFERS (subject to change)
You will need to make your own way to the meeting point on Day 1, as airport transfers are not included. However, taxis are readily available at Bogotá Airport 24 hours a day and are an inexpensive and convenient option.

7 Nights: From USD $3,530 pp sharing

Includes / Excludes

Price Includes:

  • International flights to El Dorado (Bogotá) International Airport 
  • Visas
  • Comprehensive Travel and Medical insurance
  • Transfer to the meeting point on day 1
  • Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Pre-ride night in Bogotá
  • Gratuities for camp staff and guides
  • Items of a personal nature

Price Excludes:

  • International flights to  El Dorado (Bogotá) International Airport
  • Domestic flights within Colombia (Bogotá to Bucaramanga & Bucaramanga to Santa Marta)
  • Visas
  • Comprehensive Travel and Medical insurance
  • Meals in Santa Marta
  • All alcoholic beverages
  • Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Gratuities for camp staff and guides
  • Items of a personal nature

WHERE YOU'LL STAY ON THE CENTRAL COLOMBIAN TRAIL RIDE

Accommodation

Accommodation is a real highlight of the Central Colombia Trail Ride. Throughout the journey, you'll stay in a collection of historic colonial haciendas, charming countryside lodges and a boutique hotel, each chosen for its character, comfort and authentic atmosphere. Rather than large luxury hotels, these hand-picked properties immerse you in Colombia's rich history and rural way of life, with warm hospitality, delicious home-cooked cuisine and welcoming hosts. Several of the haciendas are private family estates that are rarely open to the public, offering an exclusive glimpse into the country's traditional equestrian heritage.

CASA BISBAL

Located in the heart of the charming colonial town of Cucunubá, Casa Bisbal is a welcoming boutique hotel that provides a comfortable introduction to the trail ride. Full of character and local charm, it offers a relaxed atmosphere, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, and easy access to the town's historic streets and vibrant culture.

HACIENDA LA CABAÑA

Steeped in more than 400 years of history, Hacienda La Cabaña is a beautifully preserved colonial estate surrounded by rolling countryside. Combining traditional architecture with warm hospitality, it offers a genuine glimpse into Colombia's rural heritage and provides a peaceful setting to unwind after a rewarding day in the saddle.

HACIENDA TAUSAVITA

One of the most beautiful haciendas in the region, Hacienda Tausavita is a private family estate reserved exclusively for trail ride guests. Rich in history and character, this elegant property offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Colombian hospitality in an intimate and exclusive setting.

HACIENDA EL MOLINO

Nestled in the Colombian countryside, Hacienda El Molino is a charming colonial hacienda with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Surrounded by peaceful rural landscapes, it is the perfect place to relax after a day on horseback while enjoying traditional hospitality and the slower pace of country life.

HACIENDA TICHA

Full of local character and traditional Colombian charm, Hacienda Ticha offers an authentic countryside experience. With its historic architecture, relaxed atmosphere and beautiful rural surroundings, it provides a memorable overnight stop and a wonderful insight into life in Colombia's heartland.

RÁQUIRA SILVESTRE

Set amongst the striking semi-desert landscapes of Boyacá, Ráquira Silvestre offers rustic yet comfortable cabins surrounded by nature. The accommodation is simple, peaceful and perfectly suited to the adventurous spirit of the ride, with hearty local cuisine and spectacular countryside views.

VILLA DE LEYVA

Your final night is spent in a comfortable colonial hotel in the heart of Villa de Leyva, one of Colombia's most beautiful heritage towns. With the famous cobbled main square, cafés, restaurants and boutique shops all just a short stroll away, it's the perfect place to enjoy the final evening of your adventure before returning to Bogotá the following day.

THE DESTINATION

Bogotá

Nestled high in the Eastern Andes at an altitude of 2,640 metres, Bogotá is Colombia’s vibrant capital and one of South America’s largest cities. A fascinating blend of colonial history and modern culture, the city is home to world-class museums, colourful street art, lively cafés and the historic district of La Candelaria. Surrounded by mountain peaks, Bogotá offers visitors an excellent introduction to Colombia’s rich history, diverse culture and renowned culinary scene.

Cucunubá & the Andean Highlands

Located around 75 km north of Bogotá, Cucunubá is a beautifully preserved colonial town nestled within Colombia’s Eastern Andean Highlands. The surrounding region is characterised by rolling mountains, fertile valleys and high-altitude grasslands, with a long history of dairy farming and horsemanship. Its peaceful rural landscapes, traditional architecture and cool mountain climate make it one of central Colombia’s most picturesque regions.

Ráquira & the La Candelaria Desert

Ráquira is one of Colombia’s most colourful colonial towns and is widely regarded as the country’s pottery capital. Its brightly painted buildings are lined with artisan workshops selling handcrafted ceramics and traditional Colombian handicrafts. Nearby, the striking La Candelaria Desert offers a dramatic contrast, with semi-arid landscapes, rocky sandstone formations and unique native vegetation creating one of central Colombia’s most distinctive natural environments.

Villa de Leyva

Founded in 1572, Villa de Leyva is one of Colombia’s best-preserved colonial towns and has been protected as a National Monument since 1954. Famous for its whitewashed buildings, cobbled streets and one of the largest town squares in South America, the town has retained much of its colonial charm. Surrounded by mountains and semi-arid landscapes, Villa de Leyva is also known for its museums, artisan markets, excellent restaurants and thriving cultural scene.

HOW WE CARE FOR OUR HORSES

Our horseback adventures are hand-picked for their quality and care of their horses. Here’s how the horses on the Central Colombian Trail Ride are kept in tip-top shape for your safaris. The horses are on top of the hierarchy and receive very special care:

  • The welfare of the horses is the highest priority, and they receive attentive care before, during and after every riding day
  • The horses are carefully trained and conditioned for the varied terrain encountered on this ride, ensuring they are confident, experienced and comfortable on the trail
  • The ride uses a selection of Colombian Criollo horses, crossbred horses and mules, each chosen for its temperament, endurance and suitability for the specific terrain
  • During the ride, all horses receive concentrate feed in the morning before departure and again in the evening after the ride, and spend each night resting in spacious pastures where they can graze freely and recover for the following day
  • Reserve horses and mules travel with the group at all times, allowing riders to change mounts if necessary and ensuring any horse needing rest or veterinary attention can immediately be taken out of work
  • Every horse is closely monitored throughout the journey — their health, comfort and wellbeing are always the top priority

Please chat to us if you have any more questions about this.