Christmas in Colombia
Spend Christmas and New Year on horseback in the Colombian Andes, combining an adventurous point-to-point trail through the coffee region with a memorable New Year's Eve celebration in the colourful mountain town of Marsella.
Your holiday begins with riding through some of Colombia's most spectacular countryside. Follow mountain tracks between coffee plantations, climb onto high ridges, cross rivers and ride through lush Andean forest, staying somewhere different along the way. After completing the trail, return to Rancho Saman and settle into ranch life for the final days of the year. Head out on a different ride each day, exploring the surrounding countryside on horseback, with plenty of time to relax at the ranch between rides. On New Year's Eve, ride into Marsella for the celebrations. As evening falls, the town comes alive with music and dancing. Enjoy drinks, fireworks and a festive Colombian atmosphere toring in the new year.
itinerary
21st December : Our courtesy vehicle will be there to meet you at Pereira airport before heading straight to Rancho Saman.This short drive gives you a chance to see the terrain you will be riding over the upcoming days. Once at our HQ you will be welcomed into our home nestled in the foothills of the Andes mountains, with time to explore the grounds of our 54 acre cattle ranch and meet your horse. Your evening will include family style meal and an explanation of your planned route.
22nd December: 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 be 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.
23rd December: 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.
24th December:Christmas Day in Colombia. 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. Enjoy a traditional Colombian Christmas meal with spectacular views across the valley.
25th December: Out on trail half-day riding through protected ancient Andean forestry ending at your stunning lodge accomodation a stone's throw from the spectacular natural thermal hot springs of Santa Rosa. Pass the afternoon enjoying the thermal hot springs, soaking in the therapeutic waters. Spend an evening under the stars enjoying the warmth of a campfire.
26th December: 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.
27th December: Breakfast before heading back to Rancho Saman courtesy of our Equibus. Relaxed afternoon on the ranch with evening BBQ
28th December: Relaxed morning on the ranch with option to join us in the town square with our annual Christmas support for the elderly.
29th December: Down day, relax on our ranch or take option of day trip to Salento
30th December: Out on trail half day as we wind our way through cattle country stopping off in the town square for coffee with your horse before we return to Rancho Saman.
31st December: New Years Eve - Morning ride from the ranch before celebrating NYE Colombian style with the burning of the "Ano Viejo" and fireworks.
1st January: Breakfast before the transfer takes you either to the airport or bus terminal depending on your plans.
know before you go
This ride is suitable for intermediate and experienced riders. All riders should be confident and in control while cantering out in the open and over uneven ground. The pace of the ride is moderate with trots and canters where the terrain allows faster riding.
A good level of riding fitness is required as you’ll be spending 5-8 hours in the saddle each day.
Weight limit: 90kg / 14.1 stone
You will be guided by Marc, a member of the Long Riders’ Guild, and his local guides who come with a wealth of knowledge and experience of the area.
Maximum number of riders on a group is 6.
The horses used on this trail are of variety of breeds, such as Appaloosas, Criollos, Paso Finos, Quarter horses, American Paint horses and Percherons. All horses are hand-picked and trained to respond to both English and Western riding styles.
The tack is Western/Spanish style. The saddles are tailored and hand-made specially for trail riding.
Grooming and tacking up is optional.
Price includes
- 7 days of riding
- Trail riding horse, Spanish/Western tack and saddlebags
- 11 nights asccommodation
- Breakfasts
- Lunches
- Evening meals
- Local wine and beer with evening meal
- Refreshments
- Airport transfers
- Services of guide
Price Excludes
- Flights
- Tips
Accommodation
You'll be staying at Rancho Saman, a stunning 150-year-old colonial home where you can unwind by the pool. During the trail you’ll be staying in comfortable country guest houses, luxury farm houses and haciendas.
All meals and drinks are included in the cost of the trail. This includes breakfast, lunch and evening meal with refreshments and drinks in the evening (wine and local beer available). Allergies and special dietary requirements can be catered with advance notice. Luggage will be transported by car between overnight stops.
Christmas in Colombia
Booking Conditions
See the full booking conditions specific to this trail here.Flight and transfer information
Do not book flights until you have received the Booking confirmation email from saddletravel.com
- Arrival airport: Pereira (PEI)
- Arrival time: Anytime on 21st Dec
- Departure time: After breakfast on 1st Jan
- Transfer arrangements: Included to/from Pereira