Horseback Riding in Colombia: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Sprawling over 1,141,748 square kilometers (440,831 square miles), the world’s twenty-fifth largest country boasts plenty of incredible horseback riding spots.

Among the most popular is to spend a half-day riding to the Cueva del Esplendor from Jardín, near Cali. Sitting at the foot of the Andes, the easy ride takes participants through forests and over rivers, admiring incredible views en route to the cave, where it is possible to swim and hike as well.

Tayrona National Park, at the very north of the country, is another popular spot for horseback riding. Boasting coastal jungles and pristine beaches, there are kilometers and kilometers of terrain to cover. Heading on horseback is the best way to see as much of this stunning part of northern Colombia as you can.

Away from the aforementioned places, the eastern plains, San Agustin, Providencia and San Andres, the Cocora Valley and Buritaca are other popular spots to explore.

Stunning scenery

Colombia is one of the most diverse countries in the world, which also makes it one of the most beautiful. White sand beaches adorn the north of the country, farther south are incredible green river valleys and gorges as well as thickly forested rolling hills. The Andes provides incredible mountain and glacial scenery at the heart of the country.

Immense biodiversity

Colombia is the world's second most biodiverse country and heading out on horseback is a rgeat way to get out and see some of the incredible plants and animals that call the country home. From watching out for dolphins on the northern beaches to keeping your eyes peeled for Andean bears on the southern slopes of the Andes, there are plenty of incredible creatures to spy here.

Come for the culture

Use heading out on horseback as a way to explore Colombia’s diverse culture. A blend of Spanish-brought culture and local Amerindian traditions has created a unique set of architecture, food and customs. Whether it is trying a local cocktail at the beach to exploring the famed Catedral de Sal, just north of Bogota, there is plenty to be experienced using all five senses.

In the mountainous areas of Colombia, average daily temperatures range from 17 ºC to 22 ºC (63 ºF to 72 ºF) throughout the year. During the drier times of year, the air is often humid, but rain is not too common.

This depends on where your trip is. However, most guides will opt to meet you at one of El Dorado International Airport (BOG), in Bogota; José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), in Medellin; or Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO), in Cali. Guides will usually opt to provide transport to the start of the trip from one of these locations.

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