Andes Mountains Horseback Riding

Andes Mountains Horseback Riding offers an authentic escape from Bogotá’s urban buzz, taking you on a 5-hour journey through scenic mountain trails with well-behaved horses and knowledgeable guides. For $120 per person, this tour promises a relaxed pace suited for all levels of experience, along with transport, safety gear, and a taste of local culture. It’s a popular choice, booked on average 18 days in advance, which speaks to its appeal.

What we particularly love is how easygoing the experience is—no need for prior riding skills—plus the chance to see real small farms and traditional landscapes that most city visitors miss. The guided narration about local plants and birds enriches the ride, making it more than just a scenic tour. The included traditional beverage —a homemade “canelazo” or sugarcane tea—adds a cozy, cultural touch at the end of your ride.

A potential drawback? This is a group activity, so if you’re looking for complete solitude or a private ride, be prepared for others to join. Also, with no scheduled lunch included, you’ll want to plan a meal before or after your adventure if you’d prefer a sit-down meal.

This tour suits nature lovers, beginner or experienced riders, and those eager to experience Colombia’s mountain scenery without straying far from Bogotá.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: The tour is designed for both novices and experienced riders.
• Scenic mountain trails: Pass through breathtaking Andean landscapes and small farms.
• Cultural experience: Taste a traditional Colombian beverage and learn about local flora and fauna.
• Hassle-free transportation: Includes pickup and drop-off from Bogotá, making logistics simple.
• Authentic small farm setting: Ride in a tranquil, farm-like environment away from city noise.
• Safety and comfort: Helmets provided and mandatory for riding, with good equipment and clear instructions.

An In-Depth Look at the Andes Mountains Horseback Riding Tour

How It’s Laid Out

The adventure begins with a drive from Bogotá up through the Eastern Mountains to La Calera, which takes about 1.5 hours. The scenic ascent offers glimpses of the city shrinking into the distance as you head into the hills. It’s a relaxed ride that sets the tone for the day, giving you plenty of time to settle into the experience and chat with your guide.

Once you arrive, you’ll meet your local guide, who will fit you with a helmet—mandatory for safety—and give a brief orientation. This setup phase takes about 15 minutes but is essential for ensuring a comfortable, safe ride for everyone.

The core activity is a 1.5-hour horseback ride through mountain trails. Here, you’ll enjoy varying terrain—perhaps a gentle incline, some flat stretches, and possibly more rugged parts—depending on the group’s pace. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and small farms, with reviews praising the calmness of the horses and the tranquility of the environment.

What Makes the Trail Special

Travelers comment on the beautiful scenery, noting the views of lakes, mountain ridges, and the rural farms dotting the landscape. One reviewer mentions that it’s a “great way to enjoy nature in its purest form,” emphasizing that this is a peaceful, scenic ride rather than a challenging trek.

Meeting the Locals and Learning About the Land

The guide, often named Diego or Camilo in reviews, is praised for patient explanations about local plants and birds, which adds an educational dimension to the ride. This isn’t just about riding; it’s also about understanding the environment.

Ending on a Cultural Note

After the ride, everyone gets to try a homemade “canelazo” or sugarcane tea, a warm, traditional beverage that travelers find cozy and delightful. It’s a perfect way to break from the ride and soak in the mountain air while chatting about the experience.

Return Journey and Logistics

The trip concludes with a 1.5-hour drive back to Bogotá, giving you a chance to reflect on the landscapes and perhaps share photos. The entire trip duration is about 5 hours, including transportation, riding, and the beverage break.

Authenticity and Value

The price point of $120 seems fair when considering everything included: transport, helmets, a guided ride, and cultural tasting. Many reviews emphasize the value of the experience, with some calling it their “best thing in Bogotá” or “a calming break from city life.” Because the horses are described as well-behaved and calm, even riders with little experience can enjoy the ride, which broadens the appeal.

Why Travelers Love It

Visitors repeatedly praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One review notes, “The tour guide was great, and the views were excellent,” highlighting that the experience exceeds expectations. Several mention the prompt pickup and smooth logistics that make this a hassle-free option.

Considerations

If you’re a more experienced rider or seeking a private, tailored experience, this might not fully meet your needs, especially since it’s a group tour. Also, since lunch isn’t included, plan to eat beforehand or bring snacks. Weather can be variable in the mountains, so dressing appropriately is recommended—think long pants, closed shoes, and layers.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is ideal for beginners, families, or anyone who simply wants a relaxed, scenic outing outside Bogotá. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about local landscapes and rural life, or if you want a gentle, educational riding experience.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: Bogotá Marriott Hotel, Av. El Dorado #69 B-53, Fontibón.
• Duration: Approximately 5 hours total (transport, riding, beverage break).
• Price: $120 per person, including guides, helmets, and the traditional drink.
• Group size: Up to 9 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Booking: Book 18 days in advance on average; last-minute bookings accepted with confirmation of English-speaking guides.
• Weather: Operates in all weather conditions—be prepared for sun, rain, or wind.
• What to Wear: Long pants, closed-toe shoes, thick socks, and weather-appropriate clothing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention that the horses are calm and that guides explain everything clearly, making it accessible even for those with little or no riding experience.

What should I wear for the ride?
Long pants, narrow closed-toe shoes, and layers are recommended. The helmets are provided and must be worn at all times during riding for safety.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You may want to eat before or after the tour.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The ride lasts about 1.5 hours, passing through scenic trails with beautiful mountain views.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from Bogotá, making the logistics seamless.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits the group to 9 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I book last-minute?
Yes, last-minute bookings within 24 hours are accepted if an English-speaking guide is available.

Are the horses suitable for all riders?
Most reviews suggest the horses are well-behaved and suitable for all levels, but experienced riders might find the ride less challenging.

To sum it up, the Andes Mountains Horseback Riding tour offers a smooth, scenic, and culturally enriching break from Bogotá’s urban rhythm. It’s perfect for those wanting a gentle introduction to Colombia’s stunning mountain scenery, with the bonus of local storytelling and a traditional drink to round out your adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, this experience provides a memorable taste of rural Colombia’s tranquility and natural beauty.

Enjoy the views, the calm horses, and the warm hospitality that make this tour a standout option for discovering Colombia beyond the city streets.