Cali: Horseback Riding

Imagine gently riding through the lush, rolling valleys of Cali, with the warm sun on your back and the distant call of wildlife. For those seeking a truly unique way to experience Colombia’s natural beauty, this horseback riding tour offers a captivating blend of scenic vistas, expert guidance, and a chance to connect with the landscape on a personal level. Priced at $139 per person, the adventure lasts around 3 hours and is tailored to suit riders of all skills, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned equestrian.

One aspect we really appreciate is how flexible the experience is — the guide adjusts the route and pace depending on your comfort and riding level. Plus, the chance to ride Colombian Creole horses, known for their strength, docility, and noble demeanor, makes for a safe and enjoyable ride. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the round-trip travel time from Cali’s city center, which might be a bit lengthy if you’re pressed for time.

This tour suits travelers who crave a more authentic and less touristy outdoor experience. If you love nature, wildlife, and the idea of riding in a small group with personalized attention, you’ll find this excursion well worth the effort. It’s particularly ideal for those interested in learning about local horses and enjoying a tranquil stroll through Colombia’s picturesque valley.

Key Points

• All skill levels welcomed, with routes tailored to your experience
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts, including expert horsemen
• Beautiful nature trails perfect for relaxing and wildlife spotting
• Round-trip transportation from Cali included for convenience
• Flexible riding options, from walking to galloping, depending on comfort
• Small group format ensures personal attention and a better experience

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A Deep Dive into the Cali Horseback Riding Experience

The Setting: Valle del Cauca’s Scenic Trails

Cali’s countryside offers a lush backdrop for a horseback adventure, with winding paths that showcase Colombia’s vibrant landscape. As we head north from the city, we’re greeted by a peaceful rural environment—verdant fields, gentle hills, and the occasional sighting of local wildlife. The stable where the horses are kept is roughly a 40-50 minute drive from central Cali, making transportation a key consideration if you’re on a tight schedule.

Once at the stable, the familiarity of Colombian Creole horses puts you at ease. These sturdy, calm breeds are perfect for this type of tour, especially for beginners or those who haven’t been on a horse in years. The stables are well-maintained, and the staff clearly take pride in their animals’ care, which adds to the overall sense of comfort.

The Guided Ride: Personal Attention & Custom Routes

What sets this horseback tour apart is the personalized approach. Before setting off, the guide gives clear instructions, adjusting the route based on your riding experience and comfort level. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk, a trot, or even a quick gallop, your guide can accommodate your preferences. As one review notes, “Riding in Cali land is a great experience,” and we agree that this tailored approach makes all the difference.

The small group size—limited to six participants—ensures you’ll receive individual attention. The guide, who speaks both English and Spanish, is not only friendly but also highly knowledgeable about the local flora, fauna, and the horses themselves. This expertise enhances the experience, turning a simple ride into a genuine learning opportunity.

What You’ll See and Feel During the Ride

The trails wind through the valley, revealing a breathtaking mix of nature and tranquility. You might catch glimpses of local wildlife, hear the chirping of exotic birds, and enjoy the sensation of riding in an open natural space away from urban noise. The scenery changes with the weather, so bringing along a change of clothes is advisable—sometimes you might get a little wet crossing a shallow river or due to unexpected weather shifts.

During the ride, you can choose to walk at a leisurely pace to take in the scenery, or if you’re feeling adventurous, trot or even gallop. One traveler described it as “A LOT of fun,” emphasizing that the experience can be as relaxed or as lively as you want.

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The Experience Duration and Logistics

While the actual horseback ride lasts about 2 hours, it’s wise to allocate 3 to 4 hours overall for the entire activity. This includes transportation, briefing, and some flexibility in timing. The tour starts with pickup from your hotel or accommodation, with transportation arranged in a round trip from Cali’s city center.

The pickup service is available from central hotels and ends back at the Hotel Intercontinental, making it a seamless experience. Just check with the provider whether your hotel qualifies for pickup, as some restrictions might apply.

Included and Not Included in Your Tour

What you get for the $139 fee is quite comprehensive: round-trip transportation, a professional guide, horse rental, and the option to choose a horse suited to your experience level. Medical assistance policy is also included, giving extra peace of mind.

Extras like food, drinks, or additional services are not included, so bringing your own water, sun protection, and a change of clothes is recommended. Also, note that the tour is not suitable for those in wheelchairs, and open-toed shoes or large bags are not permitted for safety reasons.

Authenticity and Value

The reviews speak volumes about the genuine nature of this experience. One traveler praised the professionalism of the guide, David, and highlighted that “riding in Cali land is a great experience.” The authentic contact with local wildlife and stunning scenery makes this a memorable outing — one that offers more than just a quick ride, but a chance to truly feel part of Colombia’s rural landscape.

At $139, this tour offers good value, especially considering the personalized service, small group size, and scenic setting. It’s an experience that’s not just about riding, but about connecting with the land and its animals in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is perfect for those who want to explore Colombia’s countryside without the hassle of self-driving or complicated logistics. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic nature experiences, enjoy moderate outdoor activity, and value knowledgeable guides. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and eager to experience Colombia in a slow, meaningful way, this ride offers a peaceful escape.

It’s especially good for beginners or those unsure about riding — the flexible routes and attentive guides mean you’ll never feel out of depth. But even seasoned riders will appreciate the chance to trot or gallop through beautiful terrain in a small, friendly group.

The Sum Up

For travelers looking to combine scenic beauty, local culture, and gentle adventure, this horseback riding tour in Cali ticks all the boxes. It’s a chance to see Valle del Cauca’s landscape from an intimate perspective, riding Colombian Creole horses led by friendly, experienced guides. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the flexible riding options mean everyone can enjoy the lush trails at their own pace.

While the round-trip travel time might be a consideration if you’re on a tight schedule, the overall experience offers excellent value for those craving an authentic outdoor adventure. It’s especially suited for nature lovers, first-time riders, or anyone eager to step off the beaten path and enjoy Colombia’s rural charm in a relaxed, memorable way.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a peaceful day away from the city, this tour provides a genuine taste of Colombia’s countryside with the added joy of horseback riding.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel or accommodation in Cali is included, making it easy to focus on the experience.

What is the duration of the entire activity?
While the horseback riding itself lasts about 2 hours, you should allocate a total of 3 to 4 hours including transportation and briefings.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to accommodate all riding levels. The guide will adjust the route and horse choice to suit your comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, a change of clothes, and biodegradable insect repellent. A spare set of clothes is recommended in case you get wet.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The activity is best suited for those comfortable riding horses, but specific age restrictions aren’t specified. Check with the provider if you have young children.

Will I be able to gallop or trot?
Depending on your experience and comfort, you can choose to walk, trot, or gallop during the ride.

What horses are used?
The tour features Colombian Creole horses, known for their strength, calmness, and noble nature, making them ideal for all riders.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Weather conditions might cause you to get wet or require a change of clothes. Bring a spare set just in case, and check the weather forecast beforehand.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of horseback riding and the terrain.

Embark on this horseback adventure in Cali and discover Colombia’s beautiful countryside in a way that’s both authentic and memorable. Whether you’re seeking scenic tranquility or a gentle thrill, this tour offers a genuine encounter with nature, horses, and local hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby