Santa Rita waterfall

Santa Rita Waterfall Tour Review

Imagine exploring Colombia’s stunning Salento region, where the cool mountain air and lush landscapes make for a perfect escape. For just over $30 per person, you’ll spend about three hours immersed in nature, combining a horseback ride with a visit to the enchanting Santa Rita Waterfall. The tour departs from the charming town of Salento, with a pickup that hints at old-fashioned adventure—think jeeps and local guides wearing red vests.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the opportunity to connect with nature in a relaxed setting and the chance to experience local transportation that adds a touch of rustic charm. However, a potential snag is the inconsistent quality reported by past travelers. Some describe a smooth, enjoyable outing, while others warn about cancellations or misleading promises. This tour tends to suit those looking for a simple nature outing and are flexible with the experience’s unpredictability.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy casual outdoor activities and are curious about local customs. If you’re seeking a straightforward, affordable way to see a waterfall while riding horseback, this could be a good fit—just keep expectations in check, especially considering recent reviews.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Horseback riding through local paths to Santa Rita Waterfall offers a taste of rural Colombia.
• Affordable price: At just over $30, it provides a reasonably priced nature outing in Salento.
• Inclusion of essentials: Waterfall tickets, a guide, insurance, and a water bottle are included.
• Variable reviews: Some travelers report cancellations or mismatched expectations, so flexibility is key.
• Limited amenities: Feeding is not included, so bring your own snacks if desired.
• Group size: The tour limits to a maximum of 30 travelers, maintaining a manageable group experience.

A Detailed Look at the Santa Rita Waterfall Tour

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour begins at Hostal Origen Colonial, a quaint spot in Salento. From there, the journey is quite straightforward but promises a mix of scenic riding and natural beauty. The main highlight is the horseback ride that takes you toward the Santa Rita Waterfall. The experience is organized through prior contact—whether by phone, email, or in person—which helps set expectations.

Your guide, often wearing a red vest, will coordinate your pickup, usually via a jeep Willys, a classic vehicle that adds a nostalgic touch. This means you’ll be transported from the town to the trailhead in a manner that feels both practical and a little adventurous. The ride itself is not lengthy, but it’s enough to give you that rustic Colombia vibe.

The Waterfall and Surroundings

Once you arrive at the waterfall, you’ll enjoy the crisp, refreshing scenery typical of Salento’s high-altitude environment. The waterfall is a natural spot for photos, relaxing, or simply soaking in the ambiance of the local landscape. You can expect to spend about 50 minutes here, which is ample time to snap some pictures and enjoy the surroundings.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes waterfall tickets, a water bottle, a guide, and insurance—a practical package that ensures safety and convenience. What isn’t included is feeding the animals or buying souvenirs, so if you want to extend your experience or keep hydrated, bring your own snacks and water.

Transportation and Group Size

The pickup and drop-off are from the same meeting point, and the tour caps at 30 travelers. This keeps the group manageable but does not necessarily guarantee a guide who speaks English or detailed explanations beyond the basics. Past reviews suggest some inconsistency—one traveler noted an absence of guides and a cancellation altogether.

Customer Feedback and Real-World Insights

While some reviews speak positively about discovering a “magical” place and enjoying the rustic ride, others warn about disappointments. One traveler from December 2023 described a situation where there was no guide, no group, and the whole trip was canceled—highlighting the importance of being flexible with expectations.

Conversely, a review from March 2021 shared a lighthearted tale about a muddy walk, emphasizing the adventure’s informal nature. These mixed reviews suggest that, regardless of the adventure level, you should prepare for some unpredictability.

Considering the Value

At $32.83, the tour is reasonably priced given the inclusion of tickets, insurance, and guide service. However, given the mixed reviews, you might find that the actual experience varies significantly depending on the day and weather. If you’re okay with a bit of spontaneity and are mainly looking to enjoy a scenic horseback ride and waterfall, this could fit your plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers, those who enjoy casual outdoor activities, and visitors open to some uncertainty. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a simple outing that combines nature, a bit of adventure, and local flavor without a hefty price tag. However, if you prefer a highly organized, guided, or English-speaking experience, you might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re craving an easygoing, reasonably priced way to experience the Colombian countryside, the Santa Rita Waterfall tour offers a taste of rural Salento. You’ll love sharing the ride in a classic jeep, feeling the cool mountain breeze, and taking in the lush scenery. The waterfall itself is a lovely spot to relax and recharge amid nature.

That said, travelers should be aware of the inconsistency in service quality. Some have enjoyed their day, while others found the adventure falling short of expectations or even canceled altogether. It’s a good option if you’re adaptable and prepared for surprises.

In essence, this tour suits those who value authentic, low-key outdoor experiences more than scripted guides or luxury amenities. It’s a chance to connect with nature at a fair price, with the understanding that the experience can sometimes be unpredictable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from the meeting point to the waterfall area is included, typically using a jeep Willys. The pickup is coordinated with prior contact and is part of the experience.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable footwear suitable for walking in mud or uneven terrain, water, and possibly snacks, since feeding isn’t included. Also, consider bringing a rain jacket if the weather looks uncertain.

How long is the horseback riding?
The exact duration of the horseback ride isn’t specified, but the overall activity lasts about 3 hours, with the waterfall stop taking roughly 50 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but since horseback riding involves physical activity and some uneven terrain, young children or seniors should assess their comfort level.

Are guides available in English?
The reviews suggest that guides may not always speak English or be present, so language support isn’t guaranteed.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

What happens if it rains?
Since the tour is outdoors and in a natural setting, rain could affect the experience. It’s advisable to check weather forecasts and come prepared.

Is the experience worth the price?
Given what’s included—tickets, a guide, insurance, and transportation—many find the price fair. However, reviews warn that the actual experience may vary, so manage expectations accordingly.

This Santa Rita Waterfall tour offers a decent, affordable way to get a taste of Colombia’s scenic countryside, especially for those flexible enough to handle some unpredictability. With its rustic charm and natural beauty, it’s a modest but memorable escape—perfect for travelers who cherish authentic experiences over polished performances.