Horseback Riding in Colombia 2024-2025
Explore Colombia on a horseback ride around the Cocora Valley or Medellín countryside
Best time: December–January | July–August
Colombia is an excellent destination for outdoor activities, including horseback riding. One of the most popular destinations for such an adventure is the Colombian Coffee Triangle. The area features Valley del Cocora, Salento, and Filandia. You'll pass by stunning coffee plantations, waterfalls, and gorgeous valleys. Besides, Valley del Cocora is home to the world's tallest palm tree—wax palm, which is definitely worth seeing.
Another famous spot to check out is the Medellín area, set north of the Cocora Valley. If you crave an authentic horseback ride across Colombian countryside and mountains, Medellín has everything to cater to your needs.
Horseback riding in Colombia is best during the dry season, when you can avoid muddy and slippery trails. The weather is pretty rainy all year round. Still, the driest periods usually last from December to January and July to August.
Practical info
What is the best time to visit Colombia for horseback riding?
Colombia's dry season is optimal for horseback riding, running from December to January and July to August. During this time, travelers are less likely to encounter muddy and slippery trails. However, Colombia experiences rainfall year-round, so it's worth noting.
Where can I go horseback riding in Colombia?
Two noteworthy destinations for horseback riding in Colombia are the coffee triangle and Medellín area. Journey through Colombia's coffee plantations, valleys, waterfalls, and mountains. Notably, the coffee triangle hosts the world's loftiest palm tree, the Wax Palm, in Valley del Cocora. In the Medellín area, explore Colombia's countryside authentically via horseback riding.
What are the unique features of horseback riding in the Colombian Coffee Triangle?
Colombia's Coffee Triangle offers stunning vistas of coffee plantations, valleys, and waterfalls, as well as insight into Colombia's coffee culture and history. The most notable site is the Valley del Cocora, where Wax Palms tower. This magnificent area leaves a lasting impression on visitors due to its natural beauty and cultural experiences.
When is the rainy season in Colombia?
The rainiest periods in Colombia are typically from April to May and from October to November, although the country experiences rain year-round. Travelers may struggle to navigate muddy trails during this period, so it's best to avoid it. In contrast, Colombia's dry season is from December to January and July to August, making it an ideal time for horseback riding.
Can beginners go horseback riding in Colombia, or is it only for experienced riders?
Inexperienced and experienced riders alike can go horseback riding in Colombia. Tours cater to all skills and offer learning experiences while exploring Colombia's natural beauty. Many tours provide introductory lessons and temperate horses for novice riders. Ensure that the tour company accommodates your skill level before signing up, regardless of experience.