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Visitors and sanctuary staff with a UTV and ATV on a forest ridge overlooking the tropical dry forest and a distant lagoon near Cartagena

UTV and horseback ride at sunset in parrot sanctuary · near Cartagena

UTV by day, horses at sunset: two ways to read the same forest.

A full day inside a tropical dry forest reserve where conservation moves at two speeds. In the morning, by UTV with a guide: you spot wildlife, understand ecological corridors, take in the terrain. Late afternoon, you trade the engine for a horse and climb the mountain at a steady pace, arriving at the summit just as the sun drops behind the range.

The day starts with a traditional breakfast by the lake and a brief talk about the foundation's work: rehabilitation, reintegration, and forest restoration. Then we head out by UTV with guides who know every trail and every flock. Later, you feed some of the parrots and macaws in the reintegration process, plant a native tree, and before sunset, we set off on horseback toward the overlook.

Tropical dry forest, near Cartagena.

You're in Villanueva, Bolívar — the center of one of the most threatened ecosystems in the Colombian Caribbean, and home to Amazonian parrots, macaws, toucans, howler monkeys, and the tití cabeciblanco. The reserve protects 1,300 acres and safeguards the habitat where the foundation returns its animals.

Everything your experience costs goes directly back into the foundation's mission: caring for individual animals, restoring the ecosystem that receives them, and working with the farming communities that sustain the land. Your day here funds real work.

"The most unforgettable part for me — real food for the soul — was riding a horse through the forest, up the hill, at sunset. That moment was incredibly peaceful and emotional, and I know I will remember it for the rest of my life." — Ieva M., Viator (diciembre 2025)

A glimpse of the reserve

Frequently asked questions

What's included in the price?+

Round-trip transport from Cartagena, breakfast and lunch made with ingredients from our farm, bilingual guide español/inglés, all program activities, and the conservation contribution.

Do children or groups get a discount?+

Children up to 16 pay 50%. For groups of more than 6 or special requests, use the inquiry button and we'll send you a custom quote.

What is the minimum and maximum age?+

The minimum age is 7 years. There is no maximum age — the experience suits anyone in good general physical condition. If you have questions about the fitness level required for your group, contact us.

What size are the groups?+

We work with small groups: a maximum of 5 people per bilingual guide. This lets us offer a personalized experience, respect the wildlife, and keep a comfortable pace for everyone.

What should I bring?+

Comfortable, light clothing, closed-toe shoes with good grip (no sandals), a cap or hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, and water (we provide reusable bottles). For birdwatching and hiking, long trousers are better.

Where do you pick us up, and at what time?+

We pick you up at your hotel, accommodation, or an agreed meeting point in Cartagena, in private door-to-door transport. Two time slots: morning (pickup 7:00 AM, return ~1:00 PM) and afternoon (pickup 12:00 PM, return ~6:00 PM). The exact meeting point and time are confirmed 24 hours in advance via WhatsApp.

What is the cancellation policy?+

Cancellations more than 72 hours in advance: full refund. Between 72 and 24 hours: 50% refund. Less than 24 hours or no-show: no refund. If we cancel due to weather or safety reasons: full refund or rescheduling.

Is it suitable for people with reduced mobility?+

Some experiences involve hiking on uneven terrain. For people with limited mobility, we have adapted options (UTV rides, observation from the farm). Tell us your situation through the inquiry option and we'll put something together for you.

What languages is the experience offered in?+

All our guides are bilingual in Spanish and English. If your group needs another language, write to us in advance and we'll see what we can arrange.