Panoramic horseback ride in a tropical dry forest reserve · near Cartagena
Horseback ride through the tropical dry forest: a pace the forest welcomes.
There are speeds at which the forest doesn't respond, and others at which it does. The horseback ride is one that works: the horse's rhythm syncs with the forest's, wildlife doesn't startle, details come into focus. You move through a 1,300-acre reserve where the foundation rehabilitates and releases parrots, macaws, and other tropical dry forest species — the same territory where, in a few months, those animals will fly free.
The day starts with a traditional breakfast by the lake and a short talk about the foundation's work. Then we ride out with a guide — healthy horses, attention to your experience level — and climb to the panoramic viewpoint over the mountain range. Before the end of the day, you feed some of the animals in rehabilitation and plant a native tree in the restoration zone.
Tropical dry forest reserve, near Cartagena.
You are in Villanueva, Bolívar — one of the few remaining tropical dry forest patches in the Colombian Caribbean, home to Amazonian parrots, macaws, toucans, howler monkeys, and the cotton-top tamarin. The reserve protects the habitat to which the foundation returns animals rescued from illegal trade.
Every peso from your experience is reinvested directly into the foundation's mission: caring for individual animals, restoring the ecosystem, and sustaining the partnerships with rural farmers who protect the territory.
"The view is beautiful and the horseback ride is rejuvenating." — Maps51, Tripadvisor (June 2025)
A glimpse of the reserve
Ride into the mountain range
Frequently asked questions
What's included in the price?+
Round-trip transport from Cartagena, breakfast (morning shift) or a welcome snack (afternoon shift) and a farewell snack of fruit and juice, bilingual guide Spanish/English, all program activities, and the conservation contribution.
Are there discounts for children or groups?+
Children up to 18 years old pay 50%. For groups of more than 6 people or special inquiries, write to us using the inquiry button and we'll send you a personalized quote.
What is the minimum and maximum age?+
The minimum age is 7. There is no maximum age — the experience suits people in good general physical condition. If you have questions about the physical demands for your group, contact us.
How large 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, breathable 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 pants are best.
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 shifts are available: morning (pickup 7:00 AM, return ~1:00 PM) and afternoon (pickup 12:00 PM, return ~6:00 PM). The exact location 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 reschedule.
Is it suitable for people with limited mobility?+
Some experiences involve walking on uneven terrain. For guests with limited mobility, we have adapted options (UTV rides, on-farm observation). 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 coordinate.
How far from Cartagena is the horseback ride?+
The reserve is 35 km from Cartagena de Indias — about 1 hour by private door-to-door transport, included in the price. There is a morning shift (7 AM–1 PM) and an afternoon shift (12 PM–6 PM).