Ride some of the Top trails of Colombia
Visit farms of the best coffee quality in the planet
Ride different kinds of terrain in the wilderness of beautiful ecosystems
Taste the local gastronomy
Explore colorful authentic villages
Ride in company of our expert guides
Support sustainable tourism
Stay in charming hotels
Mountain Biking
Swimming
Culture
Wildlife
You’ve never ridden a mountain bike before.
SKILL LEVEL 2 – BEGINNER
You have limited experience with off-road trail riding.
SKILL LEVEL 3 – NOVICE
You’re hooked on riding off-road and wide dirt trails (atv trails or doubletrack), but still lack the skills and confidence to consistently ride terrain with roots, rocks, tight corners, tight trees and steeps. Singletrack – what is singletrack?
SKILL LEVEL 4 – STRONG NOVICE
Your dedication to mountain biking has led you to your first handful of rides on real singletrack. You enjoy smooth mellow singletrack, although often the trees feel too tight, the climbs come too quick to shift and have you walking, and the obstacles have you a bit surprised as you did not even know people ride right over logs!
SKILL LEVEL 5 – INTERMEDIATE
At a controlled speed and on mellow singletrack terrain, you are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand. You are comfortable and confident rolling over small obstacles (a couple inches high) like roots, rocks and small rollable drops (a couple inches high). On rare occasions you take your wheels off the ground intentionally. You are now becoming comfortable in anticipating terrain and shift gears accordingly and you are comfortable using both front and rear brakes when required.
SKILL LEVEL 6 – STRONG INTERMEDIATE
You are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand and are comfortable doing so on more challenging terrain. You are comfortable and confident with a front wheel lift and rear wheel lift to get up and over larger obstacles (up to 6 inches) such as roots and rocks that are not rollable. When climbing you shift your bodyweight forward in efforts to keep traction on your front wheel. Climbing is typically successful, unless technical roots, rocks or corners have you walking a short section. You are comfortable with speed and letting go of your brakes as long as you can see the
exit or end of the descent. You are also now grasping effective cornering techniques although still need to work on your timing and coordination.
SKILL LEVEL 7 – ADVANCED
You are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand and are comfortable doing so on aggressive terrain with little braking. You can hop over obstacles such as small roots and rocks that less advanced riders may wheel lift over. You use the brakes sparingly, and are open to taking some air off little rocks and roots. Your timing and coordination on all types of berms is solid. You are comfortable leaning your bike through the corner and exit with acceleration.
SKILL LEVEL 8 – EXPERT
You are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand and are comfortable doing so on aggressive terrain with little braking. You rarely, if ever, walk. Small drops are no issue for you and you are comfortable with having both wheels leave the ground. Climbing technical roots, rocks and switchbacks are no issue for you. You use the brakes sparingly and air off of every rock, root and drop you can find. Your timing and coordination on all types of berms, switchbacks and corners is solid. You are comfortable leaning your bike through fast corners and exit with acceleration.
SKILL LEVEL 9 – PRO
You are a mountain bike god/goddess. You can handle the most technical terrain imaginable, eat up steeps for breakfast and can hit all the gaps, drops and jumps any trail throws at you.
You are a couch potato.
You cannot ride for more than half an hour on flat terrain at a time, and the thought of climbing on a bike is daunting.
You exercise less than 1 hour per week.
FITNESS LEVEL 2
You live a fairly inactive life with little physical activity other than walking.
You can handle a 1-hour bike ride on flat terrain at a relaxed pace.
Small, short hills are challenging to climb, but are sometimes manageable.
You exercise on average 1 hour per week (including riding a mountain bike).
FITNESS LEVEL 3
You are capable of 2 hours of pedal time in a day at a relaxed pace, as long as there are several breaks.
You can handle one or two easy climbs of up to 330 vertical feet (150 m) total.
You exercise on average 2 hours per week (including riding a mountain bike).
FITNESS LEVEL 4
You are capable of climbing up to 650 vertical feet (200 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 3 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.
FITNESS LEVEL 5
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 2-3 hours of pedal time each day.
You are confident climbing up to a total of 1,000 vertical feet (300 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 4 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.
FITNESS LEVEL 6
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle moderately steep climbs of up to a total of 1,650 vertical feet (500 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 5 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.
FITNESS LEVEL 7
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle moderate climbs up to 2,450 vertical feet (750 m) total in a day.
You exercise on average 6 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.
FITNESS LEVEL 8
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You have little trouble climbing 3,280 vertical feet (1,000 m) in a day on moderate to steep terrain..
You exercise on average 6-10 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.
FITNESS LEVEL 9
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle steep, sustained climbs of up to 4,920 vertical feet (1,500 m) in a day.
You exercise over 10-hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.
Year around
12 years old
Alegria MTB Trail in Salento
The Alegria MTB Trail in Salento, Colombia, is a thrilling mountain biking trail that offers an exhilarating experience for experienced riders. Here's a description of what you can expect on a ride along the Alegria MTB Trail:
1. Trail Description: The Alegria MTB Trail is an expert-level singletrack trail known for its challenging climbs and technical sections. The trail consists of a mix of singletrack and doubletrack, offering a variety of terrain for riders to navigate. It is a popular trail among experienced mountain bikers seeking a thrilling and demanding ride.
2. Trail Access: The trail is located near Salento, a charming town in the Quindio department of Colombia. To access the Alegria MTB Trail, riders need to climb for approximately 11 kilometers from Salento. Along the way, there are orange gates and signs indicating the start of the trail. Riders can either jump over the gates or use an alternative entrance with a barbed wire gate further up the road.
3. Trail Difficulty: The Alegria MTB Trail is classified as a black diamond trail, indicating its high level of difficulty. It is designed for experienced riders who are comfortable with technical challenges and steep climbs. The trail demands good bike handling skills and physical fitness. Riders should be prepared for a demanding and exhilarating experience.
4. Trail Features: The Alegria MTB Trail offers a rugged and diverse riding experience. Riders can expect sections with rocky descents, technical obstacles, farm trails, pine forests, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail provides an opportunity to test your skills and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
5. Trail Network: While specific details about the Alegria MTB Trail network are limited, Salento is known for having a variety of mountain biking routes and trails. The region offers a range of options for riders, from easy dirt track rides to challenging downhill single tracks. Exploring the local trail network can provide riders with a diverse and exciting mountain biking experience.
6. Local Support: It is advisable to seek local guidance or join a guided tour when riding the Alegria MTB Trail or exploring the mountain biking trails in Salento. Due to the lack of marked trails and limited maps, local knowledge can be invaluable in navigating the area and ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.
The Alegria MTB Trail in Salento offers a challenging and rewarding experience for experienced mountain bikers. With its technical sections, stunning landscapes, and rugged terrain, this trail provides an opportunity to push your limits and enjoy the thrill of mountain biking in a beautiful Colombian setting.
Bosque Popular, Morenita, and Narnia MTB Trails in Manizales
The Bosque Popular, Morenita, and Narnia MTB Trails are popular mountain biking routes located near the city of Manizales, Colombia.
1. Trail Description: The Bosque Popular, Morenita, and Narnia MTB Trails offer thrilling and challenging experiences for mountain biking enthusiasts. These trails are known for their diverse terrain, including steep slopes, closed curves, and technical sections that put riders' skills and endurance to the test. The trails provide an opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding Manizales and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the Colombian Andean jungles.
2. Trail Access: The trails can be accessed from the city of Manizales. The exact starting points and access routes may vary, so it is recommended to seek local guidance or join a guided tour for the best experience.
3. Trail Difficulty: The Bosque Popular, Morenita, and Narnia MTB Trails are considered to be of intermediate to advanced difficulty. Riders should have good technical skills and be prepared for challenging descents, steep climbs, and tight turns. These trails are designed to test the endurance and technique of experienced mountain bikers.
4. Trail Highlights: The trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including lush forests, coffee plantations, and native trees. Riders can expect to encounter diverse flora and fauna along the way, adding to the overall experience. The combination of adrenaline-pumping descents and the natural beauty of the Colombian Andean jungles makes these trails a favorite among mountain biking enthusiasts
5. Local Support: It is recommended to seek local support or join guided tours when riding the Bosque Popular, Morenita, and Narnia MTB Trails.
La Densa MTB Trail in Manizales
La Densa MTB Trail in Manizales is a thrilling mountain biking trail that offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure for riders of all skill levels. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Manizales, Colombia, this trail is a hidden gem for mountain biking enthusiasts.
1. Trail Description: La Densa MTB Trail is a well-maintained and well-marked trail that winds through the stunning natural surroundings of Manizales. The trail offers a perfect blend of technical challenges, flowy sections, and breathtaking views. It features a mix of singletrack, rocky descents, and occasional jumps, providing an exciting and varied riding experience.
2. Scenic Beauty: As you navigate the La Densa MTB Trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of lush green valleys, towering mountains, and cascading waterfalls. This trail highlights the natural beauty of Manizales, offering riders a chance to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.
3. Trail Diversity: La Densa MTB Trail caters to riders of all levels, from beginners to advanced riders seeking a challenge. The trail offers different sections with varying difficulty levels, allowing riders to choose their preferred route. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, you'll find a section of the trail that suits your skill and comfort level.
4. Technical Challenges: The La Densa MTB Trail presents riders with a range of technical challenges that keep the ride exciting and engaging. From steep climbs and rocky descents to tight switchbacks and technical obstacles, the trail will test your bike handling skills and provide a thrilling experience. It's important to be prepared with proper gear and equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
5. Trail Accessibility: The La Densa MTB Trail is easily accessible from Manizales, making it an ideal day trip for both locals and tourists.
6. Community and Culture: The mountain biking community in Manizales is vibrant and welcoming. Along the trail, you may encounter fellow riders who share your passion for the sport. This provides an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and immerse yourself in the local biking culture.
Santa Barbara and El Cairo MTB Trail in Medellin
The Santa Barbara and El Cairo MTB Trail is a thrilling mountain biking route located near Medellin, Colombia.
1. Trail Description: The Santa Barbara and El Cairo MTB Trail offers an exciting off-road biking experience through the picturesque landscapes of Santa Barbara and El Cairo. The trail takes you through a combination of dirt roads, singletrack paths, and scenic routes, providing a diverse and challenging ride for mountain biking enthusiasts.
2. Trail Access: The trail starts in Medellin and follows the regional road towards Caldas. As you continue, you'll pass through Minas and Versalles before reaching Santa Barbara. Approximately 10 kilometers after Santa Barbara, you'll find the entrance to the road that leads to the El Cairo cement plant The trail can be accessed by driving to the starting point or by joining a guided tour that provides transportation and support.
3. Trail Difficulty: The Santa Barbara and El Cairo MTB Trail offers a range of difficulty levels, making it suitable for both intermediate and advanced riders. The trail features various terrains, including challenging climbs, technical descents, and sections that require good bike handling skills. Riders should be prepared for some steep and rugged sections along the route.
4. Trail Highlights: This trail is known for its stunning natural beauty and scenic views. As you ride, you'll pass through lush forests, cross rivers, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes. The route also offers opportunities to explore the local culture and experience the charm of Santa Barbara and El Cairo.
5. Trail Network: The Santa Barbara and El Cairo MTB Trail is part of a larger network of mountain biking trails in the Medellin area.
6. Local Support: It is recommended to seek local guidance or join a guided tour.
The Santa Barbara and El Cairo MTB Trail in Medellin offers an exhilarating mountain biking experience through beautiful landscapes and challenging terrains. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a scenic ride, this trail provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and explore the stunning Colombian countryside.
Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail in Medellin
The Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail is an exciting mountain biking experience located near Medellin, Colombia.
1. Trail Description: The Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail is a popular mountain biking trail known for its scenic beauty and diverse terrain. It offers a mix of singletrack and doubletrack trails, providing a variety of riding experiences. The trail takes you through lush forests, across rivers, and along challenging climbs and descents, offering an exhilarating adventure for mountain bikers.
2. Trail Access: The trail is located in Santa Fe de Antioquia, a historic town located about 80 kilometers northwest of Medellin. To access the Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail, you can either start your ride from the town center or drive to the trailhead and begin your ride from there. The trail is easily accessible from Medellin, making it a popular day trip for mountain bikers in the area.
3. Trail Difficulty: The Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail offers a range of difficulty levels, catering to riders of different skill levels. There are options for both beginners and experienced riders. While some sections of the trail are relatively easy with rolling terrain, other parts can be more challenging, featuring technical descents and steep climbs. It is important to choose the sections of the trail that match your skill level and fitness.
4. Trail Features: The Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. As you ride along the trail, you will pass through dense forests, cross rivers and streams, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail also offers opportunities to encounter local wildlife and experience the rich biodiversity of the region.
5. Trail Network: The Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail is part of a larger network of mountain biking trails in the area. The region around Santa Fe de Antioquia offers a variety of trails and routes that cater to different riding preferences and skill levels.
6. Local Support: When planning your ride on the Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail, it is advisable to seek local guidance or join a guided tour.
The Santa Fe de Antioquia MTB Trail in Medellin offers a fantastic mountain biking adventure with its scenic beauty, diverse terrain, and accessible location. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, this trail provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, challenge your skills, and enjoy the thrill of mountain biking in the stunning Colombian landscape.
Full Itinerary
Arrival in Pereira!
Overnight: Hotel La Floresta or Similar
Meals included: Breakfast and Traditional lunch
Nieblas and Alegria Enduro Trails
Overnight: Hotel La Floresta or Similar
Meals included: Breakfast and picnic lunch
Travel to Manizales and ride local trails
Overnight: Termales El Otoño or Similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
La Densa Trail
Overall, La Densa Trail in Manizales promises an unforgettable combination of adrenaline-pumping biking and exploration of the region's cultural and natural beauty.
Overnight: Termales El Otoño or Similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Tour of Medellin
Overnight: EcoHub or Similar
Meals included: Breakfast
El Cairo Trails
All these trails are maintained by the local community, your visit supports ecotourism and development for this families.
Overnight: EcoHub or Similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Santa Fe de Antioquia
Our last night in Medellin to celebrate.
Overnight: EcoHub or Similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Departure
Meals included: Breakfast.
Let's design your adventure
Private transport
Airport transfers
One domestic flight from Pereira to Medellin
English speaking guide
Meals described on the itinerary
Hydration
Hotel for 7 nights
All fees to parks and reserves
Bike or gear (Full Suspension MTBs Available for rent: 100usd per day)
Travel insurance.
Meals not mentioned on the itinerary.
Tips for guides and drivers.
Itinerary Disclaimer: Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides, due to weather or safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.
Visas and Passports: Make sure you check your visa and passport validity and requirements per country. It is important your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your travel.
Accommodation: We strive to use small and charming places that are unique and provide stellar service.
Single Supplement Costs: Generally this fee is not incurred as we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room, but if you prefer not to share and have your own room, then there will be an associated fee
Transportation: Driving time can take more than expected in Colombia, as it is a country with roads meandering through the Andes mountains. We assure your comfort during transit no matter the size of the group.
Gear: At Activexpediton we always make sure our guests have top of the line gear from well-known and reputable international brands as we understand that the best gear gives extra confidence to our riders.
Level of Activity: This trip is considered as 4 out of 5. Guests need to have experience riding blue and black trails on different kind of terrains.
Weather and Elevation: The Climate of Colombia is characterized for being tropical and isothermal as a result of its geographical location near the Equator presenting variations within five natural regions and depending on the altitude, temperature, humidity, winds and rainfall. Each region maintains an average temperature throughout the year only presenting variables determined by precipitation during a rainy season caused by the Intertropical Convergence Zone. The climates in Colombia are characterized for having tropical rainforests, savannas, steppes, deserts and mountain climate, mountain climate further divided into tierra caliente (hot land) tierra templada (temperate land) tierra fría (cold land), tierra helada (frozen land) and Páramo. Sometimes the weather of Colombia is altered by the seasons in northern hemisphere, for example, from March to June, the weather is mild Spring, from June to August the weather is hot Summer, From September to December the weather is cool Autumn, and from December to March the weather is cold Winter. This happens very rarely, and it is usually a slight difference.
Sustainability: We do our best to not produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough, so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero-waste tour operator and our staff is well trained to leave the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so we are able to teach our guests about the rich culture Colombia, all the while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local peoples, we are able to create a sustainable touristic income for the community.
Guides: All our guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; this means they have a degree in guiding, so their knowledge and skills when leading a group are top-notch. Each guide has many years of experience and they all have taken additional courses for other outdoor activities as well as have International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, they are all extremely personable and strive to deliver travel experiences of a lifetime.
Heath advices: no vaccinations needed for this trip
We do recommend travelling light for this expedition. A duffel bag of 50 litters for your luggage and a backpack of 20 litters for daily activities should be sufficient. In Colombia, the weather can change drastically especially when you are moving from the Andes into the cloud forest.
Your bike and full MTB gear
Passport
Credit card
Two pairs of lightweight hiking pants
Two pairs of shorts
Three pairs of biking shorts or pants
One bathing suits
3 – 4 Biking Jerseys
One cotton T-shirt
One water T-shirt
One fleece
One rain jacket
One pair of rain pants
Two buffs
One pair of tennis shoes
One pair of water sandals or similar
Optional – personal cleats and shoes
Optional – pads for extra protection
One- or two-night outfits
One cap or hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Mosquito repellent
Camera
Head lamp
Optional binoculars
NOTE: Laundry is available almost at every location and it is cheap, this helps traveling light too.
Price for specific departures:
$2600/per person
All premium features
Go private
We are ready to meet your needs and put together an unforgettable experience.
