Colombia Paso Fino Horse Tour with Private Guide

Summary

Behind the Scenes at Criadero Lusitania Farm

You’ll meet Colombia’s Paso Fino horses up close at Criadero Lusitania farm near Bogotá, share coffee and stories with local breeders, taste traditional lunch dishes under a tin roof, and watch the unique paso gait in action—a day full of small moments you’ll remember long after heading home.

What’s the experience like?

“Try not to spill your coffee — the horses are coming,” our guide Andrés grinned as he handed me a mug that smelled like toasted caramel. We’d just arrived at Criadero Lusitania after the drive from Bogotá (it’s about an hour, but we hit some traffic — I guess that’s normal). The air was cooler than I expected, and there was this earthy smell from the fields. Andrés started telling us about his family’s history with Paso Fino horses, and honestly, I didn’t realize how deep it went — three generations breeding these horses right here in El Rosal.

Walking through the stables, you could hear soft nickers and hooves on packed dirt. One of the mares poked her nose out and I swear she looked straight at me — kind of intimidating but also gentle? Andrés introduced us to each horse like they were old friends. He explained the different gaits of the Colombian Criollo horse (I tried to imitate one later… let’s just say it wasn’t graceful). There was this moment when he showed us a champion stallion — his pride was obvious, but not in a showy way. Just real.

Lunch was served outside under a tin roof while rain tapped above us. The food was simple and good — beans, rice, grilled meat, plantains. Someone passed around homemade salsa that nearly made my eyes water (in a good way). We all laughed when I tried to pronounce “ajiaco” properly; Andrés’ aunt corrected me with a smile. After eating, we watched the horses on the track showing off their famous paso gait — it’s almost musical, that rhythm on the wooden boards. I still think about that sound sometimes.

The drive back to Bogotá felt quieter somehow. Maybe it was just all those new smells and stories settling in. If you’re curious about Colombian culture or horses (or both), this day trip is something different — not flashy, just honest and warm.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paso Fino Horse Experience

• Drive Bogotá to El Rosal Cundinamarca
• Welcome with Colombian coffee and history talk
• Tour breeding facility and see famous horses
• Traditional Colombian lunch
• Observe Criollo horse gaits and genetics
• Return to Bogotá

Top questions

How far is Criadero Lusitania from Bogotá?

The farm is about 1 to 1.5 hours by car from Bogotá, depending on traffic.

Is lunch included in the Paso Fino horse tour?

Yes, a traditional Colombian lunch is included during your visit to the farm.

Can I see famous Paso Fino horses on this tour?

Yes, you’ll meet some of their emblematic and well-known Paso Fino horses during the tour.

Is transportation provided from Bogotá for this day trip?

Private transportation between Bogotá and El Rosal is included in your booking.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?

You can request meal options before your tour; vegetarian choices are available if arranged ahead of time.

Is this private guided tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and transportation are wheelchair accessible for guests who need it.

What time does the Paso Fino horse experience start?

The departure from Bogotá is between 10:30 am and 11:00 am as agreed with your guide.

Will I learn about Colombian horse breeding history?

The local guides share stories about three generations of breeding and competition at Criadero Lusitania farm.

What’s included

Your day includes private pickup in Bogotá, round-trip transportation to El Rosal, coffee on arrival at Criadero Lusitania farm, snacks and drinks throughout the visit, a traditional Colombian lunch (with options provided beforehand), plus time with local guides who introduce you to their famous Paso Fino horses before returning in the evening.