10 DAY: CANYON RALLY – SANTANDER WILDLANDS

GUATAPÉ - GUADALUPE - BARICHARA - SAN GIL - LOS SANTOS - ZAPATOCA - SAN VICENTE DE CHUCURÍ

Heavy Off-Road & Paved Adventure

Fully - guided tour

$3,200 USD

PER MOTORCYCLE

Includes premium adventure motorcycle rental, bilingual private guide, secure luggage storage at our facility, essential travel equipment & riding gear.

Hotel & Motorcycle

$1,650 USD

PER MOTORCYCLE

Includes premium adventure motorcycle rental, secure luggage storage, essential travel equipment & riding gear, and comfortable hotel accommodations.

Motorcycle & maps

$650 USD

PER MOTORCYCLE

Includes premium adventure motorcycle rental, secure luggage storage at our facility, essential travel equipment & riding gear, Maps & Directions.

ABOUT THIS TOUR

This 10-day off-road expedition is designed for riders seeking rugged terrain, cultural immersion, and true exploration.
The route takes you deep into the wild heart of Santander and parts of Boyacá, where compacted red-clay roads wind through emerald mining towns, remote pueblos, and colonial villages. Famous for its fast, flowing dirt tracks, Santander offers some of the best off-road riding in Colombia. But be prepared: just a little rain can transform these roads into slick, muddy challenges that test both skill and endurance. Along the way, you’ll pass through historic towns like Guadalupe, Socorro, and Barichara, each with its own charm, history, and welcoming small-town spirit.

A highlight of the journey is the descent into Chicamocha Canyon, one of Colombia’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, where dramatic cliffs, winding roads, and panoramic views combine for an unforgettable ride. Between rugged trails, waterfalls like Ventanas de Tisquizoque, and cultural experiences in towns such as San Vicente de Chucurí & Guadalupe, this tour is a true rally into Colombia’s wild side, built for adventurous riders eager to discover hidden corners of the eastern Andes.

Highlights: Guatapé Rock, Hacienda Nápoles (Doradal), Emerald country off-road to Otanche, Ventanas de Tisquizoque Waterfall, historic pueblos Vélez, Guadalupe, Socorro, Barichara, Zapatoca, and Los Santos, Las Gachas natural rock pools (near Guadalupe), Chicamocha Canyon National Park descent and views, Cascada Manchego and Cascada de los Caballeros (optional), San Gil (Adventure Capital of Colombia), San Vicente de Chucurí, and a high-speed highway return to Medellín.

Notes: Expect a mix of fast dirt trails, compact red-clay off-road sections, mixed terrain, and high-speed highway stretches. Weather can quickly change conditions, turning dry dust into mud, so riders should be prepared for all off-road scenarios. This is an experienced-level adventure, suitable for riders experienced with dirt, mud, and variable terrain, who also enjoy cultural stops in remote pueblos and historic towns.

TOUR INFORMATION

You’ll find all the key details about this tour right here. 
For anything additional, feel free to contact us.

Tour map

Summary of this tour

  1. Famous Piedra de Piñol (Rock of Guatapé)
  2. Hacienda Nápoles (Doradal / La Danta, Antioquia)
  3. Boyacá emerald country off-road to Otanche
  4. Nights stay in Otanche or Pauna
  5. Visit the Ventanas de Tisquizoque (Waterfall)
  6. Off-road to Vélez through local pueblos
  7. Nights stay in Historic Vélez, Santander
  8. Rest day in Historic Guadalupe (Visit Las Gachas)
  9. Optional: Visit Cascada De Los Caballeros
  10. Dirt & dusty off-road rip from Contratación to Chima
  11. Visit Historic Socorro on your way to San Gil
  12. San Gil: known as the Adventure Capital of Colombia
  13. Barichara: Colombia’s top 3 most beautiful towns
  14. Back road trail visit Cascada Manchego (Waterfall)
  15. Parque Nacional del Chicamocha Canyon to Los Santos
  16. Historic towns of Los Santos & Zapatoca
  17. Visit Medellín’s sister city of Bucaramanga
  18. San Vicente de Chucurí cocoa capital of Colombia
  19. Rip high speeds on the main highway back to Medellín
Day 1: Medellín → Guatapé → San Rafael → San Carlos → Doradal | Total Kilometers: 200 km Colorful Towns and River Valleys Leaving Medellín, we ride east into the vibrant town of Guatapé, famous for its colorful zócalos and the towering Piedra del Peñol. After enjoying the views, we descend into the Magdalena River Valley, passing through San Rafael, San Carlos, and San Luis. The day ends in Doradal, once home to Hacienda Nápoles, now transformed into a cultural landmark. Highlights: Guatapé, Piedra del Peñol, Magdalena River Valley, San Rafael & San Carlos pueblos, Hacienda Nápoles. Stay: Doradal, Antioquia. Day 2: Doradal → Otanche / Pauna, Boyacá | Total Kilometers: 200 km Emerald Trails and Cliffside Roads Crossing the Magdalena River, the journey enters Boyacá and the legendary emerald mining region near Muzo. Trails of black dirt and stone resemble charcoal, twisting along misty cliffs where waterfalls cut across the road. The adventure spirit deepens as we settle into Otanche or Pauna for the night. Highlights: Magdalena River crossing, emerald mining zone, misty cliffside trails, waterfalls on the road. Stay: Otanche or Pauna, Boyacá. Day 3: Otanche / Pauna → Florián → Vélez, Santander | Total Kilometers: 150 km Waterfalls and Colonial Heritage The ride north begins with a visit to the breathtaking Ventanas de Tisquizoque, a multi-tiered waterfall near Florián. From there, we pass through remote pueblos like Jesús María, Sucre, and Guavatá before arriving at Vélez, a colonial jewel in the heart of Santander. Highlights: Ventanas de Tisquizoque waterfall, remote pueblos, Vélez colonial town. Stay: Vélez, Santander. Day 4: Vélez → Guadalupe, Santander | Total Kilometers: 100 km Hidden Rivers and Rock Formations We leave Vélez and ride through Chipatá and La Paz before arriving in Guadalupe, one of Santander’s ecotourism treasures. The town is surrounded by rivers, cascading waterfalls, and surreal rock landscapes, creating a magical stop along the route. Highlights: Chipatá & La Paz countryside, rivers and waterfalls, rock formations, Guadalupe charm. Stay: Guadalupe, Santander. Day 5: Rest Day in Guadalupe | Total Kilometers: 0–5 km Natural Pools and Local Culture A day of rest and exploration in Guadalupe. Discover Las Gachas, a unique riverbed with red rock plunge pools, or visit waterfalls like El Perico and Tres Cascadas. For relaxation, enjoy Balneario El Salitre, wander the colonial streets, and savor local cuisine. Highlights: Las Gachas natural pools, El Perico & Tres Cascadas waterfalls, Guadalupe culture and food. Stay: Guadalupe, Santander. Day 6: Guadalupe → Socorro → San Gil → Barichara, Santander | Total Kilometers: 125 km Adventure Capital and Heritage Towns We ride dirt and paved roads through Contratación and Chima, arriving at Socorro, a town central to Colombia’s independence. Then we continue to San Gil, Colombia’s adventure sports hub, before finishing in Barichara, a town of cobblestone streets and colonial beauty. Highlights: Contratación & Chima pueblos, Socorro history, San Gil adventure capital, Barichara colonial charm. Stay: Barichara, Santander. Day 7: Barichara → Los Santos, Santander | Total Kilometers: 150 km Chicamocha Canyon Crossing One of the trip’s highlights unfolds as we ride into the Chicamocha Canyon, with epic views rivaling the Grand Canyon. Riders can detour off-road through Villanueva and Jordán before rejoining the paved canyon route. We finish in Los Santos, perched dramatically on the canyon rim. Highlights: Chicamocha Canyon, Villanueva & Jordán off-road option, paragliders, canyon views. Stay: Los Santos, Santander. Day 8: Los Santos → Zapatoca, Santander | Total Kilometers: 100 km Canyon Rim to Colonial Charm The road offers a choice: take the paved ride via Piedecuesta or the adventurous Río Sogamoso river crossing if conditions allow. Either way, we arrive at Zapatoca, a tranquil colonial pueblo known for its historic streets and mountain setting. Highlights: Piedecuesta route or Río Sogamoso crossing, colonial town of Zapatoca. Stay: Zapatoca, Santander. Day 9: Zapatoca → San Vicente de Chucurí, Santander | Total Kilometers: 50 km Cocoa Capital of Colombia A short ride takes us into San Vicente de Chucurí, famous as Colombia’s cocoa capital. This stop invites cultural immersion with visits to cocoa plantations, birdwatching, and excursions to Salto de la India waterfall. Riders can relax or dive deep into the town’s ecotourism offerings. Highlights: Cocoa plantations, birdwatching, Salto de la India waterfall, cultural immersion. Stay: San Vicente de Chucurí, Santander. Day 10: San Vicente de Chucurí → Medellín | Total Kilometers: 350 km Return to the City of Eternal Spring The journey concludes with a long ride back across the Magdalena River into Antioquia. Nearly all highway, this day allows time to reflect on the unforgettable adventure. By evening, we roll into Medellín, the City of Eternal Spring, completing this 10-day expedition. Highlights: Magdalena River crossing, Andes scenery, return to Medellín. Stay: Medellín, Antioquia.

General information

Motorcycles

Base model:
Hero XPulse 200 4V
About
The Hero Xpulse 200 4V is a lightweight, agile dual-sport that combines practical power with true adventure capability. The standard model is ideal for everyday use and mixed-terrain riding, while the Rally variant offers enhanced suspension, ground clearance, and off-road prowess. Praised for its affordability, reliability, and ease of handling, the Xpulse 4V has also proven its toughness on the world stage, claiming victories at the Baja World Cup, Baja Hungary, Baja Port, Baja India, and the Pan Africa Rally. The XPulse is built to handle it all with confidence.
Upgrade model:
Honda XRE 300
About
The Honda XRE 300 is a dependable middleweight dual-sport, blending off-road capability with comfortable long-distance touring. Known for its versatility, supple suspension, and impressive fuel efficiency. Recent upgrades, such as ABS and refreshed styling, keep it modern and road-ready, while its proven durability has earned it the role of official motorcycle of the Colombian National Police. Whether tackling rugged off-road or cruising scenic highways, the XRE 300 is built to handle Colombia’s diverse terrain with ease.
Skill level

Our routes are designed for intermediate riders with some off-road experience. You don’t need to be an expert, but you should feel comfortable riding on different surfaces. About half of the route is on unpaved roads, so basic off-road training before the trip is recommended to improve your safety and riding enjoyment. This tour is not suitable for complete beginners, but we can customize or suggest more advanced routes for experienced riders.

Terrain & Riding Conditions

You’ll ride on a mix of smooth paved roads, gravel and dirt tracks, dusty washboard surfaces, and rocky sections. The journey also takes you over high mountain passes, but we don’t stay at altitude long enough for altitude sickness to be a concern. Every day offers variety, with plenty of chances to stop, take in the views, and enjoy local sights.

Pace & Daily Schedule

We keep a relaxed and comfortable pace, always prioritizing safety and enjoyment. Expect about five to six hours of actual riding each day, with breaks for lunch, photos, and sightseeing. Including stops, you’ll spend around eight hours out exploring before settling in for the evening to unwind, stroll through town, and enjoy a good meal.

Climate

Colombia’s weather depends on altitude rather than seasons, making it an excellent year-round riding destination. Lowlands and coastal areas are warm to hot, with temperatures between 85–100°F (29–38°C), while high mountains can be cool or even near freezing at night. Rain showers can happen any time, especially in the mountains, and fog or snow is possible at higher elevations. Packing both breathable gear for hot days and warm layers for cooler areas will keep you comfortable.

Clothing & Gear

A helmet, protective riding gear, gloves, and sturdy boots or shoes are required. Because northern regions can be hot year-round, we recommend lightweight gear with good ventilation, paired with warmer clothing for the mountains. Rain gear and an open dual-sport helmet with goggles for dusty conditions will make your ride much more enjoyable.

Safety

Your safety is our highest priority. Guided tours follow carefully planned routes within “green zones,” which are considered safe and stable. For rentals, we provide clear route recommendations and mark areas to avoid. With our guidance, you’ll find Colombia to be a safe, welcoming country where locals are friendly and always willing to help.

Travel Documents & Requirements

You’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a motorcycle driver’s license, and an International Driver’s Permit. Visa requirements vary by nationality, so check with your local embassy or consulate before traveling. We also recommend consulting a travel doctor well in advance for immunization advice. If you are not a U.S. passport holder and are transiting through the United States, you may need an ESTA travel authorization.

Motorcycle Insurance

All motorcycles come with basic medical insurance that covers injury to you and to third parties. This does not include coverage for material damage to third parties or damage to the motorcycle itself. Any damage to the motorcycle during your rental or tour is your responsibility.

Tour princing options

Fully-Guided Tour

$3,200 USD

Hotels & Motorcycle

$1,650 USD

Moto, Maps & Directions

$650 USD

What’s Included | Fully-Guided Tour

What’s Included | Hotels & Motorcycle

What’s Included | Moto, Maps & Directions​

Optional upgrades | Fully-Guided Tour

    300CC Motorcycle Upgrade: +$200USD
    Hotel Upgrade: +$450USD
    Private Photographer: +$950USD (Group)
    Private Mechanic: +$1000USD (Group)
    Airport Pick Up & Delivery: +$100 USD
    32 Liter Saddlebags: +$25 USD
    Passenger Cost + Gear: $550 USD

Optional upgrades | Hotels & Motorcycle

    300CC Motorcycle Upgrade: +$200USD
    Hotel Upgrade: +$450USD
    Private Photographer: +$950USD (Group)
    Private Mechanic: +$1000USD (Group)
    Airport Pick Up & Delivery: +$100 USD
    32 Liter Saddlebags: +$25 USD
    Passenger Cost + Gear: $550 USD

Optional upgrades | Moto, Maps & Directions​

Whats not included

Our tours include reliable, easy-to-ride fully equipped motorcycles, a personal bilingual guide with basic mechanical skills and tools, medical insurance, riding gear, rain jackets . Our tours take you deep into remote landscapes or vibrant towns for an authentic taste of Colombia few ever see.

You just need to pack smart. Bring one solid pair of riding boots (plus sandals if you want), lightweight and versatile clothing, and stick to merino wool for comfort in all climates. Keep luggage small and avoid overpacking, laundry is easy to arrange on the road. Skip heavy or bulky items, extra shoes, and anything you can’t afford to lose. The lighter you travel, the better your ride.

What not to bring:

❌ Expensive Jewelry
❌ Expensive Personal Items
❌ Laptop Computers
❌ Excess Luggage
❌ US Dollars or Euros
❌ Illegal Drugs (Military Checkpoints)

What to bring:

✔️ Driver’s License
✔️ Passport
✔️ Sunscreen
✔️ Insect Repellent
✔️ Long Pants
✔️ Boots or Closed-Toed Shoes
✔️ Swimsuit & Small Towel
✔️ Cash (Colombian Pesos)

Pro packing tips:

✔️ Pack Light
✔️ Wear Merino Wool
✔️ Multi-Climatic Gear (Merino)
✔️ Extra Socks & Underwear
✔️ Zip Lock Bags
✔️ Waist Bag or Fanny Pack
✔️ Download an E-Sim Application
✔️ Pack Extra Charging Cables
✔️ Power Bank Charger (Anker)
✔️ Download Offline Google Maps
✔️ Bring Cash (Colombian Pesos)
✔️ Notify Your Banks of Travel
✔️ Credit Card
✔️ Debit Card
✔️ Prescription Medication(s)

OTHER TOURS YOU MAY LIKE

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Jonathan Cohen profile picture
Jonathan Cohen
9 August 2026
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5/5 stars, very highly recommended if you want to rent bikes! Some of the best customer service I’ve ever received. Tom was very responsive and flexible. He helped us put together a spectacular route, we got to see so much of the country side, this is the way to do Colombia!
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Sjors Kalisvaart profile picture
Sjors Kalisvaart
6 August 2026
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We had an amazing motorcycle experience and couldn’t be happier with the service. The owner was very friendly, flexible, and easy to communicate with. He provided us with several route options for each day, so we could choose what suited us best. Everything was well organized, and the personal approach made a real difference to us. This combined with some nice equipment and a nice motorcycle made it an unforgettable experience. We do recommend them to anyone looking for a great motorcycle adventure!
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Julia Martens profile picture
Julia Martens
6 August 2026
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Great bikes in great condition, very professional and friendly service - would choose them for rental again any time! The owner personally advised us on the right bike, made sure to provide us with suitable equipment, everything was well maintained and of high quality. We also received guidance on routes around Medellin & the wider area, as well as instructions how to navigate local traffic and laws. Thanks a lot for this experience!
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Sindre profile picture
Sindre
30 July 2026
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I contacted these guys just two days before arriving in Colombia after completing a motorcycle tour through Peru. Despite the short notice, they arranged a great motorcycle for me at a very reasonable price and provided exceptional service throughout my trip. They gave me excellent daily route recommendations, suggested amazing places to visit along the way, and recommended hotels in different price ranges. The motorcycle was in great condition, the payment process was smooth, and the entire experience felt safe and professional. Colombia is an incredible country to explore on two wheels, and I'm truly grateful for all the help I received in making the most of it. A huge thank you to Tom and Santhiago for your professionalism, and outstanding support!
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Niels Alpert profile picture
Niels Alpert
29 July 2026
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Tom is an incredible resource for all things moto Colombia. I rode 4 different day tours with his right hand man, Santhiago and had a blast every time. We rode through the stunning countryside of Antioquía, on-road, off-road and everything in between. Along the way we had delicious food and coffee in charming pueblos and soaked up more stunning vistas than I can count. These guys crafted extraordinary experiences and provided essential answers to my endless questions. I can’t thank them enough. Highest possible recommendation. Thanks guys!!!
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Jonathan T profile picture
Jonathan T
24 July 2026
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Oh man!! What can I say other than I had an absolute blast on a well maintained bike! I rented a Honda 300 XRE and it was a great bike for the Colombian terrain. There's a reason the Police use this model. I've rented in Medellin before and Colombia Motorcycle Rental & Tour Co. Keep their bikes really well maintained compared to other companies. My experience started with sending in a message to the WhatsApp and I spoke with Tom for a bit to give him the details of my moto trip. He helped me out by guiding me on what bike and gear would be sufficient and he was spot on with his recommendations. Once we had the details all worked out I was smoothly handed off to Santhiago who took care of having the bike and gear ready for me for pick up. I met up with Santhiago at their pick up location and Santhiago got me all sized and we tried on different gear to make sure the fit was right. He demoed to me how to use everything, gave me advice and was available to me via whatsapp with any questions during my time renting. At the end of the trip, Santhiago met up with me at my apartment and picked up the bike and we were all good to go. I had a great time, felt well taken care of, and I felt CMR&T Co. were there to make sure I enjoyed the experience. Thanks again Tom & Santhiago! Would absolutely rent again!
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Mike Heerkens profile picture
Mike Heerkens
22 July 2026
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Booked a self-guided rental for three days and couldn’t be more happy. Tom advised on the routes, hotels, restaurants and was always ready for some last-minute changes or questions. This made driving through Colombia an amazing experience and it felt extremely safe. Thanks!
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Joy Randles profile picture
Joy Randles
19 July 2026
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Best riding experience I’ve ever had. Our guide was genuine, smart and easy to get along with.
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Harley Nanfeld Foged
17 July 2026
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As a rider who is completely new to mountain roads, heavy traffic, and off-road riding—and not the most experienced motorcyclist—I was honestly a little nervous. But I’m so glad I did this! I joined the one-day mountain tour, and it was one of the highlights of my trip. My guide, Santhiago, was absolutely fantastic. He was patient, encouraging, and an excellent teacher. He adapted the ride to my level, made me feel safe the entire time, and gave me the confidence to enjoy every part of the experience. He was also incredibly attentive, and helpful along the way! If you’re wondering whether you’re experienced enough for this tour, I was in the same position—and I couldn’t recommend it more. Thank you, Santhiago, for such an unforgettable day! 💙
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John Lichty profile picture
John Lichty
16 July 2026
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I had a great 6 day ride in early June. The bike was well maintained and Tom and Santhiago were very helpful and professional. I would recommend anyone looking to rent to visit Columbia Motorcycle Rental.