Playa Brava is a hidden gem in Tayrona National Park, best accessed through the Calabazo entrance. The journey to this pristine white-sand beach on horseback takes about 2 to 3 hours, offering a unique and immersive experience in nature and culture.
The horseback ride begins in a small town, leading you upwards into the forest. Along the way, you’ll pass local farms and a Kogui indigenous village situated on the edge of Tayrona Park. Visits to this village can be arranged upon request for an additional fee, providing a unique cultural insight. This initial stretch is a scenic ride that allows you to appreciate the landscape from a different perspective.
Once inside Tayrona Park, the trail transforms into a lush jungle path shaded by towering trees, providing relief from the Caribbean sun. You’ll ride alongside fresh-water streams where you can pause to cool off and enjoy the crystal-clear, revitalizing water. The trail is alive with wildlife—birds, monkeys, and other exotic animals. While spotting them can be a challenge, a knowledgeable local guide can greatly enhance your chances of encountering these fascinating creatures.
After 2 to 3 hours of riding through this natural wonderland, you’ll arrive at Playa Brava. This secluded beach, surrounded by untouched wilderness, feels like a slice of paradise—a reward well worth the effort.
Santa Marta Airport
Calabazo
Embark on an unforgettable horseback adventure to Playa Brava, a stunning beach located on the Caribbean coast. This trail offers a perfect blend of scenic views and gentle climbs, making it a must-try for outdoor enthusiasts.
Elevation Changes: Expect to encounter various hills with moderate elevation changes throughout your journey. While the ride is less physically demanding than hiking, it’s still important to be prepared for some inclines and descents.
Weather Considerations: Given the warm and humid climate, it’s important to check the weather conditions before your ride. Be prepared for possible rain, especially during the wet season. Wearing moisture-wicking clothing and carrying a lightweight rain jacket can enhance your comfort.
Water Supply: Make sure to carry enough water for the ride. While there will be opportunities to refill your water bottles from pure water streams along the trail, it’s wise to have sufficient supplies for parts of the journey where water sources might be less accessible.
Flora and Fauna: Immerse yourself in the dense coastal rainforest, rich in exotic flora and fauna. You may encounter vibrant flowers, towering trees, and diverse wildlife, including tropical birds and butterflies.
Nature Connection: The trail offers a chance to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with nature. Take a moment to breathe in the fresh air, listen to the sounds of the forest, and appreciate the beauty around you.
We’ll meet at 4 p.m. at our hotel in Luzern (Lucerne) for a “Welcome to Switzerland” meeting. Then we’ll take a meandering evening walk through Switzerland’s most charming lakeside town, and get acquainted with one another over dinner together. Sleep in Luzern (2 nights). No bus. Walking: light.
Enjoy an orientation walk of Zurich’s OLD TOWN, Switzerland’s center of banking and commerce. Then, leave Zurich and start your Swiss adventure. You’ll quickly discover that Switzerland isn’t just home to the Alps, but also to some of the most beautiful lakes. First, stop at the foot of the Jura Mountains in the picturesque town of Biel, known as Bienne by French-speaking Swiss, famous for watch-making, and explore the historical center. Next, enjoy a scenic drive to lakeside Neuchâtel, dominated by the medieval cathedral and castle. Time to stroll along the lake promenade before continuing to stunning Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, with its fantastic lakeside location and breathtaking panoramas of the Alps.
Our morning drive takes us from Swiss lakes to Swiss Army. At the once-secret Swiss army bunker at Fortress Fürigen, we’ll see part of the massive defense system designed to keep Switzerland strong and neutral. Afterward, a short drive into the countryside brings us to the charming Alpine village of Engelberg, our picturesque home for the next two days. We’ll settle into our lodge then head out for an orientation walk. Our stroll through the village will end at the Engelberg Abbey, a Benedictine monastery with its own cheese-making operation. You’ll have free time to wander back before dinner together. Sleep in Engelberg (2 nights). Bus: 1 hr. Walking: light.
An unforgettable trip to the high Alpine wonderland of ice and snow is the true highlight of a visit to Switzerland. Globus Local Favorite At an amazing 11,332 feet, the JUNGFRAUJOCH is Europe’s highest railway station. Jungfrau’s 13,642-foot summit was first ascended in 1811 and in 1912 the rack railway was opened. There are lots of things to do here: enjoy the ALPINE SENSATION, THE PANORAMA 360° EXPERIENCE, and the ICE PALACE. Also receive your JUNGFRAU PASSPORT as a souvenir to take home with you. The round trip to the “Top of Europe” by MOUNTAIN TRAIN will take most of the day.
