Chivor Emerald Tour: 3-Day Emerald Mine Adventure

Starting in Bogotá, this three-day ride takes you into the heart of Colombia's emerald country, with exclusive access to one of its legendary emerald mines. Twisty mountain passes, river crossings and rugged Andean trails, and you get to keep any emeralds you find.

Most souvenirs are made in a factory. Ours is buried in a mountain. The highlight is a private tour of a working mine near Chivor, where you'll dig, chisel and search for emeralds alongside the miners.

Off the bike: the emerald mine, a waterfall visit, traditional arepas and hot chocolate in a mountain village, and two nights at a rustic lodge by the Chivor reservoir.

DAY 1: BOGOTÁ TO CHIVOR (4-5 hrs)
Twist through paved mountain roads out of Bogotá, stop for arepas and hot chocolate in a local village, then settle into Hospedaje El Recuerdo near the Chivor dam.

DAY 2: CHIVOR EMERALD MINE AND OFF-ROAD LOOP (3.5 hrs)
Early breakfast, then a private tour of an emerald mine. Dig, chisel and search for emeralds, and keep what you find. In the afternoon, a scenic loop through Chivor's rugged hills.

DAY 3: CHIVOR TO BOGOTÁ (4-5 hrs)
An epic mountain crossing over Palmar, with a mix of off-road trails and smooth tarmac on the way back to Bogotá. Finish around 5pm.

Best for: Intermediate riders comfortable with mixed terrain and river crossings.