Medellín

Once known as the “most dangerous city in the world,” Medellín has come a long way since the 1990s and is now one of Columbia’s most popular tourist locations. Located in the Andes Mountains, the city is known for its comfortable year-round climate, multiple parks and museums, Fernando Botero sculptures, and several sights related to Pablo Escobar. Some of the key sights in and around Medellín include:

1. Plaza Botero – Located in the heart of downtown, this plaza is home to 23 larger-than-life sculptures by the famous Colombian artist, Fernando Botero
2. Comuna 13 – This neighborhood was once a stronghold of the Medellín drug cartel, but has since undergone a major transformation. It is now a colorful and vibrant area known for its street art and community projects
3. Museo de Antioquia – This museum houses an impressive collection of works by Fernando Botero, as well as other Colombian artists and artifacts from the region’s indigenous cultures
4. Museo Casa de la Memoria (House of Memories) – This museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the memory of the victims of Colombia’s armed conflict which has spanned over five decades, and resulted in the displacement, disappearance or death of millions of people
5. Pueblito Paisa – This replica of a traditional Colombian village is perched on a hill overlooking the city and offers great views, as well as a chance to experience traditional Colombian architecture and culture.
6. Metrocable – This cable car system is an excellent way to see the city from above and visit some of the more remote neighborhoods on the outskirts of Medellín
7. Jardín Botánico – This botanical garden is located in the heart of the city and is home to a range of plants and trees from the region and around the world

There are also several locations specific to Pablo Escobar’s history in and around the city. These include La Catedral – the custom designed prison where Pablo Escobar was held, Los Olivos Antioquia, the rooftop where Escobar was killed, and the Cementario Jardines Montesacro, the cemetary where Escobar is buried.

His one-time mansion, Hacienda Napoles, is located about 3 hours away. It has now been converted into a theme park. The entrance to the park is marked by the original gates of the estate, featuring a replica of a small airplane, which was once used by Pablo Escobar to transport drugs. Visitors can take a safari-style tour of the park, where they can see exotic animals such as hippos, giraffes, and zebras, several of which were brought here during Escobar’s time. There is also a museum displaying Pablo Escobar’s car collection, including vintage and classic cars.

Activities

Exciting and memorable things to do

Private tour of Comuna 13, Medellín

Explore Comuna 13, once known for its high level of violence and poverty and a stronghold of the Medellín cartel, but one of the city’s most vibrant and interesting areas today. Travel on the escalators that connect the lower and upper parts of the neighborhood and explore the vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti. Finally, take the San Javier cable car, which connects Comuna 13 and marvel at the stunning views.

Private Guatapé Tour with Lunch & Cruise from Medellín

Drive for an hour and a half to the eastern Antioquia municipality of Guatapé. Enjoy a guided tour through the colorful village and its unique streets adorned with tile facades. Then, take a 1-hour boat tour through the reservoir to the picturesque town of Zócalos. Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch before climbing the 740 steps to reach the top of the Rock of Guatapé or Piedra del Peñol, a monolith which reaches 220 meters high, for spectacular views of the region.

Medellín

Activities

Private tour of Comuna 13, Medellín

Private Guatapé Tour with Lunch & Cruise from Medellín

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