Discover a secret place with locals (Comuna 8)

Medellín , Colombia

Discover a secret place with locals (Comuna 8)

Active

(15 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We are the first to create an experience in the Comuna 8 of Medellin since 2016, a neighborhood that has had a great urban and social transformation in recent years due to the arrival of the first modern streetcar in Colombia, two metrocables to connect the farthest neighborhoods and the Circunvalar Garden being a park full of beautiful nature, birds and one of the best views of the city. In addition, we work hand in hand with the local community so that tourism has a positive impact on the territory.

Paris is famous for its tower, London for its clock, New York for its skyscrapers and Medellín for its social and urban transformation. That's why we want you to learn about its history, growth, development and understand why in 2013 we were listed as "the most innovative city in the world" by the City Bank and the Wall Street Journal. And what better place to learn first-hand about this transformation than the famous but still secret Comuna 8?

Available options

Discover a secret place with locals (Comuna 8)

What's included

Snack

Detailed itinerary

This is the first green belt to be built in a city in Colombia. Its objective is to limit the city's urban growth towards the hillsides, protect biodiversity, and generate quality public and natural space in the most vulnerable neighborhoods of Comuna 8.

This is one of the newest metrocables in Medellín and will be one of the two we will visit on our tour. It features beautiful street art on the station walls and one of the best views of the city.

What's not included

We do not include metro and cable car tickets. They must be purchased in advance.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

The meeting point will be at the cable-car (Metrocable) station: or Trece de Noviembre or Villa Sierra, depending on the day (please confirm with us through WhatsApp before heading to the place). We recommend you to take the public transport system. First take the metro to San Antonio, there go downstairs and take the tramway. And then, go to the cable car station.

About Medellín

Medellín, nestled in a valley and surrounded by mountains, is renowned for its pleasant climate, vibrant culture, and remarkable transformation from its past. Known as the 'City of Eternal Spring,' it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Comuna 13

A vibrant and historic neighborhood known for its street art, community spirit, and the famous outdoor escalators that connect the hillside community to the city.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free (tours may have a small fee)

Botero Plaza and Museo de Antioquia

Home to a collection of Fernando Botero's famous works, including his distinctive 'fat' style paintings and sculptures, as well as other notable artists.

Art/Museum 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Parque Arví

A vast nature reserve accessible via cable car, offering hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature Half day Cable car: $6,000 COP (approx. $1.60 USD) one way

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, plantain, avocado, arepa, and fried egg.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian versions available

Arepas

Cornmeal patties grilled or fried, often stuffed with various fillings like cheese, meat, or avocado.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Sancocho

A traditional soup made with chicken, beef, or fish, along with plantains, yuca, and other vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in Parque Arví El Peñol rock climb Paragliding in San Antonio de Pereira Coffee tours Spa day in El Poblado Strolling through Parque Lleras Street art tours in Comuna 13 Visiting museums in El Centro

Best Time to Visit

December to March (dry season)

This is the best time to visit Medellín due to the lower rainfall and pleasant temperatures. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

18-26°C (64-79°F) 64-79°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and among younger people)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Medellín has undergone a significant transformation and is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Staying in tourist areas and taking basic precautions can help ensure a safe visit.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or app-based services.
• Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

José María Córdova International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal del Norte, Terminal del Sur

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable, with two lines covering key areas. It's the best way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Tappx, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

El Poblado Laureles El Centro

Day trips

Guatapé

80 km (50 miles) from Medellín • Full day

A colorful colonial town known for its vibrant houses, the famous El Peñol rock, and the nearby Lake Guatapé.

Jardín

250 km (155 miles) from Medellín • Overnight

A picturesque town in the Antioquia region, known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and traditional architecture.

Santa Fe de Antioquia

80 km (50 miles) from Medellín • Full day

A charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Festivals

Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • August Festival de la Música del Pacífico Petronio Álvarez • Late August to early September Medellín International Poetry Festival • June

Pro tips

Use the SITV card for seamless transfers between metro, Metroplús, and cable cars.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Visit Comuna 13 for a unique and authentic cultural experience, but be respectful of the community.
Take the Metrocable for stunning views of the city and to explore the hillside neighborhoods.
Explore the city's street art scene, which is a vibrant and important part of Medellín's cultural identity.