Medellín , Colombia

Private Half-Day Tour of Commune 13

Active

3h - 4h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Medellín's turbulent history through street art on an exciting excursion through Comuna 13, a neighborhood that has undergone an astonishing transformation. Before soaking in the area's vibrant murals, you'll enjoy a tasting of various exotic fruits, take an exciting cable car ride into the hills, and ascend the escalators for a prime panoramic view. Plus, round-trip transportation is included, eliminating any worries about meeting point location. Explore the art, history and resilience of Comuna 13 in this unforgettable experience.

Available options

Private Half-Day Tour of Commune 13

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Soda/Pop

Snacks

Professional Guide

Food tasting

Round-trip hotel transfer

Detailed itinerary

Aboard the cable car, you will immerse yourself in a landscape where houses pile up on top of each other, telling stories of illegal settlements, many of them occupied by people displaced due to internal conflict. Your guide will tell you about the origin of the war, its impact on the city, and the free housing program designed to provide support. This section of the tour, approximately 20 minutes, will take you through the green mountains, providing you with a unique perspective on these homes and their impressive history. Back at the metro station, with a greater understanding of Medellín, its social structure and its means of transportation, we will head to the gastronomic tour section. An experience that fuses landscape and historical context!

The Electric Staircases of Comuna 13 represent a visual testimony of the transformation and rebirth of this vibrant community. We will explore the meaning behind the construction of these stairs and how they have evolved to become a symbol of progress and empowerment for the more than 150,000 inhabitants of this commune. Discover the unique history that lies behind these stairs, a reflection of the positive change that has marked the path to the future in Comuna 13!

Colombia boasts the incredible number of more than 433 varieties of fruits, making us the most diverse country in fruit production per square meter. As an exceptional complement to the Graffiti Tour, we offer you a unique experience: a tasting of exotic fruits in an authentic market not frequented by tourists. Here, you will be able to try at least 10 different fruits that are rarely found in local supermarkets or anywhere else in the city. With vibrant colors, intriguing shapes, delicious flavors and intoxicating fragrances, this tasting will provide you with an unforgettable experience, marking the perfect ending to this incredible half-day tour. Once the tasting is over, we will return by car to your accommodation or any other destination of your choice. A multisensory experience that highlights the fruit richness of Colombia!

Available languages

Guide guide

DE RU EN IT FR ES

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.