Pablo Escobar Tour; La Catedral Prison, Quarter, House, and Grave
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour does not glorify or promote crime, nor does it adopt the repressive stance of traditional institutions. Instead, we strive to deeply understand the causes, context, and consequences.
Visit some of the places that shaped Escobar's life, learn about key anecdotes and historical moments, and understand the drug trafficking phenomenon objectively and neutrally, as if you were making a documentary. Our agency uses journalistic approaches and techniques.
This tour allows you to analyze history and reflect on drug trafficking, violence, and corruption in Colombia. It employs an independent journalistic approach, free from media bias, censorship by authorities, or the personal feelings of those closest to the head of the Medellín Cartel.
All locations visited on the tour are public and admission is free.
Available options
Plus Escobar's Death Site
Place of Pablo's Death: Complete the essential Pablo Escobar tour by adding this stop. You'll walk around the area and observe the site from the outside.<br/>Pickup included
Basic Itinerary
Basic itinerary<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick up and drop off at your accommodation
Native and local guide guaranteed
Air-conditioned vehicle
Visit to the designated areas of the Cathedral
Detailed itinerary
1
We will head to the former Monaco Building, the main residence of Pablo Escobar and his family. Today, it serves as a memorial site for the victims of Escobar's criminal activities. The duration of this activity includes arrival and departure transfers.
2
We will visit the public areas of La Catedral. From there, we will show you the cells, the nightclub, the halls of the old prison, the guard tower, the tunnel areas, the former soccer field, and Escobar's escape route. We will also show you the area where, according to some sources, a mass grave and a cocaine lab were located. We will explain the events that took place in these locations.
According to local regulations, access to some areas may be restricted without prior notice, but it will always be possible to stop and walk through the areas of the old prison (now in ruins) that are open to the public. Some of these areas have been reconstructed to date.
Some photos added by users show close-ups of the cells, the helipad, the escape route, the interior of the nightclub, the guard tower, etc. However, since June 2025, authorities no longer allow walking through these areas.
3
You'll enter the neighborhood where Pablo Escobar spent his teenage years, met his wife, and developed his criminal empire. You'll witness the environment where Escobar grew up and visit the site of the house where he spent his youth.
4
You'll see Escobar's burial site, which receives numerous visitors every day of the year. We'll also visit the graves of other figures associated with the Medellín Cartel, such as Griselda Blanco and Gustavo Gaviria. The duration of this activity includes arrival and departure transfers.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
4.8
49 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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