Pablo Escobar Tour with La Catedral Prison Visit and Art Book

Medellín , Colombia

Pablo Escobar Tour with La Catedral Prison Visit and Art Book

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(17 reviews)

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About this experience

This tour does not glorify or promote crime, nor does it adopt the repressive stance of traditional institutions. We strive to deeply understand the causes, context, and consequences.

Explore 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 techniques.

This tour allows you to analyze history and reflect on drug trafficking, violence, and corruption in Colombia. An independent journalistic approach is used, without being limited by media biases, censorship by authorities, or the feelings of those closest to the head of the Medellín Cartel.

The visit to La Catedral will be limited to the areas that are open, as access policies may change at this location, as determined by local authorities.

Available options

Pablo Escobar Tour with La Catedral Prison Visit and Art Book

What's included

Travel insurance for the tour

Bilingual guide (English-Spanish)

Visit to the public area of La Catedral

Air-conditioned vehicle

1 original copy of the book Medellín Up Close - Medellín de Cerca

Detailed itinerary

Former Monaco Building, the main residence of Pablo Escobar and his family. Today, it serves as a memorial to the victims of Escobar's criminal activities and the drug war in general.

We'll arrive at the section of La Catedral open to the public. From there, we'll show you the areas where the cells, nightclub, lounges, guard tower, tunnels, and Escobar's escape route were located. We'll also show you the site of the former soccer field and where, according to the site's administrators, a mass grave and a cocaine lab were found.

You can always stand and walk around the grounds of what was the old prison. Access to certain areas may be restricted without prior notice by local authorities or administrators. Some of these areas have been reconstructed.

Some photos added by users show close-ups of the cells, helipad, escape route, the interior of the nightclub, the guard tower, etc. However, as of June 2025, authorities do not allow walking through these areas any longer.

Neighborhood where Pablo Escobar grew up: You'll visit the Envigado area where Escobar's house was located during his youth.

You'll see Escobar's burial site, which receives numerous visitors, offerings, and talismans at different times of the year.

What's not included

Tips (optional and voluntary)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

17 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in the Parque Lleras area of El Poblado, on the corner of Calle 10th and Carrera 38. ("Calle" means Street in English).

You can use the following Google Maps location to get there: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2NUSwAAwhkQSmrVJA

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.