The Real Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour w/ Local Flavors
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
Chubit Travel SAS believes in giving our travelers an insider's view on Medellin Colombia's Transformation from the most dangerous city in the world to now a sought-after destination hotspot.
Our tour takes you deep into San Javier (Comuna 13) on the road less traveled. Our tours are hosted by our local host (Paisa from Medellin) and our local guide, a resident from San Javier. We will visit local establishments and see the local homes to see how people live their daily lives while also experiencing the graffiti and the unique way that Medellin's Comuna 13 has evolved over the decade with art and music.
On this Comuna 13 tour, you will have a chance to experience the local culture of the Comuna 13 area and hear from the locals mouth the true story of Pablo Escobar. During your tour you will be able to see and purchase some unique beers and street food (not included) only in Comuna 13. Afterward, we go down the escalators and end our tour.
Available options
Standard Tour
Duration: 4 hours: The tour is an average of 4 hours, depending on how much you drink and eat, it can be longer
What's included
One Local Resident Guide to tell you local stories and experiences
One Local Professional English Speaking Guide to help with translations and answer questions
Walk through Comuna 13, not just the tourist zone; but through the local town
Tour of Comuna 13, ride the escalators, view the art, experience the music, and explore the culture
Detailed itinerary
1
We will meet at our starting point and visit some local spots for local foods and visit a local family home to experience what it is to be living in Comuna 13. Our tour is different from others because we do not just take you to the tourist hot spots. We take you off the beaten path, and then we also go into Comuna 13 to enjoy local snacks and beverages. We will visit all of the highlights, such as the escalators, the graffiti tour, local street artworks, music, and more.
You will also have the opportunity to meet locals who live in San Javier (Comuna 13) and ask them questions so you can truly understand what it means to be living in Colombia.
2
We continue our tour as we go from the local area towards the touristy side known as the escalators. We will admire some of the unique artworks and crafts available for sale and we take you to some unique spots to get some snacks and to have a chance to become a kid again! Throughout this time we can bar hop or just explore the beauty of the arts and sample the local street food. There's no limit to how much you can drink and eat. the tour does not finish until you have had enough! (As a reminder, food and beverages are not included in the tour)
What's not included
Hotel pick up and drop-off
Transportation by private vehicles as we are taking public transportation like a local
Meals & food not listed under What's Included.
Gratuities for the guides (recommended $20.000-40.000 COP per guide, we have 2 guides per tour)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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14 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a full walking tour where we go up and down stairs and more. Travelers must be able to walk and move freely without any assistance for 5 hours.
Meeting point
We will meet inside the tienda (store) where the owner will treat us to coffee and snacks. Please arrive between 30 minutes before departure (10:30 AM) as the tour departs at 11:00 AM sharp.
Important notes
Tickets are not required, Please show up and provide your tour guide with your name and we will verify your attendance.
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
Instant confirmation
