African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin
Active
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 is part of our H.E.A.R.T. Experiences at Impulse Travel - Go deep into Comuna 13 to meet with resilient artists who recovered youth and public spaces through reconnection to their African roots in music, dance, and creativity.
Available options
African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin
Pickup included
What's included
Knowledgeable guide in Spanish and English
Typical Colombian snack
Public transportation rides.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in public transportation.
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be picked up at your hotel to take you to San Javier, Comuna 13’s entry before moving on to the highest part of the Comuna, Nuevos Conquistadores neighborhood.
2
At this place, you can see Medellín’s rural outskirts and have a privileged view over Comuna 13 and the entire city. Descending through El Corazón, Independencias, and El Salado neighborhoods you will learn the impressive story of how dances and musical culture helped local youth and led into a more peaceful context. You will understand the dimensions of the transformation as you hear the locals narrating the rough context that they had to face years before due to gang wars, para-military groups, and urban guerillas.
To give you a first-hand experience of the activities that held the community together, you will visit Son Bata’s music studio where local musicians recorded one of their hits “ Estamos Melos” and learn how to play it with percussions instructed by the experts. After this easy and enjoyable activity, you can get loose and learn how to dance with one of the best dancers at Son Batá who will lead you into making great steps, easily and in no time!
3
Finally, you will have a local snack before returning to your hotel with the company of our guide.
What's not included
Optional tips and gratuities
Unspecified food and beverages
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Taking this tour you will support two local initiatives that rely on tourism to survive. We can arrange private transportation from and to your hotel for an additional cost. The local street artist doesn’t speak English, our guide will serve as translator.
We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes and sunscreen.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Important notes
• Note: Please email Impulse Travel at info@impulsetravel.co to confirm your pickup time and location
The price you paid for the service does not include 19% V.A.T. This benefit only applies to foreigners entering as tourists, so it is necessary that you send us as proof a copy of your passport and the photo of the entry stamp to the country. As required by the national tax authority.
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
