Private tour: The Escobar Years and Medellin's Social Transformation

Medellín , Colombia

Private tour: The Escobar Years and Medellin's Social Transformation

Active

(3 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Back in the early 1990s, Medellín was considered the most dangerous city in the world. Pablo Escobar and the “Cartel of Medellín” controlled vast parts of the international cocaine traffic. Thus, the reign of “El Patrón” came to its end and just a few years later Medellín began to change when local politicians started to invest heavily in infrastructure and public education.

Get to know the memorial park of the dark years of Escobar, “Parque de Inflexión”, built on one of his former properties, and honor the countless victims. Explore the “Casa de la Memoria” - an urban conflict investigation center – that offers exclusive insights into the controversial part of the city’s recent history - nowadays a place of hope and a landmark of social transformation. Your private expert guide provides insider information on the historical dimension of the phenomenon of Escobar and you will obtain a deeper understanding of the unique history of Medellín and the uniqueness of its transformation.

Available options

Public transport option

Taxi, Metro, Metrocable, other<br/>Pickup included

Private transport option

AC private car or van<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottle of water (350 ml)

When choosing private transportation will pick you up in the lobby of your hotel/apartment.

When choosing public transportation, the meeting point would be Poblado Park

Travel insurance and Taxes

Private expert Bilingual guide

Guided visit of the “Parque de Inflexión” and “Casa de la Memoria”

Detailed itinerary

Get to know the new memorial park of the dark years of Pablo Escobar, built on one of his former properties, and honor the countless victims. Your private expert guide provides insider information on the historical dimension of the phenomenon of Pablo Escobar and you will obtain a deeper understanding of the unique history of Medellín and the uniqueness of its transformation. Join us on an exciting tour through the history and present of Medellín and learn more about the transformation of this fascinating metropolis.

Explore the “Casa de la Memoria” - an urban conflict investigation centre – that offers exclusive insights into the controversial part of the city’s recent history - nowadays a place of hope and a landmark of social transformation.

Learn how the people of Medellin think about its most violent era.

What's not included

Tips

Services not mentioned in the program

Guidance in German, French, Italian, Portuguese language is on request

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Clothing Recommendations for Tropical Weather; comfortable shoes

Don’t forget to wear sunscreen

Pick-up and drop-off service out of the urban perimeter has an additional charge

Wheelchair and stroller accessible only in private transportation option

When choosing private transportation will pick you up in the lobby of your hotel/apartment

When choosing public transportation, if the hotel is located outside of the defined area, the meeting point would be Poblado Park.

Meeting point

We will send you the expert guide contact information at least 12 hours prior to the tour for managing those details.

Important notes

Thank you for your interest in Colombia!

We are available and ready to answer any questions about the tour or to attend any special request you have. Feel free to contact us if you need it!

Regards from Medellín, Colombia.

Palenque Tours Colombia

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.