Short Trips medellin and surroudings tour

Travel to Medellin in the morning. Upon arrival your tour guide will be waiting for you at the airport to start the tour.

During the tour, we’ll explore the most iconic sites in Medellín, a city that has reinvented itself as a model of innovation, culture, and sustainability.We will visit Plaza de Botero, a unique space filled with sculptures by the renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero, who was born here. His distinctive style, characterized by exaggerated proportions, has earned him international acclaim.

Once known for violence in the 1980s and 90s, Medellín has undergone a remarkable transformation and now stands as a shining example of urban development and social progress.

Overnight: Medellin - Hotel Poblado Plaza or similar
Meal Plan: None

In the morning, we will take you to Comuna 13, previously one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Medellin. The area is safe to explore now, thanks to the government’s promise to improve the neighbourhood and the community’s commitment to sharing this unique part of Medellin with visitors. Ride multiple elevators installed on the side of a mountain to help people move through the community easier. The walls of Comuna 13 are adorned with bright graffiti and your local guide will explain the meaning and symbolism behind some of the works of art. Witness for yourself how one community that was once home to immense struggle has blossomed into a colourful cultural spot in Medellin.

After visiting Comuna 13, we’ll head to Santa Elena, a charming town located about 30 minutes outside Medellín, to visit a local flower farm. The farm boasts expansive grounds filled with vibrant blooms, and the friendly owners will make you feel right at home. You’ll have the chance to try traditional Colombian snacks, such as arepas and empanadas, and enjoy a delicious homemade lunch prepared by the family. This is a perfect opportunity to explore Colombian gastronomy and discover the authentic flavors beloved by locals.

Next, you'll learn about the flower cultivation process and discover why horticulture plays such a vital role in this region of Colombia. You’ll also participate in a hands-on flower arranging activity, gaining insight into how locals craft stunning arrangements called silletas for the annual Flower Festival that draw visitors from around the world.

At the end of the day, we’ll return you to the hotel.

Overnight: Medellin - Poblado Plaza or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch  

We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Medellín and take a scenic 2.5-hour drive to the charming town of Guatape. Known for its vibrant colors and beautiful lakeside views, Guatapé is a popular holiday destination for locals. The main plaza features a lovely traditional church and several shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.

In town, you’ll have the chance to participate in an interactive workshop where you can create and paint your own zocalo. This hands-on activity lets you tap into your creativity while crafting a unique, personal souvenir. Local artisans will guide the workshop, sharing insights into the rich history and cultural significance of these traditional artworks.

Just a few minutes from Guatape is El Peñol, a giant 200-meter-high granite rock that was once sacred to indigenous people. A staircase has been built along the rock, allowing visitors to climb over 600 steps to the top. The view from the summit offers a stunning panorama of the surrounding emerald-green waters.

Next, we’ll take a relaxing boat ride around the reservoir that surrounds both Guatape and El Peñol. The tour guide will share the history and importance of the area, and the boat ride provides the perfect way to unwind and enjoy breathtaking views, especially after climbing the many steps at El Peñol.

At the end of the day, we head to the hotel in San Rafael, just 30 minutes away, where you can relax and continue exploring the countryside.
 

Overnight: San Rafael - Raices Ecolodge or similar
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch  

We’ll start the day by tasting the local cuisine, made with organic products grown by farmers from the area. This will be a unique, three-course breakfast served at the table, each course offering a sensory experience of mindful eating, connection, and well-being. During breakfast, you’ll connect with the earth through the aroma of herbs, vibrant colours, and flavours.

Once the meal concludes, we’ll head to a farm located just 15 minutes from the hotel. In this 2.5-hour interactive experience, you’ll create your own 100% organic cacao chocolate bar and take a guided tour through the plantation, led by a local guide who discovered on his family’s farm a way to continue living off the land and supporting his home.

Throughout this immersive journey, you’ll learn about the cacao roasting, shelling, and refining processes. Then, you’ll craft your own chocolate bar with the toppings of your choice.

At the end of the tour, you’ll enjoy a refreshing cacao exfoliation, followed by a tasting of fresh tropical fruits served with a chocolate fountain where you’re welcome to eat as much chocolate as you like. All of this takes place in a beautiful natural setting, with the chance to spot some of the birds that often perch in the farm’s garden.

At the scheduled time, we will transfer you to the airport.

Overnight: None
Meal Plan: Breakfast