Medellín, Colombia: 3/26/25 - 3/31/25
Medellín, Colombia: 3/26/25 - 3/31/25
Snapshot
In August 2024, I spent five incredible days in Medellín, captivated by the vibrant culture, amazing food, and breathtaking landscapes - qué chimba! On this urban retreat, we’ll not only dive into Medellín’s vibrant energy but also embrace the natural beauty of Guatapé. Get ready for an action-packed adventure with thrilling group activities and fitness challenges, from climbing the iconic 740 steps of El Peñol rock to hiking the serene trails of Parque Arví. I can’t wait to share these experiences with you and create unforgettable memories together!
Accommodations
We’ll be staying at Landmark Hotel, a 4-star hotel in the neighborhood of El Poblado. It features amenities like an outdoor rooftop pool, fitness center, spa, yoga studio, and restaurants with a focus on healthy, local, organic food. Located about a 10-minute walk from Provenza, it offers easy access to the area's vibrant nightlife and dining scene while remaining far enough to avoid noise, allowing a peaceful night sleep. Additionally, each guest is provided their own queen bed and bathroom, regardless of the room type.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Medellín and check into the Landmark Hotel. Unpack, unwind, and head up to the rooftop pool for sunset drinks before our first group dinner. Stroll over to Provenza for an evening walk and a nightcap.
Day 2: 8:30AM Group breakfast at the hotel before we set off for San Félix (9:30AM), where an unforgettable paragliding experience awaits, soaring above Medellín’s breathtaking landscapes. Afterward, we’ll take a scenic cable car down the mountain to Comuna 13 for a walking tour filled with vibrant graffiti and delicious street food. Head out to explore Plaza Botero, where you can admire Fernando Botero’s iconic sculptures and soak in the lively atmosphere or head back to the hotel to relax.
Day 3: Rise and shine! We’ll set out early (7AM) from the hotel for a day trip to Guatapé, a scenic two-hour drive away. Our first stop is El Peñol Rock, where we’ll climb its 740 steps for incredible panoramic views of the reservoir. Next, we’ll explore the charming town of Guatapé, famous for its colorful zócalos (decorative panels) that adorn the building facades. To end the day, we’ll enjoy a boat ride on the lake with a view of the remains of Pablo Escobar’s former estate, La Manuela, partially destroyed in the 1990s. We’ll return to the hotel by 5:30 PM, just in time for optional sunset drinks on the rooftop and a relaxed group dinner before we dance!
Day 4: Group breakfast at the hotel, then take a scenic cable car ride to Parque Arví, where we’ll spend half the day immersed in nature, hiking the beautiful trails and soaking up the serene surroundings. Dinner nearby followed by a late night out.
Day 5: Group breakfast at the hotel, then choose from two options: an optional half-day coffee tour to learn all about the stages of coffee production—from planting and de-pulping to fermenting, roasting, and grinding—or unwind with a soothing hour-long massage, followed by free time to visit El Tesoro mall or relax by the pool. We’ll come together in the evening for our final group dinner and drinks.
Day 6: Final breakfast before we head to the airport!
FAQs
What’s the difference between a Shared Room and a Private Room for 2?
A shared room has 2 Queen Beds and 2 Bathrooms. A private room for 2 has only 1 Queen bed and 1 bathroom.
How and when should I get there?
Avianca offers direct flights from JFK, while JetBlue and United provide flights with quick connections through FLL and BOG, respectively. I recommend booking the earliest flight on your departure date to avoid delays and make the most of your first day.
What’s included?
Accommodations for 5 nights at The Landmark, a modern and luxury 4 star hotel
Welcome Drinks
All Breakfast
All Transportation
Paragliding
Walking Tours
Boat Ride
Entry fees to group activities
Coffee Tour or 1 hour massage
Lunch in Guatapé
What’s not included?
Flight
Dinner
Alcohol
How much money should I bring?
I recommend taking out local currency when you arrive to use in Comuna 13, Guatapé, and local shops. $200 USD for the week will be enough.