tour medellin communa 13

Wander-Lush

13 Things to Consider Before You Book a Comuna 13 Tour in Medellin

Comuna 13 is known for its street art – but there’s a lot more to this neighbourhood than pretty murals and selfie spots. Here’s everything you should know before taking a Comuna 13 tour in Medellin, Colombia based on my personal experience.

J ust a few short years ago, Comuna 13 was considered the most dangerous area in Medellin , itself the most dangerous city in the world.

Tourists didn’t dare set foot here – they had no reason to. And many locals, as our Comuna 13 tour guide Laura told us, were too ashamed to admit that they lived in the ramshackle suburbs that cling to a mountainside on Medellin’s western fringe.

Now, it’s a very different story. Over the past decade Comuna 13 has undergone an almost complete transformation – or so it seems.

The area is no longer known for gang violence, police raids, cartels and illegal trafficking.

These days, Comuna 13 is more readily associated with graffiti, street art performances and walking tours. New infrastructure, including a cable car system and six outdoor escalators, has made life in Comuna 13 a whole lot easier for residents and opened the area up to tourists like never before.

Many people view Comuna 13 as a symbol of Medellin’s (and indeed Colombia’s ) social transformation. It’s one of the most vibrant and intriguing places we visited in Medellin and a must-see, even if you only have a couple of days in the city .

However, there are still a lot of misconceptions surrounding Comuna 13, especially regarding safety. Part of the joy of visiting is discovering these contrasts and contradictions for yourself. But there are a few things I wish I had known before we signed up for our Comuna 13 tour .

Here are 13 things I think you should consider before you go, plus my recommended Comuna 13 walking tour itineraries.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Recommended Comuna 13 Tours

Option 1: 4-hour graffiti tour with a local guide – This top-rated tour includes metro tickets, snacks, and invaluable insights from a local guide. Two departures daily in the morning and afternoon. Prices start from $25. (Also available to book here on Viator .)

Option 2: Private Comuna 13 tour with hotel pick up – An in-depth Comuna 13 tour tailored to your interests. Flexible start time and hotel transfers included (great for families, solo travellers or groups). Prices start from $37.\

Option 3: Full-day city tour with cablecar and Comuna 13 walking tour – Longer walking tour (5+ hours) that shows you the best of Medellin downtown as well as Comuna 13. If you only have a day in Medellin, this is a great option. Prices start from $46.

Option 4: Social Transformation Tour – This walking tour with hotel pickup focuses on the neighbourhood’s history to give you an in-depth understanding of Comuna 13. I have personally travelled with Steven, the company operator and main guide, and was extremely impressed with his knowledge and attention to detail. Prices start from $61.

Option 5: Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour and Street Food Tour – The ultimate combination of street art and street food for a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of local culture. Includes empanadas and ice cream.

Before you go…

If you’re planning to visit Medellin and you want to learn a bit about Comuna 13 and Colombian culture before you go, why not try a virtual travel experience where you can meet and chat to a local.

This Airbnb Online Experience with a local takes you through the basics of Colombian history and culture – it’s the perfect way to prepare for your trip!

What is Comuna 13? A very brief history of Medellin’s most notorious neighbourhood

One of the most important things you can do before visiting Comuna 13 is take the time to read a bit of background information. You’ll learn lots on the tour, but it helps to have a general understanding of the area and its turbulent past.

Comuna 13 started out as an illegal settlement. In the 1960s and 70s, around 1,500 families displaced by conflict in different parts of Antioquia Department settled here. The neighbourhood was unplanned: They built their houses from basic materials, and there was no running water or electricity.

Comuna 13 rose to notoriety in the 1980s and 1990s at the height of Colombia’s drug and gang era. Because of its location on the edge of the city and the way its organised (winding streets and an awful lot of places to hide), the barrio became a transit point for drug traffickers, guerillas, gangs, and otherwise unsavoury characters. Soon enough, paramilitary groups ELN and FARC were fighting for control of the commune.

The idea to ‘clean up’ Comuna 13 started in 2002 when a newly elected President Alvaro Uribe took a heavy handed approach and launched 10 military operations. The two biggest, known as Mariscal and Orion, were designed to root out the paramilitary. As you can imagine, many residents – regular working families and innocent civilians – got caught up in the fray. At least 20 people lost their lives, almost 250 were arrested, and many more simply disappeared.

In 2006, Comuna 13’s image finally started to change. Medellin Mayor Sergio Fajardo Valderrama took a different tact and set about improving living conditions for underserved families by involving them in the process. He invested massively in infrastructure, including a new metro station (2008) and outdoor escalators escaleras electricas (2011), to reintegrate the commune with the rest of the city. This approach turned out to be much more effective.

The Comuna 13 of today is a very different place. With greater accessibility came less stigma, and the narrative surrounding Comuna 13 slowly started to shift. The streets became safer, and the neighbourhood was once again a playground for children and artists alike. Now responsible tourism is a major contributor to social change in the barrios.

When you visit Comuna 13, you can witness this incredible transformation up close. No one has forgotten the past, but everyone is looking towards a brighter future. It really is a remarkable story and a special place.

13 things to know before signing up for a Comuna 13 tour

1. it’s not a place for dark tourism or ‘narco tourism’.

Colombia’s own brand of dark tourism, ‘narco tourism’, is a thriving industry in Medellin. What many partakers don’t realise is just how offensive many locals find it. If you want to do paintball at one of Pablo Escobar’s former residences, then be my guest. I’m not here to judge.

But Comuna 13 is not the place to gawk at the horrors of the past.

Transformation, rebirth and hope are themes that come up again and again in Comuna 13. These are the things your guide will focus on, not the violence of the 80s and 90s.

Comuna 13 has undergone a massive physical transformation in recent years, as documented in memoirs like this one . But what’s even more important than the aesthetic changes is shifting the way people think about the area. And that has involved a transformation of the psyche.

There are countless books about Colombia (fiction and non-fiction) that can give you a deeper insight into this chapter of national history before you arrive in Medellin. But the best way to learn is to experience it on the ground.

Most people in Comuna 13 (and Medellin) choose to look forward, not back. Memories of past violence are still very raw for families in this area, with many thousands of people still unaccounted for.

Bottom line: Be respectful and sensitive, and please leave your Pablo Escobar t-shirt at home.

2. Comuna 13 isn’t one neighbourhood

There’s a common misconception that Comuna 13 is one discrete barrio . In truth, it’s a commune (one of 16 in Medellin) that incorporates around 12 separate neighbourhoods spanning more than 2 square miles.

The name ‘Comuna’ does not only refer to the low socio-economic hilltop barrios around the city, either. El Poblado and Laureles are comunas too. El Centro, for example, is a district within Comuna 10.

It’s important to understand that Comuna 13 is huge. Some areas are safe for tourists to visit, while other barrios should be avoided. Most walking tours focus on the Las Independencias and 20 de Julio area, where most of Comuna 13’s street art is located.

Because of the size and layout, it’s very easy to get disorientated in Comuna’s 13’s labyrinth of narrow laneways and private entries – that’s another reason why it’s a good idea to visit with a guide.

3. A Comuna 13 tour involves a lot of walking (and stairs)

Most tour companies instruct you to wear comfortable shoes when you book a tour. But I wasn’t prepared for just how much uphill slug is involved in visiting Comuna 13. Just getting to the street art area from the metro station takes a good 15 minutes of walking up a steady incline.

Comuna 13 is set on a steep hillside, so stairs are an unavoidable reality. Comfy, lightweight shoes are essential, as is plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, and a good hat or an umbrella . Just be glad you don’t have to carry your groceries or push a stroller!

The saving grace are the six interlacing outdoor escalators that replace 350 of the steepest stairs. Free to ride, they operate from the early morning until late at night and will always be running in the daylight hours when tours take place (including on Sundays and holidays).

Once you reach the top of the escalators, the terrain evens out a little. This is where you’ll find wide concrete pedestrianised areas (like the one in the first picture above) that feature seating and lighting.

4. It’s better to go with a local

There are dozens of companies in Medellin that offer tours of Comuna 13. As more and more people visit, the commercialisation of the community’s grief is becoming a serious issue. It’s something you should keep in mind when booking a Comuna 13 tour.

The most responsible and ethical option is to go with a local guide. Zippy Tour guides, for example, all grew up in Comuna 13 and know the streets (and the stories) well.

They incorporate personal anecdotes and authentic accounts without dramatising or romanticising things. And in our experience, they are truly grateful for the chance to show tourists around their barrios.

Our guide, Laura, taught herself English so that she could show visitors around the streets she grew up on.

The photo above was taken on the balcony of her family home – how many walking tours do you know of that make a stop at the guide’s house!? That’s just how generous and open the local guides can be.

5. It feels a lot safer than you might expect…

I can only speak to our experience, but we felt completely safe in Comuna 13 – both when we were with our guide and at the end of the day when we were walking back to the Metrocable alone.

Exercise common sense and caution as you would anywhere else. But don’t let fear or hearsay stop you from visiting Colombia or Comuna 13.

Remember that it’s easy to get lost, so stick close to your guide and don’t wander off track. At the end of the tour you may have the option to walk yourself back to the metro station, in which case your guide will provide directions.

If you prefer to stay with a guide at all times, choose a tour itinerary that includes transfers back to downtown, either by bus or Metrocable.

6. …But that doesn’t mean there’s no crime or violence

Comuna 13 has changed a lot, but poverty and violence are still big issues here. We were told that a few weeks before our visit, another tour group had to take cover from gunfire after fighting broke out between rival gangs.

It’s perfectly safe to visit Comuna 13 during daylight hours. But just like the rest of Medellin, it’s not recommended to walk around after dark.

7. The locals are extremely welcoming

I get the feeling that foreign tourists are still a bit of a novelty in Comuna 13. We were warmly greeted everywhere we went in Medellin, but the smiles and buenoses we received in this part of the city were more animated and generous than anywhere else.

After our Comuna 13 tour ended at the top of the escalators, we decided to walk ourselves back to the metro instead of riding the bus with our guide.

It was interesting to see how people’s reactions toward us changed once we were no longer travelling with a group. It felt like people were even kinder to us than before.

Like in any residential area, most people in Comuna 13 are just going about their daily business. Be respectful of people’s privacy (especially of accidentally trespassing) and use common courtesy when taking photos.

8. There are plenty of places to eat, drink and shop for souvenirs

We passed by dozens of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops and bars during our Comuna 13 tour. There is a large concentration of local eateries around the San Javier Metro Station, while plenty of ‘tourist-friendly’ venues (with English menus and clean bathrooms) have opened up around the street art zone. If you like ice cream, there are a few places that sell popsicles!

There are also several small galleries and market stalls dotted along the main pedestrian route where you can buy art prints and other souvenirs .

I expect that many more venues will open up as Comuna 13 continues to grow in popularity.

Note that most tours include a stop off at at least one cafe or restaurant.

Tip: Did you know that there is a district in Bogota that’s similar to Medellin’s Comuna 13? If you’re visiting Colombia’s capital, why not join a Social Transformation Tour of Barrio Egipto .

9. The street art in Comuna 13 is not just for decoration

You don’t need me to tell you that Comuna 13 is all about the street art. Not only does it look fantastic and form a perfect backdrop for tourist selfies (guilty as charged!), the murals are also symbolic.

There are dozens and dozens of large-scale works throughout the area, manly concentrated around the escalators. Any and every surface can be used as a canvas.

As our guide Laura explained to us, graffiti is actually illegal in Medellin. For a local artist to create a mural, they first need to obtain permission from the area’s chief artists as well as the owner of the building.

Murals in Comuna 13 definitely aren’t just for decoration: They also serve to memorialise the past and express hope for the future.

Your Comuna 13 tour guide will point out the best pieces. Special motifs to look out for include white cloths (a reference to May 2002, when a mother flew a white sheets from her rooftop as a request for ceasefire after two of her sons were injured by gunfire; anything in red, yellow and blue (the colours of the Colombian flag and a stand-in for national pride); and birds (another symbol for peace).

My favourite symbol in Comuna 13 is elephants, which represent the barrios’ pledge to never forget the events of the past.

Many families have painted their houses in bright colours to match the murals, making the whole area feel vibrant and uplifting.

10. There are other kinds of art to look out for, too

There are plenty of other art forms visitors should keep an eye out for, including performance art, music and breakdancing.

During our tour, we watched a short performance by Black and White, a local hip-hop crew.

Another group you might encounter is C15 Collective, a coalition of young graffiti artists, music producers, rappers, photographers and DJs from Comuna 13.

They oversee up to 90% of the street art in the area and run a physical exhibition and performance space, Casa Kolacho , where people can come together to collaborate and develop new art forms.

All these different artistic formats – some organised by community leaders, some organic and self-managed – are designed to provide an alternative pathway for youth in Comuna 13.

11. You should visit Casa de la Memoria first

For a better understanding of Comuna 13’s art scene and how creatives grapple with sensitive and raw topics, I highly recommend visiting Medellin’s Museo Casa de la Memoria (Memory House Museum) near Parque Bicentenario first.

My main takeaway from the museum was that art is used to interpret and make sense of past events, which often means it’s quite abstract.

Our visit to the museum gave us a bit of background knowledge and prepared us for our Comuna 13 tour. Even if you decide against visiting Comuna 13, Museo Casa de la Memoria is a must-visit in Medellin .

12. Comuna 13 offers some of the best views of Medellin

It’s not exactly difficult to get a good view in hilly Medellin, but I was surprised by the vistas from Comuna 13. This area is high , and in my opinion offers the best outlook over the city.

From Comuna 13, you get an appreciation for the scale of the city. The viewpoint also allow you to look down over the colourful rooftops and beyond to the green hills that form the city’s western border.

The views get better with each escalator you ride or set of stairs you climb, so persevere! There are lookout points with handrails dotted all along the way where you can stop for photos.

13. By visiting, you’re helping a community rebuild

Every family in Comuna 13 has been negatively impacted by violence in some way. By taking a Comuna 13 tour, you’re not only supporting local guides and local businesses in financial terms, you’re also helping people shed the stigma.

It’s just one of the ways responsible tourism is contributing to social transformation in Colombia .

Our guide, Laura, was very honest in telling us that families from Comuna 13 were openly discriminated against in the past. Hence why many people didn’t want to admit they lived here.

That reputation is changing with every tourist group that visits, and now young people like Laura are proud, not ashamed, to call Comuna 13 home.

If you do decided to visit Comuna 13 and like us you have a positive experience, review your guide, spread the word back home, and encourage others to go, too.

I can guarantee you that your Comuna 13 experience will stay with you long after you’ve left Medellin.

How do you get to Comuna 13 from El Poblado?

Comuna 13 is located on the western side of Medellin, about 6 miles (10 km) northwest of El Poblado. The closest metro station is Estación San Javier , the final stop on the east-west metro Line B.

To get to San Javier from Poblado Metro Station, first take Line A (red line) in the direction of Niquia to Antonio Station (4 stops in total). Here, you’ll need to change to Line B and ride it all the way to the final station, San Javier.

From the station, you need to walk approximately 20-30 minutes uphill to reach the escalators and the heart of the street art zone.

Alternatively, you can take bus 225i the rest of the way (recommended). To find the bus, turn right after the metro station exit and look for the green bus stop at the traffic lights. The fare is 1500 COP payable with the same metro card (the transfer is free if you’ve just alighted the metro).

A taxi costs approximately 10,000 COP or a little less if you use an app such as Uber.

Most Comuna 13 group tours meet at the San Javier Metro Station so you don’t have to worry about finding the bus or making your own way up the hill – just rendezvous with your guide and they will show you the way.

What time should I go to Comuna 13?

The best time to visit Comuna 13 is in the morning. There are two reasons for this: Firstly, the area tends to get much more crowded in the afternoon ; and secondly, if it’s overcast, it can get foggier as the day progresses.

Because of the altitude (Medellin is 1,495 metres above sea level) and the unusual micro-climate, there is often poor visibility in the city. High humidity and low clouds can make the skies look grey and obscure your views.

Most tours of Comuna 13 start at either 9am or 10am. If you’re booking a private tour and you have the option to choose your start time, I recommend picking one of the earlier timeslots.

Is it safe to go to Comuna 13?

Yes, it is safe to visit Comuna 13 provided you use common sense. Take care of your valuables (as you would anywhere in Colombia), and if you have a backpack, consider wearing it on your front.

The biggest thing to remember when visiting Comuna 13 is not to wander off-track . The streets are a bit of a maze and it’s easy to get disorientated and accidentally walk onto someone’s private property. Stick to the main walkways.

An added element of safety comes from being with a tour group and having a local guide with you. This is another reason I highly recommend signing up for a tour rather than visiting independently.

Is Comuna 13 accessible?

Comuna 13 is located on fairly difficult terrain, with lots of steep hills and streets pitched at precarious angles. As I mentioned earlier, there are a lot of stairs. Even with the escalators and cable system, it’s still fairly difficult to get around.

Not all parts of Comuna 13 are wheelchair friendly or suitable for anyone with mobility issues.

Accessible travellers can still visit the area – if that’s you, I highly recommend contacting one of the recommended tour companies below (and ideally booking a private tour) so they can plan a more appropriate route for you.

Can you go to Comuna 13 on your own?

It’s definitely possible to visit Comuna 13 independently and walk yourself around the neighbourhood. But there are several reasons why I don’t necessarily recommend it.

First and foremost, you will miss out on all the information and anecdotes you get from a guide . Meeting a local who has lived and breathed Comuna 13 for their entire life really is a huge privilege and you’ll learn so much more through this process.

Some of my best memories of visiting Medellin are of the chats we had with our guide, Laura, on the terrace of her family home. Sure, it’s possible to stop and talk to everyday people in the neighbourhood – but remember that English is not at all widely spoken, so unless you have fluent Spanish, it’s not really viable.

Secondly, as I already mentioned, it’s very easy to lose your way in the winding backstreets . If you want to go beyond the main pedestrianised roads, you’ll certainly need a guide to show you the way. Furthermore, Google Maps isn’t particularly reliable in this part of the city. While the area is generally safe, you definitely don’t want to accidentally wander into an area where you shouldn’t be.

There was one point during our tour that I almost got lost. I was taking a photo of a washing line (the one pictured just above) and when I looked up from my camera, my husband and the rest of the group had vanished. I panicked and froze, not knowing what to do. (Turns out they had gone down a nearby staircase – as soon as they popped up again on the next terrace over, I was able to rejoin them.) It was only 10 seconds or so, but it was not a good feeling to be disorientated and alone. This moment made me very grateful that I was with a guide who knew the area like the back of her hand.

An organised tour will give you peace of mind to enjoy your day fully – and I can guarantee you that you’ll come away with a much better understanding of the area and its history.

Top Comuna 13 tour companies

Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour: This company uses local guides and covers a lot of terrain over 4-plus hours of walking. The focus is firmly on the street art, making this a great tour for anyone whose primary interest is seeing he murals. The price includes metro tickets and snacks. Online bookings are available through GetYourGuide. Check prices and availability here .

Epic Tours Medellin: Another local company focused on Medellin city, Epic Tours offers a private tour of Comuna 13 with hotel transfers included. What I like about their tours is that they include other street art areas in downtown Medellin first, helping to put San Javier into context. Online bookings are available through GetYourGuide. Check prices and availability here .

Zippy Walking Tour: Free walking tours of Comuna 13 led by guides who grew up in the area. Tours are available in both Spanish and English and depart twice daily (see here for the schedule and to book). Remember to tip your guide at the end of the tour! The suggested tip is 25,000-30,000 COP per person.

Visit Medellin Tours: These popular tour programs combine Comuna 13 street art and views with a taste of local street food. Sample the best empanadas and mango ice cream during your walk around the neighbourhood – it doesn’t get more local than that. Check prices and availability here .

Lets Colombia: Steven, the freelance guide who showed us around Medellin’s fruit markets , also leads tours of Comuna 13 with his own company, Lets Colombia. Visit his Facebook page for more info.

Where to stay in Medellin

As you can probably gather from my photos of Comuna 13, Medellin is a pretty big city! It’s very spread-out, so you need to be strategic about where you base yourself. And just a heads up, you probably don’t want to stay in Comuna 13.

We spent 3 weeks in Medellin and stayed in the lovely Laureles neighbourhood. It’s leafy, it’s very walkable, there are hundreds of amazing restaurants and cafes – and it’s away from the busy downtown area, giving it a local feel. The northern part of Laureles is especially good because it’s close to the metro line.

If you prefer to be in the thick of it, El Poblado is the beating heart of Medellin. It can be a bit touristy, but on the flip side, that means lots of options for eating and drinking.

Budget hostel: The Wandering Paisa in Laureles is one of Colombia’s most-loved hostels. Choose from mixed dorms or budget-friendly private doubles.

Mid-range hotel: 574 Hotel is boutique on a budget near Lleras Park in El Poblado, with bright, tidy rooms and breakfast included.

Boutique hotel: Hotel Quinta Ladera has minimal, well-appointed rooms that will make you feel right at home in El Poblado.

High-end hotel: For an iconic Medellin experience, I highly recommend staying at Hotel Nutibara in El Centro. The 1940s Art Deco building is an architectural masterpiece.

Self-contained apartment: Factory Lofts has chic rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and views over the beautiful Laureles neighbourhood. Choose a room with a full kitchenette if you want to cook at home.

Prefer Airbnb? Check out my round-up of Medellin’s best Airbnb rentals here .

Have you been on a Comuna 13 tour? What was your experience? If not, is it a place you think you’d be interested in visiting? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Comuna 13 tour tips: Pin it & share it!

Colombia trip essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Colombia. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Colombia using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa or a Health Declaration form for Colombia and apply for your documents online.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Colombia with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Book a safe and reliable private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Medellin , Bogota or Cartagena (prices start from $18 per group).

ESIM FOR COLOMBIA: Stay connected during your trip – pre-purchase an eSIM for Colombia and get online as soon as you arrive without having to visit a phone shop.

CAR HIRE: Use the Discover Cars website to compare prices and features across all the major car rental companies.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Colombia hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best day trips, city tours, Colombian cooking experiences and more.

Further reading for Medellin & Colombia

• 30 best things to do in Medellin , my Medellin city guide
• 2 days in Medellin , the ideal itinerary for first-timers
• Top 3 markets in Medellin , Colombian fruit, flowers and more
• 30 best places to visit in Colombia , the ultimate bucket list
• What to do in Colombia , memorable experiences
• What to buy in Colombia , the best authentic souvenirs
• Guide to Jerico , Antioquia’s loveliest pueblo
• El Despertar Hotel , Jerico’s best accommodation
• Guide to Jardin , Colombia’s most colourful town
• Colombian coffee tour , bean to cup in Concordia
• 20 best things to do in Bogota , how to spend 1-2 days in the capital
• Colombian cooking class , in the kitchen in Bogota

36 Comments

It was so amazing on article you described about comuna13 medellin, can you provide me guide Laura information as you mentioned,may i check does she local tour guide ?

Hi Egene, thanks for your comment. Laura was our guide through Zippy Tours. Have a great time!

This article is right on the money. Our visit in July 2019 was great. We toured with Gate1 but hired a local gentleman for our Comuna13 tour. Best part of our 3 city trip. Felt safe and he was very informative. We follow himon FB and keep in touch and recommend him to people planning a trip to Medellin as he was recommended to us by our local guide in Cartegena! He was greatful for opportunity as he makes more money on the side doing tours than ge does as a civil engineer! It felt great we helped a local supplement their income.

Sounds like a wonderful experience, I’m glad you enjoyed your visit!

What an interesting discovery for me! Thanks.

Thanks for an interesting article on comuna 13. A friend of my visited this part of the world not all long ago. I’m unlikely to ever see this A lot of the photos seem to be take on the go and the documentary style suffers where the composition is all over the place. Do you take most of the pics yourself ? I wondered what phone/camera you take most of your pictures with?

Hi Pete, I use an Olympus OMD em10 Mark II. It’s lightweight and great for travel.

Thanks a lot, Emily! Loves this guide, we will take the Zippy Tour then, it sounded best! thanks for all the details, perfectly prepared now! We wanted to go on our own but it surely make sense to take the tour. Can’t wait to listen to the background stories. Few guys from our hostel joined a tour (not sure which one) yesterday, they said it was 5h long instead of 3. They loved it! Matt

Great to hear that, Matt! Enjoy the tour!

I just visited Comuna 13 today and it was an amazing and vibrant community. You are right about the welcome you feel when arriving. The artwork is stunning, the colors are beautiful and the feeling was safe and joyful. I would definitely recommend going there to experience it for yourself. Yes, the young guides (many of them, rappers and graffiti artists who work with the young kids to mentor them) are knowledgeable and do help navigate the streets. This is a great experience!

So glad to hear you enjoyed it, Beverly! I couldn’t agree me.

Thanks for your comment. Enjoy the rest of your time in Colombia!

Fantastic article! Really looking forward to going on this tour next month. Do you recall how long the tour took? Trying to determine if we can go the morning before our flight out (4pm). Thank you!!

Hi Erin! Good question. From memory the tour was around 2 hours. It’s possible to leave early if you need – a few people wandered off at different points because they had to be somewhere else.

I hope you get time to do it. Enjoy Medellin!

Hello, we booked the tour for the 1st of June, I wonder how much would be a appropriate tip?

Great to hear! And good question. It’s up to you, and it depends on the price and duration of the tour you chose. We tipped a little higher for the free tour since our guide was so fantastic and that’s the way the free tours work 🙂 From memory, I think we tipped the equivalent of around $10 each.

I hope you have a fantastic tour!

Visited this past week and this is a great walking tour. Referred to the best tour guide ever, Juan. Used him for our complete needs. Safe, reliable local.

I agree 100% with Emily’s experiences and advice.

Thanks so much for the feedback, Sebastian! Glad to hear you enjoyed your experience.

Safe travels.

I didn’t realize that Medellin is built on a hillside and thus will have very steep streets to climb. This makes me wonder if there are touring services that offer scooter rentals for those who would prefer a more relaxing tour of the city. In my mind, this would be the best way to see the country while still having the flexibility to visit local markets and tourist attractions.

What a thoughtful review of a tour. It sounds like an authentic and enriching experience. I always appreciate the opportunity to see a place with a local. I’ll put this on my list for Medellin!

Great tips for a visit to Comuna 13! I love how you balance our desire to explore and take photos with the need to be respectful and contribute to the communities we visit.

This guide has really inspired me to think about visiting Comuna 13. To hear that you can get guided around by a local who not only knows the streets in and out but can tell you real stories is so fascinating Obviously, a big concern as a solo female traveller is safety so it is really interesting to hear how safe you felt, someone you wouldn’t necessarily expect to do so.

Yes—great point! I think this tour would be an ideal option for solo travellers. Thanks for your comment, Rebecca!

In love with your post! My partner wants to visit Medellin and Colombia the last couple of years now, so this guide is perfect for our planning!

I love how thoughtful this entire piece is, its such a refreshingly holistic take from a traveler. I especially appreciate your emphasis on ethical travel choices and the perspective of the local community who lives in the village and would prefer to focus on hope for the future, rather than grief over the past. Really great writing.

Thanks for the kind words, Megan! It was a special experience.

Interesting. This definitely seems like a very educational experience and one that could showcase the ingenuity and artistry of local people. You mention that people seemed to see tourists as novelties, but do you think the tour was intrusive at all?

Great question. I didn’t feel like it was intrusive. The tour focused on public areas (parks, pedestrian zones), and being with a local guide was a great help—knowing where to go and where to avoid. I think if you ventured out to explore independently—as with any neighbourhood—it would be easy to venture into private spaces.

Psychologically and emotionally, I think our guide did a great job of balancing storytelling without naming names or intruding on anyone’s privacy. It’s always a tricky balance when a residential area opens up to tourism, but I genuinely felt like the community is very welcoming of visitors.

I oved the fact that you stressed on mindful travelling and respectfully exploring the place. Yes, people can be very sensitive about the past and we as tourists shouldn’t hurt those sentiments. Glad to see a dangerous community becoming safe again. Kudos to the efforts and planning. Thank you for sharing this journey. I really enjoyed reading it.

Thanks for your thoughts! I totally agree.

What a fascinating place! I love the idea of taking a tour with a local – they really know the place and you know that you’re having a positive impact on the locals. I had no idea that Medellin was so hilly. Those views. Between the art, history and views, I’ll definitely be looking up this tour when I finally make it to Colombia. Thanks for sharing!

So many hills = great views everywhere you go! Thanks, April!

What a fascinating area, I love the colourful street art – I would happily spend hours walking the streets watching and learning. Would love to visit Colombia.

Wow, the street art there looks incredible.

I love that you bring up what Comuna is NOT–a place for narco-tourism. It’s a real community on the upswing after experiencing a lot of strife.

Absolutely!

Fantastic tips for the future if i ever visit! Amazing how a place can change that much. It would worry me a bit after hearing what it was like but going with a local or tour group would put me at ease 🙂

Really helpful info, thanks for sharing!

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Comuna 13 Tour

Comuna 13 Tour Details

Starting times: 9 am to 2 pm

Duration: 5 hours

Locations: Comuna 13

Age restrictions: Not recommended for kids under 2

Pet policy: pet-friendly (pets must be under the owner’s supervision)

Price: $70 per person (minimum 2 people)

Food/drink policy: Local snack and beverage included

What to expect during the Comuna 13 tour:

First and foremost, you can expect to do a lot of walking on the Comuna 13 tour! It’s best experienced on foot, including the neighborhood’s escalator system. Plus, most of the walking will be done on steep slopes, as Comuna 13 is built on the mountainside located on the western edge of Medellín.

Just like anywhere else in Medellín, you’ll encounter a lot of local color – in several different senses. The area is famous for its graffiti, and many residents have even painted their houses bright colors to match. As you walk down one street after another, you’ll pass by various vendors who are selling all kinds of artwork, regional foods and drinks, and souvenirs. You’ll probably encounter dance groups along the way as well; some of them are professionals, while others are just there to have fun. Many of these dance squads are well-known in Medellín, and regularly set up performances in the streets of Comuna 13. Then there are the musicians, who also put on skillful performances to delight everyone who passes by.

Since Comuna 13 is built on the side of a mountain, many spots have an unparalleled view of Medellín. Visitors and locals alike love to chill out in one of the area’s many bars, sipping on a cold drink as they take in the view.

Is Comuna 13 a safe place to tour?

The Comuna 13 tour is one of the most highly desired Medellin tours . There will be hundreds of happy tourists there on any day and time. Over recent years it has transformed into a vibrant community that’s known for its art and music, rather than for gang-related and poverty-induced violence. The area of Comuna 13 that we tour is completely safe, and you’re sure to feel welcome there by the locals.

Sometimes the area is very crowded so it’s always good to remember that you’re still in a bustling neighborhood in a big city.  Keep your valuables close at all times, and try not to be obvious when accessing wallets, phones, or cameras. This goes for pretty much any tourist experience, anywhere in the world; it’s just worth repeating for those who don’t know the basics of tourist safety yet.

Background of Comuna 13

Comuna 13 consists of precarious houses built in the middle of the hills, narrow and steep streets, which generated multiple alleys and viewpoints, ideal for criminals and the drug trade in the past. Two of the city’s bloodiest and best-remembered military operations took place there, Operation Mariscal and Operation Orion. The direct relationship between Comuna 13 and violence has gradually been left behind, thanks to the efforts of the community, especially the young artists, and undoubtedly the government.

In the past, Comuna 13 wasn’t on anyone’s radar as a good place to live, let alone visit as a tourist. The situation definitely improved after rooting out gang members and paramilitary groups, but things didn’t truly start turning around until 2006. This was when the mayor of Medellín, Sergio Fajardo Valderrama, started investing in infrastructure that would improve the lives of underserved residents. By 2008, there was a new metro station; by 2011, several outdoor escalators had been installed. Between these and the Metrocable system, Comuna 13 was no longer isolated from the rest of the city. Residents had greater access to business opportunities, education, and many other resources. This has helped transform the area into what it is today – a socially active, hopeful place that tourists love to visit.

Is this area suitable for “narco tourism”?

One of Medellín’s most famous historical residents is Pablo Escobar, who is among the world’s most notorious drug lords. As such, it’s understandable that some of the city’s tourist activities are focused on this aspect of the city’s past. This is nicknamed “ narco tourism ”, and involves tours of Escobar’s former residences, T-shirts with his face on them, themed souvenirs, and so on.

This may be expected and appropriate in most areas of Medellín, but in Comuna 13 these things hit closer to home. Many residents still remember what life was like when violence and fear were the norm, and they prefer to focus on transformation and hope for the future. There’s nothing wrong with being curious about Medellín’s dark past, but if you’ll be touring Comuna 13, maybe you should save your Pablo Escobar T-shirt for another day.

Remembering the past, celebrating the future

Comuna 13 is a beautiful place to visit now, but its optimistic atmosphere wouldn’t be so significant without knowing about the pain of its past. There’s a lot to enjoy about this part of Medellín, and a lot to learn about as well. Your tour guide will be able to explain the background stories of various murals, describe the transformation of the neighborhood, and help you understand the amazing history of Comuna 13.

Medellin, Colombia

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Comuna 13 tour medellin - Comuna 13 Tour, Graffiti Tour, Medllin

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A Comuna 13 tour in Medellin: What You Need to Know

Medellin, Colombia. The first thing that probably pops into your mind is: ‘Isn’t that the most dangerous city in the world?’ While Medellin was once indeed a place where drug cartels ruled and deadly violence was a part of daily life, in recent years, the city has made a dramatic turnaround and is now emerging as one of the most innovative and community-minded cities in the world. To witness this transformation, there’s no better place to visit in Medellin than Comuna 13!

Plaza Botero, La Candelaria, Medellin

Medellin, Colombia ‘s second-largest city is located in the Aburra Valley surrounded by lush green mountains. Once on the daily international news in the 1990s, for the escapades of notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar and his strong grip on society, today Medellin has transformed itself into a hub for innovation, culture, and progressive thinking.

Medellin is often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring,” and this couldn’t be less true. The city enjoys a temperate climate year-round, making it a perfect destination to visit at any time of the year.

Some of the most important sights in Medellin are the innovative MetroCable which improved city accessibility drastically for locals living on the slopes of the mountains, the dynamic cultural scene that fills the streets with colorful murals, music, and festivals, and the art of world-famous artist Fernando Botero.

You can feel the city’s progressive spirit the most in places like Comuna 13, once a no-go zone, but now a collection of colorful streets that breathes stories of hope and renewal. 

→ Also read:  The Botanical Garden of Medellin: What You Need to Know

Comuna 13 in Medellin

Comuna 13 outdoor escalators, Medellin

Comuna 13, also known as San Javier, is located in the western part of Medellin. It is situated on the city’s hilly terrain and is characterized by its maze of small streets, most of them inaccessible by car. 

Comuna 13 is comprised of many barrios with Plan del Che and Independencias I, II, and III as the main areas of tourism in Comuna 13. Other barrios include Nuevos Conquistadores, Belencito la Colina, Belencito Betania, and many more.

As you step into the colorful streets of Comuna 13, you’re immediately greeted by vivid murals, friendly locals, and hip-hop tunes, a remarkable change from how this part of the city was like, 20 to 30 years ago.

One of the most eye-catching features of Comuna 13 is its outdoor electric escalators. They were installed in 2011 to help the residents navigate the steep hills more easily but grew out to be a symbol of hope and resilience in the community. 

To understand why Comuna 13 is such a special place in Medellin and an example for the rest of the world, you need to understand the gruesome history of the history first!

Why is Comuna 13 (in)famous

During the 1980s and 1990s, Comuna 13 was one of the most violent areas in Medellin, caught in the crossfire of drug cartels, guerrilla warfare, and paramilitary groups fighting for control. This period was characterized by widespread violence, including bombings, assassinations, and armed conflicts.

While the drug trade brought wealth to some, it also brought about cycles of poverty and violence that affected marginalized communities, especially those in Comuna 13. The illegal economy and the enticement of quick money led many young people into lives of crime, further destabilizing the community.

However, today, Comuna 13 has turned its notorious past into a fascinating story of change, attracting tourists from around the world. When you visit Comuna 13 now, you can see transformative urban projects, engage with the local culture, and learn about the community’s history through street art and guided tours.

Comuna 13 has become an example of the power of community engagement and activism. While the government also implemented radical changes, especially the Comuna 13 residents have played a crucial role in driving change, advocating for peace, and participating in social and cultural programs aimed at improving their community.

Comuna 13 history explained

To understand the story of Comuna 13 better, we need to dive a bit more into its history first. I’m not going to get too deep into the details here, because that would spoil your tour! Here is a brief overview of what the situation was like in Comuna 13 and Medellin from the 1980s until now.

The 1980s were characterized by the rise of the drug cartels. During that time, Medellin became the epicenter of drug trafficking in Colombia, with Pablo Escobar’s Medellin Cartel dominating the cocaine trade. During these years, the city experienced a significant increase in violence and crime.

Comuna 13, among other neighborhoods, suffers from the consequences of the drug war, including homicides, kidnappings, and extreme violence.

Economic inequality led to the expansion of informal settlements, with Comuna 13 facing severe socio-economic challenges.

During the 1990s, the Medellin Cartel’s influence peaked early in the decade and this led to an all-time high in violence, with bombings, assassinations, and battles with rival cartels and government forces.

Eventually, even though he was protected by some people inside the government, they managed to kill Pablo Escobar in 1993. After that, the Colombian government intensified its efforts to dismantle the drug cartels and restore order, but violence persisted as smaller factions tried to grab control.

Comuna 13 remained caught in the crossfire of ongoing conflicts between drug traffickers, paramilitaries, and leftist guerrillas, which worsened the area’s struggles even further.

Comuna 13, Medellin, Colombia

In 2002, the local government, under the rule of newly elected president Alvaro Uribe, launched Operation Orion, which were military operations in Comuna 13 to eradicate rebel groups, resulting in many civilian casualties.

These operations became some of the most controversial and pivotal events in the recent history of Medellin and symbolized a turning point in the city’s struggle with violence.

Following the government restored state control, efforts began to revitalize Comuna 13, with a focus on improving infrastructure, public services, and social programs.

The introduction of innovative projects like the outdoor escalators in 2011 and a big investment in public spaces sparked a sense of culture and community in Comuna 13. Street art flourished and this turned the neighborhood into a symbol of resilience and transformation.

By the late 2000s and into the 2010s, Comuna 13 became a model for urban regeneration and they attracted global attention and tourism because of its inspiring story.

Can you go to Comuna 13 without a tour?

Yes, you can visit Comuna 13 without joining a tour. Many travelers choose to explore the area independently to experience the vibrant street art, outdoor escalators, and local culture at their own pace. While I don’t go on tours most of the time because I like to explore at my own pace as a slow traveler , visiting Comuna 13 is another story. 

Since the history of the Comuna and Medellin in general is so complex, visiting Comuna 13 with a guide can be a very rewarding experience because you can dive really deep into the stories of the neighborhood.

I’m not talking about touristy tours here from big tourist agencies but small local organization that operate out of Comuna 13 itself. They are led and organized by residents of Comuna 13 themselves and participating in these tours can drastically benefit the local community. 

In the next section, I’ll highlight three tours that are worth checking out!

Best Comuna 13 tours

The best tours of Comuna 13 are led by Comuna 13 residents, local people who grew up in the neighborhood and know the area inside and out. During their tours, they share personal stories and perspectives that you might not discover through independent exploration, reading or on a commercial touristy tour.

While most touristy tours only cover the main area of Comuna 13 where all the street art and souvenir shops are located, local tour companies also take you to lesser-known areas in the Comuna that are more local and authentic. 

Zippy Tour is a local tour agency offering a comprehensive experience in Comuna 13 that focuses on its transformation and cultural dynamic. The tours are available in English and Spanish and last approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. 

They include exploration of five neighborhoods in Comuna 13, experiencing artistic expressions like break dance and music, and visiting the outdoor escalators and viewpoints for panoramic views of Medellin.

The Zippy tours really focus on the community’s shift from their troubled past to becoming a thriving artistic and cultural hub. For more detailed information, including how to book a tour, you can visit their website at Zippy Tour Comuna 13 .

Street art and Zippy tour guide Yulieth

Andariegos C13

Explore the vibrant and transformative history of Comuna 13 with AndariegosC13. This intimate tour, perfect for groups of up to 10 people, takes you beyond conventional tourist spots into the heart of the community’s colorful streets and artistic expressions.

From historically significant sites and innovative mobility solutions like electric stairs to local galleries and street performances, this 3-hour journey offers a deep dive into the local culture. The experience is enriched with complimentary water and ends sweetly with homemade ice cream, making for an unforgettable adventure in Comuna 13.

You can book the Andariegos C13 tours here .

If these tours don’t sound appealing to you, there are dozens of Comuna 13 tours to be found on platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide . Do note that most of them won’t be ethical operations.

Casa Kolacho

Choosing a graffiti tour with Casa Kolacho means directly supporting local initiatives that aim to improve the lives of Comuna 13’s residents. The proceeds from these tours are reinvested into the community, funding workshops, cultural events, and social programs.

As a traveler, you can take pride in the fact that your visit will contribute to the ongoing development of the community.

One of the highlights of a Casa Kolacho tour is the exploration of Comuna 13’s world-renowned street art. Through the eyes of Casa Kolacho guides, you can learn about the meanings and inspirations behind the art. Beyond the street art, the tours also offer live hip-hop and breakdance performances.

You can contact Casa Kolacho through their Instagram profile.

THE BEST TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR COLOMBIA SOUTH AMERICA

Here are the websites I use when I travel to Colombia:

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com : For the best guesthouses, homestays, or small hotels

Hostelworld : To find the best hostels located in the cities

Homestay : For a unique immersive homestay experience in the big cities or the countryside

Busbud and Redbus : The best transport websites for long-distance buses in Colombia. Note that 12Go also works in Colombia but the tickets they will buy for you are open-seat tickets and don’t guarantee a seat on the bus you book online.

Uber : Uber is a convenient and cheap ride-hailing app that can be used in the bigger cities of Colombia. Other apps are Cabify or Didi .

Skyscanner : For affordable flights to Bogota and intercity flights in the country.

Viator and Get Your Guide : book all kinds of activities from the Ciudad Perdida trek to a guided private tour of Comuna 13 in Medellin.

Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand, do not require a visa for short tourist stays (typically up to 90 days). However, this can vary, so it’s always best to check iVisa for the specific requirements for your nationality.

If you’re looking for travel insurance, the one with the best benefits online is undoubtedly Heymondo ! It’s very easy to ask for a quote on the website and, if you book with this link you’ll get 5% off!

Access mobile data immediately when entering the country with a Colombian E-sim or a Latamlink E-sim when traveling through multiple countries. If you are already in Colombia, the best local prepaid sim card is Claro.

Things to know before you go

Yes, the street art is cool and the hip-hop shows contribute to a party atmosphere but don’t forget, when visiting Comuna 13, that these people went through immense struggles in their lives. 

Most of them have lost friends and family members during the drug-related violent events in the past so it’s necessary to show respect when you visit the area.

Pablo Escobar

When you go on a tour to Comuna 13 refrain from saying Pablo Escobar’s name out loud, especially in places where locals can hear it. 

As said before, these people went through horrifying experiences due to this man and he should not be glorified. The community has worked hard to overcome the negative impacts of those times and prefers to focus on its present and future, emphasizing transformation, resilience, and positive growth.

Criminality today

Even though it’s relatively safe to walk around in Comuna 13 today, there are still corrupt practices in the underworld by criminal groups. To this day, the area of Comuna 13 is still divided by “invisible borders” between three gangs that rule the area. 

As a result, in return for safety and protection, all the independent businesses operating in Comuna 13, must pay a weekly or monthly fee to these criminal organizations. 

It’s important to take into account before your visit, that this community is fragile. While the inhabitants focus on peace and have a progressive attitude, it’s clear that not much is needed to reverse this process again.

One of these gangs can easily decide that they want to expand their power and gain more territory and go to war with another gang. It’s not all roses and sunshine in Comuna 13.

Prepare yourself well

Before visiting Comuna 13 it’s beneficial to keep a few key points in mind for a safe and educational experience. 

Before you embark on a tour, familiarize yourself with Comuna 13’s past to appreciate its transformation and current cultural vibrancy. Engage with locals respectfully and also respect the artwork and the artists.

Even though Comuna 13 is much safer now than it has ever been, stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice. On a Bogota tour I took before coming to Medellin, they suggested keeping your backpack not on your back but wearing it on your front. That way, you will be less of a target for petty theft. 

Lastly, stay hydrated, ask locals for permission before you take a photo, and wear sturdy shoes. Comuna 13 is hilly!

→ Also read:  Can You Drink Tap Water in Medellin?

What does a Comuna 13 tour cost

Comuna 13 tours come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. It all depends on what you want to get out of a tour, how long you want to explore, and if you opt for a group tour or a private tour. 

Below are the two possibilities for the tour organizations I mentioned earlier in the post.

Free comuna 13 tours

Zippy Tour is a free Comuna 13 walking tour, or at least that is what they claim on their sales page. In truth, tours are never free, and also in this case they expect a donation at the end of the tour. 

I have to be honest here that are guide, Yulieth, didn’t ask for the donation at the end of the tour but everyone in our group was eager to give it to her because she gave us an amazing tour. 

On their website, they also indicate that a fair donation for these tours is around $10 and that is also what most of us contributed to her.

Comuna 13 tours with a fee

The tours of Andariegos C13 are not advertised as free tours but come at a small fee on the website of GetYourGuide . A small part of that will go to GetYourGuide themselves so you can say that, whether you choose to go on the free tours of Zippy Tour or pay € 11 for this tour, prices will be approximately the same.

Note that expensive tours with private transport will probably not benefit the local community, only the pockets of the tour operators.

Colorful houses and street art in Comuna 13.

How long is a comuna 13 tour

How long a Comuna 13 tour lasts is highly dependent on which tour you pick. It’s safe to say that most tours led by locals will take around 2,5 to 3 hours, including an explanation of the history of Comuna 13 and a visit to local shops, street art, and a dance show.

There are tours out there that seem to last a little bit longer, around 4 hours and they often include a ride with a cable car too. 

How to get to Comuna 13

To get to Comuna 13 in Medellin, the most common and convenient method is using the city’s Metro system. Wherever you are in the city, take a metro to the San Javier station , which is on Line B of the Medellin Metro system. This is the closest metro station to Comuna 13.

Once you arrive at San Javier station, you have a couple of options to reach Comuna 13. It’s possible to walk from the San Javier station to the base of Comuna 13, where the outdoor escalators begin. This walk takes about 15 to 20 minutes, but it’s uphill, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.

If your health doesn’t allow it, there are also buses and taxis at San Javier Metro Station that can take you to Comuna 13. However, what a lot of people don’t know is that Comuna 13 already starts at San Javier Metro Station. While it’s a pretty local neighborhood far away from the escalators and fancy graffiti, your trip into Comuna 13 actually already starts here!

San Javier Metro Station

If you are taking a guided tour of Comuna 13, you will be asked to come to a meeting point where your tour starts.

Big commercial tour operators will have meeting points in El Poblado or offer a hotel pick-up. Smaller tour operators will either have a meeting point close to the escalators in Comuna 13 or pick you up at the San Javier Metro Station.

Is Comuna 13 safe

Yes, Comuna 13 is safe to visit. Comuna 13 has undergone a significant transformation over the past two decades, evolving from a troubled area in the city into a vibrant community known for its street art, cultural projects, and community initiatives.

Safety improvements and community policing make the area more accessible to visitors and tourists who want to learn more about this remarkable transformation.

However, as a traveler, you need to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in areas with a complex history like Comuna 13.

One of the best ways to visit Comuna 13 is with a guided tour, which not only provides an understanding of the area’s history and art but also ensures that you stick to the paths well-trodden by tourists.

Note that there are also many places to have beers and the area smells like marihuana. It’s needless to say that this is not a good place to get wasted!

→ Also read:  Is Medellin Safe to Visit? What You Need to Know!

My experience visiting Comuna 13 in Medellin

As a traveler deeply drawn to the history of places, community life, and culture and art, I found my visit to Comuna 13 in Medellin to be profoundly moving.

This neighborhood which was once synonymous with the turmoil of Medellin’s darkest days, now is a wonderful place of transformation and hope, offering lessons in resilience that resonate deeply with conscious travelers like myself.

Medellin day trips: Comuna 13

Our journey began with a metro ride to San Javier station, the gateway to Comuna 13. Opting for a guided tour with Zippy, I wanted to ensure that my visit not only allowed me to witness the community’s vibrant art but also to understand the historical and social context behind its transformation.

Our guide, Yulieth, a local woman who grew up in the neighborhood, became the voice of Comuna 13 for the day. She shared personal anecdotes and insights that you simply can’t find in textbooks. It was also lovely to see her greet many people on the street (and even dogs!) which made it clear to everyone in the group what a tight community Comuna 13 is.

We also stopped at a local restaurant at the end that she really liked and a few coffee shops and panaderias on the way for Colombian coffee (tinto!) and ice cream.

→ Also read:  Vegan Restaurants Medellin: Your Guide to The Best Hotspots!

The social aspects of Comuna 13’s transformation were particularly striking for me. Community-led initiatives, from educational programs to dance shows, highlight the power of collective action in driving positive change.

It was clear that, while the government and NGOs played significant roles in the neighborhood’s rehabilitation, the true architects of Comuna 13’s revolution were the residents, whose resilience and creativity have woven a new social fabric.

As the tour concluded, I was left with a profound sense of admiration for Comuna 13’s journey from a no-go zone to a must-visit destination for those seeking to understand the complexities of urban transformation.

This tour has been more than just a walk through a neighborhood. It’s been a profound journey of understanding and connection. The spirit of Comuna 13 is a great reminder for us all that the most beautiful stories of hope and renewal can emerge from the deepest challenges!

The best time to visit Comuna 13

The best time to visit Comuna 13 highly depends on what you are looking for in a visit. As Medellin is called “the city of eternal spring” the temperature is nice year-round and weather-wise any time of the year is suitable for a visit. 

Regarding tourist crowds, I can highly recommend visiting outside of peak season, which is from December to February. Not only is this the time that many foreign tourists visit Colombia, but it’s also holiday season in Colombia and it was a bit insane how many Colombian tourists were on the road. 

As a result, Comuna 13 was packed to the brim with domestic travelers when we visited. I believe it’s better to visit in March when the Colombian holiday season is over, and before the Eastern holidays start.

Final thoughts

There you go! I hope this post inspired you to visit to Comuna 13 in Medellin and to not only see the street art but also learn about its history and social transformation.

Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or drop me a message through my contact page . 

Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fancy more Colombia travel advice?

• San Agustin, Colombia: An Easy Travel Guide
• Tatacoa Desert: A Remarkable Hidden Gem in Colombia
• Silvia, Colombia: The Guambiano Market & More Travel Tips
• Villavieja, Colombia: A Complete Travel Guide
• Cocora Valley, Colombia: All You Need to Know
• Can You Drink Tap Water in Bogota? What You Need to Know!
• Buga, Colombia: A Complete Travel Guide to a Hidden Gem
• Dibulla, Colombia: A Hidden Gem on The Caribbean Coast
• March 1, 2024

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Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and  yourself!

On this website, I cover different topics like slow travel, plant-based food guides, responsible travel, sustainable packing, eco-travel, and more !

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Comuna 13 Free Tour

• 9.50 / 10 7,191 reviews | 67,728 travellers The girls who gave us the tour were very good!! They knew the whole story and they also live in commune 13! 10 Juancin Costamagna
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Enjoy a fantastic free tour of Medellin's Comuna 13 , an area that has traded its past of criminality and danger for a future of diversity and positivity .

We'll meet up at the time of your choice at San Javier metro station . From here, we'll take the metro and the bus to  Comuna 13 in Medellin , a fascinating hillside neighborhood full of color and life.

During the free tour of Comuna 13 , we'll talk about its dark past and how it was once the most dangerous area in the world . Due to its strategic location, Comuna 13 became the epicenter of violence and armed conflict in Medellin. While we contemplate its colorful graffiti, we'll talk about the different military operations that took place in the area, such as the famous Mariscal and Orion.

However, walking through its steep streets you'll feel totally comfortable and safe. This is due to the incredible transformation of Comuna 13 in the last decades. Thanks to the street art and its colorful murals , the locals have managed to turn it into an attractive place for visitors without forgetting its past.

After 2.5 hours, we'll say goodbye and end the free tour of Comuna 13 back in the center of Medellin.

More Information

2 hours 30 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Not included

Bus ticket: 2,000 COP ( US$ 0.50) per person

When to book?

You can book up until 1 hour before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation. An accompanying person is required.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

World Lion Tour Show more

Corporate name: Leandro Román Gomez

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

San Javier Metro Station

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Comuna 13 Medellín (Full Guide + Tour Recommendations)

Twenty years ago Comuna 13 Medellín was one of the most dangerous places in the world. Run by cartels, rife with violence and crime, overpopulated and unsafe just to live there.

But today, it’s completely transformed. The streets once controlled by drug and weapons traffickers are now full of artwork, street performers and food and drink stalls. And everyday visitors flock to Comuna 13 to learn about its history, immerse themselves in the culture and support the local economy.

Taking a Comuna 13 tour with a local guide is the most popular way people visit this neighbourhood. And you’ll find recommendations for the best here – as well as how to visit by yourself on a Comuna 13 self-guided tour.

Read on for an overview of the history, what to expect in this neighbourhood, how to get to Comuna 13 and the best tours…

Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a qualifying purchase.

What is Comuna 13 Medellín?

Comuna 13 is one of 16 communes in Medellín. And while most people believe it to be one neighbourhood, it’s actually a whole district with many neighbourhoods across the steep hills.

Today, the area may be popular with tourists enjoying the artwork, street performances and bars . But, Comuna 13 was once known as one of the most dangerous places in the world .

And, the story of that transformation is fascinating…

A Short Comuna 13 History

I’m summarising because the best way to learn about the area is to take a Comuna 13 tour and hear the story from a local. The next best is to read a dedicated and thorough history guide compiled by an expert, not a travel blogger.

Located on the western hills of Medellín, Comuna 13 soon attracted the attention of traffickers. With its location near a main highway, these traffickers realised they could use the area to easily transport weapons, drugs and money in and out of the city .

This was an action that largely went unchallenged. Because the district was home to many migrants from across Colombia with little money or influence.

And quickly, the area became controlled by the gangs who recruited people living there with the lure of money that they couldn’t earn any other way.

Violence and stigmatisation of those who lived there ensued. In fact, many people are still missing today, and their relatives will never know what happened or where their remains lie.

But after years of cartel rule, the Colombian military entered Comuna 13 Medellín in October 2002 . And in a multi-day siege – called Operation Orion – began to overthrow the rebel groups. Bullet holes from that pivotal point in the area’s history remain visible today.

Evolution into One of Medellín’s Most Popular Tourist Spots

Today, you might associate Comuna 13 with vibrant art or confident street performers. But, it still remains an area of low socioeconomic status.

The area has very few roads , requiring residents to walk long distances uphill to reach their homes. The addition of 6 outdoor escalators in 2011 improved the situation only slightly.

Additionally, many of the houses are unfinished – though, this is on purpose to pay lower taxes. However, the corrugated iron roofs are typically pinned down with bricks to prevent them from being washed away during heavy rain.

Despite this, visiting Comuna 13 isn’t a trip to view poverty or feel sorry for the residents. Instead, it’s very much a celebration of the transformation over the last 20 years .

Today, the people are proud to say they’re from this neighbourhood.

Financial investment and the reduction of crime have made the area more appealing to tourists. And now, the locals dance, rap or display and sell their art in galleries to earn money.

Comuna 13 might not have the money, status or towering buildings compared with other neighbourhoods. But, it has soul, purpose, community and a vision for a better future .

Why You Should Visit Medellín’s Comuna 13

A trip to Comuna 13 is an immersive experience taking you through the streets of a place once dubbed the most dangerous place in the world. It was in many of our lifetimes that crime, poverty, violence and discrimination plagued this part of Medellín.

Yet, in a relatively short amount of time, Comuna 13 has been transformed. Tourism has created jobs, boosted the economy and made the area an attractive place to visit.

As well as being a historically fascinating place to visit, you’ll come face to face with the culture of Comuna 13. It’s vibrant , it’s busy and it’s where real people live and work .

This is no show home, it’s gritty and soulful . You’ll love it.

From a personal perspective, visiting Comuna 13 felt like the most authentic look into life in Medellín , especially being accompanied by a local guide.

As well as his knowledge of historic and recent events told with his memories of each, we bumped into so many people he knew during the tour. Someone setting up a new art gallery, a street performer, someone working in a shop.

And yet, despite being popular with tourists, it feels much more real than the soulless high-rise buildings of El Poblado. Or the grey buildings of the downtown area.

But, Comuna 13 was definitely a highlight of the two weeks I spent in the city. It’s unlike anywhere else in Medellín. The personal touch is really what sets a Comuna 13 walking tour with local guides apart.

INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT ABOUT THE BEST COMUNA 13 WALKING TOUR? > > Jump to the section below on the best tours, DIY visits and what to avoid! < <

Is Comuna 13 safe?

Yes, it’s safe to visit during the day and early evening. Although – like much of Medellín – it’s recommended to not visit at night.

The previous threats of violence, gang warfare and drug trafficking might have gone. But as this is a tourist hotspot, you still need to watch out for pickpocketers and use general common sense methods as in any major city.

What to do in Comuna 13

The district is huge and there’s lots to see, do and experience. And no two visits will be exactly the same.

There are plenty of ways to get off the typical route. But, here’s where to go in Comuna 13 to see the best bits…

Street Performers, Graffiti and Street Art

From afar, you’ll hear the music from dance groups and rappers . Audience interaction is almost a given, so sit at the back if you don’t want to participate!

The street dancers we watched got a few people up to have a dance-off. The rap group asked us to each say our favourite Spanish word as well as what country we were from. Then, they freestyle rapped with all those words in!

Graffiti art and street art are also everywhere!

On the viaduct, along the escalators and on the side of almost every building! Each has a unique story and meaning, with tour guides typically stopping at various different ones during your visit.

Some of this artwork is also replicated onto canvases, prints and souvenirs that you can take home with you.

Comuna 13 Escalators

The escalators – somehow – are both the least and most interesting thing about Comuna 13 . Honestly, these escalators are just like every other one you’ve seen before, except they’re not.

They were installed after the siege in Comuna 13 to regain control from the gangs and cartels. As the government’s way of providing compensation to the community.

Because one of the biggest inconveniences to people living in the area was the difficulty in travelling around. Since the only way was up and down narrow stairs, with no roads for vehicles.

The installation of 6 escalators (3 going up and 3 going down) reduced a 25-minute uphill walk to 6 minutes travelling on the Comuna 13 escalators. This was transformative for those with reduced mobility, young children and carrying heavy shopping!

However, in a neighbourhood the size of Comuna 13, 3 pairs of escalators only solve the ease of access issue for some people.

And, of course, there’s the fact that the 6 Comuna 13 escalators do not make up for years of gang rule, sky-high murder rates, a siege and the transfer of power to paramilitary groups! It’s a controversial subject, for sure.

Art Galleries and Souvenir Shops

Speaking Spanish might be the way people in Comuna 13 communicate but art is the real common language here . As well as the huge amount of street art, Comuna 13 is also home to a large collection of art galleries and art shops.

Around the escalators, there’s some immersive, neon galleries that you can walk inside for a bedazzling experience! Plus, there’s the more traditional art galleries and shops that display canvases and prints available for purchase.

As well as artwork in the more traditional form, some of the most popular designs are also available on souvenirs . T-shirts, tote bags and the like are easy to come by featuring the best of Comuna 13’s artwork.

Cafes, Coffee Shops, Bars and Restaurants

Not often thought of as a place for a drink or a meal. But as a popular tourist destination, there’s a good number of bars and restaurants around the central area (i.e. near the escalators).

Stalls and small shops selling ice cream, coffee, beers and soft drinks are also commonplace. If you’ve never tried avocado-flavoured ice cream, this is your chance…

Comuna 13 Tour Recommendations (And How to Visit By Yourself)

For exploring Comuna 13, you have three options:

• Paid-for tours (pay upfront)
• Free walking tours (where you tip at the end)
• Going and walking around by yourself

Each has its pros and cons and each will suit different people.

For example, free walking tours have local guides to give you unique insight and a personal touch. Whereas going self-guided, means you can explore different areas away from the main roads.

Best Comuna 13 Walking Tours

• BEST OVERALL: COMUNA 13 HISTORY & GRAFFITI WALKING TOUR
• BEST PRIVATE TOUR: COMUNA 13 & DOWNTOWN WALKING TOUR

Free walking tours aren’t exactly free when you consider the tip. So, if you’d prefer to pay upfront or online (and in your own currency) then a tour where you pay in advance is for you.

A paid-for Comuna 13 Medellín tour is also for you if you prefer the comfort of having transport included to and from your hotel or hostel, typically in El Poblado to Comuna 13. Although, do check carefully as not all include this.

But other than that, the paid tours don’t include anything you wouldn’t get on a free walking tour. So make sure you don’t get overcharged.

These tours are typically priced around the 20 to 25 USD mark (80,000 to 100,000 COP).

My top pick is this Comuna 13 history and graffiti tour with a cable car ride . It offers great value and can be booked online to secure your date – with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand should your plans change.

Check out prices and availability for your travel dates…

But, if you’re after a private or small group tour , then there are some pretty economic options. These typically include hotel or hostel pick-up so are suited to new or first-time travellers…

Free Walking Tours of Comuna 13

The Comuna 13 free walking tours typically start at San Javier Station . Here, you’ll meet your guide and group before heading into the Comuna by bus , the price of which (2000 COP) is not included in your tour.

Almost all the Comuna 13 free tours are led by guides who themselves grew up and continue to live in the district . Meaning they provide a unique and personal insight into the history of the neighbourhood and the current tourism boom.

Each company and guide takes a slightly different route and approach to showing you the best of the area.

However, you can expect your Comuna 13 tour to include watching rappers and street dancers and visiting art galleries and coffee shops (with free samples). As well as learning more about the different pieces of street art.

The free Comuna 13 walking tours are the best all-around value option , as the guides work on a tip-based model to get paid.

25,000 COP is the recommended tip amount. But it’s optional and you can tip what you think it was worth or what you can afford.

The tours typically last around 2.5 hours and end in Comuna 13. So you’ll need to make your own way back to the metro.

Recommendations for English and Spanish walking tours: Civitatis , Guru Walk and Zippy Tours .

Comuna 13 Self-Guided Tour

Not everyone enjoys tours and that’s ok. If you fall into that group, then you’ll be thrilled to know that you can explore Comuna 13 by yourself, easy peasy, lemon squeezy!

Yes, that’s right, you don’t need a tour or guide to visit Comuna 13 . You can simply go there, walk the streets, drink in the bars, photograph the artwork and more, all by yourself.

Yes, it’s completely safe to do so and during the day and early evening, you’ll find plenty of tourists doing the same.

As in cities across the world, you should take extra care after dark. And make sure you have a way to get back to where you’re staying safely.

While you might miss out on some information, insight and anecdotes from a guide. You can always ask your questions to the many friendly and welcoming people working in hospitality and tourism in the neighbourhood.

Of course, the more Spanish you know, the better . Don’t expect English to be widely spoken here.

Additionally, you don’t have to choose between a walking tour and a Comuna 13 self-guided tour. The walking tours can be great to get your bearings as off of the main street, it’s a maze. You can take a walking tour and then spend a few more hours walking around either the same day or another day.

Recommendations: Visit early in the day to beat the crowds. Morning tours meet at San Javier around 10 am and get to Comuna 13 Medellín around 10.30 am. The afternoons are even busier.

What a Comuna 13 Tour is not…

Pablo escobar or narco tourism.

Of course, there’s an undeniable link between Comuna 13, Pablo Escobar and the narcotics trade. But, tours of the district do not focus on the drug lord specifically nor the drug trade .

Pablo Escobar tours are available in Medellín. Although these are very unpopular with locals who would prefer their city stopped being associated with a man who caused so much damage and pain.

These tours typically visit a museum curated by a family member, which I’ve heard from many people to be overpriced and underwhelming.

For a more morally sound education on the role Pablo Escobar had in making Medellín what it is today, take the Real City Tours downtown walking tour . It’s free and you’ll get a complete introduction to the city.

Graffiti Tour

A few tours advertise themselves as ‘Comuna 13 Graffiti Tours’ but they don’t just focus on the graffiti . In fact, they’re no different than the ‘standard’ Comuna 13 walking tour option listed above.

These self-proclaimed graffiti tours still watch street performers, still visit the escalators and still see the shops and stalls.

Of course, like the standard walking tours, they do take you to various pieces of graffiti and street art. But importantly, that isn’t the only thing you’ll see on a graffiti tour of Medellín.

How to Get to Comuna 13 Medellín

Getting a taxi is the most direct option, but Medellín traffic can add unexpected time and cost to your journey all throughout the day.

Instead, take a metro to San Javier Station. From there, you can either walk (uphill, I don’t recommend it), take a taxi or take a dedicated bus running from the station to the lower part of Comuna 13 (2000 COP per person).

How to Get to Comuna 13 From El Poblado

Travelling from El Poblado to Comuna 13 is simple and cheap. If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to buy a Metro Card from the kiosk at the metro station for 10,000 COP.

When buying the card, you’ll also be able to put credit on it for your upcoming journeys.

However, you can have one Metro card for multiple people. You’ll just need to pass it along as you pass through the gates and ensure it has enough credit.

All metro journeys in Medellín cost 3280 COP for tourists , including changes as long as you don’t exit through the barriers.

From Poblado Metro Station, take Line A in the direction of Niquia . After 4 stops, change at San Antonio Station for Line B to the last stop: San Javier Station .

From San Javier, you have three choices to take you into Comuna 13:

• Walk . But it’s all uphill and you’ll be doing plenty of walking around when you arrive, so I don’t recommend it.
• Taxi . Uber or Cabify typically charge around 7000 to 8000 COP but metered taxis will be more.
• Bus . There’s a special bus service from San Javier Station to Comuna 13 for visitors. A one-way fare costs 2000 COP and you can pay with cash or a Medellín Metro card .

Remember, if you’re joining a Comuna 13 Medellín tour most of these have San Javier Metro Station as the meeting place. So, you only need to travel to the station and then you’ll travel as a group into the district.

Got Everything You Need?

Now you know a little bit about Comuna 13, you’re ready to learn more when visiting. And honestly, the locals are the best people to learn from.

Don’t forget to book your Comuna 13 Medellín tour online – secure your date with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

Do you have any questions or want any more information? If so, drop a comment below and I’ll get back to you!

Information and prices are correct as of December 2023 but are subject to change in future.

More Colombia Travel Inspiration…

BOGOTÁ : El Salto del Tequendama Falls: Bogotá’s Hidden Gem [Ultimate Guide]

BOGOTÁ: Cascada La Chorrera, Choachi: Colombia’s Tallest Waterfall (Complete Guide)

SANTANDER: San Gil Santander: Complete Guide to Colombia’s Adventure Capital

LA GUAJIRA: Palomino Beach (Colombia’s Caribbean Coast Paradise): Ultimate Guide

QUINDIO: Salento, Colombia: Ultimate Guide (Quindío’s Prettiest Town)

HUILA: Tatacoa Desert, Colombia: Essential Visitor’s Guide

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Tour Comuna 13

Tour Comuna 13 Medellín

TOUR COMUNA 13 MEDELLÍN

Graffiti tour comuna 13 en english o español..

El Graffiti TOUR COMUNA 13 Medellín es un grandioso tour de la ciudad de Medellín, todos lo que visitan nuestra ciudad de la eterna primavera realizan el tour de la comuna 13.

Cuando un turista extranjero y uno colombiano viene a la ciudad de Medellín, realiza tours como: El tour Guatapé, el City Tour, el Tour Pablo Escobar, pero sin duda alguno todos deben hacer el Graffiti Tour Comuna 13.

La comuna 13 de Medellín día tras día se mejora y renueva para que sus habitantes disfruten de un lugar cada vez más tranquilo y lleno de paz.

Nuestra agencia es 100% experta en el turismo de la ciudad de Medellín y en la  Comuna 13 de Medellín . La comuna 13 hace muchos años fue un lugar lleno de violencia y muerte, pero ahora es un lugar maravilloso, donde podrás disfrutar del arte y la paz que se vive en nuestra comuna 13.

El Tour Comuna 13 GRUPAL (Compartido) normalmente tiene un costo desde $35,000 pesos colombianos X persona hasta $80,000  pesos colombianos  X persona (eso depende de la Agencia de Tours).

NOSOTROS estamos en OFERTA ESPECIAL y el tour quedaría en tan solo $29,000  pesos colombianos  X persona o 9 Dólares (Este es el Tour más económico que existe a la Comuna 13). (Aplica solo para idioma español)

Pero los cupos se agotan Rápido, por esto te pedimos que hagas tu reservación antes de salir de la WEB.

NO. Si haces la reservación por medio de esta Web no tienes que pagar con anticipación. El dinero lo pagas al guía en día del tour cuando te encuentres con él.

Los horarios habituales serian: 

RECUERDA QUE DEBES HACER LA RESERVA CON ANTICIPACIÓN.

2 horas y media Aproximadamente en el tour grupal.

Hay otros planes que se hacen, como los privados con transporte, y es posible que duren más tiempo.

Esta es una excursión donde se muestra la historia de este territorio y cómo este lugar fue transformado por medio de las obras sociales, el arte y la cultura. También se visita diferentes atractivos turísticos de algunos barrios.

Para el Tour Comuna 13 tenemos 2 idiomas.

• Español (El descuento especial solo se aplica al idioma español)
• Inglés (English)

Generalmente dura 2 horas y media aproximadamente (2:30 horas). Pero en ocasiones dependerá del tipo de grupo que tenga el guía, ya que en ocasiones puede durar un poco más.

Si. Manejamos un tour totalmente privado para las personas que les gusto un recorrido más VIP premium. Este tour privado incluye el transporte desde el Hotel ida y regreso.

Nombres y números de identificación

Si. Manejamos 3 Planes diferentes para el tour de la comuna 13, los cuales son:

• PLAN 1: Tour grupal en español (2 horas y media aproximadamente). Este es el plan de la oferta.
• PLAN 2: Tour privado con transporte desde el hotel (3 horas y media aproximadamente)
• PLAN 3: Tour privado VIP (6 horas aproximadamente)

Si quieres más información de los planes 2 y 3 privados nos puedes escribir al WhatsApp para darte la información.

Si. Nosotros hacemos todos los tours de la ciudad de Medellín.

• City Tour Medellín.
• Tour Guatapé.
• Tour Pablo Escobar.
• Graffiti Tour Comuna 13.
• Excursión a la Hacienda Nápoles.
• Tour Santa Fe de Antioquia.
• Muchos más.

En el Momento estamos con un descuento especial, para realizar la reservación, debes:

• Llenar el Formulario de Reserva que hay al final de esta WEB (Es muy fácil).
• Puedes escribirnos al WhatsApp Para realizar la reservación.
• Llegar al punto de Encuentro 10 minutos antes.
• Llevar bloqueador solar (anti solar) para protegerte del sol.
• Llevar Ropa Cómoda, de esta manera vas a poder disfrutar al máximo.
• Proteger los diferentes lugares que se visitaran en el lugar.
• Traer dinero en efectivo, ya que en el sector hay muchos tipos de ventas y muchos no tienen datafono.
• Cuando estemos en las Escaleras Eléctricas No se puede correr en ellas o sentarse.
• No darle dinero a los niños que estén pidiendo dinero en la zona.
• Estar atento a las recomendaciones del guía.

GRAN OFERTA DEL TOUR

El Tour Más Económico de la Comuna 13 y sin abonos de Dinero (Pagas al llegar al tour)

Pesos colombianos $29,000 POR persona. También puedes pagar 9 dólares americanos o Euros.

¿Qué Incluye el Tour Del Graffiti?

• Guía profesional en español o inglés.
• Sector de los grafitis y murales de la Comuna 13.
• Te daremos la Historia verdadera del conflicto armado, pero también su cambio (teniendo en cuenta que esto es lo más importante).
• Además, el significado de los grafitis.
• Visitaremos las innovadoras Escaleras Eléctricas.
• Show de canto (Rap) o baile callejero.
• Viaducto Media Ladera.
• Entramos a la 3C3D (graffitis que en la oscuridad iluminan).
• También, ingresamos a galerías.
• Visitaremos el Barrio 20 de Julio.
• Barrios Independencias 1 y 2.

Tour Comuna 13 Medellín.

En nuestro tour vas a poder disfrutar de los murales y graffitis que se encuentras en barrios como el 20 de Julio y las Independencias, ya que nuestro Graffitour es el más completo de todos.

También, en el Graffiti tour vas a poder conocer la historia de la comuna 13, una historia que muestra como los habitantes de este lugar han salido adelante con sus familias.

Graffitour o Tour del Grafiti, tour Comuna 13, City Tour Comuna 13, son algunos de los nombres con el cual se conoce este tour a nivel mundial.

No te pierdas la mejor experiencia.

Historia de la Comuna 13.

Lo primero que debemos hacer antes de hablar un poco de la historia es entender que las comunas no son los peores lugares de la ciudad de Medellín. 16 comunas y 275 barrios es lo que vamos a encontrar en la ciudad de Medellín , ya que esta es la manera en la cual es distribuida la ciudad de parte de la alcaldía de Medellín.

 Con diferentes campesinos antioqueños a principios del siglo XX empezó el proceso de crecimiento y edificación en la comuna 13 o San Javier como es llamada esta comuna.

Muchos de los asentamientos los vimos entre los años 70 y 80. Dentro de las personas que estaban llegando a la Comuna 13 eran del Urabá Antioqueño y del Chocó, la mayoría de ellos habían sido víctimas de desplazamiento por parte de las guerrillas y los paramilitares.

El barrio el Salado es uno de los primeros barrios en conformarse en esta zona de la ciudad.  

ELP, FARC, ELN, CAP y AUTODEFENSAS; eran algunos de los grupos armados que empezaron a impartir temor, muerte y zozobra en esta zona, los cuales hacían que el conflicto armado fuera cada vez más fuerte, todo esto empezó desde los 80 y todo se fue agravando alrededor del año 2000.

Con los grupos armados hubo muchas víctimas, ya que ellos practicaban el secuestro, las extorsiones y las muertes. En medio de todo lo que estaba sucediendo en la Comuna 13, el gobierno tomó la decisión de realizar operaciones militares, las cuales fueron alrededor de 24. Algunas de las operaciones militares que más se conocen son la operación Mariscal y la Operación Orión.

En nuestros días si vienes a la comuna 13 , te vas a dar cuenta que es un lugar muy diferente. Muchos de los cambios que vemos en la comuna 13 es gracias a muchos grupos comunitarios y artísticos, aún hay personas en particular que han sido parte de esta transformación social que tanto está conociendo el mundo. Por eso te invitamos a venir y ver lo que ha sucedido en la Comuna 13 de Medellín.

¿Cuándo Empezó el Graffitour Medellín?

« Perrograf » y « Jeihhco » artistas de la comuna 13 de Medellín decidieron organizar un recorrido por los grafitis que se encuentran en algunos barrios de esta zona de la ciudad. 

Esto porque la fundación “ Mi sangre ” de Juanes invitó a un político de los Estados Unidos a conocer este lugar, porque ya se estaba conociendo los cambios sociales que se estaban dando, Esto sucedió entre el año 2008 y el 2009.

El Graffitour Medellín nace del esfuerzo que hicieron estos artistas por mostrar su barrio y mostrar que con el arte se pueden hacer muchas cosas para transformar territorios.

Comuna 13 Tour English.

En este tour de la Comuna 13 en english o español, vas a poder conocer uno de los símbolos de transformación más grandes que hay en Colombia, este símbolo es las Escaleras Eléctricas , estas Escaleras fueron hechas al aire libre y es considerada una mega obra arquitectónica, porque el lugar donde fueron construidas es un lugar complicado. 

Cuando llegas al final del último tramo de las Escaleras vas a poder disfrutar de unas vistas hermosas a la ciudad de Medellín, porque los miradores te darán una vista grandiosa a gran parte de la ciudad.

Para construir las Escaleras Eléctricas de la Comuna 13 de Medellín se toma como referencia las escaleras al aire abierto que podemos ver en Barcelona – España.

Esto trajo un gran impacto positivo al barrio Independencia I, hay que decirlo de esta manera, porque no todos los barrios de la comuna 13 fueron beneficiados. Inaugurado este proyecto en diciembre del 2011 las nuevas Escaleras reemplazaron 350 escalones de concreto que había en el lugar.

Graffiti Tour Medellín en la Comuna 13.

En medio de todo el recorrido vas a estar tranquilo, porque vas a estar con guías expertos que harán que tu paseo sea único, además, vas a estar seguro.

No tienes nada de qué preocuparte porque nosotros nos encargaremos que tengas la mejor experiencia de todas.

¿Tour Comuna 13 Gratis?

El Tour Comuna 13 Gratis NO existe, Muchos buscan este tour gratuito, pero debemos decir que no existe agencia o empresa de la comuna 13 que lo haga. Aún hay free tour, te exigen un mínimo por cada persona y este mínimo sigue siendo mayor de lo que te estamos cobrando por esta web. 

Por este motivo no existe otro tour más económico y más completo que el que vas a tener con nuestra Agencia de Tours en la Comuna 13.

NOTA: Aunque el tour es barato en su costo, te garantizamos que es 100% completo y muy garantizado por más de 14,000 turistas que hemos tenido.

RECUERDA QUE DEBES HACER LA RESERVA CON ANTICIPACIÓN, PORQUE LOS CUPOS SE AGOTAN MUY RÁPIDO.

Inglés – English (Por favor solicitarlo con anticipación).

Recomendaciones del Tour.

• Lleva ropa cómoda.
• Aplicarse Bloqueador o anti solar.
• Traer zapatos cómodos.
• Sombrilla (paraguas), El tour no se cancela por lluvia, ya que el clima de Medellín es muy Bipolar (puede estar lloviendo y a los 20 minutos saliendo el sol)
• Llegar a Tiempo al punto de encuentro (el cual se te dará al Realizar la reserva por WhatsApp).
• Recuerda traer dinero en efectivo, porque hay mucho comercio en el sector.
• Si quieres traer cámara fotográfica sería fantástico.

¿Es peligrosa la Comuna 13?

Aunque la Comuna 13 fue un lugar muy peligroso, puedes hacer el tour con toda tranquilidad, ya que la comuna 13 en el día de hoy es un lugar tranquilo.

Además, vas a estar con un guía profesional que te acompañará en todo momento y hará que tengas la mejor experiencia de todas.

¿Cómo llegar a la Comuna 13?

Esta es una de las preguntas que más nos hacen los turistas de Medellín . No te preocupes, al realizar la reservación te escribiremos y te daremos la ubicación del punto de encuentro, también te vamos a dar el nombre y foto del guía. Todo esto lo haremos por medio de WhatsApp, por eso es importante que nos dejes tu contacto activo (que esté sirviendo en Colombia)

¿Qué hacer en Medellín? Otros Tours en Medellín.

• Tour Guatapé y Peñol.
• Tour Hacienda Nápoles.
• Cuatrimotos Tour ATVS.
• Tour de Parapente.

Sin duda alguna tendrá la mejor experiencia en la ciudad de Medellín, ya que esta hermosa ciudad tiene mucho que ofrecer. P uedes escribirnos para darte la información de cada Tours por Medellín.

COMENTARIOS DE NUESTROS TURISTAS.

Calificación 5 estrellas de 8.352 visitantes

Más fotos e Imágenes.

RESERVACIÓN DEL TOUR

NOTA: No necesitas abonos o adelantos para esta oferta especial. Pero si haces la reservación debes estar 100% seguro que SÍ asistirán al tour, para no ocupar el espacio de otro turistas que SI desean disfrutar de esta experiencia.

🔴✅ CLIC PARA RESERVAR TOUR ✅🔴

RESERVA CON ANTICIPACIÓN Y PAGAS EL DÍA DEL TOUR AL GUÍA.

Sin dudarlo ni un segundo, tu experiencia será fabulosa, sin importar que vengas con amigos o familia, todos quedarán impresionados y agradecidos.

El Mejor Tour del Graffiti Medellín.

El Tour de la Comuna 13 es una excursión que debes hacer cuando te encuentres en la ciudad de Medellín. Es un tour impactante por su historia y lleno de mucha cultura.

Reserva este tour de manera segura y disfruta de los mejores guías de Medellín.

NO encontrarás un mejor tour, nosotros somos la empresa #1 de la Comuna 13 con más de 14.800 visitantes tenemos la mejor experiencia y los guías más preparados.

RESERVA AHORA

WhatsApp: +57 3508776275

13 essential things to know about Comuna 13 & why you absolutely need to visit

Every day, dozens of energetic, bilingual paisa tour guides stand beneath vibrant red and blue umbrellas outside the San Javier Metro Station, each collecting a small group of travellers with whom to walk through Comuna 13, share stories of Medellín’s darkest days, and showcase the incredible transformation this city has undergone in just a few decades.

Bullet holes are painted over by vibrant street murals, outdoor escalators connect the barrio to the city below, locals sell handmade wares and tasty local delicacies to flushed gringos , and amidst it all, a palpable feeling of hope hangs over a place once plagued by gang violence and mercilessly presided over by Pablo Escobar and his cartel.

Previously the most dangerous neighbourhood in the world’s most dangerous city, Comuna 13 doesn’t seem like the kind of place that would attract a lot of tourist attention— and yet it’s probably the single most important place to visit while in Medellín. Here’s absolutely everything you need to know about Comuna 13, including some of its most significant history, what you can expect to see now, and how to visit the barrio yourself.

What's in this travel guide

1 | Comuna 13 started as an illegal settlement above Medellín

Comuna 13 is a low socioeconomic neighbourhood perched above Medellín , its seemingly infinite swathe of polychromatic brick homes packed tightly onto the steep western hills. Although it’s (nearly) accessible from the Metro line, it’s still a world away from the rest of the city in many ways.

Hillside barrios like Comuna 13 were originally settled after violence in the Colombian countryside drove thousands of citizens into Medellín, all searching for refuge. Unfortunately, many of these people had little more than the clothes on their back and couldn’t afford to live within the city itself, so desperate residents were left to erect ramshackle, unsanctioned domiciles from found materials , practically right on top of each other.

The government didn’t recognise these residences as legal, which meant that Comuna 13 was not only left without any basic infrastructure, but also that the area received no support from the police . Its location and complete lack of police presence is really what combined to make Comuna 13 the perfect drug- and arms-trafficking intermediary between Medellín and the rest of the country— and indeed the rest of the world.

2 | Comuna 13 used to be the most dangerous place in Medellín

Much like the lawless favelas still operating under gang control in Rio de Janeiro , Comuna 13 spent the majority of the 1980s and 90s as a cartel stronghold , its prime (and otherwise unprotected) position between the city and the mountains making it the ultimate corridor for drugs to leave— and weapons to enter— Medellín.

Cast unwittingly at the centre of the Colombian drug trade and favoured by guerrilla groups hoping to arm desperate residents, Comuna 13 found itself hopelessly caught up in an ongoing war between the Medellín Cartel, opposing gangs, guerrilla insurgents like FARC, extremist paramilitary forces, and the government , each vying for control over the barrio .

All of these insatiable powers converging on a single neighbourhood translated to several decades of the most intense bloodshed the city had ever seen, with kidnappings, disappearances, and murder often a daily occurrence in Comuna 13 . Locals describe living under this level of fear as practically crippling, wondering each night whether their loved ones would return home, and yet having no hope of escape.

3 | …which was also the most dangerous city in the world

Comuna 13 was once the most dangerous place in Medellín, but the rest of the city certainly wasn’t free from violence or cartel influence. In 1988,  Time Magazine wrote an article  titled “Welcome to Medellin, coke capital of the world”, which dubbed Colombia’s second largest city the most dangerous place on earth.

Government officials were assassinated with alarming frequency, bodies lay in the streets from the  thousands of people murdered annually , and amidst it all, waring guerrilla and paramilitary groups ripped the country to literal shreds in a bid to gain political power. More than 200 bombs were detonated within the city in a single decade and 6,350 people were murdered in 1991 alone . It’s difficult to imagine living amidst this kind of unbridled, inexhaustible violence, but millions of paisas did.

4 | Medellín & Comuna 13 have changed a lot in recent years

Thankfully, the Colombian government launched a successful operation to expel the cartel and guerrilla groups based in Comuna 13 and regain control of the tattered barrio in 2002. Like pretty much all of the activity within Comuna 13, there was a major unintended toll on innocent residents, hundreds of whom were killed or badly injured in the final military airstrike . Still, this marked a real turning point for Comuna 13— and Medellín.

Present day Medellín is the most vibrant and culturally rich city in Colombia, and perhaps nothing highlights its remarkable transformation better than, just 25 years after being called the “world’s most dangerous city”, being awarded the title of  “world’s most innovative city”  by the Urban Land Institute and Wall Street Journal . It’s an accolade hard earned but very well deserved.

No where is this incredible transformation better exemplified than in Comuna 13, whose bullet-riddled streets are now lit up by playful children and endless street art , a symbol of how far things have come in the years since gangs and drug lords presided over the city.

5 | …and that’s why you need to visit

Educating yourself about the darkest moments in a city’s history can sometimes feel morbid, but this kind of social and cultural awareness is unbelievably important when we travel . In fact, it’s kind of the whole point.

I don’t think you can really claim to have seen Medellín if you haven’t learned about its storied past, and  you certainly can’t appreciate its incredible progress if you don’t know where its people have been . No book or documentary will ever do justice to actually visiting Comuna 13 with someone who lived through the wild fear and incredible violence of Escobar-era Medellín. And that is why you need to visit— to try and understand.

Want to discover more amazing things to do in Medellín? 9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA’S MOST INNOVATIVE CITY

6 | Paisas still don’t like talking about Pablo Escobar

Even though Comuna 13 and its residents are in many ways incredibly open about the past, there’s one subject you’ll almost never hear broached: Pablo Escobar. In fact, most paisas won’t even say his name.

Nearly 50,000 Colombians lost their lives at the hands of the Medellín Cartel, Pablo’s highly organised and influential crime syndicate , over the course of its nearly-two-decade reign— some through direct involvement, but many others because they resisted corruption or simply because they were in the wrong place at the wrong time. Only 20 years ago, bodies lay in the streets, co-opted government officials looked the other way, more than 600 police officers were murdered at Pablo’s behest, and so many families lost their loved ones. These wounds are still very fresh in Medellín.

And so, while the rest of the world has descended inexorably into narco-fever, paisas are taking serious issue with popular media (and tourists) that romanticise their painful history and glorify the man responsible. As Mayor Federico Gutiérrez puts it: “We want to stop this mafia culture that gives us such terrible values. I would say to people who want to come to our city, you are welcome but please respect the story of our victims . They still exist. So much pain still exists.”

7 | Comuna 13 is now known for its street art

From a barrio characterised by violence and poverty to one known for its innovation and social enterprising,  Comuna 13 has undergone an enormous transformation in the last few years , symbolised in large part by the art that now covers every building, wall, and stair.

All of Comuna 13’s spectacular street art hasn’t just given the barrio an aesthetic improvement, though— it’s been a creative outlet for locals to share their stories and  spread hope for a brighter future , as well as an incredibly effective way to  engage at-risk youth in positive community programs.  Rather than wagging school or initiating into gangs, young  paisas  are now being encouraged to develop creative passions like painting. And this is how you should view art in Comuna 13:  as a tool for powerful social change and unfettered cultural expression.

8 | …and there’s heaps of other art in Comuna 13, too

In addition to the murals and graffiti art covering every available surface in Comuna 13, you’ll also find lots of other art present in the barrio today. Most notably, talented groups of young hip-hop dancers perform in small squares and rappers spit quick-paced lyrics to crowds of eager onlookers.

These community initiatives are another huge win for Comuna 13, a way to engage young people who might otherwise be at risk for joining a gang or who might be tempted to turn to petty crime as a way to survive in the still-poor barrios around Medellín. Interacting with local artists is a really significant part of the Comuna 13 experience, both for you as a traveller and global citizen AND for paisas hoping to share some of their vibrant culture and beautiful city with the world.

9 | Comuna 13 is also famous for its outdoor escalators

Another of Comuna 13’s most striking features is the long string of outdoor escalators climbing up the hill, and these represent huge progress to locals in terms of social equity and accessibility . Where residents would have previously had to climb the equivalent of 28 stories to reach their home from the city, a 384m series of escalators now cut the journey down to a mere 6 minutes.

In addition to being wildly imaginative and yet another way that Medellín is leading the continent on social innovation, these escalators have provided an unprecedented level of mobility to citizen of Comuna 13 , many of whom had been effectively cut off from the rest of the city due to the physical geography of their home and the difficulty in travelling from its steep streets.

In reverse, the escalators have also brought many city-dwelling paisas up into the hills for possibly the first time AND drawn thousands of tourists to the barrio , a major step in dissolving the stigmatism surrounding Comuna 13 and the socio-economic disparity perpetuated as a result of these attitudes.

10 | Comuna 13 has some of the best views over Medellín

Owing to its prime position in the hills, Comuna 13 also has one of the best views over Medellín that you’ll find anywhere in or around the city . On a clear day, you can see the entire metropolitan area sprawled out beneath you, as well as similarly chockablock brick homes crawling up adjacent hillsides.

11 | You can visit Comuna 13 completely on your own

You can actually visit Comuna 13 on your own for no more than the cost of a metro ticket (2,550COP) and a quick bus ride or taxi to the base of the escalators (5,000COP).

During the daytime, it’s totally safe to do walk around the barrio on your own, and you’ll probably find that locals are happy to chat with you about their home (if you speak Spanish). There are also lots of little art galleries and cafes you can check out, so plan to spend at least a few hours exploring.

Read this post for heaps more info on how to get around Medellín using public transport: 9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA’S MOST INNOVATIVE CITY

12 | …but I’d recommend going with a local tour guide

Even though you CAN visit on your own, I’d strongly recommend opting for a guided tour instead.  Not only is this the best way to learn about the neighbourhood’s transformation and the symbolism behind the most striking pieces of street art, it’s also an excellent way to support locals working hard to de-stigmatise their home.

A vast majority of the tour guides you’ll find (at least the good ones) grew up in Comuna 13 and many still live here today, so  you’re also providing direct financial support to the local community.

There are heaps of tour options, but I’d personally recommend  Zippy Tours , which departs from the San Javier Metro Station daily at 10am or 2pm. Although the tour is technically “free”,  you should plan to tip around 20,000COP (less than $8AUD)   per person.  I promise it will be well worth it!

13 | Comuna 13 will change your impression of Colombia

Formerly a country whose political instability made it a no-go for travellers, Colombia is now one of the most popular destinations in Latin America , and even if you haven’t concluded that for yourself yet, you probably know half a dozen people who have. Its reputation is night and day to what it used to be, but chances are you’re thinking more about its Caribbean beaches and sultry cities than its troubled history when planning a trip.

Visiting Comuna 13 will change your impression of Colombia, but in the absolute best kind of way. This is a magical country with untold natural beauty, but it’s the incredible story of a dark fate subverted and rebirth from the ashes that really captivates.

Medellín and Comuna 13 are leading global examples of a city’s ability to endure in the face of unimaginable terror and remodel into the best possible version of itself, all whilst preserving a memory of the past and remaining brightly optimistic of an ever-improving future . If that doesn’t inspire you, I’m not sure what will.

Read more about Colombia

9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA’S MOST INNOVATIVE CITY

11 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN SAN GIL: A GUIDE TO COLOMBIA’S ADVENTURE CAPITAL

HOW TO GET FROM BOGOTÁ TO SAN GIL: COLOMBIA TRANSPORT GUIDE

TRAVELLING FROM BOGOTÁ TO MEDELLÍN VIA BUS OR PLANE: COLOMBIA TRANSPORT GUIDE

THE BEST WAY TO GET FROM SAN GIL TO MEDELLÍN (BUS VS FLIGHT): COLOMBIA TRANSPORT GUIDE

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING GUATAPÉ AS A DAY TRIP FROM MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA

HOW TO GET FROM MEDELLÍN TO SANTA MARTA (BUS OR FLIGHT): COLOMBIA TRANSPORT GUIDE

HOW TO GET FROM CARTAGENA TO MEDELLÍN (BUS OR FLIGHT): COLOMBIA TRANSPORT GUIDE

MORE COMING SOON

brooke brisbine

I've spent the last decade exploring the world— everything from solo trekking in the Andes to overlanding in Zambia, all while completing a PhD in Biomechanics, teaching at a university & securing permanent residency in Australia. In 2020, I finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time nomad! Whether it’s vanlife in Mexico, scuba diving in the Galápagos, ticking off incredible US National Parks, or climbing in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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The comments.

a very nice article. I would recommend every0ne take a communa 13 tour on saturday’s after 11am.

I’ve just visited Medellin and Communa 13 two weeks ago. I’ve learnt many of the points the author makes in this article. But the article goes much further. It’s a great article.

Thanks so much for reading, Khoa!

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Tour Comuna 13

Graffiti tour comuna 13

TOUR COMUNA 13

Graffiti tour comuna 13 medellín, el mejor tour por la comuna 13.

Para el tour comuna 13, Si en realidad quieres disfrutar de una gran experiencia en la comuna 13, debes realizar el tour con guías especializados. Nuestros guías harán que esta visita sea fenomenal y puedas conocer su historia y su transformación a lo largo de los años.

TOUR POR LA COMUNA 13

Recuerda que los cupos para este TOUR se agotan muy rápido, por lo tanto la mejor opción es reservar AHORA.

VALOR ESPAÑOL:

NOTA 1: Pregunta por los costos en Ingles o el costo del tour Privado por WhatsApp

NOTA 2: El costo que te damos en esta WEB es el más económico de todos. Todos los free tour te exigen un Mínimo o un promedio y son más altos que este valor que te damos. Si buscas economía somos la mejor opción.

DATOS IMPORTANTES:

HORA DEL TOUR:

DURACIÓN DEL TOUR:

El Tour dura 2 horas y media aproximadamente.

Bienvenidos al Graffitour COMUNA 13.

RESERVACIÓN DEL TOUR

Para reservar NO necesitas dejar información de tarjetas de credito y tampoco necesitas hacer abonos (adelantos de dinero).

NOTA: Si reservas el tour, debe ser 100% seguro que asistirás. Además debes dejar el número de WhatsApp para poder comunicarnos fácilmente.

RESERVAR EL TOUR

Al reservar el tour te llegará la aprobación del tour al correo o WhatsApp. Además te llegará el punto de encuentro y el nombre del guía y una foto para que lo reconozcan fácilmente.

COMENTARIOS

El tour me gustó mucho. Hice el tour con mi familia y todo fue estupendo. Recomiendo al guía Fabio, es el mejor de la Comuna 13.

El mejor Tour por la Comuna 13 que he tenido. El guía es muy bueno, conoce mucho de la historia y conoce también la comuna.

Ya he ido a la comuna 13 veces, pero esta última vez realicé la reservación por esta web y no me arrepiento. Me encantó este tour, el guía es muy amable y además conoce mucho la Comuna 13.

Con ellos realicé el Tour Comuna 13 y el Tour a Guatapé. Los 2 tours se hicieron sin problema, todo fue estupendo.

Estuve con mi novio en la Comuna 13 y debo decir que es excelente tour. Todo el que viene n a Medellín debe conocer este hermoso lugar.

El Graffiti Tour Comuna 13 nos gustó mucho, mi familia era un grupo de 11 personas y todos quedamos encantados con el guía y con la comuna 13. Además, había buscado otras agencias, pero era más costoso y no me dieron tanta confianza. Pero me decidí por hacer la reserva por medio de esta pagina web, luego me escribieron por WhatsApp, y todo se hizo muy bien. Gracias por esta gran experiencia.

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Graffiti Free Zippy Walking Tour Comuna 13

Overview of the tour in Medellin

We are your best local guides in COMUNA 13! We live there! Join us on this interesting tour of Comuna 13 and the famous Escalators. We will have different stops on this walking tour to explain some history, talk about current events in this famous part of Medellín, show the mural graffiti art, and introduce some of our dance rhythms. Includes •Local guide •5 neighborhoods in Comuna 13 •artistic expressions (Break Dance, music, and galleries) •Outdoor Escalators •View points, the best views *Recommendations* Booking required, especially on weekends -Be on time at the meeting point. (10 min before) -During the tour, remain with your guide. -Wear comfortable walking shoes. Price: Normal tip 35,000 pesos per person Electronic or credit card payment is accepted.

This activity includes:

• Graffiti Tour
• Local guides
• Graffiti and stories
• Outdoor Escalators
• Real experience

Meeting point

Estacion de metro San Javier

You will find us outside San Javier Metro station (main entrance, No cable car entrance), we will wear a BLUE with GREEN long-sleeved shirt, and we will have a blue umbrella with our name “Zippy Tour Comuna 13”.

Things to note

ATTENTION! If you can not attend your tour time, we kindly ask you to cancel your booking at the bottom of your confirmation form. "Cancel my booking" *Recommendations* -Be on time at the meeting point. (10 min before) -During the tour, remain with your guide. -Wear comfortable walking shoes. Price: Normal tip 35.000 pesos per person

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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Feria de las Flores 2024 - more info please! - Medellin Forum

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Feria de las Flores 2024 - more info please!

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I have searched for information on this year's Feria de la Flores, and surprised that the official (I believe) website only shows 2023 even though it's less than 2 months away. Is there a website with current information on tickets, etc.? This is what I've seen: https://www.medellin.gov.co/es/feria-de-flores/

I have read that it is very crowded, be wary of pickpockets, and to purchase a ticket ahead of time. I don't know much more, and it looks like something I'd be interested in for a day (or less) but won't be able to give it more time. Is there a certain day that would be best to buy a ticket for? Since it runs for many days, is every day of the festival the same type of parade, so it doesn't matter which day one goes? I tried to look at the 2023 program but the page won't open.

What is suggested for transportation for someone staying in Medellín? (I can't be more specific on the place as I don't have lodging yet)

Lastly, is there another way to get the feel of the festivities and see some flower displays without going to the feria and without the crush of crowds? I'm slightly flexible on my travel dates there, arriving to Medellín anytime between Aug 2-8.

2 replies to this topic

Finally found this: 2024 DATES FOR FESTIVAL OF THE FLOWERS, FERIA DE LAS FLORES

2024 marks the 67th year of the festival.

Manuel Córdoba, Medellín’s Secretary of Culture, announced the next Feria de Las Flores, Flower Fair, will be August 2 – 11, 2024.

The Silleteros Parade will take place on Sunday, August 11, 2024.

You can also experience some of festivities away from the main Parades - it will definitely be worth going to Santa Fe Mall in Poblado to see their Feria stands, and there will also be some in Tesoro Mall (up the hill) and Oviedo which is across from Santa fe. Also, along Ave Poblado they put up some of the flowers and old cars etc usually.

One can also travel to Santa Elena to view them there, prior, though I would probably use a tour for that.

You could liaise with a hotel or hostel and see one of the parades as a tour and pay for a stand (palco) so you have your own paid area to sit in and see the event.

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