Table of Contents
Things To Do In Medellin, Colombia, South America
Are you thinking of travelling to Medellin, Colombia any time soon?
It’s fair to say that today people travel to Medellin for many different reasons.
As a cultural traveller who’s spent a lot of time in Colombia, what I have learned about Colombian people and more specifically Paisa’s (people from Medellin) is that they are very welcoming people who are not afraid of newcomers.
I’ve have been invited into the homes of different Colombian families and have learned that life is all about sharing with the family and spending quality time together.
The Best Local Experiences in Medellin, Colombia
Before we get into this amazing list of local experiences in Medellin, I want to mention that all listed activities have been inspired by local people I have been fortunate to stay with.
If you’re travelling to Medellin with your family and prefer to engage in more fun activities that can really add a spark to your day, then prepare yourself.
Now, let’s see what one can get up to in one of Colombia most important cities.
#1 Head over to Parque Arvi
You’re probably wondering, what Parque Arvi? Well, you won’t be disappointed. In a nutshell, Parque Arvi as it’s named in Spanish is Medellin’s answer to ecotourism which is accessible via the public transport system.
It can be the perfect family activity, especially if you go on the weekend. Not only will you be greeted with an abundance of fauna and nature trails to keep you entertained but, there’s also a many crafts and art projects to get involved with – great if travelling with kids.
Parque Arvi is a must when looking for things to do in Medellin. Make sure you carry a camera to capture some of those amazing views, which are totally unique to this natural reserve. You’ll find yourself returning back here if in Medellin for an extended period of time.
#2 A Picnic in The Botanical Gardens
You can not visit Medellin, expect to travel like a local, and not visit the Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens are the perfect green haven and undoubtedly the best place to relax with loved ones, have a picnic and just chill.
There are some well-cured flower sections that you can take photos of. Not to mention the free-roaming iguanas and rare birds you‘ll more than likely encounter on your visit.
It’s worth mentioning that there’s no entrance fee so can just stroll on in.
Be sure to check out the on-site gift shop if you get chance. If you’re feeling peckish, you’ll also find restaurants and other more ‘local style’ places to buy and eat food.
If you want to feel the Colombian family vibe, make sure you head down to the gardens on the weekend, it’s full of like-minded people all doing their best to enjoy nature.
#3 Head out to Guatape
No trip to Medellin would be the same without a trip to Guatape. It’s very popular with people who are backpacking Colombia on a budget.
However, one thing I learned from the locals is, on a Sunday during daytime, when you’re free, a drive out to Guatape is pretty much standard.
Guatape is an example of your typical Colombian town. This is the perfect opportunity to get out your comfort zone and try something new. There is a giant rock you can climb up called Peñon de Guatapé – you can’t miss it.
The walk up the stairs can be tough, but definitely worth it. The tickets cost around $7USD and for the view, you’ll get you can really take advantage of it.
There’s more to Guatape than just the famous rock. However, if you’re feeling lazy that day when you get to the town – just take one of the many tuk-tuks’s buzzing around.
Get yourself a tour of the village and you’ll get acquainted with some of the most colourful and quaint buildings you’ve seen in Colombia.
#4 Shopping in Sabaneta
Sabanta is the smallest municipality in Colombia. Although on the Metro line it is actually not a part of Medellin. However, don’t let this stop you. A trip to the Mayorca Mega Plaza is very popular with locals of both Medellin and Envigado.
Mayorca is the most pet-friendly mall I’ve ever visited. The mall is full of shopping outlets, food options and even games. Fancy watching a movie whilst in Colombia? What better place than Mayorca. Literally, there’s is something for everyone here.
The metro stop is adjacent to the building, so it’s very easy to access from anywhere you may be coming from via public transport. If you’re with your family and want to engage in a local activity amongst local people, then I highly recommend you visit this mall.
#5 Dine at the Aconista
How many restaurants or bars have you been to recently that has a fully-fledged bookstore within reach. If you’re in Medellin’s city centre, you may want to stop off at The Aconista.
This for me was the perfect lunch spot. I found the interior and overall vibe to be quite spectacular. There’s a bustling lunch crowd so make sure you get there for the Menu of the day.
Again, if you really want to see the hustle and bustle of Colombian life, the Aconista displays it elegantly, and its surrounding areas are also perfect spots for experiencing local life.
If going with a loved one; it’s absolutely perfect! Monday night is Jazz night, so if you can, put it in your calendar and make sure you get there early because Monday nights fill up fast.
How To Get To Medellin
If you are thinking of heading to Medellin at the first opportunity soon, then you can book flights right here. You can book a flight through TripAdvisor or Agoda or CheapAir or Cleartrip or Makemytrip or Priceline.
Where To Stay In Medellin
Medellin offers a range of accommodation options to stay in. You can book your hotel in Medellin right here through TripAdvisor or Cleartrip or Agoda or Makemytrip or Priceline and get awesome deals and savings.
| Click here to book the best hotel/resort in Medellin |
|---|
Tours/Activities Available In Medellin – Things To Do In Medellin
Medellin is full of interesting places to see and activities to experience, check out some of the amazing tours, and activities in Medellin and book them here itself. Tours in Medellin. You can now book tours in Canada as well as attractions and activities in Medellin.
| Click here to know more and book Best Attractions and Activities in Medellin |
|---|
So, how will you spend your time exploring Medellin? With so much fun to be had in this great city, you should be inspired to get to know the Colombian way of life as you spend quality time with your loved ones.
Medellin is an all-round friendly place and people are will to help you in any given moment.
With these local experiences, you’ll not be stuck for things to do around the city. Whether it’s people-watching in the Mayorca or sampling artesian products in Parque Arvi you’re guaranteed to enjoy your family time here.
Do You Love Traveling?
Do you want to know how to travel the world? We have put together a very useful travel resources page with best travel tips. Go check it out now.
Thanks for visiting our site Voyager – imvoyager.com and taking the time to read this post!
If you wish to collaborate/work with us then reach us at [email protected]
We’d love if you’d comment by sharing your thoughts on this post and share this post on social media and with your friends.
[shareaholic app=”share_buttons” id=”27413782″]
Follow our journey on our social media channels:
Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest G+ YouTube
60+ Million Users Trust TripAdvisor With Their Travel Plans. Shouldn’t You?
The Botanical Garden of Medellin, Colombia, looks lovely. I always enjoy visiting a garden in a destination that is new to me as it helps me learn what it indigenous to the region. My only time in Colombia was very brief in Bogota.
Visiting South America is on my travel list since long time. Expensive flights are the only obstruction. Looking to start with Peru and Colombia. Bookmarking the post for future reference!
Medellin looks like a fun place to visit. Travelling like a local is the best way to experience a place. Seems like Guatape is a perfect place for exploring and understanding Colombian culture.