Many travelers heading to Medellín, Colombia, opt for independent exploration or self-guided city walks using online resources.
However, after navigating the city on our own and joining two guided tours, we strongly suggest opting for a tour! Here’s why:
1. **Safety**: Around Botero Square in the bustling city center, certain streets are teeming with homeless individuals and drug users, creating an eerie atmosphere akin to walking among the living dead. Thankfully, we passed through these areas by taxi, with the driver kindly warning us against venturing on foot—a precaution that made all the difference.
2. **History and Context**: Medellín was once crowned the most dangerous city in the world. Can you believe this was just a decade ago? Curious about *why*? 🧐 The stories behind this transformation are nothing short of fascinating. A guided tour unravels the city’s evolution—how it descended into chaos and, against all odds, emerged as a beacon of progress and innovation. It’s an unforgettable journey through time.
3. **Art and Culture**: Medellín is a canvas of vibrant graffiti murals, especially in its hillside neighborhoods. These aren’t mere decorations; each mural carries profound meaning rooted in the city’s struggles and triumphs. Joining a tour provides deep insights into the symbolism and stories behind these masterpieces, making your experience far richer.
The two standout tours we recommend are:
🌟 **Free City Walk Tour**: Despite being completely free, tipping at the end is customary (around 20-30 pesos per person). Lasting about three hours, this tour offers a comprehensive dive into the city’s storied past. It’s engaging, enlightening, and highly entertaining.
🌟 **Comuna 13 Tour**: This tour is a must-do. Comuna 13, once notorious as a drug haven, has transformed into a vibrant cultural hotspot. Priced at 100 pesos per person, the three-hour excursion brings the neighborhood’s history to life. Our guide, a lifelong resident who witnessed the area’s turbulent past, shared captivating tales. The highlight? Decoding the deeper meanings behind the iconic murals that have become symbols of resilience and creativity.
Due to time constraints, we didn’t explore other tours, but we’ve heard that additional slum tours offer unique perspectives. If your schedule allows, they’re definitely worth considering.
Lastly, both tours can be easily located on popular maps. If you struggle to find them, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to help! [Cute R]
