Medellin: Cloud Forest Hike & Waterfalls Day Trip Pickup

Summary

Medellin cloud forest hike waterfalls nature day trip pickup

You’ll hike through Medellin’s lush cloud forests with a local guide, snack on something sweet before spotting orchids and rare birds along winding trails. Cool off under hidden waterfalls (bring dry socks), share laughs with locals, and return to El Poblado feeling lighter — maybe even changed by all that wild green silence.

What’s the experience like?

We met at Caseritos de la 10 in El Poblado, still half-asleep but already sweating a bit — Medellin mornings are like that. Our guide, Juan, waved us over with this easy smile and handed out some local snacks (I think it was bocadillo? Sweet and sticky). The drive out to Arenales only took about 40 minutes but the city faded fast; suddenly it was all green hills and mist curling through the trees. I remember rolling down the window just to smell the air — kind of earthy, a little sharp from last night’s rain.

The start of the hike felt gentler than I expected. Juan kept pointing out things I would’ve missed: tiny orchids clinging to branches, a flash of blue that turned out to be a tanager. He tried teaching us the name for one bird — cacique candela — but honestly I probably butchered it (he laughed anyway). There was this moment when we stopped by a stream and just listened; no cars, just water and these weird frog sounds. It’s strange how quiet can feel so loud after Medellin.

Getting to the waterfall — Chorro de las Campanas — took some scrambling over slick rocks. My shoes were soaked but I didn’t care; cold water on my arms felt good after climbing through all that thick air. A couple of locals were there too, filling bottles and waving as we passed. I tried dipping my head under the falls for half a second (freezing!) while Juan told us about pumas living somewhere up in these hills. Not sure if he was joking or warning us, honestly.

The walk back was slower, everyone quieter except for one guy who kept stopping for photos of every mushroom (there were a lot). By the time we got back to Caseritos de la 10 around 3pm I realized how hungry I was — those snacks only go so far. Still thinking about that cold waterfall and how green everything looked when the sun finally broke through. If you’re looking for a day trip from Medellin that actually feels like you left the city behind… well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike to waterfalls and cloud forests

• Meet at Caseritos de la 10 restaurant
• Travel by private vehicle to Arenales
• Hike through cloud forests and rivers
• Visit Los Salados Natural Park
• See waterfalls called Chorro de las Campanas
• Explore nature and wildlife in reserve
• Return to Poblado small houses

Top questions

How long is the hiking tour from Medellin?

The tour lasts from 9:00 AM until around 3:00 PM, including transportation.

Where does the Medellin cloud forest hike start?

The meeting point is Caseritos de la 10 restaurant in El Poblado.

Is transportation included in this day trip?

Yes, private vehicle transport from Medellin to Arenales and back is included.

Are snacks provided during the hike?

Yes, snacks are included as part of your day trip experience.

What should I bring or wear for this waterfall hike?

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for hiking; expect your shoes to get wet near waterfalls.

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

This tour isn’t recommended for children under 7 or people over 65 due to fitness requirements.

Will we see wildlife during the hike?

You might spot orchids, birds like cacique candela, and possibly other native species in the reserve.

Does the tour include insurance?

Yes, insurance is included in your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at Caseritos de la 10 in El Poblado, round-trip private transportation out to Arenales for hiking, snacks along the trail, plus insurance coverage throughout your adventure before returning mid-afternoon.