Medellin: Private Commune 13 Tour with Metrocable & Escalators

Summary

Explore Medellin’s graffiti, ride the metrocable, taste local treats

You’ll ride Medellin’s metrocable above city rooftops, wander through Commune 13’s vibrant murals with a local guide, sample Colombian snacks like paletas de la 13, and meet residents who bring these streets to life. Expect laughter, stories of transformation, and moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ve never tried paletas like these,” our guide Juan grinned as he handed me a melting popsicle right at the foot of those famous escalators in Commune 13. I’d barely finished my first bite — tangy mango, a little chili — when a group of kids zipped past us, laughing so loud it echoed off the painted walls. The air smelled like fried arepas and spray paint, honestly not a combo I expected to remember so clearly. We’d started the day with hotel pickup (I was grateful for that, because Medellin traffic is its own adventure), and by the time we reached the metrocable station, Juan was already pointing out neighborhoods below, telling stories about how this city stitched itself together after some rough years.

The metrocable glided over rooftops and laundry lines — it’s wild to think locals use this every day just to get home. At one point I caught myself staring at the view instead of listening; you can see all of Medellin stretched out under you, green hills pressed up against concrete. When we got off near Commune 13, everything changed: music from somewhere up the hill, murals everywhere you look. Juan knew half the people we passed (he grew up nearby), so we kept stopping for quick chats or to try some weird fruit I still can’t pronounce. He told us about how these streets used to be dangerous — now there’s art shows and families selling snacks on every corner.

I didn’t expect to feel so welcome here. A woman waved us into her tiny gallery where she showed us her latest painting — she laughed when I tried my Spanish (can’t say “graffiti” right apparently). There was this moment on the escalators where everyone just paused to watch a breakdancer spin on cardboard; nobody rushed anyone else. It felt… real? Like being let in on something locals actually care about. The tour wrapped up with another snack stop (paletas again — not complaining), but honestly I could’ve stayed longer just watching people go about their lives under all that color.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Commune 13 and Medellín views

• Pick up from hotel in private vehicle
• Enjoy local snack and drink
• Ride Medellín metrocable with city views
• Arrive at Commune 13 escalators
• Sample Colombian drinks and snacks
• Learn history of community transformation
• Interpret graffiti art throughout tour

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Commune 13 tour?

Yes, private transportation with hotel pickup is included in your tour.

Do you get to ride the Medellin metrocable during the tour?

Yes, your tour includes tickets for a ride on the Medellin metrocable.

Are food or drinks provided on this Commune 13 experience?

You’ll try traditional Colombian snacks and drinks during your visit, including paletas de la 13.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

How much walking is involved in Commune 13?

The tour involves walking through hilly areas and using outdoor escalators; moderate fitness is recommended.

Will there be a local guide during the tour?

Yes, you’ll be accompanied by a bilingual local guide throughout your visit.

Can service animals join this private tour?

Service animals are allowed on this experience.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with hotel pickup from your accommodation in Medellin, tickets for the city’s unique metrocable system, guided walks through Commune 13’s murals and galleries with a bilingual local guide, plus tastings of traditional paletas de la 13 and other Colombian snacks along the way before returning comfortably at the end of your visit.