Medellin: Zipline, Giant Waterfall Hike & Hammocks Day Trip

Summary

Ziplining high above Medellin then hiking to El Salto del Buey waterfall

You’ll soar above canyons on Colombia’s longest zipline, scramble down forest trails to stand in mist at El Salto del Buey waterfall, and stretch out in giant hammocks suspended high over green valleys—all with a local guide handling logistics and hotel pickup. Expect moments that’ll stick with you long after you’re back in Medellin.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping out near the ecopark was the smell—kind of sharp, green, wet. Our guide Andrés grinned when he saw me eyeing the cables overhead and said, “Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it.” I wasn’t sure if he meant the height or my nerves. The zipline itself—well, it’s long. Like, you see the other end and think, no way that’s real. When they clipped me in for the first flight (700 meters across a canyon), my hands felt clammy on the harness but there was this weird calm once I pushed off. The wind just takes everything out of your head except the sound of air and your own heartbeat.

I didn’t expect to sweat so much on the hike down to El Salto del Buey waterfall. It’s about half an hour through thick trees and rocks that shift under your boots—bring good shoes, trust me. Andrés kept pointing out birds I never would’ve spotted; at one point he stopped and handed me a tiny wild guava. Tart as anything. When we finally got to the base of the falls (100 meters tall), you could feel spray on your face before you even saw it. We just stood there for a minute not saying much—felt kind of necessary.

Lunch was simple but hit the spot: beans, rice, some fried plantain—nothing fancy but tasted better than anything after that hike. Later came what they call “dream hammocks,” strung up 150 meters high over the valley. Lying back with my legs dangling into nothingness felt both terrifying and peaceful—I kept thinking how absurd it was to be suspended like that with mountains all around and nothing but clouds below. On the drive back to Medellin I realized I’d barely checked my phone all day. That doesn’t happen often anymore.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Adventure with zipline and waterfall hike

• Pick up at hotel 9:30 am
• Arrive at ecopark 10:20 am
• First zipline flight 11:00 am
• Hike to waterfall base 11:30 am
• Lunch break 2:00 pm
• Hammocks activity at height 3:00 pm
• Second zipline flight 4:00 pm
• Hike and return to hotel
• Arrive at hotel 5:45 pm

Top questions

How long is the drive from Medellin to El Salto del Buey?

About 1.5 hours each way by private transport.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No, lunch is not included—you’ll need cash for food at the ecopark.

What is the maximum weight for participants?

You must be under 99 kg (218 lbs) to join this activity.

How difficult is the hike to the waterfall?

The hike is rated 3.5 out of 5—moderate difficulty with uneven terrain.

Are children allowed on this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for children aged 8 or under.

What should I bring for this day trip from Medellin?

Bring comfortable walking shoes (no sandals), extra dry clothes, mosquito repellent, and cash in Colombian pesos.

Is hotel pickup included in this private tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Medellin are included.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from your Medellin hotel, full insurance coverage during activities, two zipline flights totaling 1400 meters across mountain valleys, a guided hike down to El Salto del Buey waterfall’s base, time relaxing in hammocks suspended high above ground, plus a professional local guide keeping things smooth from start to finish.