- Guatape: A Colorful Town with a Stunning View
Located just 2 hours from Medellin, the town of Guatape is known for its colorful houses and stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. One of the highlights of any visit to Guatape is climbing the 700 stairs of El Peñol, a massive rock formation that offers breathtaking panoramic views from the top.
- Santa Fe de Antioquia: A Colonial Treasure
Founded in 1541, Santa Fe de Antioquia is a charming colonial town just an hour and a half from Medellin. Visitors can wander the narrow streets lined with colorful houses, visit the historic cathedral, and take in the town’s many museums and art galleries.
- Jardin: Coffee, Waterfalls, and More
Jardin is a picturesque town located about 3 hours from Medellin. It’s known for its coffee plantations, colorful houses, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can take a tour of a local coffee farm, hike to the Cascada del Amor waterfall, or simply relax and enjoy the town’s laid-back atmosphere.
- Parque Arvi: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Just a short metro ride from Medellin, Parque Arvi is a 16,000-acre nature reserve that’s perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the great outdoors. The park features miles of hiking trails, a canopy walk, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Rio Claro: A Natural Wonder
Located about 2 hours from Medellin, Rio Claro is a natural wonder that’s not to be missed. The river cuts through a deep gorge, creating a stunning landscape of cliffs, waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by raft, and there are plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
- San Jeronimo: A Water Park and More
San Jeronimo is a town located about an hour from Medellin that’s known for its water park, Club Campestre. The park features water slides, pools, and other attractions, making it a great place to cool off on a hot day. Visitors can also explore the town’s many restaurants and shops.
- Piedra del Peñol: A Massive Rock with a View
Piedra del Peñol is a massive rock formation located about 2 hours from Medellin. Visitors can climb the 740 steps to the top of the rock, where they’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops in the area, making it a great place to spend a day.
- Salento: Coffee and Culture
Located about 6 hours from Medellin, Salento is a charming town that’s known for its coffee plantations and colorful architecture. Visitors can take a tour of a local coffee farm, hike through the nearby Valle de Cocora, or simply soak up the town’s laid-back atmosphere.
One of the highlights of a visit to Los Katios National Park is the opportunity to take a boat ride along the Atrato River. This river is one of the largest in Colombia and is home to a variety of wildlife, including river otters, caimans, and capybaras. As you make your way through the lush vegetation, you’ll also have the chance to see a wide variety of birds, such as the Amazon kingfisher and the green ibis.
