Medellín: Culture, Coffee, and Vibrant Cityscapes

Overview

Dive into the heart of Medellín on this immersive one-day tour, where culture, coffee, and vibrant cityscapes come to life. Begin your journey with a visit to Comuna 13, a neighborhood transformed through stunning street art and inspiring stories of resilience. Stroll through colorful murals while learning about Medellín's remarkable social and cultural evolution.

Next, indulge your senses with a traditional coffee experience. Visit a local cafe to discover the art of Colombian coffee-making, from bean to cup, while savoring the rich, aromatic flavors that have made the region world-famous.

As the day unfolds, explore the bustling energy of downtown Medellín. Admire landmarks like Botero Plaza, with its iconic sculptures, and the innovative cable car system offering panoramic views of the city nestled in lush Andean mountains.

This tour is the perfect blend of history, flavor, and Medellín’s undeniable vibrancy.

Highlights

Discover Medellín in a day packed with culture, coffee, and vibrant cityscapes. Start with a visit to Comuna 13, where vivid street art tells stories of transformation and resilience. Sip locally grown coffee at a boutique café, savoring the rich flavors of Colombia’s finest beans.

Ride the Metro cable for panoramic views of the city nestled in the Andes, capturing Medellín’s unique blend of urban life and nature. Explore the bustling plazas, from the lively Botero Plaza to the historic downtown. Immerse yourself in local culture, vibrant markets, and unforgettable sights, making this one-day journey a true taste of Medellín.

Itinerary

Morning: Exploring Culture and History

8:00 AM - Hotel Pickup

Your friendly guide and driver will pick you up directly from your hotel in Medellín. Enjoy a brief introduction to the day’s schedule as you drive toward your first destination.

9:00 AM - Comuna 13 Tour

Begin your adventure at the vibrant and historic Comuna 13, known for its incredible street art, electric escalators, and inspiring transformation story.

Walk through colorful alleys adorned with murals while your guide shares stories about the area’s evolution from conflict to cultural hub.

Don’t miss the chance to take pictures with stunning graffiti and watch live breakdancing performances by local artists.

Noon: Lunch & Coffee Tasting Experience

Head to a nearby restaurant to enjoy a traditional bandeja paisa or other local dishes. Pair your meal with fresh juices or a local favorite, aguapanela.
Vegetarian or lighter options can be arranged upon request.

2:00 PM - Coffee Tasting Experience

Visit a renowned café, such as Café Pergamino or Arte y Pasión, for an immersive coffee tasting session.
Learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup, and enjoy samples of some of the finest Colombian brews.
Take some freshly roasted coffee home as a souvenir!

Afternoon / Evening: Visit to Plaza Botero & Return to Hotel

Visit to Plaza Botero

Continue to the iconic Plaza Botero, a public square filled with 23 oversized sculptures by Fernando Botero, Medellín’s beloved artist.
Explore the area, snap fun photos with the statues, and visit the adjacent Museo de Antioquia (optional, based on your interest).
Enjoy a brief walk around the lively plaza to soak in the local vibe.

Return to Hotel

After a full day of exploration, your driver will take you back to your hotel. Reflect on your memorable day as you relax during the ride.

Downnload Broucher

What's Included?

Lunch
Lunch

One hour massage

One hour massage
Dinner

Pickups/Departures

We will pick you up from your hotel, or designated location

Extras

Lunch is included

Transport

A mini air-conditioned bus (up to 15 passengers) or a car (up to 4 passengers).
Please note: Children over 2 years old will need their own seat.

Things to Carry

Essentials

Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially in the Comuna 13 and Guatape. Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are a must.
Daypack: A small backpack to carry your daily essentials like water, snacks, and camera.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your hikes and day trips.
Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit to fuel you during hikes.
Rain Jacket/Poncho: The weather can be unpredictable, and rain is common in the region.
Sunscreen: The sun can be intense even if it feels cool. Apply sunscreen regularly.
Sunglasses & Hat: For sun protection during walks and hikes.
Layers of Clothing: The weather varies from warm to cool depending on the time of day. Bring light layers to stay comfortable.
Camera/Smartphone: You’ll want to capture the stunning landscapes in Comuna 13, Guatape, Parque Arvi.
Power Bank: A portable charger for your phone and camera during long days of exploring.
Binoculars: Useful for watching the beautiful view from El Penol Rock, Guatape and Comuna 13.

Documents & Money

Passport/ID: Necessary for any travel checkpoints.
Cash: Small towns like Guatape may have limited access to ATMs. Bring enough Colombian pesos for food, souvenirs, and tips.

Policies

We understand that sometimes plans change. Below is our cancellation policy to ensure clarity and flexibility for your trip:

1. Cancellation Deadlines & Fees

Cancellation 15 days or more before the tour date: Full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.

Cancellation between 7 and 14 days before the tour date: 50% refund of the total tour cost.

Cancellation less than 7 days before the tour date: No refund available.

2. Rescheduling Options

Reschedule 7 days or more before the tour date: No extra charge (subject to availability).

Reschedule less than 7 days before the tour date: A 25% rebooking fee applies.

3. No-Show Policy

If you do not show up on the day of the tour without prior notice, no refund or rescheduling option will be provided.

4. Exceptions

Cancellations or rescheduling due to illness, weather disruptions, or other emergencies will be handled case-by-case. Please provide appropriate documentation (e.g., a medical certificate) and contact us immediately.

5. Tour Cancellations by Us

In rare cases where we must cancel the tour due to weather conditions or unforeseen events, you will be given the option to:

Reschedule for another date, or

Receive a full refund with no administrative fees.

We aim to provide a seamless experience, and should any issue arise, our team is here to assist you.

For any cancellation or rescheduling inquiries, please get in touch with us at help@maiasura.com

Full Refund (100%): You will receive a full refund if a cancellation is made 7 days or more before the scheduled departure date.

Partial Refund (50%): If a cancellation is made between 3 and 6 days before the scheduled departure date, a 50% refund of the total booking amount will be issued.

No Refund: Cancellations made less than 72 hours before the scheduled departure will not be eligible for a refund.

No-Show: No refund will be issued if a participant does not show up at the designated meeting point without prior notification.

Third-Party Costs: Any additional fees or services (e.g., hotel bookings, transportation costs) arranged through third-party providers are subject to their respective refund policies.

2. Rescheduling Policy

Free Rescheduling: Subject to availability, you may reschedule your tour up to 5 days before the scheduled departure date at no additional cost.

Late Rescheduling (Less than 5 days): If rescheduling is requested within 3 to 5 days of the departure date, a 20% rescheduling fee will apply.

No Rescheduling: Rescheduling is not allowed within 72 hours of the tour’s start time. If a change is necessary, it will be considered a cancellation, and the cancellation policy will apply.

3. Tour Modifications or Cancellations by the Company

If the company cancels the tour due to weather, safety concerns, or unforeseen circumstances, you will be offered the option of a full refund or a rescheduled tour date.

Refunds will not be provided for route modifications or schedule changes due to conditions beyond the company’s control (e.g., road closures, weather). Still, efforts will be made to adjust the itinerary to ensure a fulfilling experience.

4. Booking Transfer

Transferring Your Booking: If you cannot attend the tour but wish to transfer your booking to another person, you may do so up to 3 days before the scheduled departure, provided the company is notified, and all necessary details of the new participant are confirmed.

5. Payment Discrepancies

If there are any disputes regarding payment, refund, or rescheduling, the company reserves the right to address them on a case-by-case basis.

1. Booking Process

Reservation: To reserve your spot on the tour, you must complete the booking form and provide all required details (name, number of participants, travel dates, etc.).

Deposit: When booking, a deposit of 10% of the total tour price is required to secure your reservation.

Confirmation Email: Upon successful deposit payment, you will receive a booking confirmation email with your tour details, payment receipt, and further instructions.

2. Full Payment

Payment Deadline: Full payment must be received no later than 10 days before the tour departure date.

Payment Methods: We accept payments via credit/debit card, bank transfer, or secure online payment platforms.

Late Payment: Failure to pay by the deadline may cancel your booking, and the deposit may be forfeited.

3. Changes to Booking

Modifications: Any requests to modify the booking (change of dates, number of participants, etc.) must be made at least 10 days before the tour. Changes are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.

Name Change: If you need to change a participant's name, please notify us at least 10 days before the tour departure. This is subject to availability and may involve an administrative fee.

4. Cancellations & Refunds

Cancellation by You: If you wish to cancel your tour, you must inform us by writing or email.

Cancellations made 10 days or more before the departure date will be eligible for a refund minus the deposit.

Cancellations made within 5 days of the departure date will receive 50% of the tour cost, minus the deposit.

Cancellations made less than 3 days before the departure date are non-refundable.

Cancellation by Us: In the unlikely event that we need to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances (weather, low participation, etc.), we will offer you an alternative date or a full refund of all payments made.

5. Travel Insurance

Requirement: We highly recommend that all participants have valid travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellations, and personal liabilities. We are not responsible for any unforeseen incidents during the trip.

6. Special Requests

If you have any special requests (dietary, mobility assistance, etc.), please let us know when you book. We will do our best to accommodate these, but they cannot be guaranteed.

7. Group Size & Minimum Participation

Group Size: The tour requires a minimum of [number] participants. If this minimum is not met, we reserve the right to cancel the tour and provide a full refund or reschedule it.

8. Arrival Time & Meeting Point

The meeting point for the tour will be in Armenia, with specific location details provided in the confirmation email.

Please arrive at the meeting point [time] before departure. No refunds will be given if you arrive late and miss the departure.

9. Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour includes transportation, a guided visit to the specified places in the itinerary, and any meals and activities specified in the itinerary.

Participants are responsible for any additional costs, such as personal expenses, optional activities, or meals not listed.

10. COVID-19 & Health Requirements

Participants must follow all current health guidelines and safety protocols, including COVID-19 regulations.

If you are feeling unwell, please refrain from participating in the tour and contact us for assistance with rescheduling.

1. General Overview This document outlines the terms and conditions for participants booking a tour with Maiasura LLC. By booking this tour, you agree to the terms and conditions below. Please read carefully to ensure that you understand your rights and obligations.

2. Booking and Payment

Deposit: When booking, a deposit of 30% of the total cost is required to secure your spot. The balance is due 14 days before the trip start date.

Payment Methods: Payments can be made via credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal. All payments must be made in full before the trip begins.

Cancellation by the Client: Cancellations made more than 14 days before departure will receive a full refund minus the deposit. Cancellations made within 14 days of departure will result in forfeiture of the total trip cost.

3. Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

Transportation between the specified places in the Itinerary.

Accommodation for the duration of the tour (specified as part of the package)

Guided tours at each destination

Breakfast (if included in the package)

Exclusions:

Flights or transportation to Armenia

Lunches and dinners, unless specified

Travel insurance (mandatory)

Personal expenses and optional activities

4. Health & Safety

Medical Conditions: The participant is responsible for informing us of any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect their participation in the tour.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants. This must cover personal accidents, medical expenses, and repatriation.

Fitness Level: Some parts may require a moderate fitness level. The participants are responsible for ensuring they are physically able to participate.

5. Itinerary Changes

Alterations by the Company: While we strive to adhere to the advertised itinerary, there may be instances where unforeseen circumstances (such as weather or political instability) require changes. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary, transport, and accommodation as needed.

Customer-Requested Changes: Participants' requests for changes to the itinerary will be accommodated when possible but may incur additional fees.

6. Cancellation and Refunds

Cancellation by the Company: In the unlikely event that we must cancel the trip (due to force majeure, minimum participant numbers not being met, etc.), a full refund will be provided, or an alternative tour date will be offered.

Refund Policy: The payment section above outlines refunds for customer cancellations. However, no refunds will be given once the trip has commenced.

7. Responsibilities

Participant Responsibility: Participants ensure they hold valid travel documents (passport, visa, etc.) and comply with all entry requirements for the countries involved.

Company Responsibility: Our responsibility is limited to providing the services explicitly outlined in the tour package. We are not liable for personal injury, illness, theft, or loss of personal belongings during the trip.

Third-Party Suppliers: We work with trusted third-party suppliers for transportation, accommodation, and activities. While we select reliable providers, we are not responsible for their operations.

8. Behavior and Conduct

Respectful Behavior: Participants are expected to behave respectfully toward fellow travelers, guides, and locals. Any disruptive behavior may result in removal from the tour without a refund.

Local Laws: Participants must adhere to the local laws and customs of the countries visited. Any legal issues or fines are the sole responsibility of the participant.

9. Photography and Marketing

By participating in this tour, you consent to the use of photographs or videos taken during the trip for marketing purposes. If you wish to opt-out, please write before the tour begins.

10. Complaints and Disputes

Complaints: If you encounter any problems during the tour, please immediately bring them to the guide or company representative's attention so we can resolve them. Complaints made after the tour will be reviewed but may not be eligible for compensation.

Disputes: In the event of a conflict that cannot be resolved amicably, both parties agree to settle the matter through arbitration in the jurisdiction where the tour operator is based.

11. Governing Law

These terms and conditions are governed by and construed by the laws of the United States of America. Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in the United States of America.

By booking and participating in this tour, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these terms and conditions.

FAQs

What’s the best time to visit Medellín?

The city has a mild climate year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from December to March. The popular “Feria de las Flores” (Flower Festival) occurs in August, offering unique events and parades.

What language is spoken in Medellín?

Spanish is the official language. While some people may speak English, especially in the tourism industry, knowing basic Spanish phrases is beneficial.

What currency is used in Medellín?

The Colombian Peso (COP) is used. Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions.

What’s the local cuisine like, and what should I try?

The local cuisine is known as “Paisa” and includes dishes like Bandeja Paisa, Arepas, Empanadas, and Sancocho. Don’t miss trying local coffee.

How do I get around the city?

Medellín has an efficient Metro system, including cable cars. Buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. You can also buy Taxi services in advance from us. Please check the services section.

Is Medellín safe for tourists?

Medellín has undergone a significant transformation in the past few decades and is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid risky areas, especially at night. You can also buy a buddy service or Security service from us. Please check the website for details or contact customer service.

What’s local etiquette?

Colombians are known for their friendliness. A polite “Buenos días” (Good morning) or “Gracias” (Thank you) is always appreciated. It’s also customary to tip around 10% in restaurants.

What should I pack for the day trip?

Bring lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for the evenings when it can get cooler.

Can I use my cell phone in Medellín?

Check with your service provider about international plans. Alternatively, you can buy a local SIM card for data and calls.

Are there any health precautions I should take?

No specific vaccinations are required, but it’s always good to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Drink bottled or filtered water and avoid consuming raw food from street vendors.

What is the electrical outlet and voltage in Medellín?

The standard voltage is 110 V, and the frequency is 60 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type A and B, the same as in the United States.