When you think of la comuna 13 in Medellín, what do you think of? Maybe the escalators, the colorful buildings, or even the narco-violence of the past.
Probably not the eco-park overlooking all of that. I didn’t. I didn’t even know it existed. Not until a friend of mine helping out there took me and a group of friends there. The park is the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday or get the adrenaline going (we’ll talk about that in a sec).
So if you’re looking for something different to do in Medellín. And want to see one of the best views of the city, I can’t recommend the ecoparque Comuna 13 enough.
Why visit the eco parque in comuna 13?
I feel like most locals go for “un buen parche” or to hang out with friends. In fact, the people who own the park used to play in the natural pools there as kids. When violence started in Medellín, particularly in Comuna 13, that came to an end.
Nowadays, the area is safe (for locals and gringos) and people are enjoying the natural pools again.
Last visit, I remember chilling on a grassy ridge with my mate Damon, the guy who helps with the foundation. The sun was beating down, the salsa music was blaring out, and the friends and families were disfrutando. I loved how authentically Colombian it is. The atmosphere is awesome if you just want to relax with friends, eat, take a dip in natural pools.
The ecoparque 13 in full swing.
Or, If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are tours available. The first time I visited, I did a horse riding tour or cabalgata as they’re known in Colombia. We made our way up the mountainside and past some epic views of the city. I had only done one cabalgata previously, but don’t worry, the tour is guided. You’ll be in safe hands.
There are epic views of Medellín all the way.
For even more adrenaline, you can jump on the quad bike tour. The tour doesn’t go as far up the mountain, so you don’t see the city from as high up, but both deserve a place on my list of best viewpoints in Medellín.
Overlooking Comuna 13.
The view of Medellín at the end of the cabalgata
Whatever you end up doing, you’ll probably end up hungry. Fortunately, the restaurant there does a great almuerzo. And if you fancy a snack or ice cream, there are a number of tiendas at the park (FYI: it’s cash only in the park).
I recommend the papa rellena from one of the tiendas!
How to get there?
I’ve always jumped on a bus along Avenida San Juan. From there, I’d hail down bus 221A before it zoomed past.
It’s red, yellow, and had San Javier stuck to the top of the windshield. If you see that, then look out for the 221A and “ecoparque13” signs.
I’d also give the driver a heads up “vamos para el ecoparque, dale!” just to be sure.
And to be 100% certain… The park is on Carrera 117 in the neighborhood Altos de San Juan, San Javier. The bus stops outside the supermarket D1.
Alternative route:
Go to San Javier Metro Station. From there, turn right out of the station to find the bus rank. You want to jump in the Green Metro Bus for ‘La Caseta’. Get off at D1 Supermarket Altos de San Juan.
Or ask a Taxi to take you to D1 Altos de San Juan
When you get off the bus, you’ve got a short walk up the hill to the park.
En fin.
It’s a great day out if you live in Medellín or only de vacaciones. You’ll definitely get a more authentic experience than most of the typical tourist spots!
Also, 50% of profits go towards Social Projects such as a food bank, football & English Classes. If you’d like any more info on how you might be able to help with the charitable projects, let me know and I’ll put you in touch with Damon. Otherwise, check out the park’s socials here on Facebook and Instagram.
Nick
