Graffiti Tour comuna 13 and cable car (made by local guides)

A Deep Dive into Medellín’s Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour with Cable Car

If you’re heading to Medellín and want to experience the city’s dynamic street art alongside its inspiring social comeback, this Graffiti Tour in Comuna 13 is a compelling choice. For just $23 per person, in about three hours, you’ll visit some of the most iconic spots in the neighborhood—from vibrant murals and graffiti to spectacular views from the cable car. Led by passionate local guides, this tour is more than just sightseeing; it’s a window into Medellín’s resilience and creativity.

What we love about this experience is how it balances history, art, and local flavor. First, the cable car ride offers panoramic views of Medellín’s sprawling cityscape, giving you a sense of scale and context. Then, walking through Comuna 13, you’ll witness a neighborhood transformed by art and community effort, with graffiti as a powerful storytelling tool. And the live performances of break dance and rap add a lively, authentic touch that deepens your understanding of local culture.

A possible consideration? The tour covers quite a bit in just three hours, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking and steps, especially on the escalators. Also, since the neighborhood can be crowded, patience and an open mind are your best companions.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, art lovers, and those interested in social change. It suits travelers who want an up-close, personal connection to Medellín’s ongoing transformation, and who appreciate engaging guides who share personal insights. Based on reviews, many travelers find it eye-opening and inspiring, making it a memorable part of their visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable yet comprehensive tour covering art, history, and viewpoints
• Led by knowledgeable local guides with personal stories and cultural insights
• Includes unique experiences like graffiti painting, dance shows, and cable car rides
• Suitable for all weather conditions; rain or shine, the tour goes on
• Perfect for travelers seeking authentic and meaningful cultural encounters
• Some walking involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended

The Rich Experience of the Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour with Cable Car

Medellín’s Comuna 13 has become a symbol of urban renewal. Just a few decades ago, it was notorious for violence and conflict. Today, it’s a lively neighborhood where street art and community efforts tell stories of resilience and hope. This tour, operated by World Lion VIP Tours Medellín, takes you through its streets, murals, and landmarks, sharing the neighborhood’s inspiring journey.

Starting Point: San Javier Metro Station

Your adventure begins at San Javier metro station, where the guide will meet you outside Exit B, wearing a red T-shirt or jacket. From here, the journey moves smoothly with transportation included—first via cable car to enjoy panoramic views, then by bus to the heart of Comuna 13.

The Cable Car Ride & Panoramic Views

The cable car is one of the highlights for many travelers. It’s a scenic lift that not only offers spectacular vistas of Medellín’s colorful neighborhoods and surrounding mountains but also symbolizes the neighborhood’s connection to the rest of the city. As you glide over rooftops and alleys, you get an immediate sense of how urban geography and social history intertwine here.

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Walking through the 20 de Julio Neighborhood

Once at the top, your group heads to the 20 de Julio neighborhood by bus. Here, you walk through sectors of independence—areas that have been transformed through years of social effort. Your guide will lead you along streets filled with murals and graffiti that showcase local artistry and stories of community resilience.

Art, Murals, Music, and Dance

The heart of the tour is the artistic expression visible everywhere. According to reviews, guides are enthusiastic and well-informed, sharing stories behind the murals—some created by local and international artists. You’ll also get to watch live performances of break dance and rap, which reflect the neighborhood’s vibrant street culture. As one reviewer notes, “Laura was full of stories about her personal experiences; she was very engaging and warm,” which makes the experience more personal and moving.

Visiting Key Landmarks

The tour includes several memorable stops, such as:

• The soccer pitch, famous for videos and celebrities filming there, symbolizing local pride.
• The Casa Neon or Casa 3D, an interactive and visually striking art installation that’s fun and photogenic.
• The escalators, which are not just functional but symbolic of the neighborhood’s ongoing social progress; many reviews highlight how climbing the escalators offers a different perspective of Medellín’s upward movement—both physically and socially.
• The mass grave mountain, one of South America’s largest, which reminds visitors of the neighborhood’s troubled past before regeneration.

Reflecting on Social Transformation

The tour wraps up with a viewpoint that overlooks Medellín. Here, guides discuss the social changes that have occurred, emphasizing how community-led efforts and artistic expression have helped reduce violence and foster hope. Many travelers find this part particularly impactful, as it connects visual art to social progress.

Final Return & Recommendations

Returning to San Javier, you’ll have gained not just knowledge but a deeper appreciation for Medellín’s resilience. The entire experience is designed to be informative, lively, and authentic.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The reviews highlight several aspects that set this experience apart: knowledgeable guides like Laura, Samuel, Leandro, and Fernanda, who bring personal stories and local insights; the stunning vistas from the cable car; and the authentic street performances that enrich your understanding of local culture. Many reviewers mention feeling safe and welcomed, even as they explore a neighborhood with a complex past.

The Value of Included Activities

For just $23, this tour packs in a lot—cable car rides, graffiti art, dance shows, escalators, and visits to iconic landmarks. The inclusion of free ice cream and opportunities to see local art galleries adds flavor to the experience. As one traveler put it, “The tour had tons of information and a friendly atmosphere. We loved the stops for food, drinks, and ice pops!”

Practicalities & Tips

• Duration & Flexibility: At about three hours, the tour is a manageable introduction. Check availability for start times.
• Weather Preparedness: The tour runs rain or shine, so weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
• Footwear: Expect some walking and stairs, especially on the escalators—wear comfortable shoes.
• Group Size & Safety: Led by local guides, the tour is designed to feel safe and welcoming, even for solo travelers or small groups.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers interested in social issues, street art, and urban culture. It suits those who want an immersive, firsthand look at Medellín’s transformation, rather than just surface sightseeing. If you enjoy art, dance, and panoramic views, and are open to learning about complex social histories, this tour will resonate.

It’s perfect for adventure seekers who don’t mind some walking and are eager for a meaningful cultural encounter. The guides’ personal stories and lively performances help bring the neighborhood’s history to life, making it an enriching addition to your Medellín trip.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Morning/Arrival & Meeting Point

Starting outside San Javier metro station, the guide will be easy to spot in a red shirt or jacket. After introductions, the group heads straight into the adventure, beginning with the cable car ride. This early ride sets the tone—breathtaking views of Medellín and neighboring mountains**—and offers a quick overview of the city’s sprawling urban fabric.

The Cable Car Experience

The cable car isn’t just transportation; it’s a visual introduction to Medellín’s landscape. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the photo opportunities during this ride. The views help you grasp the geography of the city, with its patchwork of neighborhoods, hills, and valleys.

Walking through Comuna 13

Once on the ground, your guide takes you through the streets of 20 de Julio and Independence sectors, where murals and graffiti tell stories of hardship, hope, and cultural pride. Expect to see works by various artists, some with bold colors and powerful messages. As one reviewer described, “We loved the way the guide showed us streets and hidden corners we’d never have found on our own.”

Street Art & Performing Arts

The graffiti is more than decoration; it’s a visual narrative of the neighborhood’s history. Guides often explain the meaning behind specific murals, adding depth to your appreciation. The performance of break dance and rap is lively and authentic, giving you a taste of local urban culture. Many travelers find these performances unexpected highlights.

Landmark Visits & Social Commentary

The soccer pitch reveals local pride and community spirit. The Casa Neon provides a fun, interactive art experience, and the escalators symbolize social mobility. The mass grave mountain acts as a sobering reminder of the neighborhood’s violent past, but also as a testament to how far it has come.

Final Views & Reflection

The tour concludes at a viewpoint overlooking Medellín, where guides discuss how social transformation is ongoing. Many reviews mention feeling moved and inspired, recognizing that street art and community efforts are central to the neighborhood’s rebirth.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a rich blend of history, art, and social insight, making it a perfect choice for adventurous travelers seeking authentic Medellín experiences. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy visual storytelling through murals and are curious about urban social changes. The lively guides, engaging performances, and stunning views ensure a memorable journey into one of Medellín’s most fascinating neighborhoods.

If you’re after a thought-provoking, lively, and affordable experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing, this tour delivers in every way. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a day that’s as informative as it is inspiring.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing for the weather.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately three hours, making it a manageable and engaging half-day activity.

Are transportation costs included?
Yes, both the cable car and bus are part of the tour price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s walking and some stairs, especially on the escalators.

Is the tour appropriate for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention feeling safe and welcomed, and the guides are experienced at creating friendly atmospheres.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
Ice cream is included, along with opportunities to sample local street food, but meals are not part of the package.

Can I do the cable car ride separately?
The cable car ride is part of the tour package, combined with the walking tour and performances.

Is there a limit on group size?
While not specified, guided tours generally aim for small groups to ensure engagement and safety.

This Graffiti Tour in Comuna 13 with cable car offers much more than simple sightseeing—it’s an immersive journey through Medellín’s past, present, and future, told through art, community spirit, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or curious traveler, you’ll find value in this lively, heartfelt exploration of one of Colombia’s most inspiring neighborhoods.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby