Private Full Day El Retiro Waterfall Tour Including Food from Medellín

Exploring Colombia’s Countryside: Private Full Day El Retiro Waterfall Tour Including Food from Medellín

If you’re visiting Medellín and craving a genuine taste of Colombia beyond the urban vibe, this private full-day tour offers an inviting glimpse into the Antioquia region’s small towns, lush landscapes, and cultural treasures. For $115 per person, you’ll spend approximately 6 to 9 hours enjoying personalized attention, scenic drives, and authentic experiences, including visiting the stunning El Retiro waterfall, exploring colonial villages, and sampling traditional Paisa dishes.

What we really love about this tour is how flexible and intimate it feels — with customizable routes and a knowledgeable guide (many reviews mention guides like Carlos or Alex who go above and beyond), you get the chance to see Colombia’s heart at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch and traditional sweets makes this trip both satisfying and culturally enriching.

A potential consideration is that if you’re looking for a packed, high-energy day with multiple major sites, this might feel a bit relaxed; it’s designed for those who appreciate a slow, meaningful experience rather than ticking off as many sights as possible.

This tour suits travelers who value authentic local culture, enjoy scenic drives, and want a personalized experience that balances sightseeing with genuine encounters. If small towns, waterfalls, and good food appeal to you, this trip hits the mark.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Guided private tour with flexibility to customize your route and stops.
• Cultural immersion: Visit three towns and sample authentic Paisa cuisine for a deep dive into local flavors.
• Breathtaking scenery: Stunning views from mountain summits, lush waterfalls, and picturesque colonial architecture.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple.
• Optional extension: Add a visit to Guatape and El Penol Rock for panoramic views and colorful town scenes.
• Value for money: Includes meals, private transport, and personalized attention, offering a well-rounded day for a reasonable price.

An Authentic Day Out of Medellín

This tour provides a wonderful escape from the city’s hustle, offering a taste of Colombia’s vibrant small towns and its lush, mountainous landscape. Starting with a hotel pickup, you’ll head out in a comfortable private vehicle—probably a modern SUV—that promises a smooth ride through some of Antioquia’s most scenic countryside.

What makes this experience stand out is how much you get to see and feel Colombia’s local culture and environment. You’re not just passing through; you’re exploring colonial churches, plazas, and villas that reflect the region’s history and wealth. Several reviews mention guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in English, making the experience accessible and engaging.

The Stops in Detail

El Retiro is your first destination — a colonial town famed for its historic churches and scenic plazas. As one reviewer mentioned, it’s also significant as the place where slavery ended in the Americas, adding a layer of historical importance. Expect to spend about 40 minutes here, soaking in the architecture and maybe browsing for some authentic souvenirs if you wish.

Next, you’ll visit the Impressive El Retiro Waterfall — a favorite among couples and families alike. Surrounded by orchids and greenery, this waterfall offers some great photo opportunities and a peaceful moment to enjoy nature. The tour allows around 30 minutes for this stop, giving you plenty of time for pictures and a gentle walk around.

Llanogrande and San Antonio de Pereira are your next stops, where you’ll have a typical Paisa lunch—think beans, plantains, and pork belly. The included dessert adds a sweet finish to your meal. Reviews highlight the quality of this food, with one traveler noting, “the dessert was my favorite part,” emphasizing how memorable and tasty Colombia’s traditional sweets can be.

After lunch, your journey continues through forested mountains and verdant valleys, passing by Rionegro, a key transportation hub that’s also worth a quick drive-by for its modern development and scenic views.

Optional Extension: Guatape & El Penol Rock

For those with extra time and energy, the tour offers an upgrade to visit the famous El Penol Rock, a giant monolith offering unparalleled panoramic views of the lakes below. After climbing the rock, you’ll explore the nearby colorful town of Guatape, known for its cobbled streets, vibrant homes, and the elaborate Plaza de Los Zocalos. The colorful facades and artistic touches make Guatape a favorite for photographers.

Reviewers who opted for this extension describe it as “sensational,” with beautiful scenery and stunning vistas that are worth the extra effort. Be aware that this upgrade comes at an additional cost, but many say it’s well worth it for the picture-perfect views.

What to Expect Throughout the Day

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, allowing you to relax and prepare for the scenic drive ahead. The first stop is a mountain summit with sweeping views of the valley — a perfect spot if you want to snap some scenic photos or pick up a few local souvenirs from roadside vendors.

You’ll then visit El Retiro’s colonial architecture, where your guide will tailor the experience based on your interests — whether you want to learn about local history, culture, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll. The waterfall, about 30 minutes away, offers a refreshing break with plenty of natural beauty.

Lunch is typically a Paisa-style meal, which is hearty and flavorful, often featuring beans, plantains, and pork. Many reviewers mention how good the food is, with one saying, “the places we visited were nice,” and the desserts being a highlight.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore smaller villages and pass through areas that showcase Colombia’s wealthy villas alongside more modest, subsistence villages — a reminder of the region’s economic contrasts. The drive through “real jungle terrain” adds an adventurous feel to the journey.

For those extending their tour, the trip to Guatape and El Penol is a highlight, providing breathtaking views and a chance to wander through one of Colombia’s most colorful towns. The cobblestone streets and vibrant homes create a lively, artistic atmosphere, perfect for leisurely exploration.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour is designed to give you a personalized, relaxed day with plenty of opportunities to engage with local culture, enjoy nature, and indulge in good food. The private guide makes a tangible difference — they’re not just narrating facts but sharing stories and answering questions, bringing the regions you visit to life.

Transportation is comfortable and private, which makes a big difference in Colombia’s hilly terrain. The pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Medellín add convenience, especially if you’re staying in the city’s central area.

The cost of $115 per person includes lunch, traditional sweets, private transportation, and guide services — a fair deal considering the personalized attention, scenic stops, and the food experience. Keep in mind, alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased separately — plan accordingly.

Most travelers find the tour’s duration to be just right: long enough to see multiple highlights but not so tiring that you lose your enthusiasm. Since it’s flexible, you can spend more or less time at each stop depending on your interests.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour is best suited for culture seekers, nature lovers, and foodies who prefer a relaxed pace and intimate encounters. The focus on authentic villages, scenic waterfalls, and traditional food makes it more of an immersive experience than a sightseeing rush.

If you enjoy local stories, scenic drives, and small-town charm, you’ll find this trip highly rewarding. It’s also ideal if you want a personalized guide to help navigate the region, making it easier to learn about Colombia’s vibrant culture.

For travelers who appreciate stunning views without strenuous hikes, and want to avoid crowded tourist spots, this tour hits the sweet spot. It offers a genuine taste of Antioquia’s countryside with enough flexibility to tailor it to your interests.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off within Medellín, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 6 to 9 hours, depending on your pace and the optional extensions you choose.

Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. The tour is fully private and can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s spending more time at certain stops or adding activities like Guatape.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transport, a guide, lunch, and traditional sweets. Alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased separately.

What if I want to visit Guatape and El Penol Rock?
You can upgrade for an extra charge. Many reviews say it’s worth it for the spectacular views and colorful town experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially if they enjoy nature and sightseeing. It’s a relaxed pace ideal for families.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring sunblock, comfortable shoes, and a camera. The tour involves some walking and outdoor stops, so dress accordingly.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, many reviews mention guides who speak good English and are very knowledgeable.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind should your plans change.

This tour offers an excellent way to see a side of Colombia that many travelers miss — small towns, waterfalls, and local flavors, all delivered in a flexible, personalized package. Whether you’re a cultural explorer or simply want a scenic escape, it’s a memorable way to experience Antioquia beyond Medellín’s city limits.