Discover a secret place with locals (Comuna 8)

Discover a secret place with locals (Comuna 8)

If you’re looking for a way to see Medellín beyond the usual tourist spots, this 3.5-hour tour of Comuna 8 offers a compelling glimpse into the city’s remarkable social and urban transformation. Priced at $45 per person and operated by Dreams in the sky, the experience takes you through a neighborhood that has recently undergone a significant makeover — thanks to innovative infrastructure like the Metrocable, the Circunvalar Garden, and community-led projects.

What we love most about this tour are two things: first, the chance to explore a less-visited part of Medellín with a knowledgeable local guide who shares heartfelt insights; second, the stunning views of the city and natural landscapes from key vantage points. It really feels like uncovering a hidden gem.

One consideration is that tickets for the metrocable and metro are not included in the price, so you’ll need to purchase those separately. If you’re curious about Medellín’s urban renewal and vibrant community life, this tour is perfect — especially for travelers who like authentic experiences and are comfortable walking moderate distances.

This tour suits those who want to understand Medellín’s social evolution firsthand, appreciate beautiful cityscapes, and enjoy engaging conversations with locals. It’s also ideal for those who prefer small, intimate groups (max 10 travelers) for a more personal experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: The tour offers genuine insights into Comuna 8, a neighborhood that’s seen a lot of positive change.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of Medellín from the Jardin Circunvalar and the metro cable stations.
• Community Connection: The tour works closely with local residents, making tourism beneficial for the neighborhood.
• Flexible & Balanced: With a duration of around 3.5 hours, it’s a manageable half-day, but you’ll need to plan for separate ticket purchases.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Travelers praise guides like Mateo for their passion and expertise.
• Limited Group Size: The experience is intimate, with a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Exploring Medellín’s Comuna 8: A Detailed Review

The Neighborhood’s Transformation and Its Significance

Medellín is often celebrated for its urban revival, but Comuna 8 stands out as a particularly inspiring example. Once associated with violence and socio-economic challenges, it has reinvented itself through urban planning, community effort, and innovative transport. In recent years, the neighborhood has seen the introduction of the first modern streetcar in Colombia and two metrocables, which have dramatically improved connectivity and accessibility.

The Circunvalar Garden is a highlight of this tour — a green belt designed to curb urban sprawl toward the hillsides, protect biodiversity, and provide residents with a beautiful natural space. It’s a pioneering project that exemplifies Medellín’s smart city approach, converting what could be a neglected area into a center for recreation and nature.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Jardin Circunvalar

This urban park is the first of its kind in Colombia, and it’s the heart of the tour. Spanning a few hours, it showcases how urban green spaces can serve as a biodiversity hotspot and a community hub. As we walk through, we notice how the space was intentionally designed to limit the city’s expansion into vulnerable hillside neighborhoods.

The park is filled with native flora and birdlife, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city below. The views from here are spectacular, providing a panoramic look at Medellín’s layout, surrounded by lush hills. The guide explains how this project has positively impacted the community, both environmentally and socially. Marco, our guide, shared that many locals see it as a symbol of hope and resilience.

Travel tip: Remember, the admission to Jardin Circunvalar is included, so take your time to soak in the landscape and ask plenty of questions.

Stop 2: Line MetroCable H

This is where the tour gets truly elevated — literally. The MetroCable H is one of Medellín’s newest and most scenic cable cars, offering sweeping views of the city and the hillsides. As you ascend, you’ll notice how the urban landscape transitions from dense neighborhoods to open green spaces.

The station itself is decorated with colorful street art, reflecting the vibrant community spirit. The cable ride lasts just around 10 minutes, but it’s enough to leave a lasting impression. From the top, you’ll see a stunning vista of Medellín, with the city sprawled below and mountains in the distance.

Note: The cable ticket isn’t included, so plan to buy it in advance or on-site. The experience is well worth the small extra cost for the views and the cultural insights you gain during the ride.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What really makes this experience special is the depth of connection with the local community. The guides, like Mateo, are passionate and well-informed, sharing stories that bring the neighborhood’s history and transformation to life. As several reviews highlight, guides make all the difference — their knowledge, enthusiasm, and genuine curiosity turn a simple tour into a memorable experience.

Another highlight is the balance of urban and natural sights. The combination of the garden, the cable car ride, and neighborhood walkabouts offers a well-rounded picture of how Medellín has turned challenges into opportunities, creating a more inclusive and sustainable city.

Authentic Encounters & Local Life

Many travelers have expressed how much they appreciated the chance to connect with locals and see small businesses and community efforts up close. One reviewer noted, “It was a very cool experience with real insights into life in Comuna 8,” emphasizing how the tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s about understanding the people behind the city’s rebirth.

Practical Details

The tour starts at Metro Cable Linea M – Estación Trece De Noviembre, close to public transportation, making it easy to reach. The group size is capped at 10 travelers, which fosters an intimate atmosphere. The cost of $45 is relatively reasonable considering the included site visits and the personalized storytelling from guides like Mateo.

Remember, since tickets for the metro and cable are not included, you’ll want to purchase those in advance or on the day of your tour. The entire experience is designed to be flexible and accessible, with moderate physical activity involved (mainly walking).

What We Think

This tour offers deep value for those interested in urban development, community resilience, and scenic views. It’s a chance to see Medellín’s less-visited neighborhoods with a local guide who genuinely cares about sharing their story. The experience is both educational and inspiring, making it perfect for travelers who want a meaningful connection rather than just another photo-op.

The small group size fosters a relaxed, conversational environment, and the inclusion of snacks makes for a comfortable outing. Do note that if you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-energy tour, this might not be your ideal choice — it’s more about reflection, conversation, and discovery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure-seekers interested in social change and urban renewal, as well as nature lovers who value stunning views and green spaces. It’s also well-suited for travelers who enjoy authentic local encounters and want to support sustainable tourism that benefits the community.

If you prefer guided storytelling that combines history, culture, and personal insights, and you’re comfortable with moderate walking, this tour will resonate. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to see Medellín from a different perspective — one that emphasizes hope, progress, and community spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to purchase tickets for the metro and cable in advance?
Yes, the tour does not include tickets for the metro and cable car, so plan to buy those separately before your tour.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops at Jardin Circunvalar and the metro cable.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is located close to public transportation, making it easy to reach on your own.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, mainly walking and some standing during the stops.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on community and scenic views suggests it’s suitable for families with older children who can handle walking and moderate activity.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and perhaps a camera. The tour includes a snack, but you might want to bring water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to go beyond typical Medellín tours and really get a sense of the city’s social ingenuity and natural beauty, this Comuna 8 experience offers a compelling package. It’s a chance to step into a neighborhood that reflects resilience and hope, guided by passionate locals who want you to see their world.

Travelers interested in urban renewal, community stories, and scenic vistas will find this tour both informative and inspiring. The small group size, combined with the authentic local connections, makes it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting an honest and heartfelt view of Medellín.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious about Medellín’s transformation, this tour promises a meaningful day out that enriches your understanding of the city’s journey and the people shaping its future.