Private Tour Santa Fe de Antioquia & Bridge OPT Hot Air Balloon

Exploring Colombia’s Colonial Charm: Santa Fe de Antioquia & Beyond

If you’re keen on experiencing Colombia beyond its bustling cities, this private tour from Medellín is a fantastic choice. For $128 per person, you’ll spend about 8.5 hours soaking in the history, architecture, and natural beauty of Santa Fe de Antioquia, a beautifully preserved colonial town. Led by knowledgeable guides, like Erika, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that balances cultural discovery with some truly memorable sights – including the world’s eighth-largest suspension bridge and optional hot air ballooning over the mountains.

What we love most about this tour are two key aspects: first, the intimate, private setting meaning fewer crowds and more tailored attention from your guide. Second, the stunning views from the hot air balloon ride, offering a unique perspective on Colombia’s lush landscape. The only real consideration might be the cost of lunch, which isn’t included, so planning accordingly is wise.

This journey suits travelers who appreciate authentic history, scenic landscapes, and personalized service. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed yet enriching day out, away from the tourist hordes, with the option to add a breathtaking aerial adventure.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Personalized tour with just your group
• Historic Santa Fe de Antioquia: Well-preserved cobbled streets and colonial architecture
• Impressive Suspension Bridge: Third largest in Latin America, built in 1895
• Optional Hot Air Balloon: Private, scenic, and peaceful mountain views
• All-Inclusive Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the day
• Flexible & Cancelable: Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: A Personalized Pickup in Medellín

From the moment we booked, it was clear this tour values flexibility and comfort. Your guide will pick you up right at your accommodation, usually in an air-conditioned vehicle, setting the tone for a smooth day. Unlike crowded group excursions, a private tour means you control the pace and focus on what interests you most. The drive to Santa Fe de Antioquia is a pleasant 1-2 hours, giving you time to chat with your guide, absorb the scenery, and get excited about the day ahead.

First Stop: The Western Suspension Bridge

Our first highlight was the Western Suspension Bridge, a true engineering marvel. Built in 1895, it was designed by the same engineer behind the Brooklyn Bridge, which is a fun fact that instantly sparks admiration. Declared a National Monument in 1976, it’s the eighth-largest suspension bridge in the world and the third-largest in Latin America. As you walk across, you’ll appreciate the engineering ingenuity and the stories that swirl around its creator.

The views from the bridge are impressive, offering a sweeping perspective over the surrounding mountains and river valleys. It’s a spot that’s both photographically rewarding and historically intriguing. The admission is free, so this stop is a great way to connect with Colombia’s engineering past without extra cost.

Strolling Santa Fe de Antioquia: Step Back in Time

Next, you’ll explore the well-preserved streets of Santa Fe de Antioquia, a town that played a pivotal role in Colombia’s independence. Declared a national monument, its architecture remains unaltered, giving visitors a genuine glimpse into 18th-century life. The cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses, and charming plazas make wandering here a delight.

The tour includes visits to several key sites: the Metropolitan Cathedral, Santa Barbara Church, and Chiquinquirá Church. Each building is rich in history and offers a peek into Colombia’s colonial past. Walking through the town, you’ll see locals going about their day, which adds an authentic flavor that bus tours often miss.

Food enthusiasts will enjoy the fruit tasting, a unique feature of this tour. The region boasts a wide variety of seasonal fruits, and sampling them gives you a real taste of local agriculture. The guide might recommend a local restaurant for lunch, but it’s an expense you’ll cover yourself. Many visitors found the food options both delicious and reasonably priced.

Optional: Hot Air Balloon Flight over the Mountains

For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime view, the hot air balloon ride is a must. This private 50-minute experience takes you over the mountains surrounding Sopetrán, offering panoramic vistas that are truly spectacular. The pilots are described as highly experienced, and because it’s a private outing, only your party (max 3 people) and the pilot will be onboard.

Many reviews highlight the calm, relaxing atmosphere of the balloon, a perfect way to unwind after a morning of walking and sightseeing. Expect sweeping views of lush mountains and perhaps a few clouds floating by. It’s an experience that’s well worth the additional cost and one that adds a special touch to the day.

Wrapping Up the Day

The tour concludes with a return journey to Medellín, often arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Colombia’s history, architecture, and natural beauty. What makes this tour especially valuable is the balance of culture, scenic beauty, and flexibility.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience isn’t just a checklist of sights; it’s about the stories, the scenery, and the personal touch of a guide who knows these places inside out. The reviews reflect that, with many travelers praising Erika’s knowledge and the personalized service. The choice to include or skip the hot air balloon allows for customization—perfect if you’re looking for both cultural and scenic highlights.

The value here lies not only in the sights but in the quality of the experience: private transportation, expert guidance, and a leisurely pace that lets you truly absorb each stop. At $128, it’s a fair price considering the personalized service, the exclusive access, and the memorable sights.

Practical Tips

• Book well in advance—most travelers reserve about 44 days ahead—especially if you want the hot air balloon, which requires extra planning.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking cobbled streets and exploring the town.
• Allocate extra for lunch, which isn’t included, but is well worth trying local dishes.
• Weather can influence the hot air balloon; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers with an interest in history and architecture will appreciate Santa Fe de Antioquia’s well-preserved colonial charm. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy scenic vistas, thanks to the optional balloon ride. If you’re looking for a relaxed, private experience away from crowds, this tour offers a tailored and intimate way to explore Colombia’s countryside and historic towns. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who value expert guidance and authentic settings.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and optional ballooning.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved in Santa Fe de Antioquia’s cobbled streets.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, the guided visits, and the hot air balloon (if opted for) are included. Lunch is not, so budget for that separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is the hot air balloon private?
Yes, only your party (max 3 people) and the pilot will be on the balloon, making it a very personalized experience.

What about the weather?
The hot air balloon depends on good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 44 days ahead, especially if they want the balloon experience, as it’s a popular addition.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a thoughtful blend of history, scenery, and personalized service that appeals to travelers wanting a deeper connection with Colombia’s colonial past and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in the engineering marvel of the suspension bridge, the charming streets of Santa Fe de Antioquia, or the serenity of a hot air balloon, it’s a well-rounded day that balances cultural insight and scenic splendor. For those who value expert guides, comfort, and flexibility, this experience delivers on all fronts—making it a worthwhile investment for a memorable Colombian adventure.