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Parque Arví: Medellín's Ecological Escape

Escape to Medellín's largest ecological park: Hike trails, discover history, and enjoy stunning views in Parque Arví.

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Parque Arví, a vast ecological park located in the mountains near Medellín, offers a refreshing escape into nature. Accessible via a scenic Metrocable ride, the park features hiking trails, pre-Hispanic ruins, and diverse ecosystems, providing a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration.

A brief summary to Parque Arví

  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Dress in layers, as the temperature in Parque Arví is typically cooler than in Medellín.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on potentially uneven terrain.
  • Bring cash, as some vendors and activities within the park may not accept credit cards.
  • Check the Metrocable operating hours, especially for the Line L to Parque Arví, to avoid getting stranded.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the park's history, flora, and fauna.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most common way to reach Parque Arví is via Medellín's Metrocable system. Take Metro Line A to Acevedo Station. Transfer to Metrocable Line K to Santo Domingo station. From Santo Domingo, transfer to Line L, which goes directly to Parque Arví. A single metro ticket costs approximately 3,900 COP. The Metrocable Line L costs an additional 13,700 COP. The cable car ride provides stunning views of the city.

  • Bus

    An alternative, more budget-friendly option is to take a bus from Placita de Flóres in downtown Medellín to the village of 'El Tambo' in Santa Elena. Buses depart approximately every 30 minutes and the journey can take up to 90 minutes. The bus fare is around 5,000 COP. From Santa Elena, you can take another bus or taxi to the park entrance.

  • Taxi/Uber

    You can take a taxi or Uber directly to Parque Arví, although this is a more expensive option. The ride takes approximately one hour and costs around 100,000 COP (25 USD). However, finding a ride back to Medellín from the park can be challenging.

Unlock the Best of Parque Arví

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Discover more about Parque Arví

Parque Arví, a sprawling 16,000-hectare ecological park, offers a tranquil retreat from the urban bustle of Medellín. Situated in Santa Elena, a rural district high in the Aburrá Valley, the park is easily accessible via the city's innovative Metrocable system. This unique approach provides stunning aerial views as you ascend into a world of verdant forests and diverse ecosystems. Originally explored by Spanish conquistador Jorge Robledo in 1541, the area remained largely untouched for centuries, preserving its natural beauty. In 1970, it was declared the Río Nare National Park. Today, Parque Arví stands as a testament to conservation efforts, offering over 54 km of walkable trails that wind through varied landscapes. Visitors can explore pre-Hispanic constructions, including the ancient Camino Cieza de León, a stone path dating back over 1,500 years. The park provides a range of activities, including hiking, guided nature walks, birdwatching, picnicking, cycling, and horseback riding. Within Parque Arví, you'll also find the Environmental & Cultural Center Ignacio Vélez Escobar, which hosts events and features a café and local craft shop. For those seeking more structured recreation, Parque Comfama Arví offers adventure sports and cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful connection with nature, Parque Arví offers a memorable experience just a short distance from Medellín.

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