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Parque Arví: Medellín's Ecological Escape

Escape to Parque Arví: Discover Medellín's vast ecological park with hiking, nature, and cultural experiences in the mountains.

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Parque Arví, a vast ecological park located in the mountains near Medellín, offers a refreshing escape into nature. Accessible by Metrocable, the park features hiking trails, diverse ecosystems, and cultural experiences, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and recreation.

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

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking, as the park offers numerous trails to explore.
  • Bring cash, as the ATM in the park may levy charges on international cards or be out of service.
  • Arrive at the Metrocable station no later than 5:30 pm to ensure you catch the last cable car back to Medellín, which typically closes at 6:00 pm.
  • Consider visiting on weekends or holidays when more people are around, or opt for a guided tour or paid trail for added safety.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most common way to reach Parque Arví is via Medellín's Metrocable system. First, take the Metro Line A to Acevedo station. Transfer to Line K Metrocable (free transfer) and get off at Santo Domingo station. From Santo Domingo, transfer to Line L Metrocable, which requires a separate fare. A one-way ticket on Line L costs approximately COP 13,200. The Line L Metrocable takes you directly to the entrance of Parque Arví.

  • Bus

    You can take a bus to Parque Arví. Buses to Santa Elena depart from Plaza de Flores (Terminal de Transporte de San Diego). The bus ride takes approximately 45-90 minutes. The bus will drop you off near some of the park entrances. The bus fare is approximately COP 3,000.

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Discover more about Parque Arví

Parque Arví, situated in the Santa Elena district, is a sprawling ecological nature reserve and pre-Hispanic archaeological site located on the eastern slopes of the Aburrá Valley near Medellín. Covering over 16,000 hectares, with 1,760 hectares of natural forests and 54 km of walkable trails, the park provides a tranquil oasis away from the bustling city. The park's history dates back to 1541 when Spanish explorer Jorge Robledo first explored the area. For nearly 450 years, the region remained largely undisturbed, preserving its natural beauty amidst growing urbanization. In the early 21st century, efforts to protect and develop the area gained momentum, officially opening to the public in the early 2010s. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, hike numerous trails, and discover pre-Hispanic constructions, including the ancient Camino Cieza de León. Activities include hiking, guided nature walks, birdwatching, picnicking, cycling, and horseback riding. The park also offers cultural and gastronomic experiences with local communities. Additional attractions include Parque Piedras Blancas, an ecological park within Parque Arví featuring hiking trails and a lake with row boats, and Mercado Arví, a marketplace with local food, drinks, and crafts. Parque Arví is easily accessible via Medellín's Metrocable system, offering stunning aerial views of the city and surrounding mountains. The park is a testament to the region's rich biodiversity, housing both endemic and non-native plant species.

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