El Castillo

After a day relaxing in Medellin, we joined a free walking tour of the city. To learn about the turbulent past of Medellin. The city is shaped on its turbulent modern history, including the drug trade and political turmoil. Our guide told us that when he was a boy (he was about our age), it was unsafe for him and his family in the city. His pregnant Aunty was shot in her house. We visited different historical landmarks and artworks in the city. The locals seemed genuinely happy to see us and our guide told us it’s because they are still in disbelief that tourists would want to visit their city.

While we were in Medellin we took a two hour bus ride out to a beautiful town called Guatape. The town is home to a huge finger lake that spans kilometres across the landscape. To get the best view, we climbed the 750 steps up ‘the rock’, which was very worth it! After our climb, we headed into town. It has been voted one of the most colourful towns in the world and for good reason! Every building is painted a bright colour and even the tuk tuks are rainbow.

On our final day in the city, we visited Communa 13, which on 5 years ago was the most dangerous place on earth. This was due to the political wars which took place until recently. Since then, foreign aid and the Colombian government have supported the reform of Communa 13 through street art. This includes graffiti, music and dance. Now Communa 13 is the safest area in the city and teeming with tourist who visit to witness the incredible talent of locals.Read more