Medellín in 1 Day for Friends - Guided history of Comuna 13's social transformation
In Collaboration with World Lion Tour. Updated on February 19, 2026.
Guided walk through Comuna 13 covering its history, murals and graffiti, culture, social transformation, local galleries, a dance & rap show, Neon 3D exhibition, and coffee & snacks at StarShakes Healthy Life. Meeting point is the main entrance of Estación San Javier (take exit B). Guides will wear a red shirt/vest and carry a red umbrella with the World Lion Tour logo.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with World Lion Tour, inspired by the tour History Graffiti Art in Comuna 13. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided history of Comuna 13's social transformation
- Large-scale street murals and graffiti walking route
- Local dance & rap performance and small galleries
- Neon 3D house experience
- Coffee, pandebono and Maracumango ice cream at StarShakes Healthy Life
Itinerary
Day 1
Orientation in central Medellín before moving to the meeting point. General city reference for context before meeting at San Javier.
Arrival note — Medellín reference
Short orientation and reminder of the meeting location and start time. If already in Medellín centre, use local transport to reach Estación San Javier in time for the tour.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 25–35 minutes for travel from El Poblado or Laureles to San Javier by metro; check current metro schedules.
- Carry a small daypack with water, sun protection, and a photocopy of your ID; bags are easier to manage on the metro.
- If using ride apps, set destination to 'Estación San Javier, Medellín' to avoid confusion with nearby addresses.
Day 1
Official meeting at the main entrance of Estación San Javier (take exit B). The guide will be identifiable with a red shirt/vest and a red umbrella marked World Lion Tour.
Meet at Estación San Javier — main entrance (Exit B)
Group meets at the main entrance of the San Javier metro station. Final headcount, safety briefing, and identification of the guide. Short walk from the station to the start of the mural route.
Tips from local experts:
- Use exit B of Estación San Javier to find the main entrance quickly; the guide will wait at the primary plaza area outside the exit.
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early so the group can depart on time and to allow time to purchase a metro ticket if needed.
- Keep valuables secured while on public transport; pockets or a zipped bag are recommended during the short walk from the station to mural areas.
Day 1
Main guided experience: historical introduction, mural and graffiti walking route, visits to local galleries, a live dance & rap show, Neon 3D house visit, and coffee/snacks at StarShakes Healthy Life. Includes supplied snack items (pandebono, Maracumango ice cream) and private transportation where used by the operator.
History briefing & safety talk
Brief talk covering Comuna 13's recent history, the armed conflict context, and the area's transformation. Safety and photography guidelines before the walk.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide about photography etiquette before taking portraits of residents; always request permission.
- Mind your step on uneven sidewalks and stair sections — comfortable, closed shoes are recommended.
- Inform the guide of any mobility limitations; the route contains stair sections and steep streets and is not wheelchair accessible.
Mural & graffiti walking route (core tour)
Guided walk through the main mural clusters and graffiti walls in Comuna 13. The guide explains the artists' messages, techniques, and the social meaning behind the works.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a fully charged phone or camera; battery packs are useful as the walk lasts over an hour with many photo stops.
- Stay with the group on narrow streets; the guide will indicate safe spots to stop for photos and commentary.
- Carry small change for low-cost street purchases or souvenirs; many local vendors accept cash only.
Local galleries, dance & rap show, and Neon 3D house
Visits to selected small galleries, a short live dance and rap demonstration by local performers, and a stop at a Neon 3D exhibition space included in the route.
Tips from local experts:
- Performances are short and scheduled by local artists; please remain for the full performance to respect the performers.
- Galleries and indoor spaces may have limited space—keep backpacks closed and out of walkways.
- If you have hearing sensitivity, notify the guide; live performances can be loud and are usually brief.
Coffee & snacks at StarShakes Healthy Life — wrap-up
Coffee, pandebono, and Maracumango ice cream served at StarShakes Healthy Life while the guide answers final questions and shares souvenir suggestions. Tour closes with return directions to Estación San Javier.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary restrictions, tell the staff at StarShakes before consuming snacks; options may be limited.
- Keep a small reusable bottle if you want additional water; beverage options at local shops are available for purchase.
- Collect any souvenirs in a compact bag for the short return to San Javier; avoid carrying large parcels on steep streets.
Return & tour close at Estación San Javier
Short walk back to the San Javier metro station for questions, farewells, and distribution of any included items. Official tour end.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your onward transport plans with the guide if you need help navigating the metro or local taxis.
- Keep your personal belongings with you during the short return walk; neighbourhood streets can be busy.
- If you need a printed receipt or further contact details, request them before departing the meeting area.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Culture, Outdoor, Experience, Restaurant |
