Comuna 13 de Medellín
Frequently listed as a must-see destination in numerous travel guides, comuna 13 in Medellín stands out for its remarkable history of resilience and social transformation. The neighborhood’s vibrancy is as authentic as the warm hospitality of its residents, who welcome tourists with open arms. Although this may not be immediately apparent, visitors quickly experience the richness of life, culture, and artistic expression upon entering the area.
What to Do in Comuna 13
One of the main attractions is the Graffitour, an immersive journey through comuna 13’s social transformation. The vibrant murals, mostly painted by local artists, tell powerful stories of resilience and hope through art.
Another must-see is the impressive viewpoint in Las Independencias, accessible via the neighborhood’s first public escalators, designed to improve mobility for residents. From here, you’ll be treated to stunning views of brightly colored houses set against the backdrop of Medellín’s mountains.
If you’re lucky (which you likely will be), a friendly local guide or fellow traveler may offer to take a memorable photo for you.
For your visit!
Location and Access
Comuna 13, also known as San Javier, is one of Medellín’s sixteen comunas. It’s situated in the western part of the city, spanning an area of 74 square kilometers and comprising more than 18 neighborhoods.
Getting to Comuna 13 by Metro
The nearest metro station to comuna 13 is San Javier, the last stop on Line B heading west. To get there, transfer at San Antonio station from Line A and follow the signs to Line B. The fare for the metro is 2,255 COP (approximately 0.61 USD). Once you arrive at San Javier, you can either take a taxi to the escalators or board bus routes 221i or 225i, both of which depart from a stop at the right side of the station exit. These buses will drop you off two blocks from the escalators, where the Graffitour begins. Be sure to let the bus driver know your destination so they can inform you when it’s time to get off.
Getting to Comuna 13 by Metrocable
Alternatively, from San Javier station, you can take Line J of the Metrocable, which offers panoramic views of comuna 13 and the entire city. This ride not only provides breathtaking scenery but also encourages reflection on the socio-economic contrasts within Medellín.
It’s a great idea to either begin or end your visit with the Metrocable ride, but keep in mind that simply seeing the area from above won’t fully capture the experience of the neighborhood or the Graffitour.
Getting to Comuna 13 by Taxi
Getting to comuna 13 by taxi is easy. The distance from the city’s downtown is around five kilometers, with an average fare of 12,000 COP (approximately 3.25 USD) as of 2020. From Laureles, the distance is about four kilometers, with a fare of 10,000 COP (about 2.71 USD). From the El Poblado neighborhood, located approximately ten kilometers away, the average fare is 20,000 COP (roughly 5.42 USD).
Navigating both the metro and the wider city is generally straightforward, as the people of Medellín are well-known for their kindness and hospitality. Even if they don’t speak their language, locals are usually more than willing to help you find your way, using creative means to ensure clear communication.
Tips for Visitors
- Use sunscreen. The weather in Medellín can be unpredictable, so it’s important to apply sunscreen, even on cloudy days, as the sun can still be strong outdoors. Bring a light sweater or jacket for the cooler afternoon winds, and consider carrying an umbrella in case of rain.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Comuna 13 is a laid-back, casual place, and the more you blend in with the local vibe, the better your experience will be. Many tours involve walking up steep streets and stairs, so comfortable shoes like sneakers or boots are highly recommended.
- Stay hydrated. Be sure to bring water. If you don’t have a thermos, you can easily buy bottled water at local shops. Just remember to dispose of your trash responsibly.
- Support the local community. By purchasing local products, you help support sustainable tourism and the community’s development. Tourism has played a crucial role in transforming comuna 13 from a violent past into a peaceful neighborhood, and by supporting local businesses, you contribute to its ongoing progress.
- Join a guided tour. Local guides know the area’s history best. They’ve witnessed its transformation first-hand, and their stories reflect a deep sense of pride and connection to the neighborhood.
- Keep an open mind. Although comuna 13 has a history of violence, it’s now a safe, welcoming space for respectful visitors. Remember, people live here, so your visit should encourage coexistence and cultural exchange, not feel intrusive.
- Bring a camera with plenty of storage. The Graffitour features incredible street art with powerful stories, and you’ll want to capture every moment. Comuna 13 is one of the most “instagrammable” spots in Medellín, and the view from the top of the escalators offers a fantastic panorama of the city.
