Medellín in One Day: A DIY Comuna 13 & Slums City Walk

Once notorious as the world's most dangerous city, Medellín has transformed into a hub of street art and accessible tourism. I arrived during the Flower Festival (a carnival rivaling Rio's!), though sadly missed the parades. For my limited time, I chose a self-guided narco-history + slum exploration route—here's how to do it: Getting There Options abound: 1️⃣ Free walking tours (tip-based, ~10-15 USD) 2️⃣ Paid group tours (100-400 CNY, varies by inclusions) My pick? DIY with new friends—a Mandarin learner and a local—using Medellín's efficient metro (just 3,700 COP/ride). Route Highlights 🚡 Slums by Cable Car Take the metro to Acevedo Station → transfer to the K-Line cable car Soar over transformed favelas—orderly homes, bridges, and roads defy stereotypes. 🎨 Comuna 13 Walk from the cable car's end (safe by day!). Vibrant graffiti tells stories of resilience (though now touristy). Skip at night—respect residents' privacy. ⚽ Pablo Escobar Sites (Bonus) Plaza Botero (his donated sculptures) Narco-church, soccer fields, and his death site (via tours). Tips Weather: Hot—pack water/sunscreen. Safety: Stick to daytime in tourist zones (low crime now). Medellín deserves more days! #MedellinOnABudget #StreetArtCapital