In the eastern region of Antioquia, conservation is not a fad; it is a historical necessity. The San Rafael Ecological Reserve (often managed by public utilities or environmental corporations) is one of the best examples of how to protect the forest that supplies water to nearby cities, including Medellín.
Visiting San Rafael is an opportunity to learn about biodiversity, ecosystem management, and the positive impact of conservation. For Hotel Sloh guests looking for an educational and relaxing day trip, San Rafael is the ultimate ecotourism destination.
1. Logistics: A Quick Trip to Guarne
The San Rafael Reserve is located near the municipality of Guarne, which is very well connected to Medellín.
Step 1: Transportation Terminal
From Sloh: Head to the North Terminal (Metro Caribe) or the South Terminal.
Step 2: Bus to Guarne
Companies: Look for buses bound for Guarne (companies such as Cooptransec or Coonorte).
Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Cost (2025 estimate): $7,000 to $10,000 COP per trip.
Step 3: Final Leg to the Reserve
Local Transportation: From the town of Guarne, you must take a taxi or a rural bus to the entrance of the San Rafael Reserve. It is essential to ask the reserve staff if a prior reservation is required, as they often limit the number of daily visitors to protect the ecosystem.
2. The Experience: Fauna, Flora, and Trails
San Rafael specializes in the conservation of the Andean forest and the protection of water tributaries.
Interpretive Hiking
The Trails: The reserve offers well-marked trails ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. The trails are designed for interpretive hiking, with informational panels about tree species, the water source ecosystem, and wildlife.
Duration: Typical hikes last between 1.5 and 3 hours, perfect for a day of moderate exercise.
Wildlife Viewing
Fauna: Although it is difficult to see large mammals (such as pumas), the reserve is an excellent place to spot squirrels, opossums, and, above all, a wide variety of birds (tanagers, hummingbirds, woodpeckers). Bring your binoculars (see Article #58).
Flora: The San Rafael forest is lush, with mosses, giant ferns, and orchids that grow naturally on trees (epiphytes).
Water:
The heart of the reserve is the protection of water sources. The trails lead you to clean, cool streams, reminding you of the importance of conservation. Swimming is not allowed in all areas to protect aquatic ecosystems.
3. Tips for Conscious Ecotourism
Advance Reservations: It is crucial to check the reservation policy before you go. Some reserves require online reservations 24 hours in advance to control capacity.
Bring Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent: The forest has insects. Use biodegradable repellent or natural oils to avoid contaminating the ecosystem.
Leave No Trace: Apply the “Leave No Trace” philosophy. Take all your trash with you and stay on the marked trails.
Footwear: Closed-toe, waterproof shoes with good traction are essential, as the Andean forest is often humid.
4. Side Trip to Guarne
After your reservation, you can stop in the town of Guarne:
Gastronomy: Guarne is famous for its bakeries and local pastries. Try the cassava bread or traditional cakes.
Atmosphere: The main park is quiet and family-friendly, a perfect place to have a coffee before returning to the city.
From the Andean Jungle to Relaxation at Sloh
A visit to San Rafael is slow travel therapy that reduces stress and renews the spirit. Contact with pure nature will leave you with a feeling of deep calm.
The trip back to Hotel Sloh in the Manila neighborhood is the perfect transition. You will return to the comfort of a room designed for absolute peace.
Our Sloh philosophy is based on connecting with oneself. After a day in the forest, the minimalist design, silence, and premium beds offer you the ideal refuge to absorb the calm of the mountains and ensure that your rest is as deep as the An