Medellín, nestled in the Aburrá Valley, is the ideal starting point for exploring the vast biodiversity of the Antioquia department. Practicing ecotourism and eco-tours is a way to honor the region's commitment to sustainability and experience Colombia's natural beauty.
For guests of Sloh Hotel & Bar, these full-day plans offer a breath of fresh air and tranquility, perfect for rebalancing body and mind.
1. The Classic Ecotourism Experience: Arví Park
Arví Park is Medellín's natural gem, a 16,000-hectare protected forest reserve in the township of Santa Elena.
The Metrocable (Line L): The experience begins at Acevedo Station (Metro Line A) and continues to Santo Domingo Station, where you take Line L of the Metrocable. This cable car ride offers spectacular views of the city and the transition from urban to rural.
Sustainable Activities: The park is ideal for guided hiking (more than 50 km of trails), mountain biking, and bird watching. Guided tours (costing around $30,000 COP for foreigners) educate you about the flora, fauna, and pre-Hispanic history of the area.
Logistics: The park is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance. Admission is free, but guided tours have a cost.
2. Adventure and Water Hiking
Eastern Antioquia, the region east of the Aburrá Valley, is famous for its crystal-clear rivers and canyons.
Melcocho River (Forest Reserve): Located near Cocorná and San Francisco, this river is a popular destination for water hiking and light canyoning. It is known for the purity and green color of its waters.
Pools and Waterfalls: Municipalities such as San Rafael and San Carlos offer ecological hikes to natural pools and waterfalls. These activities are usually organized by local agencies that promote conservation.
3. El Retiro Mountain Trails
For guests looking for activities closer to the metropolitan area (and taking into account the user's location in El Retiro), eastern Antioquia is a paradise for high-altitude hiking.
Alto de la Cruz / Paso del Toro: Near your municipality of residence, El Retiro, there are challenging ecological trails (Level 3-3.5) that pass through native forests and mosses and take you to waterfalls such as Paso del Toro or La Agudelo.
Panoramic Views: Hikes such as Cerro Plata in El Retiro offer 360-degree views of the San Nicolás Valley and the Farallones de Citará.
4. Sustainable Tourism: Golden Rules
For a slow tour with purpose, follow these environmental rules:
Local Guide: Hire certified guides for hiking and adventure. They ensure safety and respect for sensitive ecosystems.
Leave No Trace: Take all your trash back with you (carry in, carry out). Do not use chemicals (soap, shampoo) in rivers or pools.
Buy Local: Consume food and crafts from farmers and entrepreneurs in Santa Elena or the towns you visit, directly supporting their economy.
Sloh: Connection with Nature and the Interior
Ecotourism is the most active form of Slow Living: you disconnect from digital noise and connect with your body and the earth.
Preparation and Recovery:
offers a fresh and nutritious breakfast, perfect for recharging your batteries before a mountain trek. Upon your return, our quiet rooms and rain showers are the ideal sanctuary for muscle and mental recovery.
Strategic Location: El Poblado has easy access to Vía Las Palmas, the main route to Arví Park, El Retiro, and eastern Antioquia.
Explore the nature of Antioquia, and you will find inner peace.