Slow down the pace and escape to the Colombian highlands in Guarne. Framed by forests and mountains, the town is a hub for ecotourism. Satisfy your appetite for adventure with hiking, cycling and ATV tours in the surrounding valleys. You’re a short drive from Medellin, a vibrant city where you can discover Colombian history, culture and art.
Things to do in Guarne
Explore more than 85 kilometres of hiking trails in Parque Arvi. The nature preserve is set in the Aburrá Valley and protects beautiful forests and wildflower-filled meadows. Admire brightly-coloured butterflies and visit a pre-Hispanic archaeological site.
Strap on a helmet and get your pulse racing on an ATV tour. You’ll love speeding along the mud-splattered trails and splashing through rivers on the four-wheel drive vehicles. Longer tours take you deep into the Borrá Valley, where you’ll see emerald-green meadows surrounded by rugged mountain peaks.
Refuel with traditional Colombian dishes like “bandeja paisa” plates piled with rice, corn cakes, avocado, chorizo, mixed meats, plantains and a fried egg. Empanadas stuffed with cheese, chicken and meat are great snacks. Hearty “sancocho” Colombian stew is another local favourite served at restaurants in Guarne.
Stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables at Plaza De Mercado. The bustling market is packed with stalls selling local produce like mangoes, pineapples, guavas and passion fruits. Snack on chunky “arepa” cornmeal cakes topped with chicken, avocado and black beans.
Day trip to Medellin and visit the excellent Museo Casa de la Memoria to learn more about the city’s turbulent past. Admire classic and contemporary Colombian art at Museo de Antioquia and relax in Jardín Botánico, one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces.
Getting around Guarne
Guarne is compact and easy to get around on foot. Guided tours are a good way to visit surrounding sights and attractions. The town is in the department of Antioquia, a one-hour drive from Medellin and 20 minutes from Jose Maria Cordova International Airport.