Stories of Discovery & Wonder

El Retiro Waterfall Tour from Medellín — Food, Falls & Optional Guatapé Upgrade

Escape Medellín for a private day through Antioquia’s rolling hills — colonial plazas, a family-friendly waterfall surrounded by orchids, and a hearty Paisa lunch. Upgrade to Guatapé and El Peñol for a longer day with iconic lake views.

Medellín, Antioquia•

6–9 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

You peel away from Medellín’s bustle and the road opens onto green hills that rise and fall like breathing. Within an hour the air tastes cleaner, orchids dot the roadside, and a private guide eases you into Paisa country — small plazas, colonial churches, and the steady sound of water drawing you toward the falls.

Before You Go

Bring your passport

Passengers are legally required to carry physical passports; keep it handy for pickup and any checkpoints.

Wear grippy shoes

Trails around the waterfall and roadside viewpoints can be uneven and muddy—tennis shoes with traction are recommended.

Hydrate and pace yourself

Carry a refillable water bottle and take breaks during the short walks—altitude and sun can fatigue you faster than expected.

Plan for afternoon showers

If visiting during the rainy season, keep a lightweight rain jacket in your bag; afternoons can turn wet quickly.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Orchid-lined paths and small cascades near the main waterfall worth exploring off the main viewpoint
•Llanogrande’s low-key roadside eateries for additional local desserts and coffee

Wildlife

•Hummingbirds visiting flowering shrubs
•Howler monkeys and small forest birds at the edge of the road back toward Rionegro

Conservation Note

Stick to designated paths to protect orchids and riparian vegetation; support local guides and eateries to help keep tourism benefits in the community.

Antioquia’s towns reflect Spanish colonial settlement and Paisa culture; many plazas and churches date to the 19th century and show the region’s rural development tied to agriculture and trade.

What to Bring

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Sturdy tennis shoesEssential

Provide traction on muddy or uneven trails near the waterfall.

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Passport or government IDEssential

Required by the operator and useful for hotel pickup and local checkpoints.

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Refillable water bottleEssential

Keeps you hydrated during transport and short hikes—many guides offer refill spots.

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Light rain jacket

Useful during rainy months when showers can develop suddenly in the afternoons.

Common Questions

How long is the tour and what if I pick the Guatapé upgrade?

The standard private tour runs about 6 hours; the Guatapé and El Peñol upgrade extends the day to roughly 9 hours and includes the climb at El Peñol.

Is the trail to the waterfall difficult?

No — access involves short, mostly flat walks and viewing areas; some paths may be muddy or have steps, so wear appropriate shoes.

Are meals and drinks included?

Yes — the tour includes a Paisa lunch, a non-alcoholic drink, and traditional sweets as listed in the inclusions.

Can people with limited mobility join?

The tour is described as suitable for all fitness levels and offers some wheelchair-accessible transport; verify specific mobility needs with the operator at booking.