Our guide to Medellín
Introduction
Medellín, the vibrant cultural hub of Colombia, hosted InterPride’s General Meeting and World Conference from 23-27 October 2024. If you wish to travel to Medellín, Colombia, this travel guide will provide you with essential information to plan your trip and ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience.
LGBTQIA+ rights and community
Colombia is a progressive country when it comes to LGBTQIA+ rights. Same-sex marriage, adoption, and anti-discrimination laws are in place, making it a welcoming destination for the LGBTQIA+ community. Medellín boasts a lively LGBTQIA+ scene, with diverse venues and a vibrant Pride that attracted nearly 100,000 attendees in 2023, showcasing the city’s inclusivity and pride.
Passport and visa requirements
The following guide is based on our understanding of the rules. Make sure you are certain for yourself of the rules that apply to you.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months upon entry, with one blank visa page.
- Citizens of the US, Canada, the UK and European Union /EEA do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
- Some nationalities may need to present a tourist visa, which can be obtained at Colombian embassies and consulates in your home country. Check if you need a visa here.
- Have proof of your return or onward flight ready for entry.
Getting to Medellín
Medellín’s José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) is located 30 km from the city center. Various airlines, including Avianca, LATAM, AeroMexico, Copa, Jet Air, American, Spirit, Wingo, JetBlue and Delta, offer flights to Medellín, with major interchange hubs in Madrid, Miami, and other South American cities.
About Medellín
Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city, boasts a population of over 2.5 million people within the city proper and more than 3.9 million in the metropolitan area. The city is known for its diverse ethnic makeup, with a majority of its inhabitants being of mixed European and Amerindian ancestry, known as “mestizos.” Medellín also has smaller populations of Afro-Colombians, Indigenous people, and people of European descent.
Since the 2016 Colombian Peace Accord, Medellín has experienced a significant tourism boom, becoming the country’s top tourist destination in 2022. This resurgence can be attributed to the city’s rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors to Medellín can explore a wide array of attractions, including world-class museums, vibrant parks, and lively festivals that showcase the city’s unique character.
With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and a growing reputation as a hub for innovation and creativity, Medellín has transformed itself into a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.
Climate and weather
Medellín enjoys a subtropical highland climate with consistent temperatures year-round.
Language
Spanish is the primary language in Medellín. While some tourism industry professionals speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can help you navigate the city and interact with locals more easily.
Time Zone
Medellín operates in the Colombia Time zone (UTC-5), so keep this in mind when planning your schedule and communicating with people back home.
Our host hotel during the conference: InterContinental Medellín
For your stay in Medellín, we highly recommend the InterContinental Medellín hotel, situated in the upscale El Poblado neighbourhood. It offers luxurious accommodations, complimentary Wi-Fi, a spa, and a semi-Olympic sized heated pool. Enjoy a peaceful retreat with stunning city and mountain views while remaining conveniently close to main airports and attractions!
Getting Around Medellín
– Metro: Medellín’s modern, safe, and efficient metro system connects most parts of the city.
– Metroplús: This affordable bus system provides convenient access to areas beyond the metro’s reach.
– Taxis: Official taxis are reliable and convenient. Ask your hotel or restaurant to call one for you, agree on the fare beforehand, and be mindful of the route.
– Ride-sharing: Apps like Uber and Cabify are available in Medellín.
Safety tips
Medellín is a safe city and in 2022 it welcomed more than 1.4 million international visitors and countless international conventions and events.
- Stick to well-known and tourist-friendly neighbourhoods like El Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado, which generally have a stronger police presence and offer a safer environment.
- Keep valuable belongings discreet and avoid wearing expensive jewellery or displaying large amounts of cash.
- Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services for secure transportation, especially at night.
- Be cautious in crowded areas and avoid isolated or poorly lit streets after dark. Stay alert and trust your instincts. When possible, travel with a group or trusted local.
- In case of emergencies, dial 123 for assistance.
Healthcare and hospitals
Medellín is home to several top-ranked hospitals in Latin America, ensuring access to quality healthcare services. It is essential to bring prescription medications and relevant health documentation for emergencies. Delegates are highly recommended to purchase international medical insurance for comprehensive coverage during their stay.
Foreign consulates in Medellín
Should you require consular assistance, a list of foreign consulates in Medellín can be found here. Countries without a consulate in Medellín will be represented by an embassy in Bogota or neighbouring capital city.
Money and currency
The Colombian Peso is the local currency. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals, and most restaurants and cafes accept credit cards. Keep some cash on hand for smaller vendors.
Connectivity
High-speed Wi-Fi is readily available throughout Medellín. Prepaid SIM cards with data packages can be purchased from major telecommunication companies like Claro, Tigo, and Movistar.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at [email protected].
Main image: Rizvi Rahman, Unsplash