Medellín & Santa Marta, Colombia: A Candid Review of Our Trip
When we booked our trip to Colombia for a wedding, we were so excited to explore two of its most popular destinations: Medellín and Santa Marta (wedding spot). There were so many incredible highlights. At the same time, we also learned that these spots may not be the right fit for certain travel styles.
Medellín: A City of Contrasts
Our stay in Medellín was centered at the ElCielo Hotel, a stunning boutique property with just 28 rooms. From the moment we arrived, the service was personal and polished, the rooms beautifully designed, and the atmosphere refined yet relaxed. For anyone looking for a boutique stay, I can’t recommend ElCielo enough. It truly felt like an oasis in the city.
Outside the hotel walls, Medellín did present some challenges. Poverty and homelessness were visible everywhere, and there was an underlying sense of needing to stay alert. At one point during a food tour, we were approached by a group of street performers who rapped around us and pushed for money. While not directly threatening, the persistence was uncomfortable.
Even something as simple as holding a phone while walking drew concern. A local kindly stopped my daughter and suggested she put it away for safety, a gesture we appreciated, but one that reminded us we weren’t in an environment where walking freely felt secure.
One of our guides, an older educated gentleman, even mentioned that sadly, remnants of cartel influence are slowly making their way back, with some businesses and even parts of government facing extortion. Although one person’s opinion is not be taken as fact, it still concerned us. Comuna 13, once a cartel stronghold, has become a popular tour experience and it definitely was quite eye-opening. We do, however, strongly advise against being there after dark.
Day Trip to Guatapé and Peñol Rock
Leaving the city, the drive to Peñol Rock was absolutely gorgeous. Unfortunately, the natural beauty hasn’t been protected. All around the landmark were carnival-like stalls selling trinkets and souvenirs, which we personally felt detracted from the experience a bit. You climb over 700 steps and reach a spectacular bird’s eye view (once you pass more of the carnival stalls).
The nearby town of Guatapé completely stole our hearts. Colorful, charming, and lively, every corner of the town felt like a postcard. Cobblestone streets, brightly painted zócalos (murals at the base of each home with beautiful history), and a vibrant energy made it one of the most memorable parts of the trip.
Santa Marta: A Wedding by the Sea
Our time in Santa Marta was for a beautiful beachside wedding. The event was truly picture-perfect and special in every way. The sunsets, the sand, the venue and the celebration with friends and family were unforgettable.
That said, Santa Marta, like Medellín, wasn’t the most walkable destination. We usually love exploring cities on foot, wandering from our hotel to cafés, restaurants, and local shops. But here, even short walks were discouraged. A 10-minute stroll from our hotel in Medellín turned into an Uber ride on the advice of our concierge, and Santa Marta was no different. You needed to call a car to get anywhere.
A Culinary Highlight
Without question, the highlight of our trip was the ElCielo dining experience in Medellín. An extraordinary multi-sensory dinner that was as much performance as it was meal, it was one of the most unique and memorable dining experiences we’ve ever had. This alone made Medellín worth the visit.
ElCielo Dining (Chocolate) Experience
Final Thoughts
Colombia is a country of contrasts… stunning natural beauty, warm people, vibrant culture, but also the realities of poverty, safety concerns, and infrastructure challenges. For travelers who love walkable cities where you can freely explore, Medellín and Santa Marta may not be the best match. But for boutique luxury, colorful small towns like Guatapé, and unforgettable dining experiences, Colombia still delivers something truly unique.
