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Park · Medellín, Antioquia
Parque Arví
A woodland reserve in the mountains above Medellín, with trails, pre-Hispanic stone paths, a lake and a market of regional products. It is reached by Metrocable, flying over the city’s slopes.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Parque Arví
Parque Arví occupies an area of forest on the high plateau of Santa Elena, east of Medellín, between 2,200 and 2,600 meters of altitude, much cooler than the valley. The region has native and reforested forests, streams and trails, and preserves stretches of stone paths and pre-Hispanic structures used by indigenous peoples long before the Spaniards arrived.
The best-known access is via the Metrocable. Line K rises from Acevedo metro station to Santo Domingo, flying over the hillside neighborhoods; there Line L begins, crossing the mountain above the forest to Arví station. The ride is a trip in itself, with views of the valley and then only tree canopies.
Near the station are Mercado Arví, with stalls run by regional producers selling fruit, cheeses, sweets, crafts and food, and the trailheads, some with guides. There are short routes through the forest and longer hikes to the dam and the lake of Piedras Blancas. Bird and butterfly watching is common.
At the top it is cold and often rainy, especially in the afternoon. Bring a jacket and hiking shoes.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day including the Metrocable round trip; a full day if you do the longer trails.
Best time
In the morning, when the weather is usually clearer. Line L and the trails have their own schedules and occasional maintenance closures; check before you go.
How to get there
Take the metro to Acevedo station on line A, and the Metrocable line K to Santo Domingo; there change to line L, which goes up to Arví station. You can also reach it by bus or taxi via Santa Elena.
Tip
Sit in the cabin facing the valley on the ascent of line K. At Mercado Arví, try the fruits and cheeses from local producers. Bring a jacket: the park is about 800 meters above the city center.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Arví
How to get to Parque Arví by Metrocable?
Metro to Acevedo, Metrocable of linha K to Santo Domingo and from there linha L to Arví station. Linha L runs on its own schedule; check before you go.
Is it cold in Parque Arví?
Yes, the park is between 2,200 and 2,600 meters, well above Medellín, and it often rains in the afternoon. Bring warm clothing.
Do you need a guide for the trails?
Some trails are done with a park guide; others are free and signposted. Ask at the station information point.