African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin in Medellín, Colombia
Medellín, Colombia

African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin

Outty Ranking 55 5.0 · 5 traveler reviews5 hoursFrom $255
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Outty Ranking

55/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 5 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin worth booking?

African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin is a 5-hour experience in Medellín, Colombia, from $255 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 5 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
55 / 100
Rating
5/5 (5)
Duration
5 hours
From
$255 per person

This tour is part of our H.E.A.R.T. Experiences at Impulse Travel - Go deep into Comuna 13 to meet with resilient artists who recovered youth and public spaces through reconnection to their African roots in music, dance, and creativity.

What you get

    About this experience

    This tour is part of our H.E.A.R.T. Experiences at Impulse Travel - Go deep into Comuna 13 to meet with resilient artists who recovered youth and public spaces through reconnection to their African roots in music, dance, and creativity.

    What's included

    Included

    • Knowledgeable guide in Spanish and English
    • Typical Colombian snack
    • Public transportation rides.
    • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in public transportation.

    Not included

    • Optional tips and gratuities
    • Unspecified food and beverages
    • Personal expenses

    What you'll see and do

    1. You will be picked up at your hotel to take you to San Javier, Comuna 13’s entry before moving on to the highest part of the Comuna, Nuevos Conquistadores neighborhood.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Escaleras Electricas De La Comuna 13

      At this place, you can see Medellín’s rural outskirts and have a privileged view over Comuna 13 and the entire city. Descending through El Corazón, Independencias, and El Salado neighborhoods you will learn the impressive story of how dances and musical culture helped local youth and led into a more peaceful context. You will understand the dimensions of the transformation as you hear the locals narrating the rough context that they had to face years before due to gang wars, para-military groups, and urban guerillas. To give you a first-hand experience of the activities that held the community together, you will visit Son Bata’s music studio where local musicians recorded one of their hits “ Estamos Melos” and learn how to play it with percussions instructed by the experts. After this easy and enjoyable activity, you can get loose and learn how to dance with one of the best dancers at Son Batá who will lead you into making great steps, easily and in no time!

      240 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Finally, you will have a local snack before returning to your hotel with the company of our guide.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Impulse Travel

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Taking this tour you will support two local initiatives that rely on tourism to survive. We can arrange private transportation from and to your hotel for an additional cost. The local street artist doesn’t speak English, our guide will serve as translator.
    • We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes and sunscreen.
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult.

    Photos

    African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin in Medellín, photo 2African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin in Medellín, photo 3African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin in Medellín, photo 4African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin in Medellín, photo 5African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin in Medellín, photo 6African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin in Medellín, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 5 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    1 mention

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Organization

    1 mention

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Food and drink

    1 mention

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Pace and timing

    1 mention

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    5 verified traveler reviews for African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    5
    4 star
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    3 star
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    1 star
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    Sort
    letsrunawaytogether · January 2026

    A Truly Special Experience

    My friend and I are just back from the INCREDIBLY MOVING Afro tour with Froilan and Nene. They were so knowledgeable and thoughtful and charming and open — it was a real highlight and a very necessary experience exploring Comuna 13. (Yovony, the driver, was a lovely and calm presence as well). I travel for a living and take many tours — this was truly special. I feel like it should be required education (and entertainment) for anyone traveling to Medellin.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing this beautiful feedback. We’re so glad the Afro tour was such a moving highlight for you and your friend. Froilan and Nene will be happy to know their stories and warmth made the experience so special, and we’ll also share your kind words with Yovony. It means a lot to hear this stood out among your travels 💛

    via Tripadvisor

    Explore63232633506 · December 2023

    Experience the reality of a transforming community

    This was the best experience of the visit to Medellin. Our guide through the Comuna was an activist and a community organizer, giving us insights into the lives of the residents. We appreciated and were inspired by his commitment to the people of his community.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your incredible experience with our African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin! We're thrilled to hear that our guide's passion for community and activism left a lasting impact. Your kind words inspire us to continue creating meaningful connections and unforgettable journeys. -Impulse Travel Team

    via Tripadvisor

    MomMD2003 · August 2023

    Much deeper dive into the communa!

    This was an amazing tour that gave you the history of the communa 13 community with an emphasis on the emergence of an Afro Colombian culture there. It was physically demanding walking and climbing through the narrow walkways amongst the houses, so not for the physically challenged. We got to the touristy part of the tour and I was so glad we had spent the majority of our tour learning about the communa. It was crowded, commercial and loud. The artwork was beautiful but you could hardly appreciate it because of all the people everywhere. If you’re going for the cart, go early in the day! In the end, this particular communa 13 tour was worth the effort!

    Response from the operator: Response: Thank you for sharing your thoughts on our African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin. We're thrilled you found the tour amazing and appreciated its emphasis on the Afro Colombian culture and history. Your feedback is valuable, and we're glad the experience was worth the effort. We hope to welcome you back for more enriching tours in the future! 🌟🎶

    via Tripadvisor

    6lorena8 · March 2021

    A different way to see Comuna 13

    This tour was very different from the previews Comuna 13 experience I had had. Comuna 13 is actually pretty big and the hyper-touristy part of it is just a small bit. With this tour, Impulse and their local partners show you a different face. I loved that we were barely the only visitors and people were very friendly and open. Also, the drumming class and the local snack were a highlight. Carlos our local guide is an amazing person and what they have done for their community is remarkable. Really recommended tour!

    via Tripadvisor

    P2480NOjaimer · March 2021

    The best off the beaten track local experience I had in Colombia

    We are grateful that our Travel Consultant at Impulse insisted us to take this experience in Medellin. We had been in Colombia for some weeks already and until that point, we hadn't really felt like we had experience something that was impossible for us to do by ourselves without the help of a tour company. This tour was exactly that. Although Comuna 13 is a big destination for tourists, this tour is at a part of the Comuna where travelers hardly get to. Our guide Carlos is an amazing host, full of energy and passion to share his story and the story of his music collective Sombata who has fought against gangs and crime with peaceful resistance and music. It was such a privilege to listen to him and it was key to have the logistic support and interpretation by Impulse. I strongly recommend this company for travelers who are looking for great local experiences and who are conscious about creating a positive impact.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $255 to $487
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Impulse Travel, who run 34 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 53.1.

    See everything Impulse Travel runs

    Why this scores 55

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)94
    Review evidence (18% weight)25
    Booking momentum (14% weight)18
    Value for money (12% weight)16
    Listing quality (10% weight)61
    Local standing (8% weight)53
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Medellín.

    How much does African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin cost?

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    Prices start at $255 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Medellín usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin take?

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    Plan for about 5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Medellín is not rushed.

    Is African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 5 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Medellín, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin?

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    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Medellín can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Medellín and add a light layer if any part of the 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Medellín within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Medellín?

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    On Outty we rank every Medellín experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Guatapé Tour: Piedra del Peñol with Boat Tour, Breakfast, Lunch, Half Day Bike Tour in Medellin - Local snack, Coffee or Beer, Guided Tour of Comuna 13 Medellín with Snacks Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Medellín?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Medellín?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin?

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    Included: Knowledgeable guide in Spanish and English; Typical Colombian snack; Public transportation rides; and Hotel pick-up and drop-off in public transportation. Not included: Optional tips and gratuities; Unspecified food and beverages; and Personal expenses. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 148 listed pickup locations in and around Medellín. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    What happens to African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about African Music Roots Private Tour in Comuna 13, Medellin?

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    Across 5 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

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