Cerro de las Tres Cruces
A steep, rewarding climb to iconic crosses offering panoramic Medellin views and a vibrant hilltop atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Cerro de las Tres Cruces
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A steep, rewarding climb to iconic crosses offering panoramic Medellin views and a vibrant hilltop atmosphere.
"It's an intense climb but worth every second when you get to the top."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Running shoes are okay, but good grip is essential for the steep, rutted trail.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
The climb is intense and exposed. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Crosses
Summit
Iconic landmark offering panoramic views of Medellin and the surrounding mountains. A true symbol of the city.
Cantilevered Viewing Platform
Near the summit
A thrilling spot for photos with a dramatic drop, offering unparalleled city vistas. Perfect for capturing Medellin's sprawl.
Outdoor Gym & Zumba Classes
Near the summit
Stay active with a cool outdoor gym or join a lively Zumba class. A unique way to experience the hilltop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Climb, Not Just a Hike
Timing is Key for Safety and Enjoyment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Can you go by yourself to cerro de las tres cruces hike? When are the best times and days to do this hike?
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Running shoes are okay, but good grip is essential for the steep, rutted trail.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
The climb is intense and exposed. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Hola. ¿Qué zonas de Santiago de Cali se deben evitar al pensar en su propia seguridad? Hago una lista y agradecería su ayuda. Saludos desde Dinamarca.
💰 Buy Drinks Strategically
Lemonade prices increase closer to the summit. Buy at lower stops for savings.
🚶♀️ Consider the 'End' Start
Starting from the trail's end can make the climb more manageable.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Running shoes are okay, but good grip is essential for the steep, rutted trail.
💧 Bring Water & Sunscreen
The climb is intense and exposed. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
💰 Buy Drinks Strategically
Lemonade prices increase closer to the summit. Buy at lower stops for savings.
🚶♀️ Consider the 'End' Start
Starting from the trail's end can make the climb more manageable.
🤝 Go with Others
Safer and more enjoyable, especially if you're traveling solo.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the absolutely breathtaking views from Cerro de las Tres Cruces, calling the climb intense but incredibly rewarding. The unique outdoor gym and the iconic crosses add to the memorable experience, though some note the steepness can be challenging.
"It’s not a hike it’s a climb. If it’s your first time, be ready mentally lol! It is worth it tho .
Just a tip, I started the hike by the ending of the trail instead of the beginning and it made it 100% doable!!! I recommend starting by the end for ppl that aren’t looking for too much exercise !"
Mia Mi
"It's an intense climb but worth every second when you get to the top. Highly recommend to visit if you are here in Medellin"
Michael
"I'd call it a hill climb more than a hike. It's a heavily rutted and rooted climb to the top. There are 3 stopping points where drinks can be purchased. A lemonaid at the top costs 7mil whereas at the bottom it's 4mil and blended. Both were good and well received. The views are spectacular especially at the cantilevered platform with a drink of your choosing."
Donald Leonard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take the Metro to the San Javier station. From there, you can take a taxi or a local bus (like the 'circular' buses) towards the base of the hill. Some visitors also opt for ride-sharing services directly to the trailhead.
Generally, yes, especially during daylight hours. The Metro is efficient and safe. Once you're near the base, be aware of your surroundings, but many travelers use public transport without issue.
There is limited parking available near the base of the hill, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Ride-sharing services are often a more convenient option.
After arriving via Metro, look for local buses or taxis heading towards 'El Cerro'. The drivers will know where to drop you off at the start of the trail.
While specific route numbers can change, look for 'circular' buses in the San Javier area that head towards the hills. Asking locals or your taxi driver is the best bet.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access Cerro de las Tres Cruces. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
Cerro de las Tres Cruces is generally accessible from early morning until early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views.
No, the viewing platform is part of the public access to the summit and does not require a separate fee.
It's not recommended to visit at night due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for your visit.
As a public natural area, there are no specific entry restrictions, but visitors are expected to respect the environment and other hikers.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The climb itself is relatively short, typically taking 30-60 minutes depending on your fitness level and how often you stop. The steep incline makes it feel longer.
It's considered a strenuous climb rather than a moderate hike. The trail is steep, heavily rutted, and can be challenging, especially for those not accustomed to inclines.
Yes, there are several stopping points along the trail where vendors sell drinks like lemonade and water. Prices increase as you get closer to the summit.
You'll get breathtaking panoramic views of Medellin, its sprawling urban landscape, and the surrounding lush green mountains. The cantilevered platform offers a particularly dramatic perspective.
Yes, there's a popular outdoor gym near the summit, and sometimes instructors lead Zumba classes, adding a fun, active element to the visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit with the three crosses, the cantilevered viewing platform, and any of the higher points offering expansive city vistas are prime photo locations.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour lighting for dramatic cityscapes.
Drone usage regulations can be complex and may change. It's best to check local rules before flying. The views are already stunning without one.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic city views. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
Absolutely! The entire climb offers glimpses, but the summit provides the most comprehensive and iconic shots of the Medellin skyline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the climb can be tiring. There are vendors selling drinks, but it's wise to have your own supply. The outdoor gym and the sheer excitement of reaching the top with the crosses can be motivating for older kids. The spectacular views are a fantastic reward for the effort, offering a memorable experience of Medellin's landscape.
🚶 Solo Travelers
While you don't need specialized hiking gear, comfortable, supportive shoes are a must due to the steep and uneven terrain. Be sure to carry sufficient water and sunscreen. The climb offers a great sense of accomplishment and the panoramic views are a fantastic solo reward.
👟 Fitness Enthusiasts
Don't forget to utilize the outdoor gym at the summit for a comprehensive workout. Joining a Zumba class if available adds a fun, high-energy element. The stunning views serve as a fantastic backdrop and motivation throughout your fitness journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Climb: What to Expect
Despite the intensity, the climb is widely considered worth the effort. The trail is dotted with stopping points where you can purchase refreshments, a welcome respite. These vendors offer drinks like lemonade, with prices varying depending on how close you are to the summit. This provides opportunities to rest, rehydrate, and enjoy the changing perspectives as you ascend.
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, a unique tip from visitors is to start the hike from the 'ending' of the trail. This approach can make the ascent significantly more manageable, allowing you to enjoy the views without the most demanding part of the climb. It's a clever way to adapt the experience to your fitness level.
Views and Amenities at the Summit
Beyond the stunning vistas, the summit area offers more than just scenery. You'll find a cool outdoor gym where visitors can work out amidst the fresh air. On some days, you might even catch an energetic Zumba class, adding a lively and communal atmosphere to the hilltop. These amenities make the visit a well-rounded experience, combining physical activity with natural beauty.
Vendors at the top also offer a selection of drinks, including natural juices, allowing you to relax and soak in the views with a refreshing beverage. It's a great place to unwind after the climb and appreciate the vibrant energy of Medellin from above.
Social
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