
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.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 3,473 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
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
👟 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.
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.






Social
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