Marinilla Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, top things to do, hiking/biking routes, where to stay, local culture, and customs of Marinilla, Colombia.


Introduction to Marinilla

Located in the Andino region of Colombia, Marinilla is a charming town known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Unlike many other tourist destinations in Colombia, Marinilla remains relatively undiscovered, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Colombian experience.

List of Places to Visit in Marinilla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo de Arte Religioso y Contemporáneo: The museum showcases religious art and contemporary Colombian art.
  • Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción: One of the most important cultural landmarks of Marinilla is this 19th-century church located at the central square, surrounded by colonial buildings.
  • Casa Museo Pedro Nel Gómez: This museum exhibits the life and works of famous Colombian artist and muralist Pedro Nel Gómez.

Natural Attractions of Marinilla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Principal: The central park of Marinilla offers a calm and serene environment to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
  • Cerro El Salvador: This mountain offers breathtaking views of the town and surrounding areas, as well as hiking trails.
  • Paso del Mango Natural Reserve: This reserve offers a great opportunity to go birdwatching, camping, or hiking in the natural forests of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marinilla

  • Ruta de las Flores: A popular hiking route that takes you through the beautiful countryside, where you can witness the local flora and fauna.
  • Cascada de Las Golondrinas: This route takes you through stunning mountainous paths, culminating in a spectacular waterfall view.
  • La Ceja to Marinilla: A favorite among the local biking enthusiasts, this route offers scenic views of hillsides, coffee plantations, and colorful towns.

Best Things to Do in Marinilla: Activities and Tours

  • Coffee Tour: Discover the coffee plantations and witness the coffee-making process from bean to cup.
  • Paragliding: Experience the thrill of soaring over Marinilla while enjoying the stunning views.
  • Local Market Tour: Visit the local market and witness the variety of fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts on display.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marinilla

Day Activities
1 Explore the town center and visit the Museo de Arte Religioso y Contemporáneo
2 Take a coffee tour or visit a local estancia
3 Visit the Paso del Mango Natural Reserve
4 Do a paragliding activity and take in the scenic views
5 Visit the Casa Museo Pedro Nel Gómez
6 Explore the Ruta de las Flores or the Cascada de Las Golondrinas
7 Enjoy the Parque Principal and visit the nearby Cerro El Salvador

Food and Drink Scene of Marinilla

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bandeja Paisa: A classic Colombian dish made with beans, rice, avocado, and chorizo.
  • Arepas: A type of traditional Colombian flatbread made from corn that can be served with different toppings.
  • Lechona: Slowly roasted pork filled with rice, vegetables, and Colombian spices.

Local Beverages

  • Aguardiente: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from the distillation of sugarcane.
  • Café con Leche: Delicious Colombian coffee with hot milk.

Where to Stay in Marinilla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Umbral Del Sol: A modern hotel located in the center of Marinilla.
  • Marinilla Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel with a great atmosphere and fantastic location.
  • Hacienda el Rosario: An authentic guesthouse located in a peaceful and tranquil environment.

What to Buy in Marinilla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Miel de Abejas: Honey produced by local bees in Marinilla.
  • Cigars: Hand-rolled cigars made with the best Colombian tobacco.
  • Handicrafts: Traditional Colombian handicrafts including bags, baskets, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Marinilla

Marinilla is known for its friendly and welcoming people, who are always open to sharing their culture and traditions. Some of the cultural events that you can witness in Marinilla include:

  • Feria de Vegas: A traditional annual event that takes place in January and features bullfighting, dancing, and other local customs.
  • Carnaval de Marinilla: Celebrated in June, this festival is a colorful celebration dedicated to the town’s patron saint, the Virgen del Carmen.
  • Semana Santa: Holy Week in Marinilla presents various events that showcase the town’s religious and cultural traditions.

Best Time to Visit Marinilla

The best time to visit Marinilla is during the dry season, from December to February, and from June to August. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed comfortably.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marinilla

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and customs.
  • Try to experience the local coffee and food scene.
  • Be open to cultural exchange and learning.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water. Always use bottled water to avoid any health issues.
  • Dress inappropriately in religious or cultural landmarks.
  • Over-plan your itinerary. Allow some room for unexpected experiences and adventures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marinilla

Marinilla is a relatively safe town, but as with any tourist destination, visitors should take necessary precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night, carrying only necessary belongings, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Marinilla

Visitors to Marinilla should take necessary health precautions, such as getting vaccinated for diseases like yellow fever and typhoid, using mosquito repellent, and avoiding tap water.

Getting to Marinilla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Marinilla

  • José María Córdova International Airport (MDE): Located in Rionegro, approximately 35 minutes from Marinilla.
  • Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH): Located in Medellín, approximately 45 minutes from Marinilla.

Bus Stations Near Marinilla

  • Terminal del Norte: Located in Medellín, from where you can take a bus to Marinilla.
  • Terminal de Transportes de Medellín: Also located in Medellín, this bus station offers multiple options to reach Marinilla.

Other Options

  • Private Taxi: Taxis can be hired from the airport and Medellín to reach Marinilla.
  • Rental Car: Rental cars are also available in Medellín for self-driving.

How to Get Around in Marinilla

The best way to get around Marinilla is on foot, allowing you to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace easily. Alternatively, taxis and buses are available for those who want to travel long distances, while bicycles can be rented for those who want to go on a biking adventure.

Where to Go Next from Marinilla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • El Peñol: A landmark geological formation located approximately one hour from Marinilla with stunning views.
  • Medellín: The second-largest city in Colombia, about 45 minutes away, known for its rich culture, art, and nightlife.
  • Santa Fe de Antioquia: A colonial-era town rich with history and located approximately an hour and a half from Marinilla.

Conclusion

Marinilla is a hidden gem that offers an authentic Colombian experience. Whether you are interested in exploring the local culture, admiring the beautiful natural landscapes, or enjoying the coffee and food scene, Marinilla is an excellent destination for all travel enthusiasts. With this comprehensive tour guide, you are ready to explore Marinilla to the fullest and create unforgettable memories.