Santa Fe de Antioquia is a little over an hourīs drive from Medellin now that a 7km tunnel through the mountains that separates them has shortened the trip by 2 hours.

The drive to Santa Fe de Antioquia itself makes the trip worthwhile, taking you North as you climb out of Medellin into the green and lush mountains that lead to the new and modern tunnel that brings you into a different world.

As you exit the tunnel the road meanders its way through exciting and mountainous terrain slowly descending into the valley.

Slowly but surely the temperature climbs and the terrain gradually becomes drier as you approach Santa Fe. The area is fairly dry and arid reminiscent of southern Spain.

Below is a map showing where Santa Fe is located. You can zoom in and out of the map and drag and pull left/right & up/down to study the route in more detail.


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On the way are scattered hotels and now there's even a major supermarket along the main road because along with Rionegro, this is another attractive area to have a weekend farm for the wealthy of Medellin.

You will cross the Cauca (Colombiaīs 3rd largest river) on a yellow suspension bridge, drive through some up-market housing hidden behind florid hedges, take a left and there you are.

The town deserves exploring and the main road is not the most impressive. The street that runs parallel to the right of the main street is usually emptier and impressive to the say the least. Take in the architecture and dream yourself away.

Santa Fe has some excellent restaurants in hidden away courtyards with fountains and fans that are the perfect places to relax during the midday hours that remind a little of the dry summer heat of Spain.

The food is delicious and service excellent.

Santa Fe de Antioquia is one of the attractions around Medellin that I recommend the strongest. Bring a camera!