Exploring Jericó with Kids: The Ultimate Family Guide
If you’re a family living in Medellín and looking for a fresh, exciting weekend trip, Jericó should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the Andes, this vibrant heritage town offers everything from breathtaking views at Cristo Redentor to colorful strolls down Calle Cien Escalas. Whether you’re exploring the serene Jardín Botánico or diving into the town’s rich history at the Museo de Antropología, Jericó is the perfect blend of culture, nature, and family fun. Ready to discover what makes Jericó a must-visit for families?
This post includes:
Interactive Map
As part of my trip planning, I create custom maps to organize and save recommendations. These maps are super helpful on the go, allowing us to quickly see what’s nearby in real time using Google Maps. While we may not hit every spot in one visit, the maps include activities for kids of all ages, including those with longer attention spans than my little ones or ones meet the minimum height requirement to go paragliding! There are recommended coffee tours too which is a must-do if your group is able. You’ll see other businesses as you would on a typical Google Map, but my recommendations stand out with color-coded icons that match the legend and categories. Whether you’re baby wearing or have young adults, just click the icon to the left of ‘S’ to open the legend and start exploring.
This map is organized by:
- Things to Do + See
- Places to Eat + Drink
- Coffee Tours
- Hikes
- Where to Stay
How to Get to Jericó
Jericó is located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Medellín, making it an easy 2.5-3 hour drive without traffic. If you’re looking to rent a car, we have had good experiences with Localiza. Just bring your passport and either your home country’s driver’s license or an international one to pick up the vehicle. Parking in Jericó is convenient, with both street options and overnight parqueaderos available.
Prefer to take a bus? You can book tickets through Transportes Jericó. Simply enter your travel dates, and the schedule will appear. The bus ride takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and how many times it stops.
Things to Do + See
For a young family like mine (with 3 kids under 4 years old), Jericó is an ideal destination filled with activities for little explorers. The town is easily walkable, but if you’d rather not take your car, you can always hop in a tuk-tuk to get around. We stayed at a family-friendly hotel in the Pueblo, which was perfect for returning to during nap times. We left our Babyzen YoYo+ travel stroller at home and carried my youngest in this breathable carrier. Jericó is very hilly, the cobblestones make for a bumpy ride, and a lot of the sidewalks are uneven or are actually stairs. During our 3-night, 4-day trip, we were able to explore the following highlights:
Cristo Redentor Jericó
First up is Jericó’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. You’ll pass the main entrance as you drive into town from Medellín. You can reach it by car, tuk-tuk, or by hiking a short—though occasionally steep—trail. The statue stands as a symbol of protection and faith for the community, and from here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the lush valley surrounding Jericó.
Estación Las Nubes
Unfortunately, the Estación Las Nubes cable car was closed during our visit, but funding is in the works for much-needed updates. You’ll walk past the entrance on your way to the Christ the Redeemer statue. If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking in advance to see if the cable car has reopened, as it offers a fun and scenic way to see the valley—perfect for kids who might need a break from walking. At the top, I’m told there is a restaurant and cafe where you can relax and take in the views.
Parque Principal
Like many small towns in Colombia, the central plaza is the heart of community life, and Parque Principal in Jericó is no exception. This vibrant park serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, making it a perfect spot for families to relax and soak in the atmosphere. You’ll often find local vendors selling delicious treats, from fresh fruit to traditional snacks, which can be a fun culinary adventure for little ones.
Santuario Santa Laura
Madre Laura, born in Jericó in 1874, holds the distinction of being Colombia’s first and only canonized saint, a title she received from Pope Francis in May 2013. Her mission extended far beyond religious teachings; she was passionately dedicated to improving the lives of indigenous communities. Madre Laura fiercely defended their dignity, fought against discrimination, and advocated for education and healthcare access. For families visiting Jericó, a trip to the Santuario Santa Laura offers a chance to learn about her inspiring legacy. The sanctuary not only provides insight into her life but also serves as a peaceful space for reflection. Kids can engage in meaningful conversations about kindness and social justice, making it a great educational stop during your visit
Museo de Antropología y Artes
The Museum of Anthropology and Arts in Jericó is a must-visit for families interested in the rich heritage of the region. The museum features an impressive collection of local artifacts that tell the story of Jericó’s history and culture, as well as rotating modern art exhibits that showcase contemporary Colombian artists. This blend of history and modernity makes it an engaging stop for visitors of all ages. Parents will appreciate that the museum often hosts family-friendly workshops and educational programs, allowing kids to get hands-on experience with local traditions and crafts. It’s a wonderful opportunity to spark curiosity and creativity in your little ones while deepening their understanding of the local culture. Here’s their website to learn more. The entrance fee is only 5.000 COP per adult!
Calle Cien Escalas
Calle Cien Escalas is more than just a practical staircase; it’s a fascinating symbol of Jericó’s traditional town layout. This unique street, consisting of 100 steps along colorful homes, showcases the colonial-era urban planning that adapted to the region’s mountainous terrain. As you and your little explorers make your way up the staircase, take time to appreciate the vibrant murals and charming architecture that line the route. Parents will love that the climb offers not only a fun physical challenge for kids but also a fantastic opportunity for family photos against the stunning backdrop of Jericó.
Jardín Botánico Jericó
The Jardín Botánico in Jericó is a great destination for families, open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM with free entrance! As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll encounter a stunning variety of orchids, ferns, bromeliads, and other flowers native to Colombia. This vibrant natural space showcases the region’s diverse flora and serves as a habitat for many bird species, making it a solid spot for budding birdwatchers. Kids will love exploring the winding paths and spotting colorful birds while learning about the local ecosystem. There’s a cafe at the top or bring along a picnic to enjoy in one of the shaded areas—there are plenty of benches and grassy spots to relax.
Carriel Souvenir
The carriel is a traditional Antioqueño handbag that is often seen worn by men in the Jericó region. Designed to open like an accordion folder, it features multiple hidden pockets, making it both practical and stylish. Historically, gauchos used their carriel as a makeshift pillow on long horseback journeys. For families visiting Jericó, purchasing a carriel makes for a unique souvenir that embodies local culture and craftsmanship. Kids will enjoy choosing their favorite design or color, and you can even share the story behind this iconic accessory, adding an educational twist to your shopping experience. Look for local artisans who can explain the history and significance of the carriel. They’ll be happy to share and turn your visit into a memorable cultural lesson.
Puertas de Jerico
The colorful doors, window frames, and balconies of Jericó are a vibrant testament to the town’s rich colonial history. Each hue often carries personal or cultural significance, with families selecting shades that reflect their heritage, traditions, or simply what brings them joy. As you stroll through the streets, take the opportunity to engage your kids in a fun scavenger hunt—challenge them to find doors of specific colors or unique designs! This can be an engaging way to explore the town.
Places to Eat + Drink
These restaurants offer delicious food and provide a chance for families to discover the regional cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Jericó has a variety of options to choose from!
Casa Gourmet
This eclectic spot is known for its warm ambiance and diverse menu, featuring both Colombian and international dishes. We ordered off the menu del día and it was served in less than 10 minutes which is clutch when you’ve got some hangry kids (or adults)!
Bon Appétit at La Casona
Bon Appétit offers a delightful variety of dishes, from pastas and salads to pizza and even ramen. We stumbled upon this gem when my oldest requested pasta, and it turned out to be a great find! The restaurant is nestled within ‘La Casona,’ a unique venue akin to a Pueblo-style food hall featuring an array of different eateries and bars. This makes it an excellent spot for families with different tastes, ensuring everyone can find something they enjoy. There’s also a projector screen in the center to catch one of the many soccer games happening year round. I personally loved the penne a la vodka, which was rich and flavorful.
Golos
Located just off the main square, Golos is a charming heladería offering a good selection of ice cream flavors. For two cones and two cups of ice cream, we paid just 15,000 COP! We opted to take our treats to-go and enjoyed them in Parque Principal, soaking in the relaxed, local atmosphere. It’s a great option for families looking for an affordable and delicious way to cool down after exploring the town.
Bomarzo
Bomarzo stands out as a cultural hub, combining food, art, and live music in a beautiful setting. It’s perfect for families looking to enjoy a meal while also engaging in local culture. The space often hosts events and showcases local artists, offering a unique dining experience. It’s another food market hub where you can get beverages from one vendor and a variety of foods from the other restaurants inside. Check out their Instagram here to see if there are any events happening during your stay!
La Comedia
Located directly across from Santuario Santa Laura, La Comedia is a charming café and restaurant offering the best vegetarian options in town. Its outdoor patio boasts a lovely view of Parque de Los Fundadores, making it a serene spot to enjoy a meal. While their vegetarian offerings are great, their smoked trout and butter chicken were also top notch!
Don Rafa
A charming café located near the main square, Don Rafa is perfect for coffee lovers and offers a delightful menu that includes the rare Colombian cold brew. Families can enjoy pastries while enjoying the ambience in the town square. Their cappuccinos and hot chocolate are highly recommended. They also offer coffee tours. Check them out on Instagram or contact them directly on WhatsApp at +57 318 401 7904 for more information.
¡Ay Chabela!
Friends highly recommended this Mexican restaurant for a full meal, but we stopped by for an afternoon snack and drinks. The margarita menu is extensive, with plenty of interesting combinations to choose from. Though we didn’t try the tacos, reviews rave about them, and it’s said to offer some of the best vegetarian options in Jericó. This blocked side street makes for relaxed vibe and outdoor seating – an ideal spot to take a break with kids.
Where to Stay: Hotel El Despertar
For our family of 5, Hotel El Despertar was an absolute gem! We booked the Quadruple Room, which came with one king bed and two twin beds. And let me tell you — it was so spacious and the king bed was so comfortable! It’s rare to find a room with so many beds that doesn’t feel cramped, but this one still left us with plenty of breathing room (even with a travel crib for our youngest). Plus, the hot water was a nice bonus after the full days of exploring!
What really made our stay special was the kindness of the staff. They were so friendly and went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. And the location? Perfect! You’re close enough to stroll to Parque Principal, yet far enough to avoid any late-night noise. Best of both worlds!
If you’re looking for clean, comfortable rooms that capture an authentic Colombian vibe, this is the place to be. The common areas have gorgeous mountain views. The breakfasts were also authentic and delicious! We made our reservation on Booking.com.
We'll be back!
We enjoyed our time in Jericó so much and will definitely be back to visit again. I noticed there’s a ‘Hay Festival’ that usually takes place in January, spanning several days. The festival features a variety of events such as panel discussions, literary readings, concerts, and cultural workshops, all aimed at fostering conversation, creativity, and intellectual exchange. Keep an eye out for more details on the Hay Festival’s website!
MEET SARAH
Welcome! I’m Sarah. I started this blog to be a resource for others around a few of my favorite things: living in Colombia, DIY projects, places traveled, and day-to-day life. My hope is that it can a place of inspiration and encouragement to help you plan the next project or adventure of your own!
