Why sustainable tourism is no longer a trend in Medellín
In the last three years, Medellín has gone from being just a party and urban transformation destination to a place where more and more travelers ask: "Where can I stay without leaving a big environmental footprint?" The answer is not unique, but there are real options. It's not about hostels with bamboo signs and soy candles; we're talking about places that reduce water consumption, manage waste responsibly, support local communities, and, by the way, give you a more authentic experience. If you're planning to come in April 2026, this is for you.
Available options
In Medellín, there is no single area for eco-lodgings. They are scattered across neighborhoods like El Poblado, Laureles, Envigado, and even the historic center. The key lies in the type of certification or practices they implement. Here are the categories you'll find:
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Hotels with real environmental certification
These are properties that have gone through formal sustainability processes, such as LEED certification or the Green Globe seal. In Medellín, the Hotel Dann Carlton in El Poblado has implemented energy efficiency programs and single-use plastic reduction. Also, the Four Points by Sheraton in the Zona Rosa has verifiable recycling and water-saving policies.
Eco-hostels and glampings on the outskirts
If you prefer something more rustic, look for Eco-Hostal La Playa in San Antonio de Prado (40 minutes from downtown), which runs on solar panels and collects rainwater. Also, Glamping Monteverde in the township of Santa Elena offers domes with dry toilets and an organic garden. Perfect if you want to sleep under the stars without ecological guilt.
Airbnbs with a sustainable commitment
It's not all hotels. On platforms like Airbnb, look for properties that have the "Eco-friendly" filter activated. In Laureles, for example, there are apartments that use solar energy to heat water and have composting systems. Ask the host before booking: if they don't know what they do with their waste, it's probably not as green as it seems.
Updated costs
Prices vary depending on the season and level of luxury. Here are real ranges for April 2026 (reference prices):
- Double room in a certified hotel (El Poblado): $250,000 – $450,000 COP per night. Includes breakfast and access to recycling programs.
- Bed in an eco-hostel (San Antonio de Prado): $45,000 – $70,000 COP per night. Shared bathroom, but with solar hot water.
- Glamping for two people (Santa Elena): $180,000 – $300,000 COP per night. Includes dinner with ingredients from the garden.
- Eco-friendly Airbnb in Laureles: $120,000 – $200,000 COP per night. Entire apartment with composter and solar panels.
Note: prices can increase by 15-20% during high season (December-January and Easter Week). Always check if the price includes taxes and service charges.
Estimated times
The length of your stay depends on what you want to do. If you're just looking for a place to sleep while exploring the city, 2-3 nights in an eco-hostel in Laureles will suffice. But if you want to immerse yourself in the sustainable experience (composting workshops, visits to community projects), plan at least 4-5 nights. The glamping in Santa Elena, for example, requires a full night to enjoy the surroundings, plus the round trip (about 2 hours from José María Córdova Airport).
Practical tips
- Ask about real practices: Before booking, call or write to the accommodation. Ask specifically: "How do you handle organic waste?" or "Do you use renewable energy?" If they respond with vague answers, be wary.
- Bring your own reusable bottle: In Medellín, tap water is drinkable in most urban areas. This way you avoid buying plastic bottles. Many eco-lodgings have refill stations.
- Choose public transport or bicycle: The Medellín Metro is electric and efficient. There are also shared bicycle stations like EnCicla (free for residents and tourists with ID). Combine it with walking: the city is more walkable than you think.
- Support local businesses: Eco-lodgings often recommend local restaurants that buy from local farmers. Ask about organic or market food options. In Laureles, for example, Verdeos offers seasonal vegetable dishes.
- Disconnect from plastic: Bring a set of reusable utensils and a cloth bag. At street markets, like San Alejo, they will thank you for not using plastic bags.
Frequently asked questions
Is it expensive to stay in an eco-lodging in Medellín?
Not necessarily. There are options for all budgets. An eco-hostel can cost less than $50,000 COP per night, while a certified luxury hotel can exceed $400,000 COP. The important thing is that the price reflects real practices, not just green marketing.
How do I know if an accommodation is truly sustainable or just greenwashing?
Look for concrete signs: visible certifications (LEED, Green Globe, Rainforest Alliance), written sustainability policies on their website, and guest reviews that mention practices like recycling, composting, or water saving. If all you see are photos of plants and "save the planet" signs, it's probably smoke and mirrors.
Can I find eco-lodgings near downtown Medellín?
Yes, although they are less common. In the La Candelaria neighborhood, there are hostels like Hostal Rango that have implemented basic recycling and collaborate with social projects. Don't expect solar panels in the middle of the historic center, but do expect a commitment to the local community. Always verify before booking.
Choosing an eco-lodging in Medellín is not just a travel decision; it's a way to support a tourism model that cares for the planet and its people. The city is full of real options; you just have to know how to find them. Next time you book, ask yourself: is this place helping Medellín become greener, or is it just selling an idea?