Time For A Getaway - Hacienda Napoles, Not Just Hippos and Pablo Escobar

If you have read my articles about Medellin about culture and such, you'll know that I absolutely despise Pablo Escobar, his memory and his lasting legacy in not only this city but the unhealed scars he left on Colombia at large. Most of the buildings that had significance to Escobar have been destroyed, with the last of which being Edificio Monaco, which was dedicated as a park to the victims of his violent time in power in Medellin.

One of the last places left has been Hacienda Napoles, which was a personal zoo and hiding spot for Escobar and his other various murderer friends and associates, however over the past 8 years, Hacienda Nápoles has transformed from this notorious past into a family-friendly destination. What will be burned into the minds of the uninitiated is the image of the gate with the plane on top, which was a featured image in the first 2 seasons of the Netflix fan fiction series, Narcos, Hacienda Napoles tore down that entrance and now offers a unique blend of wildlife conservation, aquatic adventures, and cultural experiences. Located in Puerto Triunfo, Antioquia, approximately 150 kilometers east of Medellín, this expansive theme park provides an escape from urban life, immersing visitors in nature and leisure.

A Journey from Medellín to Hacienda Nápoles

Traveling from Medellín to Hacienda Nápoles is both convenient and scenic. For those opting for public transportation, several bus companies operate daily routes to Puerto Triunfo:

• Expreso Brasilia: Known for its comfortable seating and reliable service, Expreso Brasilia offers multiple departures throughout the day.

• Rápido Ochoa: Another reputable company, Rápido Ochoa provides frequent services with amenities like air conditioning and onboard entertainment.

  You can book travel easily on RedBus via their app or at https://www.redbus.co/

The journey typically takes around three to four hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Upon arrival in Puerto Triunfo, local taxis or shuttle services can transport visitors directly to the park entrance. Be prepared with cash, because there are limited options for Uber, Didi and InDrive.

Embracing the Tropical Climate

Hacienda Nápoles is situated in a region characterized by a warm tropical climate. Average temperatures hover around 28°C (82°F), with high humidity levels. Visitors are advised to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing, apply sunscreen generously, and stay hydrated to fully enjoy the outdoor attractions. If you are there and not accustomed to the hot climate, be very careful with your intake of alcohol. Drink as much water as you can, and while on the resort, the water is filtered and treated, so it is safe to drink, in the surrounding villages, unless you've been in Colombia a while, stick to bottled water. I was ok, but my partner and her kids were not. That made for a long flight back to the US for them.

Attractions: A Blend of Adventure and Education

The park's diverse attractions cater to visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both adventure and education.

• Wildlife Sanctuary: Continuing its legacy as a haven for exotic animals, the park houses species such as elephants, zebras, ostriches, and the famed hippos that have adapted to the local environment. The sanctuary emphasizes conservation and education, offering visitors insights into the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.

• Jurassic Park: Seemingly alive with life-sized dinosaur replicas, this area sparks the imagination of young explorers, providing both fun and learning opportunities about prehistoric life.

• Aquatic Zone: The water park is a MUST visit and features a variety of pools, slides, and lazy rivers, offering a refreshing respite from the often intense tropical heat. Designed with safety and enjoyment in mind, it's a highlight for children and adults alike.

• Cultural Exhibits: The park also offers cultural exhibits that delve into Colombia's rich history and biodiversity, enhancing the educational aspect of the visit. Thankfully limiting the references to Escobar.

To enter the park you will need to purchase a "Passport" instead of a ticket. The prices vary based on how many days you plan on being in the park. I will say, I recommend at least 2 days. One to do the animal adventures, and one to do the water park. Passports range in price from 63,000COP to 349,000COP based on a myriad of factors. You can find the pricing here and decide which suits you best. https://haciendanapoles.com/pasaporte/

Accommodation: Comfort Amidst Nature

Several quality accommodations near Hacienda Nápoles ensure a comfortable stay for visitors:

• On-Site Hotels: I have alot to say about this one. When we booked the trip, the plan was for the adults to stay in one room and the kids to have their own. There was a mixup, and they overbooked. We had rooms in Hotel Africa, and when we arrived, they only had a room with 2 double beds. We tried to find 2 rooms in other hotels, but there were only single rooms and the answer was to let the kids stay in that room and move the adults to another hotel 1.8km away. Something tells me that 2 kids that don't speak Spanish wouldn't like that option too much. It was an honest mistake on the part of the hotel, but it started the experience off on the wrong foot. They did make it right by comping us rooms for a future visit.

• Hotel Arbóreo Doradal: This was where we stayed, and it was an unforgettable experience. Even though it was VERY last moment, they went out of their way to accomodate us. The driver came to the park to pick us up, drive us to the hotel so we could check-in, drop off our bags and go back to the part. In addition to the incredible service, the rooms are not huge, but this was one of the few hotels I've stayed at with blackout curtains and the bed is much larger and comfortable. It was definitely one of the more comfy for sleeping and, other activities I've been in here in Colombia. I'll post a few pics in the gallery below, but the pool and dining experience is next level, and picky kid approved. They also have shuttles that they can arrange to take you to the park, and pick up is a Whatsapp message away. IG - @arboreohotel

• Hotel Mass Luxury: I got to tour this property and while it was nice, it missed the mark on the rooms a bit. The biggest issue is the lack of AC in the room. You will have a wall mounted fan, and there is a sparkling pool to cool down in, the simple pleasure of AC is awesome after a long day at the park. However, this hotel does do a breakfast that is INCREDIBLE, and has a solid room service menu, which extends later than most hotels do.

Culinary Delights: Dining Options Within the Park

Hacienda Nápoles offers a variety of dining options to satisfy diverse palates:

• El Bohio Restaurante: Specializing in traditional Colombian cuisine, this restaurant provides a taste of local flavors in a casual setting. IG - @bohiohaciendanapoles

• Restaurantes en la zona de las Cataratas Victoria: Ideal for families, the various restaurants offer a wide selection of options, ensuring that even picky eaters find something to enjoy.

A Transformative Experience

Hacienda Nápoles stands as a testament to transformation, turning a place once overshadowed by the dark history of a murdering terrorist into a place of education, conservation, and family fun. For travelers seeking a change from the hustle and bustle of Medellín, this park offers a refreshing blend of adventure and relaxation in a natural setting.

A journey to Hacienda Nápoles not only provides a unique recreational experience but also supports the ongoing efforts in wildlife conservation and community development in the region. It's an opportunity to witness how places can evolve, embracing new identities that honor the biodiversity of Colombia and the animals while paving the way for a brighter future.