Cerro de Las Tres Cruces

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Parks & Nature

Cerro de Las Tres Cruces

Belen, Medellin

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Entry Fee

Free

Location

Calle 8 #84f-25
Belen, Medellin

Hours

6am to 8pm
Daily

Official Website

None

Enjoy Nature & Outdoor Activities with the family

Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas is a nature reserve located in the municipality of Santa Elena, in Antioquia, Colombia. It is situated approximately 30 kilometers from Medellin, Colombia’s second-largest city. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

The park covers an area of approximately 15 hectares and is home to many species of flora and fauna. The park’s main attractions are its waterfalls, which cascade down the steep faces of the Piedras Blancas mountain range. The park also contains a number of trails which lead through the lush vegetation, offering visitors the chance to observe a variety of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The trails range in difficulty from easy to moderate and offer a variety of different landscapes to discover and enjoy.

Piedras Blancas Ecological Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. The park is closed on Mondays, and visitors should be aware that the park can be quite cold at night, so it is recommended to bring warm clothing.

Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas also offers a variety of other activities such as camping, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The park also has a number of educational facilities, such as a botanical garden and a research center, where visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna.

Overall, Piedras Blancas Ecological Park is a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its beautiful landscapes and diverse range of flora and fauna, it is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the natural beauty of Colombia.

The history of Parque Ecologico Piedras Blancas

Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas was established in 1996 by the Colombian government as a nature reserve. The park covers an area of approximately 15 hectares and is home to many species of flora and fauna. The park is managed by the Colombian government and is open all year round.

The park has been the site of various conservation projects over the years, including the reintroduction of several endangered species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. It also works on conservation efforts such as reforestation, water management, and the protection of local species.

In recent years, the park has become increasingly popular with locals and tourists alike, and is now a well-known destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. The park is well-maintained, with a number of facilities for visitors to enjoy, including trails, educational facilities, and a butterfly farm.

Outdoor activities to enjoy

Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Nature walks are a popular way to explore the park and observe the local wildlife. There are also a number of hiking trails, including a trail to the summit of Piedras Blancas. Mountain biking is also permitted, and there is a dedicated mountain bike track.

Horseback riding is also available, allowing visitors to explore the park on horseback. Camping is also allowed in designated areas, and visitors can bring their own tents or rent one from the park. Additionally, there is a bird watching tower, allowing visitors to observe the birds of the park from a height.

Bird Watching: There is a bird watching tower, allowing visitors to observe the birds of the park from a height.

Nature Walks: Explore the park and observe the local wildlife on a nature walk. The trails are well-maintained and offer a great opportunity to observe a variety of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Hiking Trails: Take a hike up the Piedras Blancas mountain range and enjoy the spectacular views. There is a trail to the summit of Piedras Blancas for those looking for a challenge.

Mountain Biking: The park has a dedicated mountain bike track for visitors to enjoy.

Horseback Riding: Explore the park on horseback and discover the beauty of the area from a different

Picnic: area there’s a place you can sit down and enjoy nature and have a nice lunch by the lake.

Kayak: you can get on a canoe and paddle around a large lake, its fun relaxing activity to do since the lake is very calm

Butterfly Farm at Parque Ecologico Piedras Blancas

The Piedras Blancas Ecological Park is home to a butterfly farm, which is a popular attraction for visitors. The farm is located within the park and it is a great place to learn about the different species of butterflies that can be found in the region.

The farm is home to a wide variety of butterfly species, including the Blue Morpho, which is one of the most well-known and striking species. Visitors can walk through the farm and observe the butterflies as they fly freely among the plants.

The farm is also an important research center, where scientists study the life cycle of butterflies and their conservation.Visitors can also learn about the different stages of the butterfly’s life cycle, from the egg to the adult stage, and learn about the different plants that are important to their survival.

There are also guides available to give tours of the farm and provide information about the different species of butterflies that can be found there.It’s important to note that, as with any wildlife, the timing and availability of butterfly species can vary depending on the season and weather conditions.

Overall, the butterfly farm at Piedras Blancas Ecological Park is a great opportunity for visitors to learn about the different species of butterflies that can be found in the region, and to observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Camping in the Piedras Blancas Ecological Park

Staying overnight in Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas is an excellent way to experience the park in all its glory. The park has a number of designated camping areas, where visitors can bring their own tents or rent one from the park. Camping fees vary depending on the type of activity being undertaken and the number of people staying in the tent. Additionally, the park has a number of facilities for campers, including showers and toilets.

Staying overnight in the park offers visitors the chance to experience the park in a unique and peaceful way. The park has a variety of trails, offering visitors the chance to explore the park and observe a variety of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Additionally, the park has a number of educational facilities, such as a botanical garden and a research center, where visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna.

For those looking for a unique overnight experience, Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas is the perfect destination. The park offers a variety of activities, ranging from nature walks to camping and horseback riding, making it a great destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Insect Museum in Piedras Blancas Entomological

The Piedras Blancas Entomological Museum, also known as the Insect Museum, is a unique and fascinating attraction located within the Piedras Blancas Ecological Park in Santa Elena.The museum is dedicated to showcasing the incredible diversity of insects found in the region, and is a must-see destination for anyone interested in these fascinating creatures.

The museum features a wide variety of exhibits that highlight the different types of insects found in the area, including butterflies, beetles, moths, and many other types. The exhibits are arranged by taxonomy and are designed to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the different species found in the park.

One of the highlights of the museum is the butterfly exhibit, which features a wide variety of butterfly species from the region. The exhibit is designed to simulate a natural butterfly habitat and visitors can observe the butterflies up close.

The museum also features a collection of live insects, which are kept in specially designed enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Visitors can observe these insects in their natural state and learn about their behavior and habits.

The Piedras Blancas Entomological Museum also has a laboratory where researchers can work on their studies and research with the specimens they have collected, and it is open to visitors as well. The museum also has a gift shop that sells a variety of souvenirs and educational materials related to insects.The Insect Museum is open to visitors year-round, but it is closed on Mondays. Entrance fee may apply to enter the park and the museum.

Overall, the Museum is a great destination for anyone interested in learning more about the incredible diversity of insects found in the region. With its wide variety of exhibits, live insects and educational resources, it is a perfect place to gain a deeper understanding of these fascinating creatures.

Hotel Piedras Blancas

For those visitors to Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas looking for a more luxurious experience, the park also has a hotel. The hotel is located at the entrance to the park and offers guests comfortable accommodation in a beautiful setting. The hotel also offers a range of facilities, such as a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and spa.

The hotel is the perfect place to stay for those looking to explore the park and take advantage of the park’s many activities. The hotel offers a variety of packages, including guided tours of the park, allowing visitors to explore the park and observe the local wildlife. Additionally, the hotel organizes horseback riding trips, mountain biking trips, and other activities, making it the ideal choice for those looking for a more active experience.

The hotel is also a great place to relax after a day of exploring the park. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, and the restaurant offers a range of delicious meals. The hotel also has a bar, offering a variety of drinks and snacks, and a swimming pool, offering guests the chance to cool off after a day of exploring.

More about Santa Elena

Did you spend your night in the Piedras Blancas Ecological Park and do you have some spare time to visit Santa Elena the next day? Here’s some more information about the town. Santa Elena is a municipality located in the department of Antioquia, in Colombia. It is situated approximately 30 kilometers from Medellin, Colombia’s second-largest city. The municipality is home to a number of attractions, including the popular Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas, which is situated on the outskirts of the town.

Santa Elena has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of traditional festivals taking place throughout the year, such as the Festival de la Virgen de Santa Elena and the Festival de la Chinita. The town also has a vibrant nightlife, with a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Additionally, there are a variety of shopping opportunities, with a number of local markets offering unique items from the region.

The town is also home to a number of historical monuments and buildings, including the Church of San Antonio, the San Antonio River Bridge, and the historic Casa del Corregidor. These monuments provide visitors with an insight into the history of the area and offer a great opportunity to explore the local culture.

Santa Elena is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The nearby Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas is a popular destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region, and the town provides visitors with easy access to the park. Additionally, the town is within easy reach of Medellin, allowing visitors to explore the city and its many attractions.

Overall, Santa Elena is a great destination for those looking to explore the region and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area. The town offers a range of attractions and activities, and provides easy access to the nearby Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas. Whether you are looking to explore the park, experience the local culture, or just relax and enjoy the scenery, Santa Elena is the perfect place to stay.

Travel Tips / FYI

Pet Policy:

Pet Valid Vaccine Card
Your pet must be on a leash and accompanied by its owner at all times.
They allow Cats and Dogs into the park.
There’s a maximum capacity of pets allowed into the park. Be sure to come early so they’re not turned away.
Remember to pick up your pet’s waste.

How To Get There

The best way to get to Parque Ecológico Piedras Blancas from Medellin is by car. The journey takes around 45 minutes by car and is around 30 kilometers in distance. There are a number of routes that can be taken from Poblado to the park, and it is advisable to use a GPS to ensure that the most efficient route is taken.

Alternatively, visitors can take the bus from Poblado to Santa Elena, and then take a taxi from there to the park. The bus journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the taxi takes around 15 minutes.

For those looking for an alternative way to get to the park, the metro system with cable cars is a popular option. The cable car system operates from several stops in Poblado, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. From the last stop, visitors can take a taxi to the park, which takes around 15 minutes.

Visitors can also take a taxi or Uber directly from Poblado to the park. The journey takes around 45 minutes and is around 30 kilometers in distance. It is advisable to check the prices for taxis and Ubers in advance, as the cost can vary depending on the time of day and the number of passengers. It may not be easy to find a taxi or Uber back to Medellin.