Here’s a little insight into the why, when, and where of the Pablo Escobar Tour. A closer look at the world’s most wanted man and the richest man from someone who lives and breathes Medellin, The City of Eternal Spring.
If you don’t already know and haven’t seen the popular series that aired on Netflix some years ago (whose N word we won’t mention), here’s a short summary of a man, and his legacy, that made a hell of an impression on the infamous Medellin, Colombia, and the world!
Who is Pablo Escobar?
Born into a poor family just outside the city of Medellin, who couldn’t afford to keep him in school, he dropped out, leading to the beginning of a life of crime. By the age of 22, he had made his first million dollars working for a drug smuggler. Then he made a name for himself when he ordered the death of Medellin’s most powerful drug lord, and when a case for his arrest came up, he also ordered the murder of all arresting officers.
His influence over the drug trade and Colombia climaxed in 1982 when he was elected to Congress. 80% of the world’s cocaine trade went through Pablo. Despite the fear he produced, he was still very popular among the people of Medellin, building rapport by providing churches, schools, sports fields, and public parks. A Colombian Robin Hood.
His tactic was to bribe everyone; if you didn’t accept, death was the consequence – plomo or lead. Believed to have killed around 600 police officers in 1991 to evade charges and life in prison, he built his own! La Catedral, situated in the hills surrounding Medellin, was a mansion; with a jacuzzi and helipad included. He continued to carry out business from prison, even torturing and killing inside; this discovery led to an arrest warrant and an actual prison sentence.
Escobar magically disappeared, leading to a manhunt by rival drug cartels, a US task force, and, Los Pepes, a group of family members of his victims. On December 2, 1993, Escobar was found hiding in a middle-class neighborhood by the police force, who shot and killed him on the roof.
A revived Medellin
Three decades have passed since the death of Pablo Escobar and the city still struggles to overcome the Escobar narrative that can often take over in the mind of a foreigner. It won’t take long to change that!
As you start to descend into Medellin on your ride from the airport, you’ll be hit by the astounding beauty and nature of an innovative, picturesque and vibrant city. Medellin is a hub for international architects, artists, tech start-ups, and trendy restaurants. The metro system is the best in the country and you can even access the colorful barrios that sprawl the city, by escalators, like Comuna 13, or via metro cable.
The locals of Medellin, Paisas, are proud and protective of their city, and with good reason. It’s come so far since the horror they lived through in the 90s. Most will say it’s the most beautiful city in the world, and I am inclined to agree. I arrived eight years ago, and the warmth of its people, the surrounding lush green mountains, and the constant high-energy vibe suck you in and keep you wanting more.
What to Expect on a Pablo Escobar Tour
The story is best told not from a TV series but from Roberto Escobar himself, aka The Bear, El Patron’s older brother. Meet him, talk to him, and take pictures with him. You will learn amazing stories about Pablo from this family member directly.
That’s what you can expect from a Medellin VIP Pablo Escobar tour. The good thing about such a popular show is that it’s brought tons of tourists to Medellin with a thirst for more, and the city never disappoints. Must-see stops on the Tour include Hacienda Nápoles, his ranch outside town; his grave; and La Catedral, the prison built to his specifications. Take a quick look at our tour video summary from an expert guide.
There’s no need to focus on the past, only on the present and the future of such a contemporary and thriving city. The locals dislike talking about the violent past; the popular Netflix series dirtied Medellin’s name enough. You only need to book a City Tour to find out what potential Medellin and its surroundings have to offer.
Why not start with one of the city’s best entertainment and hospitality groups that specialize in selling memories and experiences through a full-service vacation trips to the City of Eternal Spring? Contact us today to find out more!
