Exotic Flowers Farm and Silleteros Cultural Tour

The Exotic Flowers Farm and Silleteros Cultural Tour provides a unique glimpse into the vibrant floral industry of Medellín, Colombia. Visitors explore family-owned farms renowned for their stunning array of exotic blooms, from vibrant roses to delicate orchids. Beyond the flowers, the tour immerses travelers in the rich cultural heritage of the Silleteros, artisans who create elaborate flower arrangements for local festivals. This immersive experience celebrates the country’s floral diversity and the intricate artistry behind its cultivation. Intrigued to learn more about this captivating tour?

Key Points

• A private half-day tour focusing on local flower production at a family-run farm in Santa Elena, Colombia, near Medellín.
• Includes professional guide, round-trip transfers, snacks (empanadas and hot cocoa), and entrance to Arvis Park.
• Showcases the diverse range of exotic blooms such as roses, sunflowers, orchids, and hydrangeas grown using traditional techniques.
• Highlights the fertile volcanic soil and ideal climate that create perfect growing conditions for year-round flower production.
• Tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants can sit on laps, but strong physical fitness is recommended for participants.

Tour Overview

The Exotic Flowers Farm Tour is a private half-day experience in Medellín, Colombia, focusing on the local flower production.

Guests will visit a family-run flower farm in Santa Elena, a key area for flower cultivation. The tour includes a professional guide and round-trip transfers from Medellín hotels.

Participants can expect to enjoy snacks like empanadas and hot cocoa, as well as entrance to Arvis Park. Lunch details aren’t specified. Gratuities aren’t included.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants can join. Pricing starts at $106.80 per person and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Inclusions

Although the Exotic Flowers Farm Tour includes all fees and taxes, it doesn’t specify gratuities.

The tour provides the following inclusions:

• Snacks of empanadas and hot cocoa

• Entrance to Arvis Park

• Lunch, though the details aren’t specified

• Round-trip transfers from Medellín hotels

• Professional guide services

These inclusions ensure guests can fully enjoy the flower farm experience without worrying about additional costs.

The tour’s inclusions allow guests to fully enjoy the flower farm experience without worrying about extra expenses.

The tour’s focus on local flower production and the cultural aspects of the Silleteros tradition provide a well-rounded experience for visitors to Medellín.

Pickup Information

Pickup for the Exotic Flowers Farm Tour is available throughout the Medellín metropolitan area, with alternative meeting points offered for guests staying in nearby municipalities like Sabaneta, Envigado, Itagui, and Bello.

Guests must be ready in the lobby at the confirmed pickup time with valid ID for verification. This private tour allows only your group to participate, so ensure punctuality to make the most of the experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants can sit on laps, though strong physical fitness is recommended for participants.

Accessibility and Additional Info

The Exotic Flowers Farm Tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests to explore the farm comfortably.

Strollers and service animals are also permitted, making it an inclusive experience.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour, and participants should be in strong physical condition.

This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate.

The tour’s accessibility and additional considerations ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all:

• Wheelchair accessible

• Strollers and service animals permitted

• Infants must sit on laps

• Strong physical fitness recommended

• Private tour for your group only

Pricing and Booking

The Exotic Flowers Farm Tour starts at $106.80 per person, with the price varying depending on the group size.

The Exotic Flowers Farm Tour starts at $106.80 per person, with the price varying depending on the group size.

Travelers can reserve and pay later for this private tour, which has free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

With 6 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor averaging a 5.0 rating, the tour offers an excellent value.

Guests can explore a family-run flower farm in Santa Elena, a key area for flower cultivation near Medellin, Colombia.

The tour includes a professional guide, round-trip transfers, entrance fees, and snacks like empanadas and hot cocoa.

Flower Production in Santa Elena

As a key region for flower cultivation in Colombia, Santa Elena is home to numerous family-owned farms dedicated to growing a diverse array of exotic blooms.

These farms employ traditional techniques passed down through generations, producing:

• Vibrant rose varieties in a spectrum of colors

• Towering sunflowers that sway in the mountain breeze

• Delicate orchids in enchanting hues

• Lush hydrangea bushes cascading with clusters of petals

• Unique tropical flowers found nowhere else in the world

The fertile volcanic soil and ideal climate of Santa Elena create the perfect conditions for these flower producers to thrive, ensuring a bountiful, year-round harvest.

Visiting the Family-Run Flower Farm

After arriving at the family-owned flower farm in Santa Elena, visitors are welcomed by the warm and inviting Jimenez family.

They’ll tour the greenhouses and fields, learning about the farm’s history and sustainable growing practices. Guests can observe the careful handling and preparation of vibrant blooms destined for markets in Medellín and beyond.

The knowledgeable guide explains the farm’s importance to the local economy and the family’s dedication to preserving traditional flower cultivation techniques.

Visitors depart with a deeper appreciation for Colombia’s thriving flower industry and the exceptional quality of its artisanal products.

Experiencing the Silleteros Culture

What truly sets this flower farm tour apart is the opportunity to take in the vibrant Silleteros culture.

Visitors will witness the centuries-old tradition of the Silleteros, who carry impressive floral displays atop their backs. This experience offers a unique glimpse into:

• The intricate process of constructing the fragrant "silletas" – the traditional flower arrangements.

• The annual Silleteros Parade, a colorful celebration of this cherished cultural heritage.

• The skilled craftsmanship and artistry of the Silleteros as they meticulously assemble their floral masterpieces.

• The deep pride and community spirit that unites the Silleteros.

• The chance to interact with and learn from these passionate floral artisans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are allowed to take photos and videos during the tour. The overview states that the experience includes a professional guide, indicating that photography and videography would be permitted as part of the tour activities.

Will the Guide Speak English Throughout the Tour?

The tour guide will speak English throughout the tour. This private half-day tour in Medellín, Colombia, focuses on local flower production and includes a professional guide who can communicate in English with participants.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated for the Snacks?

The tour provider accommodates dietary restrictions for the included snacks. Guests with specific dietary needs should notify the company in advance so they can prepare suitable empanadas and ensure the hot cocoa is appropriate for their dietary requirements.

How Long Is the Drive From Medellín to the Flower Farm?

The drive from Medellín to the flower farm in Santa Elena takes approximately 30 minutes. This private half-day tour includes round-trip transfers from hotels in the Medellín metropolitan area to the family-run flower farm.

Can I Purchase Flowers to Take Home From the Farm?

Yes, visitors can purchase flowers to take home from the family-run flower farm in Santa Elena. The tour includes the opportunity to browse and buy a variety of locally-grown blooms at the end of the experience.

The Sum Up

The Exotic Flowers Farm and Silleteros Cultural Tour offers a unique glimpse into Colombia’s vibrant floral industry and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful surroundings, learn about traditional farming techniques, and appreciate the artistry behind the Silleteros’ intricate flower arrangements. This captivating experience celebrates the country’s floral diversity and invites travelers to connect with the local community.