Most people visit Jericó to enjoy the majestic cathedrals, natural beauty and colorful neighborhoods. Others go to get a flavor of small town life in the coffee country. This part of Antioquia province seems to have a little something for everyone.
Jericó is about a three hour bus ride from the Medellin south terminal. The bus will drop you off near the town's main square, which is surrounded by small shops and restaurants. Climb the stairs at the far corner of the square, then turn right and you'll see the Botanical Gardens. There are usually some teenage tour guides stationed along the way to educate you about the history and culture of the community.
Continue your stroll through the Gardens to the top of the hill with the Cristo Blanco statue. At this point you can take a short cable car ride over to another crest with views of the entire village. You'll see flowers in bloom all year round on the easy hike back down into town.
In the evenings the locals tend to congregate in the main square, where food carts serve up a variety of local dishes. While music blares and liquor flows in the bars along the street, the upstairs restaurants feature dining on balconies in a more relaxed atmosphere.Jericó is a good place to shop for leather goods and children's toys. Many visitors stay at one of the four or five small hotels within blocks of the main square. The bus back to Medellin leaves every two hours or so during the day.
