arvö

Arví, also known as Parque Arví, is a protected natural area and ecotourism destination located on the eastern fringes of Medellín, Colombia. It lies in the metropolitan region of Antioquia, with lands in the municipality of Medellín and in the rural area of Santa Elena. The park encompasses montane forest habitats, including cloud forest environments, and shelters a range of flora and fauna adapted to highland conditions.

History and purpose: The Arví initiative emerged in the 1990s as a community-based conservation and ecotourism project that sought to conserve biodiversity while improving livelihoods for local residents and promoting sustainable development. It is managed through a partnership between Medellín city authorities and local associations.

Activities and features: The area is known for marked hiking trails, birdwatching, and cultural experiences with local communities. It hosts an ecotourism market and visitor facilities that emphasize traditional crafts and regional cuisine. The landscape combines forested slopes, streams, and small-scale agricultural plots maintained by local residents.

Access: Arví is connected to Medellín by the city’s cable car system, with a terminus serving park visitors, from which trails and facilities are reached by short transfers. The park is part of the region’s green space network and is used for environmental education and sustainable tourism.