Planning a bachelor party in Medellín

Medellín is one of the most popular bachelor party destinations in the Americas. It's easy to reach from many US cities, the weather is pleasant all year, the nightlife is world class and your money goes further than at home. Here's how to plan it well.

When to book

Start three to four months ahead. The best penthouses for groups are limited and book out early, especially around holidays, long weekends and big events. If you're traveling at short notice, it's still possible, but you'll have fewer choices.

How long to stay

Four nights is the sweet spot: two big nights out, a day trip, a recovery day and a final dinner. Three nights works for a quick trip, but the travel day takes a bite out of it.

Where to stay

Stay in El Poblado or near Provenza. You'll be close to the best restaurants and nightlife, and buildings there have good security. A penthouse with a rooftop terrace and pool gives the group a home base for pre-parties and recovery days. For a bigger group or more privacy, a finca outside the city is another option, with a driver for nights in town.

Days

• Guatapé with a private party boat on the reservoir
• Paragliding over the valley
• ATV routes in the mountains
• A round of golf at a country club
• A pool day with a private chef and massages at the villa

Nights

Provenza and Parque Lleras are where most of the action is, with rooftop lounges early in the evening and clubs that run late. A reserved table with bottle service saves waiting in line and gives the group a base. Your host can steer you to the right club for your music and crowd.

Keep the group safe

Most visitors have a great time without problems. A few rules keep it that way:

• Use your private driver, not random taxis or rides, especially late at night.
• Don't leave drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers.
• Be careful with dating apps. Travelers have been robbed after meeting strangers, and your government's travel advice describes these schemes.
• Keep valuables and big watches at the villa, and carry only what you need.
• Stay together, and agree on a meeting point if someone gets separated.

A host who goes out with the group, and security for larger groups, makes all of this easier.

Budget

Costs depend on the size of the group, the property and how many extras you add. Ask for a per-person quote that includes the villa, transport, tables and activities so everyone knows what they're paying up front.

We plan bachelor weekends from start to finish: penthouse, airport pickups, a driver for every night, tables and activities, with a bilingual host on the ground.