Is Medellín Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Medellín, Colombia, is treated and monitored to meet national safety standards. It is generally considered safe for drinking by local authorities.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

However, some residents and visitors prefer bottled or filtered water due to occasional taste or infrastructure concerns. Water quality can vary in older neighborhoods.

For immunocompromised individuals, bottled water is recommended. Overall, Medellín's water supply undergoes rigorous testing to ensure safety and compliance with health regulations.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Colombia is ranked as number 78 globally with a score of 59.7% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Medellín, Colombia

Medellín's tap water primarily comes from the Porce River watershed, which supplies raw water to the city's treatment plants.

Additional sources include several smaller rivers and reservoirs within the Aburrá Valley. These sources are managed for quantity and quality.

Treatment plants purify this water through processes like sedimentation and disinfection before distribution to residents in Medellín.

Medellín Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Medellín are connected to the treated water supply, generally meeting safety standards. However, maintenance varies by location.

Occasional contamination risks exist due to exposure or lack of cleaning. Users should consider local cleanliness before use.

For safety, some prefer bottled or personal filtered water, especially immunocompromised individuals or tourists unfamiliar with local conditions.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Medellín. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Medellín is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.