Guatapé is a gorgeous resort town located a mere 75 kilometers east of Medellin in Antioquia, Colombia. Famous for its vast reservoir of man-made lakes, Guatapé is the perfect destination for travelers craving aquatic adventure sports. The town is also home to excellent outdoor activities, such as climbing 702 steps to the top of Piedra del Peñol, a gigantic granite monolith with the best views in the area.
If you’re looking for more activities to do near Medellin, visiting Guatapé should be high on your bucket list. Besides exploring the stunning beauty of its waters, there are so many things to do in Guatapé, such as horseback riding and mountain biking, that you’ll be spoiled for choice. Seeking some adventure in Antioquia away from the hustle and bustle of Medellin? Visit Guatapé!
On top of the best things to do in Guatapé, this guide will also cover how to get there from Medellin, the nicest places to stay in town as well as restaurants serving up the tastiest Colombian dishes. From what to see and where to eat, this guide has everything you could ask for so if you want to experience life in rural Colombia with a dash of watersports, prepare to get your fill in Guatapé. Let’s dive in!
The Legend
Situated in the Central Andean mountain range at an elevation of 2,135 m, Guatapé has a long local history that dates back to the indigenous groups that once inhabited the area. Named for a former chieftain, Guatapé roughly translates from the Quechua language to ‘stones and water,’ for which the region would become famous.
Establishing its roots as a farming community dedicated to agriculture, livestock and mining, the town was founded in 1714 before becoming a municipality in 1867. However, since 1970, Guatapé has experienced several geographical changes when a large hydroelectric complex was constructed. Highly controversial at the time, the valleys were flooded to create the 2200-hectare reservoir with the current dam generating a third of the energy in Colombia.
Nowadays, Guatapé is renowned for the majestic views visible from its many hilltops as well as its zócalos, the vibrantly-painted houses that line the rural town. Moreover, it’s also home to Piedra del Peñol, a 220-meter-tall rock formed over 70 million years ago. While two-thirds of the rock’s height remains underground, it still draws thousands of visitors annually who come from all over the world to climb 600 plus steps to its summit. The sweeping views from the top are undeniably the best in the region but it’s only a part of Guatapé’s charm.
Thanks to the reservoir, Guatapé has become a haven for travelers into watersports, like kayaking and paddle-boarding, as well as trekkers wishing to go on scenic hikes in the Andes. If you’re interested in experiencing a slice of life in the Antioquia countryside, no place is more exciting or breathtaking than Guatapé.
How to Get to Guatapé
While Guatapé is nestled less than 100 km from Medellin in northwest Colombia, the town can be slightly off the beaten path for most foreign travelers. Thankfully, there are conveniently direct buses that journey between Medellin and Guatapé at frequent intervals daily. The main bus station for the trip is Terminal del Norte, reachable via metro by taking Line A (the blue one) and exiting at Caribe Station right across from the bus terminal. Depending on where you exit, you might need to head to the ground floor of the bus terminal to access the ticket booths.
The route between Medellin and Guatapé is mainly operated by two bus companies, Sotrasanvicente and Sotrapeñol, and tickets can be bought from either counter #9 or #14 at the bus station for around 15000 COP ($5USD). Alternately, you can also buy the tickets online. Buses leave every 30 minutes starting at 5 AM for the Sotrapeñol route and at 6 AM for Sotrasanvicente, with the last departing at 6 PM. Pack some snacks for the two-ride or bring a good book to pass the time.
Medellin to Guatapé
|
Company |
Intervals |
Duration |
|
Sotrapeñol |
Every 30 minutes, 5h-18h |
2 hours |
|
Sotrasanvicente |
Every 30 minutes, 6h-18h |
2 hours |
The bus should let you off at Guatapé’s bus terminal but, alternatively, you can also get off about 10 minutes beforehand at the bus stop in front of Piedra del Peñol. This strategy is perfect for day-trippers who’d like to climb the massive rock first before exploring the rest of the area; just make certain to let the driver know ahead of time.
Guatapé is small enough that most lodgings should be within walking distance of the bus terminal so you won’t need to hail a taxi once you arrive. For travelers only visiting for a day or two, buses between Guatapé and Medellin depart every half hour from 4 AM to 8 PM with the Sotrapeñol route and from 6:30 AM to 6 PM with Sotrasanvicente.
Guatapé to Medellin
|
Company |
Intervals |
Duration |
|
Sotrapeñol |
Every 30 minutes, 4h-20h |
2 hours |
|
Sotrasanvicente |
Every 30 minutes, 6h30-18h |
2 hours |
Even though you can technically catch the bus back from Guatapé to Medellin at the bus stop in front of Piedra del Peñol, it might be full if traveling during peak tourist season. Your best bet is to leave directly from Guatapé’s bus terminal to snag yourself a seat unless you don’t mind standing for two hours all the way back. Fare costs around 15000 COP ($5USD) and tickets can be purchased at the bus terminal or online.
BONUS TIP #1: Don’t travel to Guatapé on a weekend or during a public holiday as the place is sure to be packed with tourists and locals alike.
BONUS TIP #2: For non-hispanohablantes, it might be difficult to make sense of your bus ticket since it’ll be in all Spanish. Make sure not to confuse ‘rampa’ (your gate number) with ‘puesto’ (your seat number).
10 Best Things to Do in Guatapé
While Guatapé makes for the ideal day-trip from Medellin, there are copious things to do in the area that you won’t nearly be able to fit in at one time. If you really want to explore the area, you’ll need at least two days to truly take advantage of the amenities. Guatapé and its surrounding area were literally made to take advantage of outdoor activities and there is a wide range for a number of interests.
Unsure where to start? These next suggestions might just be right up your alley.
1. Hike up Piedra del Peñol
They say save the best for last but in this case, I recommend you start by climbing this granite behemoth first. Half-buried in the earth right in the heart of Guatapé, this 220-meter-high monolith is not to be missed out on while in Guatapé for the physically-able. Comprising of around 700 steps to the top, only about a third of rock (also known as El Peñon de Guatapé) actually protrudes from the earth, yet its stature is still grand enough to provide the most majestic views in the area.
For a small entrance fee, you can challenge yourself to make it all the way to the top in record time and then do a victory lap (the climb took us around 20 minutes) before snapping some panoramas. The flat rooftop provides an uninterrupted, 360-degree view of Represa de Guatapé (Guatapé Reservoir), a spectacular sight that is sure to take your breath away once you catch it after the hike up.
FUN FACT: While Piedra del Peñol is used to be located in the municipality of Peñol, it’s currently part of Guatapé so, in 1988, the mayor of Guatapé and the owner of the rock (considered private property) attempted to have the correct name painted onto the natural formation. They were eventually stopped by locals from Peñol but the graffiti is still partially visible on one side of the rock.
2. Wander around Plazoleta de los Zócalos & Calle del Recuerdo
This splashy town square is brightly decorated by zócalos (plinths, or baseboards made by decorating planks) which hark back to the original settlement of Guatapé. Primarily used to protect lower walls from humidity and damage from farmyard animals at the beginning of the 20th century, the zócalos were emblematic of Guatapé until it was flooded in the 1970s to make way for the present-day reservoir. Subsequently, the new dam washed away the colorful buildings while causing many locals to be displaced and forcing some to move away permanently.
However, in 2010, zócalos began to see a resurgence as more and more of the remaining locals began to adorn their homes with elaborate plinths. Their efforts culminated in the construction of Plazoleta de Los Zócalos (Plinths Square) and Calle del Recuerdo (Memory Street) to honor the town’s past. Amble around the vibrant buildings to take in all the colors or browse in any of the eclectic shops that abound in the neighborhood to take home a plinth of your own; the perfect souvenir.
FUN FACT: Many plinths are designed to tell folklore or distinguish local families while detailing their history, and usually begin with a lamb tile. Try to spot them all but keep in mind that the square is also a popular meeting point so it’s likely to be packed with pedestrians.
3. Spend the day exploring the lake
One exhilarating activity that you must do while in Guatapé is renting some type of watercraft to explore the area more thoroughly. The water looks even more stunning up close and it is completely safe with no known predators, also making it ideal for swimming. With over 2200 hectares of the reservoir to navigate, you can make an entire day of cruising on the water and probably still not see it all.
There are several rental shops scattered all around the town that readily lend out vehicles such as single or two-person kayaks, canoes, paddle-boards, and even jet-skis and motorized boats in case you want to go faster. Rentals can last as little as an hour or you can try renting your watercraft for an entire day, whatever floats your boat!
4. Take a pic at Malecon de Guatapé
This concrete boardwalk is perched right next to Guatapé Lake and doubles an excellent observation deck to take in the scenic waterfront. Feel free to stroll or bike around the area which is decorated with green spaces filled with plants, flowers, benches, sculptures, fountains, bathrooms, and even playgrounds for kids.
As it’s also adjacent to Guatapé’s most colorful shops, streets, and town squares, you can spend plenty of time moseying around this landmark while still having access to everything you might need. Inaugurated in 2019, it’s a local hangout so you can expect this place to be packed with families and vendors hawking all manner of tours, some of which might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
5. Get some air hang-gliding, paragliding or on a helicopter ride
The best way to explore Guatapé is certainly from above and there are enough aircraft options to put you on Cloud Nine. For adventure-seekers, one of the biggest thrills in the area would be parasailing around the shimmery scenery. You can expect to be taken out onto the water by boat before being strapped into the parasail and plucked into the air once you catch enough speed.
Want to try something more risqué? Why not go paragliding instead and lose the leash? You’ll be accompanied by your pilot who’ll take you for a no-holds-barred ride around the area so you can see it from every angle. Too hard-core? Hang-gliding could be a happy midpoint since your hang-glider will be hauled across the water by a speedboat while still gaining substantial height. Prefer total security? Perhaps a helicopter ride is just your ticket if you don’t mind spending a pretty penny. No matter how you want to get airborne, you’ll be certain to get sky-high.
6. Book a boat cruise
With all that water on display, it would be a shame not to take a cruise around Guatapé Lake. Not only will you be able to get to know the area better, but it’s also the fastest way to take in all the main sights. There are plenty of tour operators in Guatapé as well as in Medellin that offer all types of excursions around the clock. Take a midday cruise or plan to set sail at sunset; choose a slow boat or splurge for a faster one; join a group tour or hire a private boat if you’re feeling extravagant. Most tours will even pick you up from your accommodation before dropping you off at the end.
With any luck, you’ll be able to spot some of the waterfront villas owned by some of Colombia’s rich and famous, like popular singers, actors, footballers, and even the kingpin himself, Pablo Escobar. The best tours will most likely pass by what’s left of Old El Peñol, the original settlement founded in 1714 but flooded to make way for the Guatapé Reservoir (it was relocated as New El Peñol). Try to point out the cross of Old El Peñol’s church peeking up from the water or play I-Spy to see you can find the only buildings that managed to survive being submerged. Now imagine the rest of the sunken town suspended in time while entombed in a watery grave just 30-50 meters below. Eerie.
FUN FACT: Pablo Escobar’s estate, La Manuela, was apparently his second-favorite house until he died in a hail of gunfire in 1993. The house was bombed by a rival cartel the same year but the ruins were still maintained as a bar by Escobar’s former butler who also ran paintball games. Unfortunately, the property was seized and sealed by the state in 2021, making it off-limits to the public.
7. Visit Piedra del Marial
Considered the less famous sister to Piedra de Peñol, this other giant rock is just as noteworthy, even it is smaller. Just across the lake from its more well-known counterpart, the monolith was formed around 70 million years ago as a result of crashing tectonic plates. This occurrence led to giant rocks consisting of mica and quartz ending up lying on top of each other, causing its formation distinct overhang. Considering the frequent earthquakes in the area, it’s a wonder that the rocks have never moved!
Despite its gravity-defying appearance, the rock has functioned as a sanctuary for more than a century. According to local legends, a priest from Old El Peñol had a vision in the early 1900s in which the Virgin Mary bade him to construct a sanctuary in the rock. Since then, thousands of people have flocked to the rock to pray and receive its miracles, and you can spot their plaques of gratitude lining the walls. Make sure to say a prayer before climbing to the top of the rock to get a panoramic view of Guatapé’s captivating scenery.
FUN FACT: Its feats against most laws of physics aside, Piedra del Marial holds many other miracles such as a mysterious source of water that constantly flows out of the rock, even in drier seasons.
8. Get wet at Parque Comfama Guatapé
This popular waterpark is a must-do if looking for a thrill while in Guatapé since it consists of 7.6 hectares of surf and turf habited by such species as mockingbirds, geese, and bluebirds. Hike its extensive trails to discover the local flora and fauna before grabbing a rowboat, peddle-boat, or a kayak to hit the water.
Alternatively, you can trampoline to your heart's content on any of the multitudes of bounce floats that make up the inflatable waterpark bobbing in the adjacent lake. Spend the day adventuring around the park’s other attractions and facilities like barbecue pits, picnic areas, and waterslides. Just make sure to bring a towel to dry off after going jet-skiing; the area can get pretty windy in the shade.
BONUS TIP: To get to Piedra del Marial, you have to take a chivero (mini-bus) from El Peñol since they’re the only mode of transportation that connects the two locations, and they only leave about every hour.
9. Delve into the past at Réplica del Viejo Peñol
This theme park, also known as Parque Temático Replica, is dedicated to the memory of Old Peñol, the former settlement that was flooded in 1978 to create the Guatapé Dam. Originally a hill, the park was developed in the early 2000s under the administration of Mayor Oscar Giraldo Ramirez, a local to the area. Presently, the park rests on the banks of the dam, just a few kilometers away in New El Peñol.
Replicated to memorialize the colorful facades that were emblematic of the lost town, the park features a detailed copy of the old church (now completely submerged) as well as several other facilities. Besides crafts shops for souvenirs, plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants for dining and a play area for children, the park also boasts a statue of Simón Bolivar in its central square, a figure who was undoubtedly one of South America’s biggest heroes. There’s also a pier from which you can get an excellent view of the water and can spot the cross of the old church’s steeple on a clear day. With little else to do in the area, visit the church to get transported back in time before taking a tour of the dam with a guide or renting a boat to go exploring on your own.
10. Learn some local legends at Museo Casa Del Viejo Peñol
Translating to Old Peñol House Museum, this building dates back to the 19th century and boasts all manner of cultural relics detailing the history and flooding of Old El Peñol. The estate originally belonged to Demetrio Galeano Jácome, an esteemed doctor of local fame, and is reachable either by car (turn off at KM 3 on El Peñol-Guatapé Road) or by water (from the Replica of Old Peñol).
Along with the cross of the submerged church of Old El Peñol, the former home is one of the only remnants of the previous settlement whose roots began more than 250 years prior. Although the majority of antiquities have been lost to the water, you can still dive into the past and honor the former inhabitants’ legacies by visiting this museum.
Where to Stay in Guatapé
Even though Guatapé is known for its small-town feel, there are plenty of lodging options for travelers with any budget. The growth of tourism in the area has allowed for the development of eco-friendly lodges as well as boutique hotels for travelers who prefer to live in the lap of luxury.
Technically, the region is divided into different municipalities such as Guatapé and New El Peñol. Most are within minutes from each other so there’s no inherent benefit of staying in one place over the other except for their accommodation choices. Thus, it’s probably to take into account the differences in amenities and facilities offered by particular hotels rather than their location when making a decision.
Luckily, you have a ton of options from the quaint to the extravagant:
Best Hostel for Solo Travelers: Bacoa Hostel
Heading to Guatapé on your own? There’s no place more social to link up with fellow travelers than this lively hostel. Nestled out in El Peñol’s countryside, you can choose to stay in a shared cabin, or go outdoorsy and get a large tent with a double bed all to yourself. Bacoa Hostel also has a restaurant, bar, terrace, garden, and lounge; the perfect places to meet new friends.
Best Budget Hotel: Casa Hostal Las Palmeras
Located in Guatapé, this quaint guest house features family rooms as well as a shared kitchen to cook your meals and a lounge where can eat them. Thanks to its great location near plenty of inexpensive restaurants and shops, Casa Hostal Las Palmeras is the most budget-friendly option, particularly for larger groups.
Best Midrange Hotel: Guatapé Country House Hotel
Situated right within walking distance of Guatapé, Guatapé Country House Hotel is the perfect stop for travelers who don’t want to compromise comfort over cost too much. This enchanting lodge offers everything from double rooms to private bungalows along with access to a garden that’s pet-friendly in case you’re traveling with a four-legged companion.
Best Hotel for a Romantic Getaway: Levit Glamping
This adults-only accommodation is the best place to escape in Guatapé for couples seeking a touch of romance. Only accessible by boat¸ this exclusive getaway is perched on a hillside covered in lunas, open-air bungalows equipped with private garden-view terraces and bathrooms. Order room service from the onsite restaurant and bar or upgrade to a deluxe suite with a hot tub for the ultimate romantic holiday.
Best Bed & Breakfast: Serendipity
For travelers looking for some R&R, this waterfront hotel is the quintessential B&B, featuring a garden, lake-view terrace, and dock for boats. Serendipity also offers family rooms for larger travel parties as well as watersports facilities for adventure-seekers. Why not try their buffet breakfast for the ideal start to any day?
Best Hotel for Large Groups: El Boato
If you’re traveling with a minivan’s worth of family/companions, this chic, pet-friendly boutique hotel is exactly where you want to be. With fully-equipped family cabins that feature two double beds, a sofa bed plus a terrace, El Boato also boasts a restaurant, bar, and garden. Splurge for a cabin with a hot tub or make the most of the room service and watersports facilities to really indulge while on holiday.
Best Luxury Hotel: Bosko
Craving some glitz and glamour? There’s no fancier place to live it up than Bosko, an adults-only resort right in the heart of Guatapé. This boutique hotel has everything; an onsite restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace, air-conditioning, and room service. Stay in one of their domes equipped with a private terrace and then take a soak in their hot tub for optimal relaxation while drinking in the natural beauty.
Best Hideaway Hotel: El Trebol
If you’re truly dying to get away from it all, El Trebol is sure to be your idyllic escape since it’s located on the outskirts of Guatapé yet within walking distance of all the main attractions. This waterside hotel provides its guests with ultimate isolation in the form of cottages spread out around the lake. Book a studio for one or an apartment that sleeps up to five and comes with a private balcony. Then, kick back on one of the hammocks by the lake to find your inner Nirvana.
Where to Eat in Guatapé
For foodies, Colombia is the perfect destination since the country is renowned for its gastronomic scene, particularly its more traditional dishes. Guatapé excels in providing travelers with authentic local cuisine and although there are now quite a few high-end restaurants, most deliver delicious platters at highly affordable prices. No matter your preferences or diet restrictions, there’s an eatery that is bound to please your palette.
Hecho Con Amor Deli
This deli is a tourist-favorite thanks to its wide selection of fare, making it the perfect place to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner. From their veggie burgers to their traditional empanadas, there is bound to be something for everyone, all at a reasonable price.
Price Range: $
Restaurante Folklor
If you fancy eating outdoors to get more of a fresh breeze, the terrace at this restaurant might tickle your pink. Besides live music on weekends, the restaurant also serves scrumptious Colombian dishes such as bandeja paisa. Come for the food and stay for the ambiance; you won’t be disappointed.
Price Range: $
Guatacrep’
Got a sweet tooth? Do yourself a huge favor and stop by Guatacrep’ to pick up, you guessed it, a crepe! While they don’t really serve local dishes, you can enjoy their crepes either sweet or salty, plus their pastries and baguettes are second to none in the area. Why not get a taste of France during your Colombian adventure?
Price Range: $
La Fogata
This family-friendly establishment specializes in tasty barbecue, full-bodied red wine, and ice-cold beer AKA everything you might need to feel right at home! Grab a seat on their terrace with a lakefront view to dine while taking in all the natural splendor.
Price Range: $$
The Snuggly Duckling
Locally known as El Patito Modosito, this quaint restaurant is not only vegetarian-friendly but also caters to vegans. Stop in for a cup of delectable Colombian coffee and then snack on their homemade bread, cheesecake, or pasta dishes; either way, you can’t go wrong.
Price Range: $
Vecchio Forno
For a taste of Italy in Colombia, this restaurant is the perfect pick. Order a pizza or sample a pasta dish to let your taste buds be whisked away on a gastronomic adventure. They even serve Mexican dishes and wok for foodies needing a little more variety so there’ll be more than enough to sate your palette.
Price Range: $
Restaurante Bar El Portal
Seeking a splash of color with some ambiance? This vibrant restaurant boasts outdoor seating near a fountain while serving up South American meat dishes fit for a king. Travelers arriving by car can feel free to park in the onsite lot before dancing the night away to live music.
Price Range: $$
Final Thoughts
Guatapé has a treasure trove of activities for travelers of all ages, from whether you prefer to discover the town from above in a helicopter or close-up and personal on a jet-ski. Along with tons of watersports on offer, there are many natural sights to see as well as plenty of attractions. While most of the most prominent landmarks can be visited in a day or two, travelers seeking a bit of refuge in the Colombian countryside can feel at ease knowing they won’t easily get bored if staying longer.
Besides exploring Guatapé, travelers with enough time should also stop in and visit New El Peñol, a town just as charming as the one that was lost to the Guatapé dam. La Replica de Viejo Peñol is probably the town’s biggest draw but it also features many monuments and statues as La Fenix de America.
More outdoorsy travelers are sure to get a thrill out of activities like hiking the hills or kayaking on the lake but they can also try horse-backing to explore the area more thoroughly. Guatapé is also home to ancient monasteries, such as Monasterio Benedictino Santa Maria de La Epifania and Monasterio Hermanas Benedictinas Guatapé, and many travel agencies operate tours on horseback that include a stop-by.
Regardless of what floats your boat, you can rest assured that you’ll have an abundance of things to see and do in Guatapé. Try the local cuisine to broaden your palette and stay in a waterside accommodation to make the most of the exquisite scenery. You won’t be sorry!
May you got lost in the wonder,
M