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Explore the colorful town of Guatapé and climb the massive granite monolith on these guided day trips from Medellín. Options range from budget-friendly group tours with scenic boat rides to customizable private excursions.
Free Cancellation Visit Guatapé’s vibrant streets, cruise the reservoir, and see a hilltop llama farm on this guided trip from Medellín.
Free Cancellation Discover the best of Guatapé with an unhurried itinerary designed for deeper exploration of every landmark.
Free Cancellation Climb the Peñol rock, cruise the reservoir, and sample seven local specialties on this full-day trip from Medellin.
Free Cancellation Climb the Peñol Rock, cruise the reservoir, and explore Guatapé’s colorful streets in a small, guided group.
Free Cancellation A full-day trip from Medellín to climb the Peñol Rock, explore colorful Guatapé, and boat across the reservoir.
Free Cancellation A private trip to Guatapé and El Peñol via a scenic route, featuring a hidden waterfall and an authentic local town.
Free Cancellation Climb El Peñol for lake views and explore Guatape’s colorful streets on a guided 8-hour day trip from your hotel.
Free Cancellation Climb the massive Peñol Rock, explore the vibrant 'City of Zocalos,' and taste exotic fruits on this private day trip.
Free Cancellation Visit El Peñol Rock and Guatapé on a private half-day tour with flexible timing and optional airport drop-off.
Free Cancellation Climb the 700-step rock for panoramic views and explore the colorful streets of Guatapé on this full-day trip.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Guatape — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A tour to Guatapé offers a vibrant mix of colonial charm, stunning natural landscapes, and physical adventure. You will explore Colombia's most colorful town, cruise across a massive flooded valley, and challenge yourself to climb an iconic granite monolith for unforgettable views.
Challenge yourself to climb the 740 zigzagging concrete steps built into the side of the 220-meter granite monolith. At the summit, you are rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views of the sprawling reservoir.
Wander down Calle del Recuerdo and Plaza de los Zócalos to see the town's famous bas-relief tiles. These brightly painted artworks decorate the lower walls of buildings, depicting local history and trades.
Relax on a boat cruise across the Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir. Many tours include music on board and pass by scenic islands and the ruins of Pablo Escobar's former estate, La Manuela.
Stroll down the highly photogenic Calle de los Paraguas. Walking beneath a canopy of multi-colored hanging umbrellas is a highlight for photography lovers and a great spot to grab a coffee.
Taste authentic Antioquian flavors, including fresh fried trout (Trucha Frita) caught straight from the lake. Many full-day tours also include a traditional local breakfast to start the day.
Some tours include stops at local farms like Alto del Chocho, where you can feed llamas, or offer exotic fruit tastings to showcase the rich agricultural biodiversity of the region.
Planning a day trip to Guatapé from Medellín is straightforward, but there are a few important logistical details regarding physical requirements, meeting points, and cash payments that you should know before booking.
You can choose between large group bus tours, premium small-group tours (capped around 18 people), or fully private excursions. Group tours usually last 11 hours and offer a social vibe, while private tours take 6 to 8 hours and allow for a flexible, customized itinerary.
Cash is absolutely essential. The ticket office for La Piedra del Peñol only accepts Colombian Pesos (COP) in cash. US dollars, credit cards, and debit cards are not accepted at the rock or by many small street vendors.
Most group tours do not include the entrance fee to climb La Piedra del Peñol in the base price. You will need to pay this on-site, which currently costs around 35,000 COP (approximately $8-9 USD) per person.
Climbing the 740 steps of the rock requires a moderate level of fitness and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. The climb is not wheelchair accessible, and visitors with poor cardiovascular health should proceed with extreme caution.
Group tours typically offer morning pick-ups only from specific hotels in the El Poblado and Laureles neighborhoods. If you book late (within 12-24 hours of departure) or stay outside these zones, you will have to meet the bus at a central location like Parque del Poblado.
Tours operate rain or shine. The weather can change rapidly, and afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially from March to May and October to November. The concrete stairs on the rock become very slippery when wet, so proper footwear is a must.
Many full-day group tours include both breakfast and lunch. However, meals for infants (ages 0-3) traveling for free are usually not included, meaning they will need to share with an adult or you must bring extra snacks.
| Full-Day Group Tour | Premium Small Group | Private Half-Day/Full-Day | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 11 hours | 11 hours | 6 to 8 hours |
| Best for | Budget travelers & social groups | Travelers wanting less crowding (max 18 people) | Families, couples & those wanting flexibility |
| Rock Entrance Included? | No (Pay ~35k COP cash on site) | No (Pay ~35k COP cash on site) | Sometimes (Depends on the specific operator) |
| Price from | $40 USD | $43 USD | $130 USD |
La Piedra del Peñol: The iconic rock is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some sources note the gates may remain open until 6:00 PM during peak seasons.
Best Time of Day: To avoid the heavy crowds of day-trippers and the intense midday heat, it is highly recommended to arrive and climb the rock early in the morning, ideally between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Arriving early also provides the best lighting for photography.
By Bus from Medellín: Buses depart every 30 minutes from Terminal del Norte (connected to the Caribe Metro Station). Go to booth #14 (Sotrasanvicente & Guatape La Piedra). The journey takes about 2 hours and costs between COP 14,000 and COP 17,000 one-way.
By Taxi from the Airport: If you are coming directly from José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), taxis are available outside the terminal. The scenic drive takes 1 to 1.5 hours and costs approximately $40 USD.
Driving: The mountain roads between Medellín and Guatapé are winding. It is highly advised to travel only during daylight hours due to poor visibility and road hazards at night.
Ideal Months: The best months to visit Guatapé are January and from June through September. During these times, the weather is mild and favorable for climbing the rock and enjoying boat tours on the reservoir.
Months to Avoid: March through May and October through November are the rainiest months. Heavy downpours can make the 740 concrete stairs of La Piedra very slippery and hazardous.
Photography Tip: For the best photos of the colorful zócalos and Umbrella Street without crowds, try to explore the town center before 9:30 AM.
Wheelchair Users: Accessibility in Guatapé is quite limited. The town features hilly terrain and cobblestone streets. The climb up La Piedra del Peñol is entirely inaccessible for wheelchair users, as it consists of 740 narrow, steep stairs. However, the flat waterfront malecon can be navigated with assistance.
Elderly & Children: The town center is pedestrian-friendly, and tuk-tuks are available for seniors needing a break from walking. Active seniors and children can climb the rock, but parents must closely supervise kids, and those with severe medical conditions should avoid the strenuous hike.
At La Piedra: There are fully functional restroom facilities for both men and women located at the summit of the rock. You will also find small shops selling refreshments, snacks, and cold drinks to help you recover from the climb.
In Town: Guatapé has numerous cafes, boutique souvenir shops, and waterfront restaurants serving local dishes like fried trout.
Payment Facilities: Do not rely on credit cards. The ticket office at the rock does not have card machines, and many local vendors only accept cash.
The entrance fee to climb the rock is typically around 35,000 COP (approximately $8 to $9 USD) when purchased on-site. You must pay this fee in cash using Colombian Pesos, as credit cards and US dollars are not accepted.
Most group and private tours do not include the entrance fee to La Piedra in their base price. You will need to bring cash to pay for your ticket when you arrive at the base of the monolith.
There are 740 numbered concrete steps built into the side of the rock. The hike up and down generally takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your physical fitness and how often you stop to rest.
Wear comfortable, loose clothing and a light jacket, as temperatures can drop in the afternoon. Most importantly, wear secure footwear like tennis shoes with good grip, as the stairs on the rock can become slippery.
No, the ticket office at La Piedra del Peñol does not have the facilities to process credit or debit cards. You must bring Colombian Pesos in cash to buy your admission ticket.
No, swimming is strictly prohibited in most areas of the reservoir for safety reasons. However, you can safely enjoy the water by taking one of the many guided boat tours or renting a kayak.
Most group tours offer morning pick-ups from designated hotels in the El Poblado and Laureles neighborhoods. If your hotel is outside these zones or you book at the last minute, you will usually need to meet at a central point like Parque del Poblado.
Tours operate in all weather conditions. If it rains, the boat tours and town walks continue as planned, but you must exercise extreme caution when climbing the rock, as the stairs become very slippery.
Zócalos are vibrant, hand-painted bas-relief tiles that decorate the lower walls of the buildings in Guatapé. They are a unique cultural tradition that depicts local history, agriculture, and the daily lives of the residents.
Yes, many of the boat tours included in these day trips cruise past the ruins of La Manuela, Pablo Escobar's former lakeside estate that was bombed in 1993. You will get a panoramic view of the ruins from the water.
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This day trip from Medellín handles all the logistics for a full day in Guatapé. You will travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a certified guide, starting with a traditional Antioquian breakfast. The itinerary includes a visit to the Alto del Chocho farm to see llamas and a guided walking tour of Guatapé town to learn about its history and the famous colorful zócalos. Following the town tour, you will take a boat trip across the reservoir to see the surrounding islands and lakeside homes. The tour also stops at the base of El Peñol Rock for a panoramic view of the area. While the climb to the top of the rock is optional and requires a separate fee, it is built into the schedule for those who wish to do it. A full lunch at a local restaurant is included, with several options available to suit different preferences. The tour price covers all transportation, travel insurance, and the mentioned activities, ensuring a straightforward experience without hidden costs.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
We prioritize the most significant landmarks in Guatapé to ensure your time is spent on the sights that matter most. By focusing on key locations rather than a long list of minor stops, we create a more relaxed schedule that allows for a deeper connection with the local culture and scenery. Our itinerary is built around an unhurried pace. You will have ample time at each destination to explore, take photos, and learn about the area's history without the pressure of a tight countdown. This approach ensures you experience the best of the region comfortably and thoroughly.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day tour from Medellin takes you to the lakeside town of Guatapé. You will climb the 700+ steps of the Stone of El Peñol for a panoramic view of the reservoir before exploring the town's vibrant streets, famous for their hand-painted zocalos. The itinerary also includes a private boat ride across the water to see the landscape from a different perspective. Food is a central part of the day, with seven local tastings included. You will sample regional favorites such as strawberries with cream, tree tomato, and hot chocolate with pan de bono. The menu also features a traditional cold meat lunch, locally made 'seven-leather' cheese, and a 'single' snack. Round-trip transportation and a local guide are provided to ensure a straightforward trip through the Antioquian countryside.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This tour offers a more personal way to see Guatapé by limiting groups to 18 people per guide. The day begins with breakfast before visiting the town of Peñol and its historical replica. From there, you will head to the Piedra del Peñol, where you can climb the 700 steps to reach the 360-degree viewpoint at the top. After a traditional lunch, the itinerary includes a boat ride across the reservoir to view the surrounding landscapes and local estates. You will then take a guided walk through Guatapé to see the Calle de las Sombrillas, Plaza de los Zócalos, and Calle del Recuerdo. The afternoon includes free time to explore the central park on your own and a chance to see the local llamas before returning.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
German, English, French, Spanish
This full-day tour departs from Medellín for the lakeside town of Guatapé. The main attraction is the Piedra del Peñol, a massive granite monolith. You can climb the 742 steps to the summit for a panoramic view of the surrounding reservoir and its many islands. Following the climb, you will walk through the town of Guatapé, famous for its brightly colored buildings and traditional 'zócalos' artwork. The trip also includes a boat ride on the lake to see various celebrity vacation homes and the remains of Pablo Escobar’s former estate.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Most visitors take the main highway to Guatapé, but we take a less-traveled route to show you more of the Antioquian countryside. In addition to climbing the Peñol Rock and walking the colorful streets of Guatapé, this tour includes a stop at a natural waterfall and a visit to a traditional colonial town that feels much more local than the typical tourist stops. This is a private experience with a bilingual guide and dedicated transportation, meaning you won't be tied to a large group or a rigid bus schedule. Because it is a private tour, you have the flexibility to customize the day, ask questions, and explore each location at your own pace.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This eight-hour tour begins with a drive through the regions of Rionegro and Llanogrande before arriving at the town of Guatape. The primary stop is the massive rock of El Peñol, where you can climb to the summit for a panoramic view of the surrounding lake and landscape. All entrance fees for the rock are included in the tour price. After the climb, you will spend time in Guatape visiting the Plaza de los Zócalos, the lakeside promenade, and the colonial-style streets. A professional guide will accompany you throughout the day to provide local context and history. The package includes round-trip transport from your hotel, though you will need to cover the cost of your own lunch.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Portuguese, English, Italian, Spanish
Your day begins with a private pickup from your accommodation for a drive east toward the Guatape region. The first stop introduces you to the area's biodiversity through a tasting of local exotic fruits. From there, you will visit a replica of Old Peñol, a town submerged during the construction of the hydroelectric dam. Your guide will share the history of the original settlement using archival photos to illustrate how the landscape has changed. Next, you head to the base of the Piedra del Peñol. You can climb the stairs to the summit of this monolithic rock to take in 360-degree views of the surrounding islands and turquoise waters. Afterward, the tour continues to Guatape, known as the 'City of Zocalos.' You will walk through its famously colorful streets while your guide explains the cultural significance and history behind the ornate hand-painted designs that decorate the base of every building.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Visit the vibrant town of Guatapé and climb the famous El Peñol Rock on a private tour designed to fit into a half-day schedule. This 6 to 7-hour trip allows you to see the region's main highlights without the rush of a large group. You will have the freedom to explore the colorful streets and take in the panoramic views from the summit at your own pace. Each tour includes private transportation and a bilingual guide who can tailor the experience to your specific interests. For travelers on a tight schedule, we offer the option to end the tour with a direct drop-off at the airport, combining your sightseeing with a convenient transfer.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day tour departs from Medellín for a 90-minute drive into the hills of Eastern Antioquia. The first stop is El Peñol, where your guide will explain the history of the original town and the creation of the reservoir that surrounds it today. You will then visit the El Peñol Rock. Those who choose to climb its 700 steps will see panoramic views of the lake and islands from the top (note that the entrance fee is not included). The day concludes in Guatapé, a village famous for its colorful 'zócalo' wall art. There, you can walk through the town and along the waterfront, with free time to purchase lunch at one of the local restaurants.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish