Plan a Day Trip to Guatapé, Colombia
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The first time I saw a photo of Guatapé, I was immediately captivated. A town splashed in bright colors, where every building looks like a piece of folk art—I had to see it for myself.
Guatapé is one of those places that feels almost too perfect, like a movie set for a story that’s equal parts adventure and nostalgia. Just two hours outside of MedellÃn, it’s one of the most popular day trips in Colombia, known for its vibrant streets, lakeside beauty, and the iconic El Peñón de Guatapé, a monolithic rock that offers one of the most spectacular views in the country.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own trip.
Go deeper into the magic Guatapé, including the complicated conversation around the impacts of tourism on locals.Â
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Climbing El Peñón de Guatapé
El Peñón de Guatapé is impossible to miss. This giant rock formation towers 656 feet above the landscape, offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in all of Colombia.
Climbing to the top means tackling 740 steps, zigzagging up the side of the rock on a staircase that looks like it was stitched onto the stone itself. It’s a climb that will leave your legs (and lungs) burning, but the reward at the top is worth every step. In fact, my favorite part of the experience was the camaraderie of the climbers. We all cheered each other on as we paused to catch our breath, each of us huffing and puffing as we took the next step at our own pace.
The moment I reached the summit, I turned to take in the 360-degree view of the endless blue lakes and lush green islands stretching out in every direction. It felt like standing in the middle of a painting. You’ll find a slew of little shops selling drinks, snacks, and touristy tchochkis at the top. My recommendation: take your time to enjoy the views with a cold drink before heading back down.
For those wondering if the climb is worth it: yes. Without question.
Getting to Guatapé
Guatapé is an easy day trip from MedellÃn, but your experience depends a lot on how you get there.
Take the Bus to Guatapé
The most affordable option is taking a bus from Terminal del Norte in MedellÃn, which departs frequently throughout the day and costs just a few dollars. It’s a comfortable two-hour ride through the lush, rolling hills of Antioquia. The bus drops you off in the heart of town, making it a great option if you want to explore independently.
Get a Guided Tour of Guatapé
If you prefer a more relaxed experience, hiring a private driver or joining a group tour (like I did) can be a great way to visit without dealing with logistics. A private driver lets you move at your own pace, while a guided tour can provide deeper context about Guatapé’s history and cultural significance.
Get to Guatapé via Helicopter
For the truly adventurous, taking a scenic helicopter ride from MedellÃn offers a completely different perspective on the journey. The aerial view of the lake system and El Peñón from above sounds like an unreal experience.
Exploring the Colorful Streets of Guatapé
Once you’ve conquered the rock, the town itself is waiting to welcome you with its eye-popping colors and intricate zócalos—hand-painted relief murals that line the lower halves of nearly every building. These zócalos are more than just decoration; they tell the stories of the town, representing everything from local trades to Colombian folklore.
Wandering through Calle del Recuerdo, one of the most picturesque streets in Guatapé, feels like stepping inside a postcard. Every corner of the town bursts with charm, from the candy-colored facades to the lively plazas filled with families and street vendors selling freshobleas andarepas.
Beneath the undeniable beauty, there’s a conversation to be had about gentrification and the impact of tourism on small towns like this. With its rising popularity, many Guatapé locals are now being priced out by a new wave of foreign residents and investors.
Learn abouthow this town built for tourism is now struggling with the influx of visitors-turned-localsÂon this episode of Globocurious.
Best Ways to Spend a Day in Guatapé
There’s no wrong way to experience Guatapé, but if you only have a day, here’s how to make the most of it:
Climb El Peñón
Start early with the climb up El Peñón before the crowds and the midday sun set in. The morning light over the lakes is stunning.
Visit the town of Guatapé
Wander through the Plazoleta El Zócalo, a photogenic plaza, and the Calle del Recuerdo, while grabbing a fresh fruit juice or Colombian coffee from one of the many small cafés.
Take a boat ride on the reservoir
Glide past luxurious homes, a towering cross that marks where the flooded town’s church once stood, and the bombed ruins of Pablo Escobar’s mansion.
Try an oblea or merengón
Two classic Colombian desserts, an oblea is a wafer sandwich filled with arequipe (AKA dulce de leche), while merengón—my all-time favorite—is a light and airy treat made with meringue, fresh fruit, and cream.
Grab a meal in El Viejo Peñol
Walk around this quieter spot near the lake where the boat rides depart. It’s a replica of the town that was flooded, and a great place to soak in the last moments of your trip before heading back to MedellÃn.
Visit Guatapé and hear my reflections on the deeper layers of tourism, gentrification, and authenticity in travel on this Globocurious episode.
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