Climb El Peñol & Explore Guatapé - Full-Day Trip from Medellín
Tour Highlights
- Climb the 740 steps of El Peñol, the famous granite monolith rising from a reservoir
- Panoramic views over the Guatapé reservoir and its 200+ islands
- Explore the colourful town of Guatapé, famous for its painted bas-reliefs (zócalos)
- Enjoy a boat ride on the reservoir (optional)
Tour code
COMDE-GPN01
Duration
~8 hours
Start
Hotel pickup included
Suggested departure
8:00 AM
Languages
English & Spanish
Experience Colombia’s Natural Wonder and a Cultural Gem
Ascend La Piedra de Guatapé
Embark on an unforgettable journey to one of Colombia’s most awe-inspiring attractions: the colossal La Piedra de Guatapé, also known as El Peñol or simply La Piedra (The Stone). Located just a 90-minute drive east of Medellín, this natural wonder sits majestically beside the Peñol-Guatapé Dam, straddling the border between the charming towns of Guatapé and El Peñol.
La Piedra de Guatapé rising from the Peñol-Guatapé reservoir, one of Colombia’s most iconic landscapes
Conquer the 649 Steps
Challenge yourself to climb the 649 steps to the summit of La Piedra. The ascent may leave you breathless, but the real showstopper awaits at the top – a panoramic vista that will take your breath away for an entirely different reason!
Panoramic Views and Local Flavours
At the pinnacle, take time to relax and soak in the sweeping views of the beautiful lake and its lush surroundings. Quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger with refreshments and snacks from local vendors, or pick up a unique souvenir to commemorate your laudable climb.
The Peñol-Guatapé reservoir, 636 km² of flooded valley stretching to the horizon
Explore Colourful Guatapé
A Kaleidoscope of Colors
Continue your adventure in the picturesque town of Guatapé. Stroll along cobblestoned streets, marvelling at the town’s signature zócalos – decorative panels adorning the lower portions of buildings, each telling its own unique story.
Guatapé’s famous zócalos, hand-painted decorative panels on every building facade
Savour Local Cuisine
Indulge in a delicious meal at one of Guatapé’s finest traditional restaurants. Experience the authentic flavours of the region, prepared with the freshest local ingredients.
Tour Details
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Meeting Point: Your Medellín hotel
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Languages Available: Spanish, English
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Visited Places: La Piedra del Peñol and Guatapé town
Embark on this extraordinary day trip and create lasting memories of Colombia’s stunning landscapes and multicoloured culture!
Summarised Itinerary
- 1
Departure from Medellín
Early start from your hotel. The drive to El Peñol takes approximately 1.5–2 hours.
- 2
Climb El Peñol
Ascend the 740 steps carved into a crack in the granite monolith. At the top, 360-degree views over the vast reservoir, islands, and emerald hills.
- 3
Transfer to Guatapé town
A short drive to the colourful town beside the reservoir. Walk the main streets and admire the famous zócalos, painted panels on the lower facades of every building.
- 4
Lunch in Guatapé
Fresh fish from the reservoir, traditional bandeja paisa, or local specialties at a lakeside restaurant (own account).
- 5
Optional boat trip
Explore the reservoir by lancha (water taxi) among the small islands, many with colourful weekend homes.
- 6
Return to Medellín
Depart Guatapé and arrive back in the city by approximately 17:00–17:30.
Please note: the order of stops and the timings shown are approximate and may change on the day for your safety and the best experience. See our Tour Terms & Conditions.
What's Included
- English-speaking guide
- El Peñol entry and stair access
- Private transport from/to your Medellín hotel
Not Included
- Meals and drinks
- Optional boat trip
- Gratuities
Frequently Asked Questions
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Tour code: COMDE-GPN01
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