Guatapé
Much more than a town in Antioquia, Guatapé is a charming blend of history, culture, and scenic landscapes. In fact, it offers some of the best views in Colombia. All of this makes it an entertaining destination to visit at any time of the year.
Situated two hours from Medellín at 1,925 meters above sea level, this town enjoys a comfortable climate between 13°C and 22°C (55.4ºF and 71.6ºF) year-round. Known for its stunning landscapes and unique attractions, it’s an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Medellín.
Getting to Guatapé by Private Vehicle
Guatapé lies in eastern Antioquia, bordered by San Rafael and San Carlos. To get there, take the Medellín–Bogotá highway, then continue on the Marinilla–El Peñol–Guatapé road. The journey covers about 81 kilometers (50 miles) and takes roughly one hour and fifty minutes under normal conditions, barring road closures for repairs or construction. Along the way, a toll fee of COP 12,000 (as of 2021) applies if traveling by private car.
Getting to Guatapé by Bus
A bus from Medellín’s north bus terminal will cost around COP 15,000. Direct routes to Guatapé run regularly.
What to Visit in Guatapé
For those drawn by the area’s natural, historical, and cultural wealth, here are some must-see highlights:
La Piedra del Peñol
Also known as El Peñón de Guatapé, this massive rock towers 220 meters high with a diameter of 100 meters, offering one of Colombia’s most breathtaking views. This 60,000-ton monolith, consisting of quartz, feldspar, and mica, has 702 steps leading to the top, where an almost 360° panorama of Guatapé awaits. If heights aren’t for you, the food stalls and nearby areas still offer fantastic views, along with handcrafted goods and traditional treats of the Paisa culture. You can also observe the stone from the town, as it adorns and gives life to the entire territory.
Central Square
At the heart of Guatapé lies the main square, a lively area where restaurants, bars, hotels, hostels, shops, and the prominent Nuestra Señora del Carmen Church converge. It also hosts the Mayor’s Office and the Tourism Bureau, making it an ideal spot to relax, savor local cuisine, interact with the locals, and soak in the rich history and traditions of the town. Its central location provides easy access to the area’s attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring.
Square of Zócalos
Zócalos are decorative baseboards made from cement, featuring symbolic figures and icons representative of the region, positioned along the lower facades of houses. Initially created to prevent moisture damage in the early 20th century, zócalos now add to the town’s colorful appeal.
While zócalos adorn numerous houses throughout the urban area, there’s a small square on Carrera 29 especially dedicated to them. This vibrant square is lined with shops and offers a perfect backdrop for photos, browsing, and picking up unique souvenirs reflective of Guatapé and the Paisa culture.
Street of Umbrellas
Following the Square of Zócalos, you’ll find the Street of Umbrellas—a narrow, pedestrian-only, cobblestone street known for its vibrant decor. Here, craft shops and some of Guatapé’s most iconic zócalos draw visitors, and the vivid umbrellas hanging overhead make this an unmissable spot. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, taking photos, and enjoying a coffee at the charming street-side tables.
Remembrance Street
Remembrance Street is a must-see when visiting the town. It features zócalos recovered from homes that once stood in the original town of El Peñol, which was flooded in the 1970s to build the Guatapé dam as part of a hydroelectric project. Residents rescued these baseboards from the submerged town, and they now decorate this street, preserving a link to the past.
Community Historical Museum
Culture and history enthusiasts will enjoy this free attraction near the central square. Here, you can view artifacts that offer insights into the daily life and cultural heritage of Guatapé.
The Dam
The dam, created in the 1970s by Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM) as a hydroelectric complex, involved flooding the old town of El Peñol and relocating residents. Today, the dam offers daily opportunities for water sports, scenic tours, and views of the old church dome, visible above the waterline most of the year. The surrounding nature trails are ideal for hiking, mountaineering, and other outdoor adventures.
The Esplanade
Encircling the dam is a 900-meter-long esplanade that serves as the departure point for boat, sailboat, and jet ski excursions. Visitors can also kayak, try a zipline, or simply stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the landscape, shop for local crafts, and taste regional delicacies.
Tips for Visitors
Here are a few tips to enhance your experience in one of Colombia’s most colorful and welcoming towns:
- Book accommodation to stay at least one night, so you can fully enjoy the town’s attractions by day and night.
- Have your phone or camera ready, with plenty of battery and storage, as every corner of Guatapé is photo-worthy.
- If you want to book experiences in Guatapé, go to co to explore options.
- Bring a coat for the morning and evening hours, as temperatures can drop considerably.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially if your activities include hiking, climbing La Piedra del Peñol, or visiting the dam.
- Wear comfortable, sports shoes and clothing suitable for the outdoor activities and nature-based experiences that Guatapé offers.
- Enjoy the territory responsibly by not littering in streets, natural areas, or the dam, and avoid actions that could harm the flora, fauna, or peace of its residents.
