A trip to Guatapé is a much needed break from the wild world of Medellin. Guatapé, Colombia’s most colourful town, is located 2hrs outside of the big city. It’s famous for its turquoise lake dotted with mini green islands, picturesque landscapes, and beautifully decorated Zocalo buildings.
So, after a night of partying in Medellin, and with only 3hrs sleep (not recommended), my friend Austin, and I, hopped on a bus to Guatapé.
Use my guide to organise your own trip, whether its for a cheeky day trip, or a relaxing long weekend.
How To Get There
The closest major city, is Medellin, so travellers tend to do day trips here. There are 3 main ways to travel to Guatapé from this area.
Tour
For around $30/£21 you’ll get transport to and from Medellin, and breakfast and lunch. You can purchase group tours from your hotel or tour sites like getyourguide.com. Here you won’t have to worry about planning anything, and may end up making some new friends from the group. I always recommend group tours for solo travellers, who are looking to meet new people.
- Guatape & El Peñol Rock Trip with Boat Tour
This is the top rated tour on GetYourGuide. It lasts 11hrs and includes round trip transportation, food, a boat tour and a bilingual guide.
By Bus
I took a 2hr bus from Terminal de Norte, for around $5/£3. Get off at Guatapé town and explore, then take a Tuk Tuk from the town to El Peñól to climb the rock.
I preferred making my own way to Guatapé, as the journey is so simple, and you have the freedom to go at your own pace.
Remember to book your return ticket as soon as you arrive at the bus terminal in Guatapé. That way you won’t be stuck waiting 2 hours for a ticket home like me.
Private Driver
Taxi drivers charge a fixed rate of $270,000 pesos for a return trip to Guatapé. So if you’re with a large group it can make sense, but if you’re solo or as a couple, it’s better to book a much cheaper day tour. That way not only will you get the transport but also a guide and a boat tour
Things To Do
1. Climb The Giant Rock
The most famous thing to do here is climb El Peñól (The Rock). You’ll need $6/£4 in cash to climb the steep 740 steps, and get the amazing view.
So it wasn’t so much the climb that got me, but the height. I have a very extreme fear of heights, and El Peñól is very high.
I almost turned back but my friend Austin encouraged me to keep going, and when I saw a 3yr old kid surpass me, I gave myself an internal slap, and pulled myself together to complete the climb. For which I’m glad I did, it always gives me a little boost when I complete height related ventures, plus I’m a sucker for a good view.
El Peñól didn’t disappoint, it was breathtaking.
2. Bandeja Paisa
Bandeja Paisa is colombia’s national dish, and practically every local you meet will tell you ‘you have to try it in Guatapé’. It’s a known secret that the little town does it the best.
Every restaurant in the main square will have the dish on the menu, and workers will stand at the entrance and try to usher in passersby.
A typical serving includes minced meat, white rice, chorizo, red beans, chicharron, arepa, avocado and plantain. A hearty meal, and quite tasty, it incorporates all the flavours of Colombia.
3. Lake Boat Trip
For $100,00 pesos the slow boat tour will take you on a cruise through the lake passing celebrity homes, and apparently an abandoned Escobar mansion.
Austin and myself opted to rent a small speed boat, controlled by a generator, for which you use to steer. We enjoyed the freedom of having the boat completely to ourselves.
COST: $40,000 Pesos ($10 USD)/ 40 minutes
There are a few other water activities like Kayaking and Jet-skiing, that looked equally as fun.
4. Wander Through The Town
The town is known for its colourful artworks that adorn the lower half of the towns buildings.
These intricate paintings tell stories of the businesses and town. I could have spend the whole afternoon wandering through the cobbled streets, admiring all the artwork.
5. Zip Lining
Guatapé’s Zip line (Cable Paseo) is on the smaller side, at only 680 metres, but still pretty fun. It runs across the lake and will take you around 5-10 minutes to complete.
To find Cable Paseo, walk to the town restaurants that sit along the water. The zip line should be visible when you look out onto the lake.
COST: $12,000 pesos ($3 USD)
Planning on Stay Over?
Here's some of the best, affordable accommodations:
- Galeria Guatapé hostel, A friendly fun hostel located on the lake.
Highlights: Yoga for guests, Barbeque to use, Activities, shared kitchen and private rooms
- Hostel Mi Casa, voted Guatapés best hostel on Tripadvisor.
Highlights: Giant hammock, kind staff, Lake-access
- Ecolodge Bahia del Penon, located on the lake a short distance from the town
Highlights: Rooms have a private balcony, hammocks, kitchen access.
Airbnbs
If you’re feeling more flashy you could opt for an airbnb. The Domus pods are one of the few glamping option in the area.
Airbnb have some really beautiful houses to rent along the lake; equipped with all the necessities plus more. I did exactly that the second time I visited the town. The Sauna and Hot tub were top tier.
