--- title: "Guatapé, Colombia: A Paradise of Colors, Nature, and Adventure" description: "Discover Guatapé, Colombia: the most colorful town, with the Piedra del Peñol, boat rides and more. How to get there, what to do and where to stay? Here is the complete guide." image: https://blog.viajerohostels.com/hubfs/Vista%20desde%20La%20Piedra%20El%20Pe%C3%B1ol.jpeg --- [Skip to content](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-travel-guide#main-content) - [English](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-travel-guide) - [Spanish](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/es/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-guia-de-viaje) English Show submenu for translations [![Logotipo_Viajero_Hostels_Horizontal](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/hs-fs/hubfs/04_Logo-Viajero_Horizontal-Principal.png?width=139&height=50&name=04_Logo-Viajero_Horizontal-Principal.png)](https://www.viajerohostels.com/es/) Open main navigation Close main navigation - - [English](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-travel-guide) - [Spanish](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/es/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-guia-de-viaje) English Show submenu for translations Mar 7, 2025 2:43:19 PM # Guatapé, Colombia: A Paradise of Colors, Nature, and Adventure [Sofia Umaña](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/author/sofia-umaña) Share: [facebook-f icon](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-travel-guide) [linkedin-in icon](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-travel-guide) [envelope icon](mailto:?body=https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-travel-guide) [Share this page on Facebook](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/guatape-colombia-travel-guide) Guatapé, Colombia: A Paradise of Colors, Nature, and Adventure 0:27 If you're looking for a destination in Colombia that combines stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a town with a unique charm, **Guatapé** is the perfect place. Known for its **colorful streets, the impressive El Peñol Rock, and its beautiful reservoir**, this destination is ideal for backpackers, young travelers, and nature lovers. In this guide, we’ll tell you **everything you need to know about Guatapé** and why your next stop should be here!   ![Vista piscina y laguna en Viajero Guatapé](https://23877201.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/23877201/hubfs/Vista%20panor%C3%A1mica%20Viajero%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpg?width=1200&length=1200&name=Vista%20panor%C3%A1mica%20Viajero%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpg) ## *Viajero Hostels Guatapé. Photo: Viajero Hostels* ## **🌅 Why Visit Guatapé?** Located just **two hours from Medellín**, Guatapé is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Colombia. Its streets are decorated with **colorful zócalos** (baseboard murals) that depict local traditions and stories. The surrounding landscape makes it a perfect destination for [**hiking, water sports, and breathtaking panoramic views**](https://www.instagram.com/p/DGBYz_0pAzA/?hl=en). Guatapé is the ideal mix of **relaxation and adventure**, allowing you to escape the noise of the city while still enjoying thrilling experiences. --- ## **🏔️ What to Do in Guatapé? Must-See Attractions & Activities** Guatapé is a town best explored on foot, by boat, and with a sense of adventure. [Here are some experiences you can’t miss:](https://www.instagram.com/p/DBe6ksFpLvs/?hl=en) ### **1. Climb El Peñol Rock ⛰️** One of Colombia’s most iconic attractions, [**El Peñol Rock**](https://travelgrafia.co/en/blog/piedra-del-penol/), is a 220-meter-high monolith with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Guatapé reservoir. 🚶‍♂️ **Are you ready for the challenge?** Climb **740 steps** to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most stunning views in the country. 💡 **Tip:** Go early to avoid crowds and bring water for the climb. ![Laguna de Guatapé, desde la Piedra de El Peñol](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Vista%20desde%20La%20Piedra%20El%20Pe%C3%B1ol.jpeg?width=590&height=332&name=Vista%20desde%20La%20Piedra%20El%20Pe%C3%B1ol.jpeg)*Views from La Piedra de El Peñol, Antioquia, Colombia. Photo: Viajero Hostels* --- ### **2. Take a Boat Tour on the Guatapé Reservoir 🚤** The **Guatapé Reservoir** is a natural wonder where you can: - Take a **boat or kayak tour** to explore the calm waters. - Visit the **sunken house of Pablo Escobar** and learn more about the area's history. - Try wakeboarding or paddleboarding if you're looking for an adrenaline rush. 💡 **Tip:** At [Viajero Guatapé](https://www.viajerohostels.com/en/destinations-colombia/guatape/) we can help you arrange any of these activities  ![Water activities in the Guatapé lagoon with a view of the El Peñol rock](https://23877201.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/23877201/hubfs/Ski%20en%20el%20agua%20en%20Laguna%20de%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpg?width=1200&length=1200&name=Ski%20en%20el%20agua%20en%20Laguna%20de%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpg) ![Kayak at Guatape lagoon](https://23877201.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/23877201/hubfs/Kayak%20en%20el%20embalse%20de%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpeg?width=1200&length=1200&name=Kayak%20en%20el%20embalse%20de%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpeg)   --- ### **3. Explore Guatapé’s Colorful Streets 🎨** Guatapé is famous for its **zócalos**, the beautifully decorated murals on the lower parts of buildings. 📍 **Don't miss:** - The **Main Square**, a great place to relax with a Colombian coffee. - **Calle del Recuerdo**, the town’s most photogenic street. - **Guatapé’s Malecón**, perfect for a sunset walk. 💡 **Tip:** Bring your camera—every corner is a postcard!   --- ### **4. Try Local Cuisine 🍽️** Guatapé has a diverse food scene, but these dishes are a must-try: ✅ **Bandeja paisa** (a traditional plate with beans, pork cracklings, egg, and rice). ✅ **Trout with patacón** (the most famous fish dish from the reservoir). ✅ **Antioquian arepas with cheese** (a delicious local snack). 💡 **Tip:** Try the local coffee—it’s some of the best in the world.   --- ### **5. Extreme Activities: Paragliding and Canopy 🪂** If you're an adrenaline junkie, Guatapé has something for you: - **Canopy over the reservoir**, where you can fly over the water with incredible views. - **Paragliding from El Peñol Rock**, a unique way to see the town from above. 💡 **Tip:** Book these activities in advance, especially in high season.   --- ## **🚍 How to Get to Guatapé from Medellín** Getting to Guatapé is easy, as it’s only **80 km (50 miles) from Medellín**. [Here are your options](https://www.instagram.com/p/C-Tqy50p0de/?hl=en): ### **1. By Bus (The Cheapest Option) 🚌** 📍 **From Medellín’s North Terminal**, take a bus to Guatapé (departures every 30-60 minutes). 💰 **Price:** Between **15,000 and 20,000 COP**. ⏳ **Duration:** About **2 hours**. 💡 **Tip:** If you are a guest of [Viajero Medellín](https://www.viajerohostels.com/en/destinations-colombia/medellin/), you have the option of free transportation from Viajero Medellín to Viajero Guatapé. 💡 **Tip #2:** If you want to visit El Peñol Rock first, ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance before reaching Guatapé.   ### **2. By Car or Motorcycle 🚗** For more convenience, you can rent a car or a motorcycle in Medellín. 📍 **Route:** Medellín → Rionegro → Marinilla → Guatapé. ⏳ **Estimated travel time:** **1 hour 45 minutes**. 💡 **Tip:** There are parking areas near the town and El Peñol Rock.   ### **3. By Private Tour 🚐** If you prefer a guided experience without worrying about transportation, you can book **a tour from Medellín** that includes transport, lunch, and guided visits. 💡 **Tip:** Ask for recommendations at [Viajero Guatapé.](https://www.viajerohostels.com/en/destinations-colombia/guatape/) ## **🏡 Where to Stay in Guatapé?** For the ultimate Guatapé experience, stay at [**Viajero Guatapé**](https://hotels.cloudbeds.com/en/reservation/8Ua0ky)—the perfect spot for backpackers and travelers looking for **a social atmosphere, stunning views, and daily activities**. ✨ **What You'll Find at Viajero Guatapé:** ✅ Shared and private rooms with lake views. ✅ A bar and restaurant with local options. ✅ Outdoor spaces to relax and connect with other travelers. ✅ Activities like bonfires, kayaking, and yoga classes. 📍 **Book your stay at [Viajero Guatapé](https://hotels.cloudbeds.com/en/reservation/8Ua0ky)** and experience this magical destination. ![Habitación privada con vista a la laguna de Guatapé, en Viajero Hostels Guatapé](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Habitaci%C3%B3n%20privada%20en%20Viajero%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpg?width=376&height=282&name=Habitaci%C3%B3n%20privada%20en%20Viajero%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpg) ![Dormitorio compartido de 4 literas para 8 personas, con vista a la laguna de Guatapé en Antioquia, en Viajero Hostels Guatapé](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Dormitorio%20compartido%20en%20Viajero%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpg?width=374&height=280&name=Dormitorio%20compartido%20en%20Viajero%20Guatap%C3%A9.jpg)   --- ## **🎒 Guatapé Awaits—Are You Ready for the Adventure?** Guatapé is one of those destinations that has it all: adventure, culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, you’ll find **a traveler community, unforgettable experiences, and the magic of one of Colombia’s most beautiful towns**. ✈️ **Have you been to Guatapé? Share your experience in the comments!** 🚀 [Travel to Colombia](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/tag/travel-to-colombia), [Destinations in Colombia](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/tag/destinations-in-colombia) ## Related posts [![Perito Moreno Glacier at El Calafate, Patagonia Argentina](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Perito%20Moreno%20-%20Calafate.jpg?height=200&name=Perito%20Moreno%20-%20Calafate.jpg)](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/el-calafate-travel-guide-things-to-do-where-to-stay?hsLang=en) [How to get to El Calafate](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/tag/how-to-get-to-el-calafate), [Destination: El Calafate](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/tag/destination-el-calafate), [Travel Guide](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/tag/travel-guide), [Patagonia Argentina](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/tag/patagonia-argentina), [Things to do in el Calafate](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/tag/things-to-do-in-el-calafate) ## [Ultimate Travel Guide to El Calafate: What to Do, Where to Stay, and Travel Tips](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/el-calafate-travel-guide-things-to-do-where-to-stay?hsLang=en) [Sofia Umaña](https://blog.viajerohostels.com/en/viajero-stories/author/sofia-uma%C3%B1a) Mar 20, 2025 5:30:08 PM El Calafate, located in the breathtaking Argentine Patagonia, is a dream destination for nature... 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