The Complete Guide to Visiting Guatapé and El Peñol

How to get there from Medellín

Buses leave from the Terminal del Norte (Calle 65 #64-33) every 30 to 45 minutes, between 6:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. The trip takes about 2 hours for 83 km, with companies like Sotrapeñol and Sotrasanvicente. Fares start at 22,000 COP, with a 15-20% increase during high season. The bus arrives at Guatapé's terminal, a short walk from the lakefront promenade.

The Rock of El Peñol

A 220-meter monolith with 360-degree views over the reservoir. You climb steps carved into the rock: sources vary between 649 and 740 steps depending on where you check, so do not be surprised if the count does not match what you read elsewhere. Admission is around 25,000-30,000 COP, open every day from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The town of the zócalos

Guatapé is known for its zócalos: hand-painted decorative panels on the lower part of building facades. The most colorful ones are along the Malecón, and Calle del Recuerdo recreates one of the streets that ended up underwater when the reservoir was built, using original zócalos rescued by residents.

Boat rides on the reservoir

From the Malecón you can book shared boat rides from 30,000-40,000 COP (half an hour to an hour), or private ones starting around 120,000 COP depending on the boat. Prices are negotiated directly at the dock, especially in low season.

How many days to stay

Most visitors do it as a day trip from Medellín, but the town has enough to justify staying a night or two: walking without rushing, watching the sunset from the Malecón, and trying trout and bandeja paisa without racing for the last bus back.

Where to stay and eat

Downtown is the most convenient area: close to the Malecón, restaurants and the bus stop. There are options for every budget, from shared hostels to boutique hotels. June tends to have the lowest lodging prices of the year.

Before you go

Check current exchange rates and prices before traveling: the transport and admission figures in this guide are approximate and change over time.