A Guide to Visiting Guatape, Colombia
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Guatape is a bright and spirited town located not far from the city of Medellin, making it very popular with visitors. The town is located on the shores of the Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir and the breathtaking views of these meandering blue waterways can be seen from the Piedra del Peñol which is the reason most choose to visit the town of Guatape.
This guide to Guatape, Colombia covers everything you need to know about the town, whether you're planning just a day visit or would like to explore more and stay a night or two.
How to Get to Guatape from Medellin
Getting to Guatape from Medellin by public transport is super simple, just head to the North Bus Terminal where you will find different companies running buses to Guatape nearly every 15 minutes. The bus takes around 2 hours depending on traffic and will cost you 18,000 COP per person. Alternatively, you can opt to arrange private transportation like a taxi or join a group tour from Medellin.
Day Trip or Overnight? It’s possible to take a day trip to Guatape from Medellin either by public transport or guided tour, however, if you have the time I think it’s well worth the overnight stay. The crowds during the daytime in Guatape and the Piedra del Peñol can be a bit much and staying overnight gives you the ability to avoid those super busy times.
Where to Stay in Guatape, Colombia
There are endless options for accommodation in Guatape, hostels, hotels and even some unique spots if you are happy to stay outside of town. We stayed at La Chateau for £25 a night for 2 people it shocked me how gorgeous it was. It was only 5 minutes from the town centre, had a shared kitchen, washing facilities and everything we needed. The room had a large balcony, which overlooked the town and at sunset the view was magical.
Things to do in Guatape, Colombia
Climb Piedra del Peñol
This is also commonly known amongst tourists as the Guatape rock and is the main attraction, although it’s not actually in Guatape. After climbing the 700 stairs you will be gifted with incredible stunning views over the reservoir and its surroundings. It’s simply a must-do whilst in Guatape and most likely the reason you are visiting. From Guatape town you can get to Piedra del Peñol by taking a shared jeep (they leave from the main square), tuk-tuk or by walking for an hour.
Now you may be thinking I have to climb 700 steps when I get there why should I walk? This is a fair point, but you get to take in some gorgeous views of the reservoir and the rock itself along the way. If it’s a sunny day walking there and grabbing a tuk-tuk back is my recommendation. If you are visiting from Medellin for the day you can ask the bus driver to stop here as it’s on the road to Guatape.
Take A Boat Tour
Another way to see the reservoir in Guatape is by taking a guided boat tour, where you can learn more about the history of the area. You will also pass by many famous people’s homes as the edge of the river is a sought-after area. As well as Pablo Escobar’s old mansion (where the hippos were). Many companies will be offering tours on the waterfront in Guatape or browse available tours here.
You could also choose to explore the lake by kayak, paddleboard or jet ski just to name a few water sports available.
Explore Guatape Town
Guatape town sometimes is described as 'Colombian Disney'. Although it lacks in the characters and rides, I sort of see why, it’s a place very catered to visitors. You’ll find streets brimming with colour and decorations and souvenir and craft shops everywhere you look. Just simply strolling the streets and taking it all is one of the best things you can do in the town.
A popular stop is a street lined with colourful umbrellas, this leads to the bright and striking Plaza de Zocalos, which is a must-see in Guatape. Another thing I recommend if you are staying the night is having a drink in Guatape’s main square for some people-watching. One thing to note about the town is that not much seems to open before 10 in the morning, which I found strange, but I guess that’s when the tour groups start filtering in.
Go to Viña Cafe
Viña Cafe is located just above the Plaza de Zocalos and is the only café we could find that opened before 10 in the morning. We went every morning for the delicious coffee, lovely staff and great views. It has a little balcony where you can sit and look down on the Plaza de Zocalos, I loved this spot in Guatape.
Fun Fact- The reservoir surrounding Guatape known as the Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir is a man-made hydroelectric dam created in the 1970s.
As such a popular destination in Colombia, it’s unlikely you haven’t heard about or seen images of Guatape. Although it wasn’t my favourite spot we visited during our Colombian adventure it sure had its charms and the views from the top of the rock are incredible and well worth battling all the other visitors to see.
Let me know what you thought of Guatape in the comments below and if you haven’t been yet what are you most intrigued by?
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