Guatapé
,Guatapé is a colorful town in Colombia known for its vibrant and intricately decorated buildings. The town is situated on the shores of a reservoir surrounded by green hills and rocky formations. The iconic El Peñol Rock, a towering monolith with over 700 steps, offers panoramic views of the town and the lake.
Guatapé is a popular destination for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Colombian culture, enjoy water sports, and explore the picturesque streets lined with colorful zócalos.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Guatap Adventure
morning
:Start your day with a hike up the Piedra del Peñol for breathtaking views of Guatapé's lakes and landscapes. Enjoy a hearty breakfast in a local café once you descend.
afternoon
:Explore the colorful streets of Guatapé, taking photos of the vibrant zócalos that adorn the buildings. Visit the local shops to pick up artisan crafts.
evening
:Enjoy a lakeside dinner at one of the restaurants, savoring traditional Colombian dishes. Wrap up your day with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront.
Cultural Immersion
morning
:Visit the Parque Principal and take in the tranquility of the central square, surrounded by colorful buildings. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast arepa from a street vendor.
afternoon
:Join a guided tour to learn about the local history and significance of the architecture. Visit the local museum to gain deeper insights into the region's heritage.
evening
:Dine at a local restaurant and sample the famous bandeja paisa. Consider attending a cultural event or dance show for an immersive evening experience.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural beauty with lakes and mountains
- Vibrant and colorful town with unique architecture
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Activities such as hiking, water sports, and tours of El Peñol rock
- Friendly and welcoming locals
Bad
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak seasons
- Limited public transportation options
- Some areas may be prone to flooding during heavy rainfall
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
- Higher prices for tourists compared to other Colombian destinations
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
El Peñol Rock Climbing
Climb the iconic El Peñol rock for breathtaking views of the Guatapé reservoir and surrounding landscape.
Boat Tours
Take a relaxing boat tour around the lake to see stunning houses, islands, and the countryside from a unique perspective.
Paragliding
Experience the thrill of paragliding over Guatapé for an unforgettable aerial view of the colorful town and its lake.
Hiking Trails
Explore various hiking trails that vary in difficulty and lead to scenic spots with panoramic views.
Biking Around the Reservoir
Rent a bike and ride around the picturesque routes surrounding the reservoir, enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Visit the Colourful Zócalos
Wander through the streets of Guatapé to admire the beautifully painted zócalos (bas-relief decorations) on the buildings.
Water Sports
Engage in water sports like kayaking, jet skiing, or paddleboarding on the calm waters of the Guatapé reservoir.
Fishing
Try your luck at fishing in the reservoir, which is filled with various fish species in a tranquil setting.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Guatapé with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
El Peñol
Climb the iconic rock formation of El Peñol for breathtaking panoramic views of Guatapé Lake and the surrounding landscapes.
Guatapé Waterfront
Stroll along the vibrant waterfront promenade to capture stunning photos of the colorful buildings and the reflections on the lake.
Zocalos of Guatapé
Explore the beautifully painted zocalos (decorative bas-reliefs) on the buildings throughout the town for unique and colorful photography.
La Piedra del Peñol Lookout
Visit the lookout area at the top of La Piedra del Peñol for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the artificial lake and surrounding mountains.
Mirador de Guatapé
This viewpoint offers a fantastic vantage point of the town and lake, perfect for sunset photography.
Basilica of Guatapé
Capture the stunning architecture and vibrant colors of the Basilica, an important cultural landmark in Guatapé.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty dish featuring red beans, white rice, ground meat, chicharrón, fried egg, plantain, arepa, and avocado. Visit La Fogata del Cielo for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Sancocho Antioqueño
A traditional soup with chicken, plantains, yuca, corn, and potatoes, seasoned with local herbs. Don Pedro Restaurante is renowned for its savory Sancocho.
Arepas Rellenas
Cornmeal patties filled with cheese, meat, or eggs, a popular street food available from numerous vendors around the town square.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guatapé better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Plaza de los Zócalos
This plaza is a hub for street food, where you can savor empanadas, arepas, and fresh tropical fruits while taking in the lively atmosphere.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Local Traditions
Guatapé is rich in traditions and cultural practices. It is important to show respect for local customs, including festivals and community gatherings. Be open-minded and participate when appropriate.
Dress Modestly
While Guatapé is a tourist-friendly destination, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites or local communities. This shows respect for the local culture and values.
Learn Basic Spanish Phrases
Engaging with locals in their language can go a long way in showing respect. Learning simple phrases like 'por favor' (please) and 'gracias' (thank you) can enhance interactions and demonstrate cultural appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guatapé with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Guatapé, it is customary to tip service staff such as waiters, guides, and hotel staff. A tip of 10% to 15% is generally appreciated for good service. However, tipping is not mandatory, and the amount can vary based on the level of service received.
Payment
In Guatapé, cash is widely used, particularly in smaller establishments and markets. Major credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants. It is advisable to carry enough cash for transactions in local shops and activities. ATMs are available, but it is wise to check in advance for any fees and limits.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guatapé.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
January to March
This is the dry season in Guatapé, making it a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and boat tours. Expect warm temperatures and clear skies, ideal for exploring the picturesque landscapes.
April to June
This period marks the beginning of the rainy season, with increased chances of afternoon showers. While rain can affect outdoor plans, the lush greenery during this time is breathtaking, and there are fewer tourists.
July to September
July and August are generally the driest months of the rainy season. It's a popular time for visitors, especially during school holidays. Expect a mix of sunny and rainy days, with vibrant scenery due to the recent rains.
October to December
October usually has more rainfall, while November and December see a decline in precipitation. This season is characterized by cooler temperatures and is a great time for cultural experiences and enjoying the local festivities.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cerro Peñol
A prominent landmark offering scenic views of Guatapé and the surrounding lakes. A popular hiking destination with steep stairways leading to the summit.
Quebrada La Culebra
A picturesque hiking trail that meanders along the river, surrounded by lush vegetation and opportunities for birdwatching.
El Salado Ecopark
Features a variety of trails through native forests, providing a chance to explore the region's biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Los Cerezos
An area with multiple trails suited for hiking and nature walks, showcasing beautiful views of the reservoirs and hills.
La Piedra del Marial
A less-known hiking spot that offers a challenging trail to a natural viewpoint, perfect for adventurous hikers seeking solitude.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Guatapé through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Guatapé by plane.
José María Córdova International Airport (MDE)
Located in Rionegro, about 29 kilometers from Guatapé, this is the main international airport serving the Medellín area.
Airports in Medellín (OLI)
Olaya Herrera Airport, mainly serves domestic flights but is a significant airport in the region, situated around 50 kilometers from Guatapé.
North Zone Airport (PQM)
Although primarily a regional airport located approximately 150 kilometers from Guatapé, it serves some international flights as well.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mestizos
The majority population in Guatapé, comprising individuals of mixed indigenous and European descent.
Indigenous Peoples
Includes various indigenous groups native to the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Guatapé.
Caucasians
Primarily of European descent, this group represents a smaller segment of the population.
Afro-Colombians
People of African descent who add to the cultural richness of the community.
The Soul of Guatapé
Discover the essence of Guatapé through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Water Sports
Due to the presence of the Guatapé reservoir, water sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular among locals and tourists.
Mountain Climbing
The famous El Peñol rock attracts climbers looking to scale its 740 steps for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Fishing
The reservoir is also a popular spot for fishing, with various species available, providing a peaceful activity for visitors.
Cycling
Cycling through the picturesque countryside and around the reservoir is a favored activity, with beautiful trails.
Soccer
Soccer is widely played and followed in Guatapé, with local teams and youth leagues fostering community engagement.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Colombian cuisine is meat-heavy, several eateries in Guatapé, such as El Vegetariano, offer delicious plant-based dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
Gluten-Free Choices
Many restaurants in Guatapé are accommodating to gluten-free requirements, with corn-based arepas and various rice and vegetable dishes forming a significant part of the cuisine.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Guatapé with these cultural adventures.
