Guatapé is a charming tourist destination in Colombia, with many activities and interesting places to visit. It went from being an area essentially dedicated to agricultural, livestock and mining activities, to developing an economy based on tourism after the construction of its reservoir and the modification of its territory.
Peñol Rock
If you arrive in Guatapé, this great rock formation is a must-see. With an approximate height of 220 meters, it has been declared a National Monument since 1940.
In the 1950’s, a staircase of approximately 700 steps was built that will allow you to climb to the top. The climb will take you about 25 minutes, and along the way there are two rest stations. At these stations you can take excellent pictures of the landscape. Of course, climbing all those steps will be rewarded with a rewarding panoramic view of the reservoir and surrounding mountains.
At the top of the rock, there is a small shrine with a cross and a souvenir store. You will also find several vendors offering handicrafts and souvenirs.
A bit of history
According to history, the Piedra del Peñol was an element of worship for the native peoples who inhabited the region, and during the colonial era legends like the one about the devil who tried to take the stone several times, and to this is attributed the large crack that presents the Peñol.
The rock was climbed for the first time in 1954 by an inhabitant of the area, Luis Eduardo Villegas López and that is why since February 25, 2008, there is a bronze statue designed by Mario Hernández that remembers him. (Photo).
Currently, the rock is on land belonging to the Villegas López family, heir to the Peñón de Guatapé and its surrounding lands.
Boat ride on the reservoir
The Guatapé Reservoir or Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir is a large expanse of water surrounded by mountains. A boat ride will allow you to appreciate the natural beauty and the small islands that emerge from the reservoir. The ride is a journey of about an hour and you will visit some islands with cabins complexes where you can stay and of course there are beautiful views of the Peñol.
The Replica of Old Peñol
Near the Piedra del Peñol, there is a replica of the old town of Peñol that was flooded due to the construction of the dam. Here you can learn about the history and culture of the area.
Water sports
The reservoir is ideal for water sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding and water skiing.
Town of Guatapé
It is an ideal place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy a unique architecture.
If you visit it you will know its colorful streets and among them surely the so-called “Calle de los Paraguas” (Umbrella Street). This is Carrera 39, perhaps the most emblematic and photogenic street of the city and is a cobblestone pedestrian street that will take you to the Plazoleta de los Zócalos.
Los zócales [The baseboards]
The houses are adorned with skirting boards representing different scenes and objects. It is a tradition that has been maintained since the beginning of the 20th century and makes the place charming to walk around and take pictures.
Nuestra Señora del Carmen Church
This church is one of the most outstanding attractions in Guatapé. Its construction is impressive and offers a beautiful view of the reservoir from the nearby plaza.
Motochivas
These modified motorcycles are called motochivas and are adorned with paintings with the landscapes of the area, including the reservoir and the stone of El Peñol-Guatapé. With them it is possible to take a tour of the town’s points of interest.
La Loma Viewpoint
It is at the highest point of the island which is 120 m above sea level. Ideal for excellent photos.
La Cruz Viewpoint
Another viewpoint from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the reservoir and the surrounding area. It is a perfect place to watch a beautiful sunset.
Antioquian Cuisine
Antioquian gastronomy is abundant and varied, with indigenous, African and Spanish influences. Dishes are usually hearty and full of flavor, and reflect the culture and history of the region.
Enjoy Antioquian Cuisine
Granite landscape
The Peñol rock is the most famous and the one that appears in all the photos and videos about Antioquia, but it is not the only one. Like it, with similar characteristics, there are three others.
Marial Rock
It is located before reaching the head of El Peñol, on the road to Guatapé, and on its base, at the bottom of the rock sits the temple of La Divina Pastora.
El Tabor
Located one hour from the town of San Carlos, its height is approximately 130 meters and from its summit you can not only see the municipality, but you can also see the Magdalena River valley and the towns of Puerto Triunfo, Puerto Berrío and Puerto Nare.
The climb (grade 4 on a scale where 5 is the maximum) is done through trails and it is recommended to do it in the company of a specialized guide.
The farmers of the region feed the myth that the famous goose that lays the golden eggs lives there. San Carlos is located 150 kilometers from Medellín and can be reached through the municipalities of Guatapé and San Rafael or through Granada.
El Peñón
The stone of El Peñón (not to be confused with El Peñol) is 80 meters high and is only 2.5 kilometers from the town of Entrerríos.
At the top of the stone there is an image of Christ the King, mounted on wooden scaffolding more than 70 years ago.
Unlike those of El Peñol and El Tabor, it must be climbed using ropes, harnesses and specialized equipment. It has no nearby infrastructure or neighboring buildings and is a territory to be explored as a tourist and extreme sports center, such as climbing.
FAQ
How to get to Guatapé?
BY ORGANIZED EXCURSION. From Medellín, they leave in the morning and are full day tours.
BY BUS. From the north terminal of Medellín, the trip takes approximately 2 hours.
The natural beauty and rich culture of this place make it an unforgettable stop during your trip to Colombia. Remember also to enjoy the local cuisine and the warmth of its people during your stay.
All illustrations on this site are courtesy of Pictographic.