Two hours east of Medellín, Guatapé delivers colorful streets, a massive climbable rock, and lakeside relaxation. I spent nearly a week here, which was excessive—2-3 nights hits the sweet spot. Here's what actually matters for planning your visit.

Getting There from Medellín

Buses leave hourly from Terminal del Norte in Medellín, costing 15,000-22,000 COP ($4-6 USD) for the two-hour ride. Take the Metro Blue Line to Caribe Station, which connects directly to the terminal. Buses run from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Two companies operate this route: Sotrasanvicente and Sotrapeñol. Both charge the same fare and run throughout the day. Day-trippers can get off at El Peñol rock before reaching town if traveling without luggage.

Climbing El Peñol

This 200-meter granite monolith sits 2 kilometers from Guatapé town center. Entry costs 20,000 COP ($5 USD), open 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The 708-740 steps (sources vary on exact count) take 15-30 minutes depending on fitness level. Halfway up, a viewing platform with a Virgin Mary shrine makes a good rest stop. At the summit, a three-story tower provides 360-degree views of the reservoir and islands created when the dam flooded the valley in the 1970s. Vendors sell drinks and snacks at the top. Tuk-tuks from town cost 10,000 COP each way, or walk in 30 minutes.

Where to Stay

I stayed at The Boato Hotel for 5-6 days—too long. The lakeside property offers private cabins with hot tubs, included breakfast, and complimentary kayaks and paddleboards. Water skiing can be arranged. The remote location (10 minutes from town) creates privacy but requires tuk-tuk trips for everything. Great for couples seeking a quiet escape, but 2-3 nights maximum unless you want an extended retreat.

What to Do in Town

Guatapé centers around Parque Principal, surrounded by buildings covered in zócalos—colorful bas-relief designs depicting local life, flora, and family occupations. The town is small enough to explore on foot in a few hours. The waterfront malecón offers reservoir views and boat tour opportunities. Peak season (January-February) brings crowds, especially weekends. Weekday visits or overnight stays let you experience the quieter side after day-trippers leave.

Where to Eat

Koi Cocina Asiática surprises visitors with quality Asian cuisine including sushi, ramen, and Korean fried chicken. Prices range 20,000-60,000 COP ($6-13 USD). Mondays offer buy-one-get-one-free on entrees. La Fogata serves traditional Colombian food—various meats and arepas—at reasonable prices with generous portions. Perfect for lunch with cold beer. The central park area has numerous vendors selling fresh empanadas.

Practical Information

Guatapé works as either a day trip or overnight destination from Medellín. For day trips, catch an early bus, climb El Peñol first, then explore town before the 6:00 PM bus back. If staying overnight, 2-3 nights provides enough time without feeling rushed. The climate resembles Medellín's eternal spring—pleasant days, cool nights, with sudden showers. Pack an umbrella and sunscreen. ATMs exist but can run low during busy periods. Bring enough Colombian pesos. Most smaller vendors don't accept cards. Break in your shoes before arriving—cobblestone streets and El Peñol's steps require comfortable footwear. When returning to Medellín, buy your bus ticket in advance. Return buses fill up, especially weekends.