Visiting Guatapé On A Day Tour From Medellin

Planning a day trip from Medellín and not sure where to go? Visiting Guatape is the perfect choice! This colorful town, just two hours away, is known for its bright streets, stunning lake views, and the famous Piedra del Peñol.

It’s a must-see destination when exploring Colombia.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to get there easily—whether by bus or with our private tours at Let’s Ride Med. You’ll learn about top attractions like climbing La Piedra and taking a boat tour on the reservoir.

We’ve included tips to make your visit smooth and memorable.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Keep reading!

Key Takeaways

• Guatapé is a colorful town just 2 hours from Medellín, known for La Piedra del Peñol, vibrant murals, and stunning lake views.
• Climb 740 steps of La Piedra for panoramic views; tuk-tuks to the site cost 12,000 COP (~$3.05 USD).
• Enjoy boat tours starting at 60,000 COP (~$15.23 USD) or try kayaking and paddleboarding on calm waters.
• Visit during the dry season (Dec-Mar) for sunny days; pack sunscreen, comfy shoes, water bottles, and light clothing.
• Private tours by Let’s Ride Med provide smooth transport without bus terminal hassles—perfect for stress-free travel!

How to Get to Guatapé from Medellín

Getting to Guatapé from Medellín is simple and offers several options. Our private transportation service makes the journey stress-free, quick, and comfortable—perfect for your trip!

Private tours and transportation from Let's Ride Med

Let’s Ride Med offers premium private transportation for your trip to Guatapé. You travel in comfort and style, avoiding busy bus terminals like Terminal del Norte. The ride is smooth, direct, and hassle-free.

Skip crowded buses or confusing schedules. With Let’s Ride Med, you enjoy flexibility and personalized service. “Guatapé is a colorido pueblo worth exploring with reliable transport,” as many travelers say!

Top Attractions in Guatapé

Guatapé offers stunning sights and unique experiences—you’ll love exploring this vibrant town and its jaw-dropping landmarks.

Climb La Piedra del Peñol

Climb 740 steep steps to the top of La Piedra del Peñol. The huge rock stands over 200 meters high and offers incredible views of the Guatapé Reservoir. Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.

The climb may feel tough, but the scenic views at the summit make it worth every step.

Take a bus for just 2,000 COP (~$0.51 USD) or ride a tuk-tuk for 12,000 COP (~$3.05 USD) with someone else to reach this famous landmark. This historic site was part of significant changes in Colombia during the construction of a hydroelectric dam in the 1970s—making it more than just a beautiful attraction!

Explore the colorful streets and murals of Guatapé town

Step into Guatapé, a small town bursting with color and charm. Every corner has stories painted on its walls. The zócalos, vibrant panels at the base of homes, reflect local traditions and history.

Stroll through Calle del Recuerdo or near Plazoleta de Los Zócalos to see stunning designs up close.

The streets feel alive with art. Bright murals cover buildings, showcasing local culture and daily life. “Guatapé, Colombia is like walking inside a painting,” visitors often say. Don’t miss Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen in the main square—its beauty matches the lively colors around it!

Take a boat tour on the Guatapé Reservoir

Cruise the peaceful Guatapé Reservoir on a private boat. A 30-minute ride costs 60,000 COP (~$15.23), while an hour-long tour is 75,000 COP (~$19.04). Glide past lush green shores and enjoy views of El Peñón de Guatapé's towering rock.

You can kayak or try other watersports on Laguna Guatapé before or after your tour. Private tours include stories about Pablo Escobar and the area's history. The calm water, colorful scenery, and serene vibe make this an unforgettable part of your day trip!

Activities to Enjoy in Guatapé

Get ready for some outdoor fun in Guatapé, Colombia! There’s plenty to do around the water and stunning landscapes.

Watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding

Try kayaking on Laguna Guatapé for a fun and peaceful experience. The calm waters are perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Paddleboarding is another great option if you want to balance while soaking in the views.

Both activities let you explore the lake at your own pace.

Rent equipment from local shops around the Guatapé Reservoir or join guided tours. Prices vary, but they’re affordable compared to other tourist spots in South America. These water sports are an active way to enjoy this popular destino turístico!

Hiking and nature walks

Explore the trails around Guatapé for breathtaking views and fresh air. The area offers lush greenery, hidden waterfalls, and paths perfect for all skill levels. San Rafael, just nearby, is another great spot.

It’s known as the second most popular destination with gorgeous landscapes.

You can hike near La Piedra del Peñol or stroll by the Guatapé Reservoir. Both spots provide peaceful settings to connect with nature. Pack comfy shoes and water—you’ll want to enjoy every step of this adventure!

Tips for a Successful Day Tour

Plan your trip early to make the most of your day. We provide the best transportation from Medellín to Guatapé, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience!

Best time of year to visit

The dry season is the best time to visit Guatapé, Colombia. From December to March, you’ll find sunny days and clear skies. These months are perfect for climbing La Piedra del Peñol or exploring the colorful streets of Guatape.

Early mornings offer cool air and fewer crowds at popular spots like Piedra del Peñón.

In April through November, rain showers happen more often but don’t last all day. This can still be a good time if you enjoy quieter surroundings or lush green landscapes following the rain.

No matter when you visit, pack comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen or a light jacket to stay prepared!

What to pack for your trip

Pack a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun. Afternoons in Guatapé are hot, so dress light and stay cool. Bring a jacket or sweater for nighttime when it gets cooler.

Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll explore cobblestone streets and climb La Piedra del Peñol. A reusable water bottle will keep you hydrated while walking or hiking. Don’t forget your camera to capture colorful murals and stunning lake views!

Conclusion

A day trip to Guatapé is a must when visiting Medellín. You’ll love the colorful streets, stunning lake views, and exciting activities. From climbing El Peñol to kayaking on the reservoir, this town offers endless fun.

Our private tours make your visit easy and stress-free. We handle transportation so you can enjoy every moment without worry. Book with us today for an unforgettable adventure!

FAQs

1. What is Guatapé, and why should I visit it?

Guatapé is a colorful colonial town in the departamento de Antioquia, Colombia. It’s known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant houses, and stunning views of the surrounding area. Many visitors highly recommend it as one of the best places for a day trip from Medellín.

2. How can I get to Guatapé from Medellín?

You can take a guided day tour or travel independently by bus from Caribe Metro Station in Medellín. Small groups often prefer private tours for more flexibility.

3. What are the top things to do in Guatapé?

Climb Piedra del Penol (the big rock) for breathtaking views over hermosos paisajes and the hydroelectric complex lake below. Stroll through Parque Principal and explore souvenir shops along the main street.

4. Are there water activities available near Guatapé?

Yes! The lake surrounding Guatapé, Colombia offers deportes acuáticos like kayaking and paddleboarding—perfect if you enjoy outdoor adventures.

5. Is there practical information travelers should know before visiting?

If you plan your trip during weekends or holidays, expect crowds at popular spots like La Roca de Guatapé (Piedra del Peñol). Travel insurance is always recommended when exploring new areas.

6. Where can I stay if I want more than just a day tour?

For overnight stays, Lake View Hostel has private rooms with great views of metros de altura landscapes nearby—a lugar ideal for relaxing after exploring this charming pueblo tradicional!