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5 Things to Do in Guatape: A Colourful Day Trip from Medellin

The colourful town of Guatape is full of charm and character, and there are so many things to do in Guatape for every type of traveller. The town is compact, loud with colour where every street is filled with rainbow coloured buildings, and it is impossible to walk more than a few steps without stopping for photos. Just outside Guatape, the famous El Penol Rock towers above the landscape, and once you reach the top, the views are next level. Guatape was one of the most visually surprising places in the country.

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Best Things to do in Guatape

Guatape

5 Things to Do in Guatape: A Colourful Day Trip from Medellin

Guatape is widely considered one of the safest destinations in Colombia, offering a much more relaxed and peaceful vibe than the bigger cities. Because it is a small, walkable town, violent crime is extremely rare, however, you should still keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like the Zocalo or the base of El Penol. Just follow the following tips:

The Piedra del Peñol: While the climb is incredibly rewarding, the 700 steps are physically demanding. Ensure you carry water to stay hydrated, and take frequent breaks to accommodate the humidity.

Water Activities: If you decide to rent a boat or jet ski on the reservoir, always ensure you are provided with a life jacket. The water is deep and can have unpredictable currents, so it is vital to follow the instructions of local operators.

Tuk-Tuks: These are a popular way to get around the town and to the rock. Always agree on the fare with the driver before you begin your journey to avoid any misunderstandings regarding the price upon arrival.

Evening Walks: Guatape is very safe to explore on foot at night; however, the streets are often cobbled and uneven. It is wise to carry a torch or use your phone light to avoid tripping, particularly if you are staying in a guesthouse slightly outside the main centre. 

Sun Protection: Due to the town’s elevation and proximity to the equator, the sun is much stronger than it may feel. Even on overcast days, you should apply high-factor sunscreen and wear a hat to prevent severe sunburn while you are out on the water or climbing the rock.

If you are short on time, the easiest way to visit Guatape is by booking a tour from Medellin. These usually leave early in the morning, return later in the evening, and often include pickup directly from your accommodation. You can find some good rated tours here on Viator.

If you have more flexibility, I would 100% recommend staying overnight. Guatape is much more enjoyable at your own pace, and staying the night means you can spread out the main things to do in Guatape without feeling rushed. It also works out around the same price as a day tour once accommodation is included, so girl maths says the stay is basically free!

To get there without a tour, you willl need to make your way to Terminal de Transporte Norte in Medellin. You can do this by metro or Uber. If you take the metro, get off at Caribe station, which is directly connected to the bus terminal. Once inside Terminal del Norte, find the ticket counters (look for Booth 9 or 14) selling tickets to Guatape. You do not need to book ahead, just ask for ‘El Penol’ if you want to drop at the rock first, or ‘Guatape’ for the town centre. Buses leave every 20–30 minutes throughout the day. There is no need to buy a return ticket in advance, as you can easily purchase one at the station in Guatape when you know what time you want to head back.

If you are wondering where to stay in Guatape for the first time, you have two main choices. Staying at the base of El Penol (the Rock) is popular for the views, and many blogs will suggest it so you can be the first one up the stairs in the morning.

However, I personally recommend staying in the town centre. While others might point you toward the Rock, staying in town makes it much easier to access all the other activities, hidden coffee shops, and the best places for eating out. You will be right in the heart of the colour and culture, with everything you need just a short walk away!

Guatape is widely considered one of the safest destinations in Colombia, offering a much more relaxed and peaceful vibe than the bigger cities. Because it is a small, walkable town, violent crime is extremely rare, however, you should still keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like the Zocalo or the base of El Penol. Just follow the following tips:

The Piedra del Peñol: While the climb is incredibly rewarding, the 700 steps are physically demanding. Ensure you carry water to stay hydrated, and take frequent breaks to accommodate the humidity.

Water Activities: If you decide to rent a boat or jet ski on the reservoir, always ensure you are provided with a life jacket. The water is deep and can have unpredictable currents, so it is vital to follow the instructions of local operators.

Tuk-Tuks: These are a popular way to get around the town and to the rock. Always agree on the fare with the driver before you begin your journey to avoid any misunderstandings regarding the price upon arrival.

Evening Walks: Guatape is very safe to explore on foot at night; however, the streets are often cobbled and uneven. It is wise to carry a torch or use your phone light to avoid tripping, particularly if you are staying in a guesthouse slightly outside the main centre. 

Sun Protection: Due to the town’s elevation and proximity to the equator, the sun is much stronger than it may feel. Even on overcast days, you should apply high-factor sunscreen and wear a hat to prevent severe sunburn while you are out on the water or climbing the rock.

If you are short on time, the easiest way to visit Guatape is by booking a tour from Medellin. These usually leave early in the morning, return later in the evening, and often include pickup directly from your accommodation. You can find some good rated tours here on Viator.

If you have more flexibility, I would 100% recommend staying overnight. Guatape is much more enjoyable at your own pace, and staying the night means you can spread out the main things to do in Guatape without feeling rushed. It also works out around the same price as a day tour once accommodation is included, so girl maths says the stay is basically free!

To get there without a tour, you willl need to make your way to Terminal de Transporte Norte in Medellin. You can do this by metro or Uber. If you take the metro, get off at Caribe station, which is directly connected to the bus terminal. Once inside Terminal del Norte, find the ticket counters (look for Booth 9 or 14) selling tickets to Guatape. You do not need to book ahead, just ask for ‘El Penol’ if you want to drop at the rock first, or ‘Guatape’ for the town centre. Buses leave every 20–30 minutes throughout the day. There is no need to buy a return ticket in advance, as you can easily purchase one at the station in Guatape when you know what time you want to head back.

If you are wondering where to stay in Guatape for the first time, you have two main choices. Staying at the base of El Penol (the Rock) is popular for the views, and many blogs will suggest it so you can be the first one up the stairs in the morning.

However, I personally recommend staying in the town centre. While others might point you toward the Rock, staying in town makes it much easier to access all the other activities, hidden coffee shops, and the best places for eating out. You will be right in the heart of the colour and culture, with everything you need just a short walk away!

Planning Your Guatape Day Trip from Medellin: Everything You Need to Know

Vibrant colourful streets and murals in Guatapé, Colombia
Church in the main town square of Guatape surrounded by colourful buildings
Aerial view of Rosario Islands Cartagena with turquoise waters. Best things to do in Cartagena

1. Explore Guatape Village: The Most Colourful Town in Colombia

One of the best things to do in Guatape is simply wandering through the village. Every street is packed with colour, from brightly painted houses to detailed murals covering the lower walls of many buildings. A local told us these murals often tell stories about the families who live there or the history of the town, which makes walking around feel a bit more meaningful than just taking photos.

Make sure to stop in the main square for a coffee break, sit for a while, and take in the atmosphere. Locals gather here throughout the day, chatting, people watching and enjoying life at a slower pace, which really adds to the charm of the village.

Do not miss a walk down Calle de Recuerdo, the most famous street in Guatape, known for the rainbow umbrellas hanging overhead. This street is one of the most photographed spots in town and is filled with colour from end to end, so it is best to come early before it gets busy. If you’re in the mood for a treat, there’s a small stall here selling Cinnabons topped with different flavours. We tried the Nutella and cookies version, but they also had a pistachio one that looked unreal.

Colourful streets of Guatape with rainbow-painted buildings and decorative umbrellas overhead
Nutella and cookies cinnamon bun held up on Calle de Recuerdo in Guatape

2. Climb La Piedra del Peñol

Climbing El Penol Rock Guatape is one of the most iconic sights in the region and an absolute must when visiting Guatape. The rock has around 740 stairs, and while it might sound daunting, the climb is manageable and gives you a great sense of achievement. There is also a platform about 2/3 of the way up that you can take a break at and have a 360 degree view.

Once you reach the summit, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding reservoirs, islands and green hills, creating a scene that feels almost otherworldly. Whether you’re here on a Guatape day trip from Medellin or staying overnight, climbing this rock is one of the top things to do in Guatape and offers unbeatable photo opportunities.

The entrance fee to El Penol Rock Guatape is around 25,000 COP per person, and the rock is open daily from 8am to 5.30pm. If you are coming from Guatape town, you can easily take a tuktuk both ways, which costs about 15,000 COP each way depending on how busy it is. This makes it simple to fit the climb into your day without worrying about transport, whether you’re visiting on a Guatape day trip from Medellin or staying overnight.

View from the summit of El Penol Rock Guatape showing blue lakes and green hills
El Penol Rock Guatape viewed from the ground with green hills around it

3. Helicopter Tour

For a completely different perspective of Guatape and the surrounding lakes, you can take a helicopter tour. It is a short, scenic flight that gives you incredible aerial views of El Penol Rock Guatape, the colourful town, and the winding waterways. While we didn’t do it ourselves, it is a popular option for anyone looking for a unique way to see the area. Viator has some really good rated tours here.

4. Jet ski on Guatape Lake

One of the most exciting things to do in Guatape is jet skiing on Guatape Lake. We took a jet ski out for 45 minutes, which cost around 210,000 COP, and it was incredible. The staff gave us a quick briefing on how to use the jet ski and shared a Google map with all the main points pinned, which made exploring super easy.

You can jet ski over to see El Penol Rock Guatape from the water, check out Pablo Escobar’s abandoned mansion and visit the underwater cross marking the old church of El Penol that was flooded when the lake was created. After seeing the main sights, we followed smaller turn‑offs to admire the insane waterfront houses and hidden coves. It was such a fun experience and completely worth it.

Jet skiing on Guatape Lake surrounded by green hills and blue water

5. Breakfast at Café Arte y Zócalo

Café Arte y Zócalo is a must visit spot on the famous colourful street Calle de Recuerdo. You can grab a seat on the balcony and watch the vibrant umbrellas and painted buildings below, which makes for a perfect morning view. The breakfast was incredible, with fresh, generous portions and beautifully presented dishes. We honestly cannot recommend it enough. It is a great spot to soak in the atmosphere of the town while enjoying some amazing food.

Pro Tip: Arrive at Opening. This cafe is very popular and there are not many balcony seats. You should arrive as soon as they open to secure a spot overlooking the umbrellas.

Yogurt bowl on a balcony at Café Arte y Zócalo overlooking colourful streets in Guatape
Colourful umbrellas hanging above Calle de Recuerdo in Guatape

Going to Medellin?

If you are planning your trip around Medellin, do not miss my guide things to do in Medellin. Click here to discover the best spots, hidden gems and must-see experiences in the city.

Medellin Guide

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Days

Ultimate 3 Week Travel Itinerary

3 weeks is the “sweet spot” for Colombia. This perfect Colombia travel guide breaks down your daily stops, transport tips, and hidden gems to help you navigate the country like a pro. Grab the full itinerary and start packing, your ultimate South American adventure starts here.

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