Curator’s statement
I recently stayed in Guatape for two nights as a side trip from Medellin. The main sights feel like well-established tourist hotspots. But spending extra time in Guatape allows you to see a different side of the area and properly enjoy the beautiful landscape. At night, the fireflies flicker by the shore, and it's really special to curl up with a glass of wine and soak it all in.
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Where to stay in Guatape
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Things to do in Guatape
Climb El Peñón de Guatapé (La Piedra del Peñol): Scale the 740 steps to the top of this massive rock for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and islands. It's a mystery how and why this giant rock got here.
Wander the colorful streets: Admire the town’s vibrant zócalos (decorative murals) on its colonial-style buildings. Every building has a mural, and they are all different!
Take a boat or jet-ski tour of the reservoir: Cruise through the lake to see the submerged ruins of Old Peñol and private island mansions, including Pablo Escobar’s former estate. It's a great way to cool off during the heat of the day!
Visit Plazoleta de los Zócalos: A lively plaza filled with colorful stairs, cafés and street vendors, perfect for soaking up the town’s artistic atmosphere. This is the place to grab your souvenirs and snaps for the 'gram.
Go horseback riding: Ride through scenic trails, coffee farms and countryside landscapes for a different perspective of Guatapé.
Places to eat & drink in Guatape
Café La Vina: A charming spot with great coffee, pastries and a relaxing atmosphere. Ideal for a mid-morning break while exploring town.
Pismo: The sophisticated yet laid-back restaurant at The Brown offers local and international flavors with a spectacular view.
Casa Cuba Guatapé: A lively lakeside bar offering mojitos, Cuban-style tapas and a fun atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
Restaurante La Fogata: Known for its traditional bandeja paisa, grilled meats and hearty Colombian fare with lake views.
Panaderia Orquipan: A very traditional bakery, which is the perfect spot to refuel with a quick breakfast or a snack. Don't miss the bunuelos!
Need to know
Go early to climb El Peñón: Arrive before 10 am to avoid crowds and the midday heat when climbing the rock.
Bring cash: Some small shops and vendors don’t accept credit cards, and ATMs can be unreliable.
Pack for changing weather: The weather can shift quickly, so bring a light rain jacket even if it’s sunny.
Plan your transport in advance: Buses from Medellín leave frequently from Terminal del Norte, but book return tickets early, especially on weekends. Alternatively, consider hiring a private driver or using Uber.
Travel Advisor
Cassidy Hazelbaker
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