A Vibrant Escape to Guatape, Colombia: Exploring Culture and Nature

A Day Above the Clouds

Today was a day of reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively, here in Guatape. From exploring local parks to climbing the iconic El Peñol, Olivia and I soaked in the kind of views that postcards can only dream of capturing. And, of course, we made sure to savor the local flavors along the way.

Our day began with a leisurely stroll through Parque de los Patos. It’s a charming little spot, more like a sustainable project than a manicured park. We enjoyed watching the ducks and chickens waddling around near the pond. While some reviews mentioned feeling unsafe venturing into the wooded areas, we found the park pleasant enough for a brief morning visit. It's a simple reminder that sometimes the most unassuming places hold little moments of joy. As an urban planner, I appreciated seeing a community space focused on sustainability, even if it was on a smaller scale.


Explore the serene beauty of Parque de los Patos in Guatapé, Antioquia, where nature and tranquility come together for an unforgettable experience.

Next on our list was Mirador San José. Getting there offered some beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. It was a great spot to pause and take in the scenery, a quiet prelude to the more adventurous climb that awaited us. Olivia, ever the thoughtful one, pointed out how the rolling hills and colorful houses created a tapestry of life, a perfect blend of nature and human touch.


Explore the mesmerizing views of Guatapé from Mirador San José, a hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Of course, the highlight of the day was conquering El Peñol, also known as Guatapé Rock. I’d heard so much about this monolithic marvel, and it truly lived up to its reputation. The climb, with its 740 steps, was definitely a workout, but the views from the top were more than worth the effort.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Guatapé Rock, a stunning natural wonder in Colombia offering panoramic views and vibrant local culture.

The panoramic vista of the lake, with its intricate network of waterways, was simply breathtaking – a masterpiece of nature's artistry.

As we ascended, the numbered steps served as both a motivator and a reminder of the climb's intensity. Olivia and I took our time, pausing to catch our breath and admire the ever-expanding view. Reaching the summit, we were greeted by a bustling scene of souvenir vendors and small cafes. We took our time to absorb the full 360-degree panorama, with the charming town of Guatape, the shimmering lake, and the distant mountains creating an unforgettable vista.

For breakfast, we stopped by El Bacchanal. It was a delightful start to the day. I opted for a traditional Colombian breakfast, while Olivia enjoyed a lighter continental option. The coffee, of course, was superb – rich, aromatic, and the perfect fuel for our adventures.


Experience authentic Colombian cuisine at El Bacchanal in Guatapé - where every meal tells a story.

Lunch was at Folklore Restaurant Bar, where we indulged in local cuisine while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant was lively, filled with the sounds of chatter and laughter, and the food was a delicious reflection of the region's culinary heritage. Olivia, always keen to try new things, ordered bandeja paisa, a hearty platter of beans, rice, meat, and plantains. I went for a lighter fish dish, which was fresh and flavorful.


Discover authentic Colombian flavors at Folklore Restaurant Bar in Guatapé - where culinary tradition meets vibrant culture.

As the day wound down, we found ourselves at Zonag Resto Bar for dinner. This place had a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. I had read that Zona G offers the most diverse menu I've seen in Guatapé! We shared a pizza and some local beers, reminiscing about the day's adventures and planning our next escapades.


Discover delicious local cuisine at Zonag Resto Bar in Guatapé—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and culture.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we made a pit stop at Mix Cheladas Guatapé. I decided to be adventurous and try a local chelada. While I appreciated the experience, I must admit it wasn't entirely to my taste. Olivia, on the other hand, loved it, and I ended up surrendering my glass to her. It’s these small, funny moments that make traveling together so special.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at Mix Cheladas in Guatapé, where refreshing drinks and local flavors await you in a lively atmosphere.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we’re planning a visit to Reserva Natural Cañón Del Río Claro, followed by a relaxing Temazcal session. We’re also hoping to catch the sunset from Mirador, Guatapé oriente. It promises to be another day filled with natural beauty and cultural immersion.

Today was a beautiful reminder of why Olivia and I love to travel. It’s about the sights, of course, but it’s also about the tastes, the sounds, and the shared experiences that weave together to create lasting memories. And as I reflect on our day above the clouds, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this vibrant corner of the world with my favorite travel partner.

With December bringing cooler evenings, I was glad I remembered to pack my light jacket, even though I nearly forgot it in Toronto. I also practiced some of my Spanish phrases I had learned. It’s amazing how a few words can enhance interactions with locals.

As I sign off for the night, I’m already excited for what tomorrow will bring. Guatape, you’ve captured our hearts, and we can’t wait to see what other treasures you have in store for us.