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Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Embalse Peñol-Guatapé.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Embalse Peñol-Guatapé: A Landscape Transformed by Water
Discover the beauty of Embalse Peñol-Guatapé: stunning landscapes, watersports, and the iconic Peñol Rock await in Antioquia, Colombia.
Embalse Peñol-Guatapé is a stunning reservoir in Antioquia, Colombia, known for its breathtaking scenery and the dramatic transformation of the landscape following the construction of a hydroelectric dam in the 1970s. The reservoir offers stunning turquoise waters, islands, and lush green hills, with the colorful town of Guatapé nearby.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Embalse Peñol-Guatapé
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Guatapé, Antioquia, CO
Discover more about Embalse Peñol-Guatapé
Embalse Peñol-Guatapé, often called the Guatapé Reservoir, is a Colombian reservoir located in eastern Antioquia. Its creation by Empresas Públicas de Medellín necessitated the demolition and relocation of the town of El Peñol, as well as numerous rural homes in both El Peñol and Guatapé. The reservoir covers a quarter of Guatapé's territory and is Colombia's most regulated reservoir, built in two stages, the first completed in 1972 and the second in 1979.
Today, the reservoir is a hub for watersports, boat tours, jet skiing, and yachting. It is Antioquia's largest lake and one of Colombia's largest lentic ecosystems. Tourists visit to enjoy the views from the shore or climb the iconic Peñol Rock for panoramic vistas. The reservoir provides about 30% of Colombia's electricity.
The area has a rich history. El Peñol was founded in the 18th century as an indigenous village focused on agriculture, livestock, and mining. In 1970, part of Guatapé was flooded to construct the hydroelectric complex, a project of great energy importance to Colombia.
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Guatapé's main bus terminal on Calle 19, take a bus labeled 'Embalse' or 'Peñol'. The fare is approximately COP 2,000. The bus will take you along the scenic route to the reservoir. You may need to walk a short distance to reach the main observation points or activities.
Walking
If you are near the waterfront in Guatapé, you can walk to Embalse Peñol-Guatapé. From the main plaza, head east on Calle 19 until you reach the water. Follow the shoreline south. The walk is about 1 kilometer and takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Car
From Guatapé center, drive southwest on Carrera 30 toward Calle 18. Continue straight for 1.5 kilometers. Look for signs for Embalse Peñol-Guatapé and turn left towards the reservoir. Parking near the water costs COP 5,000 to COP 10,000.
A brief summary to Embalse Peñol-Guatapé
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