Guatapé: The Most Colorful Town in Colombia
Discover Guatapé, Colombia: A vibrant town of colorful zócalos, stunning lake views, and the iconic Peñol Rock. An unforgettable cultural escape.
Guatapé, nestled in the eastern highlands of Antioquia, Colombia, is a captivating destination famed for its vibrant colors and stunning landscapes. The town's buildings are adorned with zócalos, which are colorful, hand-painted reliefs that portray aspects of daily life, history, and local culture, making it a visual feast for visitors. Founded in 1811, Guatapé was a farming community until the 1970s when the construction of a hydroelectric dam flooded the area, creating the expansive reservoir that defines the region today. This transformation turned Guatapé into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its unique blend of cultural charm and natural beauty. Key attractions include climbing El Peñol (also known as the Rock of Guatapé), a massive granite monolith offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding islands after ascending approximately 740 steps. In the town itself, explore the Plazoleta de los Zócalos and Calle del Recuerdo to admire the intricate artwork and learn about the town's history at the Historical and Community Museum. Enjoy water activities on the lake, such as boat tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding, or simply stroll along the Malecón (boardwalk) for peaceful views.
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing El Peñol and exploring the town's cobblestone streets.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the weather can be sunny, even when it seems cloudy.
- Take a tuk-tuk to get around quickly, especially between Guatapé and El Peñol.
- Try local cuisine at the restaurants and street food stalls in Guatapé.
A brief summary to Guatapé
- Guatapé, Antioquia, CO
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Medellín, take the Metro to Caribe station and follow signs to Terminal del Norte. Purchase a bus ticket to Guatapé from Sotrapeñol (window 9) or Sotrasanvicente (window 14). The bus ride is approximately 2 hours and costs around 15,000-20,000 COP. The bus will drop you off near the town center. From the airport, take a bus to Guarne and transfer to a bus heading to El Peñol. From El Peñol, a taxi to Viajero Guatapé costs around 4 USD.
-
Taxi/Tuk-Tuk
From Medellín's José María Córdova International Airport, a taxi directly to Guatapé takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Taxis from the airport may cost around $40 USD. Within Guatapé, tuk-tuks are readily available for short trips around town and to nearby attractions like El Peñol. A tuk-tuk ride between Guatapé and El Peñol typically costs around 8,000-15,000 COP.
-
Walking
Guatapé's town center is compact and easily walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a few blocks of each other. Walking along the Malecón offers scenic views of the lake.
