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The Water Route – Tour to Guatape and Peñol Rock
Duration: 8 - 10 hours
Both Guatapé and Peñol Rock are popular day-tour destinations located near Medellín, Colombia and many tourists combine a visit to these two attractions due to their close proximity. The journey from Medellín takes approximately two hours by car or bus.
Guatapé is a small town situated on the shores of a scenic reservoir called Guatapé Lake (or Embalse Guatapé). It is known for its colorful buildings adorned with elaborate bas-reliefs called "zócalos" that depict various aspects of local culture, history, and daily life. These vibrant facades have earned Guatapé the nickname "The Most Colorful Town in Colombia." The town offers a charming atmosphere with cobblestone streets, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
One of the main highlights of Guatapé is Peñol Rock (El Peñol or La Piedra del Peñol). It is a massive monolithic rock formation that rises over 650 feet (200 meters) above the surrounding landscape. The rock itself is made of quartz, feldspar, and mica and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and the Guatapé Lake. To reach the summit, visitors can climb a staircase of 740 steps that has been built into the rock, leading to a small observation deck at the top. The climb can be challenging but is definitely worth it for the stunning views.
At the base of Peñol Rock, there are several recreational areas where visitors can enjoy water sports, boat rides, kayaking, and jet skiing on Guatapé Lake. You can also find restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops in the vicinity.
This Guatape and Peñol Rock Day Tour offers a visit to a breathtaking mountainous Region of the Eastern Antioquia Department. As already mentioned, after a 2 hour car ride from Medellin you will arrive at the Guatape or Peñol lake, actually a reservoir for energy production.
During a half-hour boat tour you will get to know the Haciendo Manuela, former property of Pablo Escobar and the properties of famous personalities. The many small islands give a very special touch to the seascape. After we visit the giant Granit - Monolith, the Guatape or Peñol Rock. Already at the foot of the rock you can admire the beautiful lake scenery, for an entrance fee you may also climb up the more than 700 concrete steps to enjoy a spectacular view of the whole region.
Last but not least you visit the colorful town of Guatape, just 10 Minutes driving time from the Rock. During a guided village tour you learn about the history of the town and the beautiful Zocalos, colorful artworks located at the base of the houses and buildings.
TOUR ITINERARY
Morning: Visit to the Peñol Rock, boat trip on the lake
Recommended departure from Medellin: Monday to Friday at 8am, weekends and extended weekends between 6am and 7am due to large numbers of visitors.
It takes about 2 hours to drive from Medellin to Peñolfelsen. Depending on the number of visitors and whether our guests want to climb the Peñol Rock, they can start with a boat trip from the replica of the village of Peñol or drive directly to the rock. To climb the 700+ concrete steps of the monolith, a fee of COP 25000 must be paid at the counter, which is not included in this tour. (Subject to change without prior notice). We are happy to include the entrance fee if you wish.
Continuing by vehicle, we arrive in Guatape after only 10 minutes and visit the numerous, colorful streets, squares and buildings of this beautiful village during an in-depth village tour on foot.
Afternoon: Visit to the village of Guatape
After lunch, we continue the village tour and also have the option of taking a boat tour in the afternoon.
Departure to Medellin, where we arrive at the hotel between 5 and 6 pm.
Activities
Highlights:
- Peñol Rock
- Lake with its fantastic views over the islands and green mountains
- Guatape village with its colorful Zocalos and buildings ocated on the lake shore
Included:
- local Travel insurance
- bilingual Tour guide
- hotel pick up and privat transport
- Visit base of Peñol Rock and Guatape village
- boat trip on Guatape lake
Not included:
- entrance fee to climb the rock stairs (inclusion is optional)
- lunch (inclusion is optional)
- not specified expenses and tips
