Guatapé and El Peñol Rock Guide
Climb High, See Far: Discover the Beauty of Guatapé and El Peñol Guide
Escape the bustling city of Medellín and embark on a vibrant day trip to Guatapé, a charming Colombian town nestled amidst stunning natural beauty. The highlight of this excursion is undoubtedly El Peñol, a massive granite rock formation that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Guatapé itself is a feast for the eyes, with its colorful houses adorned with intricate "zócalos" – decorative panels that depict scenes from daily life, history, and local culture. This is a must-see destination for anyone seeking a blend of adventure, culture, and natural splendor. El Peñol, also known as La Piedra del Peñol, has a fascinating history. The Tahamíes indigenous people worshipped the rock, calling it "Mojarrá" or "Muñeca." In the early 20th century, the rock was largely ignored until Luis Eduardo Villegas López began climbing it in 1954. He eventually built a staircase into a crack in the rock, making it accessible to the public. The town of Guatapé, on the other hand, has a rich history tied to agriculture and hydroelectric power. The construction of the Peñol-Guatapé reservoir in the 1970s transformed the region, creating the stunning lake that now surrounds the town and El Peñol. The main activity in Guatapé is climbing El Peñol. Ascend the 740 steps to the top for unparalleled 360-degree views of the emerald green lake dotted with islands. In Guatapé, explore the colorful streets, admire the zócalos, and take a boat tour of the lake. You can also enjoy watersports like kayaking and jet skiing. Guatapé offers a variety of traditional Colombian cuisine. Be sure to try the bandeja paisa, a hearty platter with beans, rice, meat, avocado, and plantains. Also, sample the local arepas and empanadas.
Transportation
The most common way to get to Guatapé from Medellín is by bus. * **Bus:** Take a bus from Medellín's Terminal del Norte (North Terminal). Several bus companies operate this route, including Sotrasanvicente & Guatapé La Piedra. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours.