From Medellin: Guatapé Full-Day Tour with Piedra del Peñol

Are you planning a trip to Medellin and wondering how to make the most of your time there? One day trip that you should definitely consider is the Guatapé Full-Day Tour with Piedra del Peñol. It is an exciting tour that takes you from the city of Medellin to the charming colonial town of Guatapé, where you will experience breathtaking views from the top of the Piedra del Peñol, try traditional local food, and explore the beautiful landscape of the Penol-Guatapé hydroelectric reservoir. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan this tour, what to expect from it, and how to book it.

Experience

The Guatapé Full-Day Tour with Piedra del Peñol is an all-day tour that takes you out of the city and into the beautiful surrounds of Guatapé. You will start your day by meeting your tour guide and group at the designated meeting point in Medellin. From there, you will board a comfortable air-conditioned van that will transport you to Guatapé, a small colonial town located about two hours east of Medellin.

Once you arrive in Guatapé, you will be taken on a guided walking tour of the historic town center, where you will explore the brightly colored buildings and cobblestone streets that give the town its unique character. After the guided tour, you will have some free time to explore the town on your own or grab a coffee at one of the quaint cafes.

The highlight of the tour is climbing the 742 steps to the top of the Piedra del Peñol, a towering monolith that offers breathtaking views of the reservoir below. The climb can be quite challenging, but the reward at the top is definitely worth the effort.

After descending the Piedra del Peñol, you will head to the boardwalk in Guatapé, where you will enjoy a traditional Antioquian lunch. This is a great opportunity to try some local delicacies and get to know your fellow tour mates.

After lunch, you will take a boat ride on the Penol-Guatapé hydroelectric reservoir to see the beautiful landscape and just relaxed while enjoying the view.

Booking the tour

Booking the Guatapé Full-Day Tour with Piedra del Peñol is simple. The tour is operated by a third-party company, and you can book it through GetYourGuide. Click on this link to book the tour. You will need to select your preferred date, the number of people in your group, and then fill in your details. Once you have completed the booking process, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details of your tour.

It’s important to note that the tour includes transportation, guide services, travel insurance, lunch, and a boat ride on the Penol-Guatapé hydroelectric reservoir. However, the tour does not include the entry fee to the Piedra del Peñol, which costs around $5 USD per person.

Conclusion

The Guatapé Full-Day Tour with Piedra del Peñol is an incredible tour that offers a break from the busy city of Medellin to visit a beautiful colonial town, climb an iconic monolith, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Penol-Guatapé hydroelectric reservoir. It’s a great way to get a taste of the Colombian countryside while still being close to the city. Planning this tour is straightforward, and you can book it easily through GetYourGuide. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Medellin and your Guatapé Full-Day Tour with Piedra del Peñol.

Insider’s Guide to Medellin: Local Attractions, Dining Spots, Cultural Experiences and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, Medellin, the second-largest city in Colombia, is a vibrant metropolis known for its friendly locals, lush greenery, and year-round spring-like climate. Here’s your insider’s guide to the top things to see and explore in this bustling city.

Local Attractions

1. Comuna 13: Once a rough, crime-ridden neighborhood, this area has undergone a drastic transformation, turning it into a vibrant and colorful community. Graffiti and street art adorn the walls, and you can take a guided tour to learn about the history of this vibrant area.

2. Plaza Botero: One of the most popular tourist attractions in Medellin, Plaza Botero is home to 23 bronze sculptures by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Stroll through the plaza and admire the oversized sculptures, which are a must-see.

3. The Medellin Metrocable: This cable car ride offers fantastic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The ride takes you to Santo Domingo Savio, a local neighborhood that has undergone significant transformation in recent years.

Dining Spots

1. Mercado del Río: This newly opened food market is a must-visit for foodies. Inside you’ll find a variety of restaurants and food stalls serving up everything from sushi to Colombian street food.

2. Carmen Restaurant: This highly rated restaurant serves up modern cuisine fused with traditional Colombian flavors. Enjoy a meal on the outdoor terrace, which boasts fantastic views of Medellin.

3. El Cielo: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a multi-sensory dining experience that is unlike anything else in the city. Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos creates dishes inspired by Colombian culture, using ingredients sourced from local farmers.

Cultural Experiences

1. Museo de Antioquia: This museum is home to a vast collection of art, including works by Botero and other Colombian artists. The museum also hosts cultural events and performances, making it a great place to immerse yourself in Colombian culture.

2. Medellin Tango Festival: If you’re a fan of tango, don’t miss the annual Medellin Tango Festival, which takes place every August. The festival features tango performances, workshops, and social events, and is a great way to experience the vibrant local music scene.

Local History

1. Casa de la Memoria: This museum is dedicated to the victims of Colombia’s violent past, including those who were killed or disappeared during the country’s long-running armed conflict. The museum offers a sobering but insightful look into the country’s history and its ongoing struggles.

2. Pueblito Paisa: This open-air museum is a recreation of a traditional Colombian village, complete with a church, town square, and several small houses. The museum provides a glimpse into the country’s rural history and is a great place to pick up local souvenirs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Parque Arvi: Just a short cable car ride from the city, Parque Arvi is a nature reserve that boasts incredible views of the surrounding mountains. The park is home to several hiking trails, and the area is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

2. Piedra del Peñol: If you’re looking for a day trip from Medellin, head out to Guatapé and climb the 740 stairs up to the top of the Piedra del Peñol. The stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside are well worth the climb.

In conclusion, Medellin is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its colorful neighborhoods to its world-class restaurants and museums, you’re sure to find something to love in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back vacation or an action-packed adventure, make sure to add Medellin to your travel bucket list!