Private Guatapé with Peñol Tickets and Boat Ride: The Ultimate Day Trip from Medellín

If you’re visiting Medellín, you might be wondering what other destinations are worth exploring beyond the city. One of the most popular day trips is to the charming town of Guatapé, known for its colorful streets and incredible views from the top of El Peñol Rock. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most common questions visitors have about this private tour and help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

What is the Private Guatapé with Peñol Tickets and Boat Ride tour?

The Private Guatapé with Peñol Tickets and Boat Ride tour is a full-day excursion that takes you from your hotel in Medellín to the town of Guatapé, where you’ll discover the colorful streets and local landmarks. After lunch, you’ll board a boat to tour the reservoir and get up close to Pablo Escobar’s abandoned vacation home. Finally, you’ll climb the 740 steps to the top of El Peñol Rock for some of the most breathtaking views in Colombia.

What are the highlights of the tour?

The tour includes several memorable experiences that are sure to make your day trip unforgettable. Highlights include:

• Climbing the 740 steps to the top of El Peñol Rock for sweeping views of Guatapé and the surrounding countryside.
• Admiring the colorful streets and unique architecture of Guatapé, known as the “most colorful town in Colombia.”
• Savoring a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
• Taking a boat tour of the reservoir and seeing sights such as the ruins of Pablo Escobar’s vacation home.
• Getting personalized attention from your bilingual guide, who will help you discover the best of Guatapé.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?

While the climb to the top of El Peñol Rock can be challenging, it’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the incredible views. However, the tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. If you’re not comfortable with the climb, you can take a shorter route or enjoy a coffee while you wait for the rest of your group to finish.

What should I bring on the tour?

To make the most of your day trip, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes for the climb to the top of El Peñol Rock, a hat and sunscreen for the boat tour, and a camera to capture the beautiful views. The tour includes a delicious lunch, but you may want to bring snacks and water for the journey.

How do I book the Private Guatapé with Peñol Tickets and Boat Ride tour?

You can book the tour online in advance to ensure your spot is reserved on the tour. Secure your booking here through this link.

What other attractions are there in Guatapé?

Guatapé is full of charming sights and attractions that are worth exploring in addition to the highlights of the tour. Some of our favorites include:

• The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen, a beautiful church with a striking bell tower.
• The Malecón, a scenic boardwalk that runs along the edge of the reservoir.
• The House of the Jou, a small museum that showcases the history of the town and the local artisans who create the colorful tiles that adorn the buildings.
• The local market, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious snacks.

Is the Private Guatapé with Peñol Tickets and Boat Ride tour worth it?

Absolutely! The tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore one of Colombia’s most charming towns and take in some of the most breathtaking views in the country. With a bilingual guide to help you navigate and personalized attention throughout the day, you’ll have an unforgettable experience that you’ll treasure for years to come. We highly recommend booking the Private Guatapé with Peñol Tickets and Boat Ride tour on your next trip to Medellín.

Insider’s Guide to Guatapé: Exploring Beyond the Tourist Spots

Guatapé, a small town located about two hours from Medellín, is a hidden gem that boasts an array of picturesque landscapes, colonial architecture, and cultural heritage. While the Peñol rock and Guatapé Dam are the primary attractions, there are many other local spots that only the insiders know about. Here’s a list of the top insider attractions that you must check out on your visit to Guatapé.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Obvious

In addition to the traditional tourist destinations, such as the Penol rock, Stairway to Heaven, and Guatapé Dam, there are many hidden-gems that the locals cherish. One such place is ‘La Manuela,’ a beautifully designed museum located in the outskirts of Medellín. This museum was owned by Pablo Escobar before being seized by the government. It now provides visitors with an immersive and unique insight into his life.

Another must-visit spot is ‘El Peñolito,’ a secret viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of Guatapé but is hidden from the common tourists’ radar.

Traditional Cuisine: Delving into the City’s Food Culture

Food in Guatapé is heavenly and reflects the city’s diverse cultural influences. The Gourmet Food Market is a must for foodies like us. The market showcases the best of Colombian food, accompanied by local music and an overall lively and fun atmosphere. If you want to try something unique, you should taste ‘Cholados,’ Colombian shaved ice, and frescoes.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Music, and Art

In Guatapé, the sense of community is strong, and they enjoy celebrating life’s joys in their unique way. The town celebrates many local festivals throughout the year, such as The Day of the Little Candles, which is a day of lights and celebration. They also uphold their roots and showcase traditional dances, music and art.

One of the most authentic and popular tours is a visit to the ‘Hueco de la Piedra’ cave, which is famous for its prehistoric rock art. A guide will take you through the walls and paintings providing a fascinating interpretation of the symbols and their significance for the native tribes that once lived in the region.

Local History: Woven into the Fabrics of the City

Guatapé’s history is rich and multi-layered, going back to the days of the Indigenous tribes and the Spanish Conquista. One of the most fascinating stories that we found was about the building facades’ artwork in the town center. The ornate bas-relief designs tell stories of cultural and religious influences, historical events, and more.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experiences to Cherish Forever

Finally, if you want to experience something extraordinary, you should visit ‘Fundación Santa Clara’ – a charitable organization that supports disadvantaged young women. You can participate in a workshop and learn how to paint or make jewelry with the girls. The funds raised from buying these handmade products will help these girls to break cycles of poverty and transform their lives.

Another suggestion is a visit to the ‘Candelario Obeso’ Museum, which tells the story of Latin America’s first Black poet. The artworks on display reflect the vibrancy of Black culture and provide a powerful narrative of identity and history.

In conclusion, Guatapé is much more than just the Peñol rock and Guatapé Dam. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning setting, there’s so much to explore and discover in this fascinating town beyond the visitor spots. We hope this insider’s guide will arm you with some unique ideas to aid you in deepening your connection with the city and its people.