One of the most visited towns in Antioquia is Guatapé. Located 75 kilometers from Medellín in the east of the department, it has a story to tell, which is becoming known by visitors who arrive daily, attracted by the photos shared by thousands of travelers who testify to its beauty on social networks.

In 1970, Guatapé faced a crossroads when it was announced that part of the municipality would have to be flooded to build the hydroelectric complex of the Empresas Públicas de Medellín, a dam of great energy importance for Colombia.

Despite the difficulties that the relocation of a municipality brought, this town of just over eight thousand inhabitants has managed to be reborn, making this place one of the most coveted by national and foreign visitors.

Colorful and magical streets of Guatapé Medellín
Photo courtesy: Charly Boillot

Be amazed by the colorful streets of Guatapé

Cobblestone streets are adorned with houses painted in multiple colors. Notable are the two-story buildings with prominent wooden balconies.

But what draws the most attention are the “zócalos”, high-relief drawings and paintings that decorate the houses in town. These are works of art that tell stories and refer to local customs, flora, fauna, national symbols, and the trades of the local people. They make the color spectacle incomparable. Guatapé can be explored on foot in two or three hours, during which you can mingle with its inhabitants, who are always friendly and eager to share their traditions and culture.

The proximity to the reservoir allows visitors to enjoy water sports, while the forest vegetation surrounding the town makes activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding very popular. Guatapé is a beautiful and entertaining destination, ideal to visit any time of the year.

One of the most important tourist attractions to visit is El Peñón de Guatapé, also known as "La Piedra del Peñol". It is a 220-meter-high monolith located between the municipalities of Guatapé and El Peñol, with 702 steps to the top.

A wonder of nature, from where you can see the panoramic view of the reservoir, over 2,200 hectares in size, with several green-toned islands surrounded by calm waters that invite contemplation and relaxation. From there you can see the original site of the town, as there is a cross rising from the water as a historical symbol.

Climb the Piedra del Peñol and admire the beautiful landscape of Guatapé Medellín
Photo courtesy: Sebastián Sanint

The immense monolith of the Piedra del Peñol is one of the most impressive tourist attractions in the region.

Once you climb the enormous rock, there is a wide variety of handicrafts and typical sweets from the region to taste before starting the descent.

Other places of interest

The Cathedral of Nuestra Señora del Carmen. The first chapel of the town was built in 1818, but it was not until 1865 that the current one was constructed. Of Greco-Roman style, this temple is decorated on the outside with “zócalos” where the Fleur-de-lis and the 4 evangelists are depicted. Its interior has a carved wooden altarpiece and pieces in Byzantine style.

Calle del Recuerdo. This street’s “zócalos” tell the story of Antioquian colonization, adorned with flowers that pay homage to the steep streets that were flooded by the reservoir, and where there is a handcrafted water fountain.

El Malecón. A nine-hundred-meter promenade around the reservoir, from where visitors can embark on boats, ships, rafts, sailboats, and jet skis to enjoy the reservoir. It is a destination where you can enjoy canopy, kayaking, and various water attractions including sport fishing.

Plazoleta del Zócalo. It was built to commemorate the two hundred years of the town’s founding. Adorned by colorful steps that highlight the “zócalo” technique, it is an ideal square to chat, enjoy the local gastronomy, take beautiful photographs, and buy crafts.

Guatapé and the Piedra del Peñol, wonders offered by Antioquia for the world to discover.

Learn more about this wonderful region at turismoantioquia.travel