Guatapé Christmas Lights Tour in Eastern Antioquia with Navigation: A Detailed Review

Exploring Antioquia’s colorful towns and vibrant festivities can be a highlight of any Colombian adventure, and this Guatapé Christmas Lights Tour offers an engaging mix of scenic sights, cultural stops, and a memorable night on the water. Priced at $90 per person, this 12-hour private experience kicks off in Medellín and takes you through a variety of charming towns, culminating with a 2-hour night navigation across the reservoir.

What keeps this tour appealing are its stunning views—from illuminated towns to sunset vistas—and the unique chance to see the countryside from the water. We also love the local cuisine experience in a hidden kitchen, which offers a more authentic taste of Antioquia than typical tourist spots. However, keep in mind that the schedule is packed, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and travel.

One potential drawback is the tight itinerary, which leaves little room for extended exploration at each stop. If you’re someone who prefers slow, unhurried visits, this might feel rushed. That said, if you enjoy a rundown with varied experiences, this tour is an excellent way to see the diverse beauty of the region in one day.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who love scenic drives, cultural stops, and especially those who appreciate dramatic night views of the illuminated towns. It’s also a great choice if you want a private group experience with a guide who can tailor the day to your interests.

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Key Points

Stunning Views: The tour offers breathtaking scenery, especially during sunset and at night when towns glow with Christmas lights.
Diverse Stops: From Guatapé’s colorful streets to El Peñol’s iconic rock, each town offers unique sights and photo opportunities.
Night Navigation: The two-hour boat trip on the reservoir provides a peaceful, scenic perspective of the region’s natural beauty.
Authentic Food: A meal in a hidden kitchen gives you a chance to taste local flavors in a more intimate setting.
Flexible Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, making it easy to plan.
Private Group: The experience is tailored for small, private groups, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

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The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Early Afternoon

The adventure begins at the Davivienda bank in Poblado Park, a convenient and central meeting spot in Medellín. At 3:00 p.m., you’ll hop into a comfortable van, ready for a full day of exploration. The early part of the journey is a smooth drive through Antioquia’s scenic landscapes—think lush hills dotted with small farms and colorful towns.

First Stops: Guatapé and El Peñol

The highlight of the day is Guatapé, renowned for its vibrant streets and intricate zócalos (decorative facades). As we arrive, the town is already buzzing with festive spirit, setting the perfect scene for the evening ahead. We love the way the town’s colorful houses create a cheerful atmosphere that makes every photo pop.

Soon after, you’ll enjoy a sunset view over the town, which is especially striking with the Christmas lights beginning to twinkle. The scenic drive around Guatapé offers stunning vistas—perfect for a leisurely moment to soak in the landscape.

Following Guatapé, the group heads to El Peñol, famous for its massive granite monolith. Climbing the 740 steps to the top rewards you with 360-degree views of the reservoir, a sight that’s worth every effort. Here, you’ll also enjoy dinner in a cozy, hidden kitchen, where you can choose between a hamburger or gourmet sandwich accompanied by potatoes and a drink. This casual meal feels authentic and satisfying after a day of travel.

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Evening and Night Activities

As night falls, the tour really comes alive. The 2-hour sunset and night navigation across the reservoir is a peaceful highlight, offering an entirely different perspective of the region. We loved the quiet serenity of the water, contrasted with the glowing towns around the shores. It’s an intimate way to experience the landscape, far from the crowds.

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Additional Town Stops and Photography

After the boat trip, the itinerary includes quick visits to Marinilla, San Antonio de Pereira, and Carmen de Viboral—each with its own unique charm. Marinilla, known for its colonial architecture, provides excellent photo opportunities. San Antonio de Pereira offers traditional small-town scenery, while Carmen de Viboral is renowned for its ceramics and spirits. The latter also features a brief sightseeing stop, giving visitors a taste of artisan crafts.

Wrapping Up and Return

The tour concludes back at Poblado Park, around 3:00 a.m., making it a full but rewarding day. The convenience of a private group means you can tailor the experience or ask questions along the way, adding a personal touch to the journey.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

Transportation from Medellín and through each town
2-hour sunset and night navigation on the reservoir
A meal—either a hamburger or gourmet sandwich with potatoes and a drink, served in a hidden kitchen
A souvenir Christmas hat—a fun keepsake
Medical assistance card for peace of mind

Not Included

Snacks or hydration (though you can bring your own)
Alcoholic beverages (not provided, but you might find local spirits in Carmen)

Practical Details

Pricing and Value

At $90 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience blending scenic drives, cultural stops, and a memorable boat trip—all in one day. The price includes transportation, meals, and a guide, which makes it a good value for travelers wanting to maximize their time in Antioquia without worrying about logistics.

Duration and Schedule

Starting at 3:00 p.m., the tour runs roughly 12 hours, wrapping up around 3:00 a.m. This long day is packed with sightseeing, so it’s best suited for energetic and flexible travelers. The schedule’s tight—each stop is relatively brief—so if you prefer slow, leisurely visits, you might find it rushed.

Group Size and Language

The experience is designed for private groups with a live Spanish-speaking guide. This personalization enhances the experience, especially if you’re interested in local insights or specific questions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for adventurous travelers who crave a full day of exploring scenic towns, experiencing local culture, and enjoying spectacular nighttime views. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy boat trips and picturesque landscape photography. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want an intimate, flexible experience, this private tour will suit your style.

The Sum Up

The Guatapé Christmas Lights Tour offers a lively, scenic, and authentically festive way to experience Antioquia’s enchanting towns. From the bright streets of Guatapé to the tranquil reservoir at night, every part of this tour brings something special—especially the stunning views that make your camera happy. The included meal in a cozy local spot adds to the genuine feel, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While the busy schedule might be a bit tiring for some, the variety of sights and experiences made it worthwhile for us. If you enjoy a mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and festive lights, this tour is a solid choice—especially if you appreciate private, guided trips that maximize your time and comfort.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, starting at 3:00 p.m. and ending around 3:00 a.m., depending on traffic and stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Davivienda bank parking lot in Poblado Park and returns there at the end of the day.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, the 2-hour sunset and night boat trip, lunch in a hidden kitchen with a choice of hamburger or gourmet sandwich, potatoes, a drink, a souvenir Christmas hat, and a medical assistance card.

Are there any additional costs?
Snacks, hydration, and alcoholic beverages are not included, so bring your own or purchase locally.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the full day of travel and activities suggests it’s better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with a long day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the guide?
The tour operates with a live guide in Spanish, so some language skills might be helpful or consider a translator if needed.

Is it a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, offering a more personalized experience for your group.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes suitable for walking and boat rides; don’t forget a light jacket for the evening.

This full-day adventure through Antioquia offers a lively combination of scenery, culture, and festive cheer—perfect for travelers eager to experience Colombia’s vibrant spirit in one memorable day.