Discover the Magic of Guatapé and La Piedra del Peñol from Medellín

For travelers eager to see Colombia’s stunning landscapes and colorful towns, this full-day tour from Medellín to Guatapé and La Piedra del Peñol hits all the right notes. At just $32.50 per person and lasting about 11 hours, it offers a mix of scenic views, cultural exploration, and unique photo ops—all guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides like Sebastian and Alejandra.

What we love most about this trip is how it balances authentic local experiences with comfortable, organized transportation. The opportunity to climb the famous stone, walk through vibrant streets, and cruise Lake Guatapé makes every moment feel worthwhile. Two small considerations: the long bus ride might be tiring for some, and the climb up La Piedra del Peñol costs an extra fee of around $6 USD. Nonetheless, for those craving a full immersion into Colombia’s natural beauty and colorful towns, this tour offers remarkable value.

This tour is perfect for adventurers and culture-seekers who appreciate well-organized trips, stunning vistas, and the chance to learn about local history. If you want a comprehensive day that combines activity, scenery, and education, this experience fits the bill.

Key Points

Authentic experiences with guided commentary on local culture and history
Multiple stops offering varied scenery, from animal farms to historic towns
Breathtaking views from La Piedra del Peñol’s summit, with an optional climb
Balanced schedule that includes free time for photos, shopping, and relaxation
Good value for the price, with meals, boat tour, and all fees included
Highly praised guides who are friendly, informative, and attentive

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A Deep Dive into the Full-Day Tour to Guatapé and La Piedra del Peñol

If you’re planning a trip to Medellín, this tour is a stellar way to see some of Colombia’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing transport or activities yourself. The journey starts early, with a 7:30 am pickup from Laureles, giving you a full day of exploration.

First Stop: Medellín Breakfast and Departure

The day kicks off with a local breakfast featuring arepas, eggs, fruit, cheese, and a hot drink like coffee or chocolate. It’s a simple but hearty way to fuel up before hitting the road. From there, you’ll hop onto a comfortable bus, with a typical group size of fewer than 40 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Stop at Marinilla: Interacting with Farm Animals

Your first notable stop is at a farm in Marinilla, where you’ll meet llamas, cows, horses, rabbits, and ponies. This is a delightful break from riding, and many reviews highlight how much fun they had feeding and petting the animals. As one traveler noted, “feeding llamas is interesting,” which perfectly captures the relaxed, family-friendly vibe of this stop.

Historic and Cultural Highlights at El Peñol

Next, you’ll visit the famous monument of the Ave Fenix, symbolizing the town’s rebirth. You’ll also see a replica of the old town before it was flooded by the dam—an evocative reminder of local history. This offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate how the landscape has changed over time.

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Lake Guatapé Boat Tour: Glimpse of Celebrities and Ruins

One of the tour’s highlights is a 50-minute boat tour on Lake Guatapé. The boat, often called a “rumbero,” navigates past celebrity vacation homes—yes, Colombia’s rich and famous have summer spots here. You’ll also get a close look at the ruins of Pablo Escobar’s former house, adding an unexpected touch of history. According to reviews, the boat ride is lively, with some guides even singing, enhancing the overall experience. This is a chance to see spectacular landscapes from the water, surrounded by lush hills and colorful lakeside cottages.

Delicious Lunch with Local Flavors

Midday, you’ll stop at a roadside restaurant for a typical Colombian meal. Expect rice, ripe bananas, salad, soup, and a choice of protein—beef, pork, chicken, or vegetarian options. The included drink, guandolo, adds a local flavor. Reviewers repeatedly mention the quality and flavor of the food, calling it “delicious” and “beautifully presented,” making the meal more than just fuel; it becomes part of the culture.

Guatapé Town and Zócalos: Vibrant Streets and Handcrafted Goods

Following lunch, you’ll visit the Plazoleta de los Zócalos, where the brightly painted buildings and decorative facades make for incredible photos. Here, you can browse local crafts, sweets, and drinks, supporting small artisans. The vibrant street art and colorful alleyways are a feast for the eyes, and many travelers mention how perfect this stop is for snapping memorable pictures.

Guatapé Village: Walks and Parasol Streets

Next, a leisurely walk takes you along the seawall, along the street of memories, and especially the street of parasols—a must-see for Instagram fans. The town’s lively atmosphere and stunning architecture often get glowing reviews, with visitors saying, “the street of parasols is one of the best photo spots.”

La Piedra del Peñol Climb: Breathtaking Views or Relaxed Shopping

Finally, it’s time for the main event—the climb up La Piedra del Peñol**. The staircase of 742 steps is a workout, but the panoramic view from the top is spectacular. You’ll have ample time to ascend (or opt out and enjoy the scenery from below). For an extra fee (~$6 USD), you can reach the summit and witness one of the most incredible vistas in Colombia—towering lakes, lush hills, and distant mountains.

Many reviews rave about the view, with one traveler calling it “one of the best views of your life.” Others opt to skip the climb, using their time to browse local shops or enjoy a drink. It’s a flexible stop—your choice.

Return to Medellín

The trip wraps up with a comfortable bus ride back, arriving around 7:40 pm. The guides often check in on the group, making sure everyone is comfortable and satisfied.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Beyond the scenic stops, this tour’s true strength lies in its well-organized schedule and friendly guides like Sebastian and Alejandra, who keep things engaging and informative. Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics, which help you enjoy each place without feeling rushed.

The inclusion of meals, boat tour, and all fees makes this an excellent value. Many travelers point out that the lunch was delicious, and the boat added just the right amount of fun to the day. The small group size allows for more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

That said, the long bus ride is something to prepare for—this is a full day, after all. Also, the optional climb does cost extra, so if you’re not a fan of heights or stairs, you might choose to stay below and explore the shops instead.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road and want to see a variety of sights—from cultural landmarks and farms to stunning viewpoints. It’s perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers who appreciate good organization, informative guides, and a mix of activities. If you’re looking for value for money and enjoy a blend of history, scenery, and local flavor, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from the Laureles area in Medellín, but check if your hotel is within the coverage zone. If not, you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point.

What is the best time to join?
The tour starts early at 7:30 am to maximize sightseeing and includes a full day of activities, ending around 7:40 pm.

How much does climbing La Piedra del Peñol cost?
Climbing the stone costs about 30,000 Colombian pesos (~$6 USD) and must be paid on-site if you choose to ascend.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll get breakfast and lunch, both featuring traditional local dishes and drinks.

Can I skip certain stops?
While the schedule is set, you can decide not to climb the stone or opt to stay in shops instead of walking through certain areas—guides usually accommodate flexible preferences.

How long is the boat tour?
Approximately 50 minutes, including views of celebrity vacation homes and the ruins of Escobar’s house, with lively commentary and music.

What about group size?
The tour caps at 39 travelers, fostering a friendly, less hectic atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic walks, but note the climb and bus ride are lengthy.

What makes this tour worth the cost?
The combination of guided commentary, meals, boat ride, and entrance fees—all in one affordable package—offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Medellín to Guatapé and La Piedra del Peñol offers a chocolate box of Colombian culture, nature, and history. The carefully curated stops, picturesque scenery, and friendly guides ensure you’ll leave with memorable photos and stories to tell. While it’s a long day, every bit of it is packed with value and authentic local flavor, making it a smart choice for those seeking a comprehensive experience.

Whether you’re climbing the famous stone or wandering the vibrant streets of Guatapé, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, engaging day that covers Colombia’s most colorful and scenic highlights. If you’re after a mixture of adventure, culture, and breathtaking views—all at a reasonable price—this full-day trip is hard to beat.