Guatapé Tour and Dam Boat Tour from Medellín

Discovering Guatapé: A Full-Day Colombian Adventure from Medellín

If you’re after a day full of vibrant scenery, cultural insights, and some of Colombia’s most iconic landscapes, the Guatapé Tour and Dam Boat Tour from Medellín offers an engaging way to see the region. For just $31 per person, this roughly 10.5-hour experience takes you through a mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor. Led by friendly bilingual guides, the journey hits key highlights like the famous Piedra del Peñol, the colorful Plazoleta de los Zócalos, and a relaxing boat cruise on the Guatapé reservoir.

What we love most about this tour is its thoughtful mix of activities—from sharing a traditional regional breakfast to exploring charming towns and climbing iconic landmarks. The transportation in air-conditioned vehicles makes the long drive comfortable, and the inclusion of local food and boat tours adds real value. It’s a well-rounded experience that feels authentic and accessible.

One thing to consider is the timing of stops; some travelers, like Mayura, have noted that “the stops were not long enough,” especially if you want a more leisurely pace or to explore in depth. Also, the cost of climbing the Piedra del Peñol ($25,000 COP) is not included, so budget accordingly if you want to reach the top for the panoramic views.

This tour is especially suited for history and scenery lovers, day-trippers eager to see Colombia’s beauty without fuss, or those interested in a well-organized, full-day adventure. If you prioritize cultural authenticity, scenic views, and good value, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary combines natural, cultural, and historical sights in one day.
• Affordable price point offers excellent value, including most activities and meals.
• Comfortable transportation and professional bilingual guides make the experience smooth.
• Diverse stops ensure you see scenic landscapes, local towns, and iconic landmarks.
• Limited time at some stops might leave travelers wishing for more depth or leisure.
• Optional climb of Piedra del Peñol adds a rewarding challenge and panoramic payoff.

Exploring the Guatapé Tour in Detail

Starting in Medellín: Convenience and Comfort

The adventure kicks off at a central location in Laureles, Medellín—specifically at Carrera 70 # 45 e – 93. The early start at 7:00 am ensures you make the most of the day. The tour includes pickup service and an air-conditioned vehicle, which are small but important touches that keep long drives comfortable.

The guide, who is bilingual and professional, sets the tone for a friendly, informative day. We appreciated how smooth the initial logistics were, letting us relax into the experience from the very start.

Breakfast and First Drive: Easing into the Day

After gathering with fellow travelers, the group is treated to a traditional regional breakfast. Expect arepa, egg, bread, cheese, and drink options like coffee, latte, or hot chocolate. The breakfast is straightforward but satisfying, setting you up for the day ahead. It’s a good chance to chat with your guide or fellow travelers before heading out.

The drive from Medellín to Guatapé takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Along the way, the scenery shifts from urban to lush countryside, giving a preview of what’s to come.

First Stop: Marinilla and the Farm Encounter

The journey continues toward the municipality of Marinilla, with a brief stop at Alto del Chocho, a farm where you can interact with animals such as ostriches, llamas, horses, pigs, and rabbits. This quick visit (about 25 minutes) is a delightful break and offers a chance to connect with rural life.

From reviews, we know this stop is appreciated, with one traveler mentioning the “interaction with animals” as a highlight. It’s also a free stop, making it a nice addition at no extra cost.

Panoramic Views of Peñol

After Marinilla, there’s a scenic panoramic view of Peñol, giving you your first glimpse of the town and its surroundings. This sets the stage for the next part of the trip: the famous Piedra del Peñol and the adjoining town of Guatapé.

The Lagoon and the Dam Boat Tour

Arriving at the Guatapé reservoir, the highlight here is the boat tour around the dam, lasting about an hour. During this cruise, you’ll see famous farms and cabins, and hear about the history of the area, including the ruins of a house once owned by Pablo Escobar—a somber and intriguing reminder of Colombia’s complex past.

The boat ride also features a musical show, which adds authentic regional flavor. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery and learn a bit about local history.

The Phoenix Monument and Flooded Old Town

Next, the tour visits the Phoenix Monument, symbolizing renewal after the flooding caused by dam construction. You’ll also see the replica of Old Peñol, now submerged, offering a poignant view of how the landscape was altered. These stops, lasting about 30 minutes, give insight into the area’s transformation and resilience.

Lunch in Guatapé

After the cultural stops, it’s time for lunch at a local restaurant. The meal includes ripe plantain, rice, soup or beans, salad, and a choice of protein—pork, beef, chicken, chicharrón, or ground beef. To wash it down, you’ll enjoy guarapo, a traditional regional drink.

The 40-minute lunch break is a perfect reprieve and gives you a chance to relax before heading into the town’s colorful streets.

Strolling Plazoleta de los Zócalos

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Zócalos Street, famous for its painted facades and lively atmosphere. This is a popular spot for shopping souvenirs and admiring the colonial architecture. With about 40 minutes allotted, you’ll have enough time to browse, take photos, and soak in the town’s vibrant charm.

Climbing the Piedra del Peñol

The day’s most iconic stop is the Piedra del Peñol, where you’ll spend up to 1 hour and 20 minutes. For those willing to tackle the 720 stairs, there’s the option to pay $25,000 COP at the site for a climb that rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.

From reviews, many travelers find the climb worth the effort. However, some mention the cost and the time constraint might be a limiting factor if you want a more relaxed experience at the top.

Return to Medellín

After a full day exploring, the group heads back to Medellín, a drive of roughly 2 hours. The ride provides a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s sights.

Evaluating the Experience

The value of this tour lies in its inclusiveness—most activities, transportation, and meals are covered, making it a convenient all-in-one option. For $31, you get a full day of sightseeing, cultural exposure, and natural beauty, which is quite reasonable given the many highlights.

The guided element is crucial; knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by sharing stories and context you might not discover on your own. From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Juan provide a friendly, informative presence that enriches the trip.

However, timing can be tight. Some travelers have expressed a desire for longer stops, especially at key sites like the Peñol climb or the Zócalos street. The $25,000 COP climb fee is a personal cost to consider, should you wish to ascend the stone for the extraordinary views.

While the meals are simple and regional, the vegetarian or vegan options are not specifically mentioned, which might be a drawback for some dietary preferences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Guatapé’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual transport and tickets. It’s also suitable for those with limited time but eager to see a mixture of cultural and scenic sights.

It’s particularly good for travelers who appreciate organized tours with a balance of activities—from boat rides and town visits to scenic climbs and photo opportunities. If you enjoy a well-rounded day that introduces you to Colombia’s vibrant local life and stunning landscape, this trip is worth considering.

Final Thoughts

The Guatapé Tour and Dam Boat Tour from Medellín delivers a comprehensive, value-packed experience that captures the essence of this beautiful region. The careful mix of activities means you get a taste of natural landscapes, local culture, and history, all in one manageable day.

While some may wish for more free time or options to skip certain activities, the overall experience offers a solid introduction to Guatapé’s charm. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with spectacular views and authentic regional food, make this tour a great choice for first-timers or anyone seeking a well-organized day trip.

If you’re keen on photo opportunities, scenic climbs, and immersing in small-town Colombian life, this trip ticks most boxes. It’s perfect if you want to see the highlights without the stress of logistics—and at an affordable price.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, generally most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find the climb of the Piedra del Peñol challenging.

Does the tour include transportation back to Medellín?
Yes, the return trip is included, taking about 2 hours, and ends back at the original meeting point.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included, featuring regional dishes. However, vegetarian and vegan options are not specified and may need to be requested in advance.

What is the cost to climb the Piedra del Peñol?
Climbing the stone costs $25,000 COP and is paid directly at the site if you choose to do so.

Can I customize the stops or activity duration?
Since this is a structured tour, modifications aren’t typically offered. However, some reviews mention wishing for longer stops, so if you prefer more relaxed pacing, consider that during your planning.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes for walking and climbing, sun protection, a hat, and a camera are advisable. A water bottle is also included, but bring extra if you plan to stay longer at sites.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect, helping you decide if this Guatapé tour aligns with your travel style and expectations. Remember, a good tour can open doors to authentic experiences—so choose wisely and enjoy!