Top Things to Do in Guatapé: A Local Adventure Guide

Guatapé isn’t just a pit stop on your way to climb El Peñol—it’s a full-throttle destination in its own right. From vibrant streets to epic lake adventures, Guatapé delivers thrill, beauty, and culture in equal measure. Here’s your Vikingos-approved guide to the best things to do while you’re here.

1. Conquer the Rock of El Peñol

Let’s start with the icon. Towering 200 meters high with 740 steps to the summit, La Piedra del Peñol is a must-climb. From the top, you’ll witness a jaw-dropping view of the Guatapé Reservoir—an emerald maze of islands and inlets. It’s the perfect warm-up for any Viking spirit.

2. Cruise the Lake—Viking Style

Book a Viking boat tours with us and explore the reservoir like a true explorer. Navigate through ancient islets, pass Pablo Escobar’s old estate, and anchor at secret swim spots. With music, drinks, and pro guides on board, it’s half expedition, half party, all unforgettable.

3. Stroll the Zócalo-Painted Streets

Guatapé’s town center is pure joy to wander. Colorful zócalos—painted tiles that line every building—tell stories of local history, culture, and dreams. Cafes spill onto the cobbled lanes, street musicians play, and every corner feels like a photo opp.

4. Fuel Up at a Local Eatery

You can’t adventure on an empty stomach. Hit up traditional Colombian spots like Restaurante Don De Sam or El Portal de los Recuerdos for bandeja paisa, empanadas, or fresh trout straight from the lake.

5. Rent a Jet Ski or Paddleboard

Once you’ve seen the reservoir from above, hit the water. Jet skis are available for the speed demons. Paddleboards for the chill warriors. Either way, nothing beats gliding across Guatapé’s glassy waters under a wide Colombian sky.

6. Visit La Piedra Town for Artisan Finds

Just beyond El Peñol, this little town boasts markets full of handmade goods—from leatherwork to woven hammocks. It’s the perfect place to pick up something authentic to remember your journey.

7. Celebrate Like a Local

Plan your visit during a local festival and see Guatapé come alive. From the Fiesta de los Zócalos in October to weekend parrandas at the plaza, there’s no shortage of music, dancing, and energy here.

8. End the Day with Sunset Views

Cap your day at a rooftop bar or lakeside lookout. The sunsets here are legendary—fiery, golden, and vast. A Viking moment worth raising a glass to.

Bonus Tip: Ride with Vikingos

Whether you’re here for a day or a week, join the Vikingos tribe for watersports, boat tours, or full-day lake outings. We make the Guatapé experience not just scenic—but legendary.

Guatapé is more than a postcard. It’s a playground for bold spirits. Let’s make it epic.

FAQs

Questions? We've got the answers—but in the end, it's up to you to be a Viking and GO 💪

What are the best things to do in Guatapé?

Climb the Piedra del Peñol, walk the painted zócalos in town, get on the reservoir for water sports or a boat tour, and finish along the malecón where most of the restaurants and bars sit.

How many days do you need in Guatapé?

One day covers the Piedra, the town and one activity if you start early. Two days lets you do it without rushing and see the town before the day-trippers arrive.

What is there to do in Guatapé besides the Piedra?

The reservoir itself is the main draw: wakeboard, water ski, kneeboard, tubing or a private boat tour past the flooded old town. In town there are the zócalos, the Calle del Recuerdo and the malecón.

Is Guatapé worth visiting?

Yes, and it is the most visited day trip from Medellín for a reason. The combination of the rock, the painted town and a large reservoir is not repeated elsewhere in Antioquia.

What can you do in Guatapé with kids?

Tubing on the reservoir works well for families since no experience is needed, and the town centre is walkable and flat. The 740 steps up the Piedra are manageable for older children.

How much does a day in Guatapé cost?

Budget for transport from Medellín, the Piedra entrance, lunch, and one activity. Water sports run from 400.000 COP per hour for the whole boat rather than per person.

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