Things to do in Guatapé
Discover the best attractions and experiences Guatapé has to offer
Historic Monuments
Guatapé is renowned for its iconic rock and its centuries-old town center with colorful facades that tell the region's history.
Piedra del Peñol (El Peñol Rock)
A colossal granite monolith with a public staircase offering sweeping lake views.
Guatapé Old Town and its zócalos
Colorful façades with decorative bas-reliefs that depict local life and culture.
Plaza Principal de Guatapé
Historic central square surrounded by traditional buildings and lively streets.
Museums
Small, local spaces that preserve Guatapé’s heritage and its relationship with the lake.
Museo de Guatapé
Local history museum with exhibits on the town and nearby reservoir.
Centro de Interpretación del Embalse Guatapé
Exhibits explaining the reservoir’s creation and life around the lake.
Casa Museo de Guatapé
Preserved historic house illustrating traditional daily life in Guatapé.
Religious Monuments
Charming churches and chapels that reflect the town’s spiritual life.
Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Carmen (Guatapé)
Main parish church located in the town center with classic church architecture.
Capilla de San Antonio
Small chapel near historic streets for a quiet visit.
Capilla de Nuestra Señora de Fátima
Local chapel offering a peaceful space for contemplation.
National & Theme Parks
Nearby nature spots and parks ideal for day trips from Guatapé.
Reserva Natural Guatapé
Protected natural area with scenic trails and wildlife.
Parque Lineal de Guatapé
Riverside park with walkways and viewpoints along the reservoir.
Embalse Guatapé (Lago) – boat and water activities
Lakeside area offering boat rides and peaceful scenery.
Neighborhoods
Explore the distinct zones of Guatapé to feel its character up close.
Centro Histórico de Guatapé
Historic center with pedestrian streets, shops, and cafés.
Zona de la Piedra
Area around the big rock with easy access to viewpoints.
Malecón de Guatapé
Lakeside promenade perfect for a stroll and photos.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Guatapé without spending a peso on entry fees.
Walk the colorfully painted streets
Photogenic façades and lively street scenes at your own pace.
Stroll the Malecón
Sacred-quiet lake views and sunsets without a ticket.
People-watch in the Plaza Principal
Experience local life in the bustling town square.
Gastronomy
Sample coastal- and highland-inspired Colombian flavors from local eateries.
Trucha a la parrilla (grilled trout)
Fresh river trout as a Guatapé specialty.
Bandeja Paisa
Hearty traditional Colombian platter widely available.
Arepa de choclo y mazorca
Sweet corn arepa often paired with cheese.
Nightlife
Evenings around the plaza offer relaxed bars and live music.
Bars around Plaza Principal
Casual spots with local drinks and vibes.
Lakeside sunset bars
Relaxed venues by the water with evening ambiance.
Mini live performances at the square
Occasional street or small-stage performances.
Entertainment
Colorful and family-friendly ways to enjoy Guatapé beyond meals.
Guatapé boat tours on the reservoir
Short boat rides with scenic lake views.
Photo walks to capture the zócalos
Guided or self-guided routes for mural photography.
Local craft markets (seasonal)
Markets with handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy the outdoors around Guatapé.
Hiking up Piedra del Peñol
Climb the staircase for a dramatic panorama.
Kayaking on Embalse Guatapé
Paddle sports on calm lake waters.
Cycling along lakeside roads
Scenic routes around the town and dam.
Off the Track
Hidden viewpoints and quiet trails for a different perspective.
Sunrise viewpoints outside the town
Early-morning spots with fewer crowds.
Hidden trails around the reservoir
Quiet paths with nature and birds.
Local riverbank picnics
Relaxed spots along the water away from main streets.