The most popular destination for a daytrip around Medellin is Guatapé. Only a two hour ride from Medellin, you will find this colorful Antioquian town in the most amazing setting. Next to the town is a huge man-made reservoir with hundreds of little islands dotting the vast landscape. You can’t miss the huge rock that towers over everything! You can climb to the top and take in one of the most famous views in all of Colombia. If you’re in Medellin, a trip to Guatape is an absolute must.
The “Peñol rock” (La Piedra del Peñol)
Not to miss when arriving to Guatape is the giant rock, called el Peñol. It’s not surprising that the locals speculate it is a meteorite that has fallen from the sky, because the huge rock looks completely out of place in its surroundings. The owners of the land have successfully turned it into a tourist attraction by building stairs that will take you to the top where you can enjoy an incredible view over the area.
The town of Guatapé
Only 10 minutes from the rock lies the colorful tourist town. Like any town in Antioquia it has a cute main square and big church but what makes this town different from the rest are the beautiful colored houses. Each house has its own style, which makes this the perfect place for photographers to wander around for a while. You will probably stop here for a delicious lunch and well deserved coffee before you end your day trip exploring the lake.
The fresh water lake
In the 70’s this normal farming town changed radically after a huge hydroelectric complex was built. This dam created a giant reservoir leading to one of the most important electric production centers in the country. A common way to explore the lake and its little islands is by boat tour. On the tour you will pass by the site of multiple mansions from the most Colombian famous people, and float over a submerged town. There are many other watersports available on the lake like waterskiing, fishing, and scuba diving.
If you’ve researched Medellin you will have heard about Guatape and it’s amazing landscapes. It is one of the most visited spots in the entire country and it’s no surprise. If you have a free day and you’re wondering what to do then Guatape is the perfect day trip option. You can leave at 8 or nine in the morning and return at around 5pm to make it the ideal day out.
