Guatape Day Trip – Everything you need to know to visit without the use of a guide or tour group
Not a problem because like that time Bob Marley stated, “don’t worry about a thing because every little thing, is guna be alright”
In this Post, I will outline an ideal Guatape Day Trip, in the city of a million colors (Guatape is not actually called this, but you’ll understand once you have been)
Guatape is VERY EASY to get too on your own. Don’t let the tour operators or hostels tell you it isn’t too take more money out of your pocket. Here’s how you do it:
La Piedra del Penol. Aka the giant rock. Aka self best view in the world. This viewing platform is 700 stairs to the top. Yes, 700 stairs. It’s way up there. Hopefully you get there a bit early, before 11 because the crowds will be dizzying.
You should visit Guatape as early as possible. Although it’s only 2 hours away you want to maximize your time in one of Colombia’s most popular Pueblas . It’s also advantageous to be in Guatape before the hoards of other folks who are going for the main tourist draw, La Piedra del penol.
Once you have enjoyed your safe ascent & descent, make your way into town for 5-10,000 Colombian Pesos (not sure of current rate) from the rock. About 10 minutes later you will arrive in the main plaza. Feast upon the colors before you.
Speaking of feast, you’ve definitely worked up your appetite from that trip up EL Penol. Here are some Guatape Restaurants to consider:
Guatape is compact, & simple to navigate. Make your way to the plaza & marvel at the fountain & church which will become your landmark to work around. Walk the streets & admire the vuelos that line each door front, business and bar.
What is a vuelo? Look at these pictures below
Need a pick me up or just a second to relax those dogs after the overwhelming amount of colors you will be seeing? Grab a cup of Colombian coffee from artisan roaster, Black Hole Coffee, at their storefront or mobile bicycle stand. Excellent quality & also a provider of delicious ice creams. It’s probably going to be hot, so a little break in the shade never hurts.
So what’s next? Some other popular activities in Guatape include:
If you want to refuel before heading back to Medellín you’ve got options. Head over to Thai Terrace for their happy hour from 5:30-7:30 & be appalled about how lucky you are to be eating some incredible Thai food tucked away in the Colombian hillsides.
Say your goodbyes to Guatape & get back to the bus terminal for your ride home. Located a block away from the city plaza you’ll be sad you didn’t stay longer. Busses are frequent and cost the same as your price getting there. But if you are staying longer, check out some other options for you to enjoy your time in this charming place.
Have you ever done a Guatape Day Trip? Where else would you recommend that I didn’t list?
If you need anymore help with Guatape, please read my other Guatape Guides. Interested in what other activities you can make the most of in Medellin?
These are only a bit of what’s available but should have you covered because it’s a lot of information to choose from. If you want a tailored tour or more info, please reach out to me directly and I can set you up with a fine tuned itinerary that will maximize your time in this wonderful country.