Remote Guatapé
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El Peñol Rock: 220mts hike to the top

4.9(23 reviews of Remote Guatapé)Tours & ActivitiesRNT 172321
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El Peñol Rock from above, with the viewpoint at the topShow all 16 photos
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702 steps to the top of La Piedra del Peñol with a 360° view of the lake and Guatape Town.

About this experience

Pay your tickets online and avoid the line!

La Piedra del Peñol (also known as El Peñón de Guatapé or El Peñol Rock) is a massive rock formation (a monolith) that stands 220 meters tall from the ground. Beneath the surface, the rock extends to a depth of approximately 2,500 meters. In pre-Hispanic times, it was a sacred site for local indigenous people, and it remains a place of reverence for some to this day. It was first climbed in 1954 by Luis E Villegas.

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What’s Included?

Entrance ticket to La Piedra del Peñol​

Please note: This is a self-guided activity. Transportation, guides, and additional services are not included.​

Itinerary

  1. Arrival at La Piedra del Peñol: Make your way to the base of the rock, where you'll meet our guides to hand in the entrance tickets and give basic tips.​
  2. Begin your ascent: Climb the 740 concrete steps at your own pace, taking breaks as needed to enjoy the views.​
  3. Reach the summit: Upon reaching the top, explore the viewing platforms and take in the stunning 360-degree panoramas.​ (We recommend the Mango Micheladas!)
  4. Descent: When you're ready, descend the same staircase back to the base (be careful with your knees).​

Duration: About 1 hour in total: people take 20 to 25 minutes going up and 10 to 15 coming down, depending on your pace and time spent at the summit.​

Difficulty Level: Moderate: Suitable for individuals with a basic level of fitness.​

What to Bring?

  • Comfortable clothing: Light, breathable attire suitable for physical activity.​
  • Sturdy footwear: Closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended.​
  • Hydration: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your climb.​
  • Sun protection: Apply sunscreen and consider wearing a hat and sunglasses.​

What to Avoid?

  • Heavy backpacks: Keep your load light to ease your ascent.​
  • Alcohol consumption: For safety reasons, refrain from consuming alcohol before or during the climb.​
  • Smoking: To preserve the natural environment and ensure the comfort of all visitors, please avoid smoking.​

Make the most of Guatapé

Meeting point

At the entrance of El Peñol Rock.

We send you the exact spot, with its map and directions, once your booking is confirmed.

4.9 · 23 reviews of Remote Guatapé

Across everything we run, on Google, GetYourGuide and Tripadvisor.

  • *This is a late post - my friend and I went in August of 2025. The Guatape River and Waterfalls tour was the best excursion of my LIFE! Honestly, one of my favorite days I’ve ever had. Camilo brought my friend and me to a quiet and secluded area of a river outside Guatape, where there was a beautiful blue green swimming hole under a waterfall. As my friend and I started exploring the river, he set up a gorgeous brunch for us - sandwiches from a local shop, coffee, mimosas. He also set up chairs, mats to lay on in the sun, an umbrella, and binoculars for birdwatching. It was PARADISE. He told us he’d take some pictures of us enjoying the river so we wouldn’t have to worry about capturing the moment. she told us he’d be back in a few hours, and when he returned, he asked if we’d like to stay longer or wanted to go. We happily stayed. If I lived there, I would go there every day. Thank you Camilo!!
    Kara C.on Google
  • We had an excellent experience with Guatape Tours! We booked a sprinter van with them for 12 of us, which was super clean, very comfortable and with air conditioning, to go from Medellin to Guatape and back later that same day. Our driver Christian was wonderful. He was on time, knowledgeable about the area and activities and very friendly. He drove us to hike La Piedra del Penol and then recommended an excellent place for lunch afterwards which he took us too. Afterwards he dropped us off near the malecón to walk and tour the town. It was a great day trip and I appreciated Guatape Tours checking in with me throughout the day and even before to make sure that everything was going smoothly. I highly recommend booking any trip with them!
    Jessica Z.on Google
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All photos

El Peñol Rock from above, with the viewpoint at the topEl Peñol Rock above the islands of Guatapé LakeVisitors at the top viewpoint of El Peñol Rock looking over the lakeAerial view of Guatapé Lake, its islands and the bridge into townEl Peñol Rock and the winding road up to it, lake behindDrone view of the summit of El Peñol Rock and its lookout towerThe G painted on El Peñol Rock, seen from the airParking and entrance area at the foot of El Peñol RockThe staircase zigzagging up El Peñol RockEntrance plaza at the base of El Peñol Rock, GuatapéEl Peñol Rock rising over Guatapé LakeVisitor rules at the entrance to El Peñol RockSign with El Peñol Rock facts: 200 m high, 659 steps to the topPlaque honouring Luis Eduardo Villegas, first to climb El Peñol Rock in 1954Step 350 on the climb up El Peñol RockScanning the QR ticket at the El Peñol Rock turnstile

Frequently asked questions

Is there an age or fitness requirement?

The climb is suitable for most individuals with a basic level of fitness. Children and older adults have successfully completed the ascent.​

Are there restrooms or facilities at the top?

Yes, there are facilities, including restrooms and small shops selling refreshments at the summit.​

What are the operating hours?

La Piedra del Peñol is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. You can also stay for the sunset: the steps are lit and you can come down until 7:00 PM.​

Do I need to book in advance?

Tickets can be purchased on-site but as the Rock is busy most of the year, we suggest you avoid the line!

Check this iconic Colombian adventure and create unforgettable memories atop La Piedra del Peñol!​

How long does the climb take?

About 740 steps, at your own pace and with viewpoints to rest: going up takes 20 to 25 minutes and coming down 10 to 15. The whole plan takes about 1 hour.

What time is it open?

Every day of the year, from 8am to 6pm. You can stay for the sunset: the steps are lit and you can come down until it ends, around 6:30pm.

Can a translator come along?

Yes, in French: add the "French translator" extra when you book, COP 100,000 an hour. They are a translator, not an official guide.

Add to your day in Guatapé

Keep exploring: Tours & Activities · all things to do in Guatapé · private transfers from Medellín and the airport.

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Travelling as a bigger group?

Tell us how many you are and when: we put the boats, vehicles and guides together for you.

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