Guatape, Colombia
December 6-8, 2023
Guatape is a resort town located just 2 hours by bus from the city of Medellin. It’s famous for its colorful village, a man made reservoir, and a giant granite rock La Piedra del Penol. Yes, its touristy! Both foreigners and locals love to come and visit! One of the best things to do here is wander the cobblestone streets and take in the colorful ambiance and of course, stopping to enjoy a good Colombian coffee!
Our Accommodations
We stayed at an Airbnb Apartment just a few minutes walk from the town center but away from the noise.
It was a pleasant stay and met our needs. There wasn't anything in particular that stood out about it - just a good basic place to stay.
Around the Town of Guatape
One of the best things to do in Guatape is to roam the little streets and plazas between the rainbow colored zocalos (panels).
There’s no real explanation as to why the buildings have gotten their colors. However, each building’s creations often tell a unique story of the family or business that owns it.
Decked Out for Christmas
We loved the Christmas decorations and ambiance of Guatape's main square and so many of the streets
were decked out for the season too.
Climbing La Peidra del Penon - The "Rock"
This massive granite rock is 65 million years old and looms over the lush surrounding area. It's known geologically as an inselberg, a lone prominent rock in a mostly flat landscape. This type of rock forms when magma (molten rock) cools and solidifies deep underground. Over time due to flooding and erosion over millions of years, the rock becomes exposed.
El Peñol is made of granite so it stood the test of time! Its almost completely smooth but features one long crack that contains a masonry staircase made up of approximately 649-725 stairs (depending on where you read the information) leading you to the top of the rock. At the top, there are some stunning views of Guatape and the valley! Along with souvenirs and cervesas...of course!