Guatape, Colombia is like stepping into a living rainbow! This charming lakeside town is world-famous for its bright, colorful streets, stunning reservoir views, and the towering rock of El Peñón. Just a couple of hours from Medellín, Guatape is the perfect destination for families, couples, or anyone craving beauty and adventure. Every corner offers something new, from vibrant plazas filled with music to peaceful boat rides surrounded by green hills. Our adventure travel family instantly fell in love with the energy, history, and warmth of this magical place. Whether you want to explore on foot, by boat, or even by tuk tuk, Guatape delivers unforgettable memories. We discovered mouthwatering Colombian food, friendly locals, and some of the most breathtaking scenery we have ever seen! Join us as we share the best things to do in Guatapé and why this destination should be at the top of your Colombia travel list!
Colombia is a land of incredible contrasts and unforgettable beauty! From its Caribbean beaches to its Andean peaks, this country offers a diverse range of experiences. Its location in the heart of South America makes it an easy connection from North America and Europe. Many travelers are pleasantly surprised by how safe they feel here, especially in popular tourist areas like Medellín, Cartagena, and Guatape. Police presence is visible, and the locals’ warmth makes you feel welcome right away.
Colombia’s culture is vibrant and full of life! You will find music in the streets, colorful markets, and a mix of traditions shaped by Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Coffee lovers will adore visiting local plantations, and foodies will savor fresh tropical fruits and hearty Colombian dishes.
We came to Colombia seeking adventure and connection. What we found was a country bursting with color, energy, and history. It is truly a place where every moment feels alive!
What is Guatape?
Guatape is one of Colombia’s most picturesque towns, located in the Antioquia region about two hours from Medellín. Known as the “most colorful town in Colombia,” it is famous for its hand-painted “zócalos” or detailed murals that decorate the lower walls of homes and businesses. These designs tell stories about the area’s history, beliefs, and daily life.
The town sits alongside the Guatape Reservoir, a sparkling body of water surrounded by lush green hills. This reservoir was created in the 1970s after the construction of a hydroelectric dam, and today it is a playground for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Guatape’s climate is pleasantly mild year-round, with average temperatures hovering around 70°F.
Strolling through Guatape feels like walking through an open-air gallery. Every street is full of charm, and the mix of cobblestone paths, vibrant facades, and mountain views creates a magical atmosphere. It is the perfect place to relax, explore, and soak in Colombia’s joyful spirit!
Getting to Guatape
Getting to Guatape from Medellín is a scenic adventure in itself! The easiest way is by bus or private driver, with the journey taking around two hours. As you leave the busy streets of Medellín, the scenery changes dramatically. Skyscrapers give way to rolling hills, and soon you are surrounded by green fields dotted with cattle, colorful flowers, and small villages.
The road winds through the Antioquian countryside, offering incredible mountain views at every turn. It feels like a slow reveal of Colombia’s natural beauty. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop for snacks or take in the views.
We opted for a private driver, which gave us flexibility and comfort for the girls. By the time we arrived in Guatape, the pace of life had slowed, the air felt fresher, and the peaceful sound of the reservoir instantly relaxed us. The journey is part of the magic!
Where to Stay Near Guatape
Boato Hotel
We opted to stay at the Boato Hotel. Nestled along the tranquil reservoir, each family is treated to their own private Lare, ensuring a truly exclusive and idyllic retreat experience.
Upon check-in, the hotel staff whisked away our luggage in a golf cart, while another team member guided us down a steep path to our Lare. As we gazed upon the awe-inspiring views, we silently wondered, “How many times will we have to climb this mini mountain again? LOL!”
Our Lare was a cozy haven with two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. The space was airy, with huge windows, a back deck, and even a hot tub. Surrounded by greenery, it felt like our own paradise.
We ordered dinner delivery from the on-site restaurant and toasted marshmallows under the full moon. It was pure magic!
Things to do in Guatape:
El Alto del Chocho
On our journey to Guatape, our driver suggested a spontaneous roadside stop for lunch. That is how we discovered El Alto del Chocho, a hidden gem of Colombian hospitality!
The girls were overjoyed when they saw friendly llamas and goats at the entrance. Buckets of carrots in hand, they ran from one animal to the next, giggling the whole time. This outdoor restaurant offers delicious Colombian cuisine and an amazing animal experience.
We feasted on fresh local dishes while surrounded by mountains, with the sounds of laughter and animals filling the air. The casual, welcoming atmosphere made us feel like part of the community. For Buttercup, feeding the animals here was a highlight of our entire trip. It is the perfect family stop before arriving in Guatape!
Things to do in Guatape:
Ride in a Tuk Tuk
Our second day in Guatape started with excitement! Reception arranged for colorful tuk tuks to pick us up. These small, three-wheeled motorcycle taxis are a common form of transportation in many parts of the world. Originally from Thailand, tuk tuks have made their way to Colombia, where they add charm to local travel.
As the tuk tuks pulled up, the girls squealed with delight. Their open sides and bumpy rides made for thrilling journeys through the narrow streets. We squeezed one girl between two adults in separate tuk tuks and held on tight as we zipped through town.
Every ride felt like a mini roller coaster, with bursts of laughter echoing through the air. The bright decorations and friendly drivers made each trip special. Even though some rides were a little nerve-wracking, they became one of our favorite ways to explore Guatape!
Things to do in Guatape:
Explore the Town
Guatapé truly earns its title as the “most colorful town” in Colombia! Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a painting. Every building is painted in bright hues, and the intricate zócalos tell stories of the town’s heritage.
These decorative panels often depict animals, farming scenes, or cultural symbols. Locals take pride in their designs, and the result is a stunning outdoor art gallery. Cobblestone streets add to the charm, while balconies overflow with flowers.
Shops sell handmade crafts, cafés offer Colombian coffee, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant. Musicians often play in the plazas, adding a festive soundtrack to your stroll.
Exploring the town is best done on foot, allowing you to notice every detail. The combination of art, history, and warm hospitality makes this small town feel truly special. For us, it was a feast for the senses and a joy to photograph!
Things to do in Guatape:
Plaza de Zócalos
The heart of Guatape beats in Plaza de Zócalos! This central square bursts with color and energy, making it a must-visit spot.
As we stepped into the plaza, our eyes were immediately drawn to the vibrant murals and the famous plaza steps, each painted in bright, joyful colors. Overhead, a street lined with colorful umbrellas created a cheerful canopy. The whole scene seemed to radiate happiness!
Cafés and shops surround the plaza, inviting you to linger and soak up the atmosphere. Street performers sometimes entertain the crowds, adding to the lively vibe.
We spent time here simply enjoying the view, sipping fresh fruit juices, and watching the girls dance along to music. It felt like the perfect place to pause, breathe, and appreciate the beauty of Guatapé. This plaza is a living postcard, and every corner offers the perfect backdrop for photos!
Things to do in Guatape:
Reservoir Boat Ride
After lunch, we traded tuk tuks for a boat ride on the Guatapé Reservoir! The water level had dropped, revealing extra shoreline, so the walk to the dock was an adventure in itself. We carefully navigated sandbags and makeshift walkways, laughing the whole way.
Once aboard, the boat felt safe and comfortable. We set off across the calm waters, surrounded by green hills and small islands. The view was spectacular, and the breeze was refreshing. Our guide pointed out landmarks and shared stories about the area’s history, including the creation of the reservoir.
Spider Monkey loved the ride, her hair whipping in the wind as she waved at passing boats. The trip offered a new perspective of Guatape’s beauty and a sense of freedom on the open water. It was the perfect way to spend an afternoon in this lakeside paradise!
Things to do in Guatape:
Kayak & Paddleboarding in the Reservoir
The Guatape Reservoir is a water lover’s dream! We decided to spend one afternoon kayaking and paddleboarding, giving us the chance to explore its beauty up close.
The calm waters made it ideal for beginners, and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking. As we paddled, we passed small islands, spotted birds flying overhead, and enjoyed the peace of the open water. The mountains reflected on the surface, creating a perfect mirror image.
Buttercup took to paddleboarding quickly, confidently gliding across the reservoir. Spider Monkey preferred the kayak, laughing as she splashed her paddle in the water. It was the kind of slow-paced activity that let us truly connect with nature.
By the end, we felt refreshed and connected, with sore arms and big smiles. This was one of those experiences that reminded us why we love adventure travel as a family. It brought joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories!
Things to do in Guatape:
El Peñón
Our last adventure in Guatape was climbing El Peñón, the massive rock that dominates the skyline! Whether you call it El Peñón de Guatapé or La Piedra del Peñol, it is an impressive sight.
The rock rises over 650 feet, and the climb to the top is an adventure in itself. A staircase built into the side zigzags up, offering stunning views at every turn. The girls counted the steps as we went, taking breaks to catch our breath.
From the summit, the view is jaw-dropping. The reservoir stretches out in all directions, dotted with islands and peninsulas. The winding shoreline looks like a giant puzzle from above.
The history of the rock includes a rivalry between Guatape and El Peñol, each claiming ownership. But standing on top, you realize it belongs to everyone who makes the climb and experiences its beauty.
Follow along on our post “A Traveler’s Guide to El Penon: What You Need to Know” to learn more.
Other Recommendations
Guatape offers endless activities for families! Visit the local market for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Try Colombian street food like arepas or empanadas from small vendors. If you enjoy hiking, there are trails around the reservoir that lead to beautiful viewpoints.
For coffee lovers, take a short trip to a nearby coffee farm for a tour and tasting. Follow along on our post “Your Essential Guide to Colombian Coffee Tours” to learn more.
Families with young kids will enjoy parks and playgrounds scattered around town. Renting bikes is another fun way to explore the area at your own pace.
Day trips from Guatape include waterfalls, natural swimming holes, and cultural tours of surrounding villages. With so many options, you can make your stay as active or relaxed as you like. Guatapé is the kind of place that invites exploration and rewards curiosity at every turn!
The Family Verdict
We loved our family adventures in Guatape! Every moment was a celebration of color, culture, and creativity. From feeding llamas to climbing El Peñón, this lakeside gem gave us a mix of excitement and relaxation. The vibrant streets filled us with joy, the reservoir activities connected us with nature, and the warm hospitality of the locals made us feel at home. Guatape is a place that inspires connection, wonder, and adventure.
Make sure to check out our adventures nearby in Medellin, El Penon, and on a Colombian coffee adventure. Also, follow along on our complete family adventure in Colombia!
Follow along on our other amazing family travel adventures at www.adventureisinoursouls.com.
Recommended Supplies
Don’t miss out on these recommended supplies for your family adventure!
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