Guatape is certainly the most popular day trip from Medellín for backpackers.  In recent years the giant 200m (656 feet) tall rock has become a symbol of the region.  Moreover, only a short 2 hour journey from Medellín it is easily accessible by bus.  The rock itself, locally known as El Peñol projects out of the landscape.  It seems so out of place here that it was worshipped by indigenous Tahamí tribe in the same way as Uluru by the Australian Aborigines.

Due to its smooth almost vertical surface the rock was not first climbed until July of 1954.  On seeing the spectacular views from the summit the climbers wanted to share the view with the world.  A staircase was built making use of a large crack that runs up the face and is still used to this day.  In 1970 the area became the center of a huge hydroelectric dam project to supply water to the nearby city of Medellin.  This would completely reform the surrounding landscape.  As a result residents of nearby villages were relocated and whole towns were flooded.  This formed a patchwork of islands as far as the eye can see from on top of the rock.

The rock sits between the rival villages of Guatape and El Peñol.  Historically both claimed ownership of the rock.  This led to bitter disputes between the neighbours.  One night, residents from Guatape climbed the rock with the intention of writing their name in giant letters.  They had completed the G and a line intended to form part of the U when the rival village became aware of what was happening.  A furious mob arrived from El Peñol arrived and demanded they stop the work.  As a result the letters “GI” are visible on the rock to this day.

With just over 5,000 residents Guatape itself is better described as a small rural village than an actual town.  The town almost seems designed straight from a child’s imagination.  Brightly colored houses line the streets.  Each house is characterised by its individually designed zócalo.  These are drawings on the buildings which illustrate the profession of the household. 

A Typical home in Guatape

The town itself is easy to navigate on foot in a couple of hours.  Explore the windy streets and take some photos of the vibrant colored buildings.  The main square is the perfect place to sit outside and grab a drink or a spot of lunch to rest your legs after the long climb.

There are two options of transport to get to Guatape.  The easiest way is on one of the many tour buses that will pick you up from Parque Poblado.  The bilingual guides explain the history of the rock on the 2 hour bus journey.  A variety of different tour options are available to book via Purple Monkey Hostel reception.  Prices are from $70,000COP for the return trip including lunch.

Alternatively it is possible to just go by bus yourself.  Buses leave every 15-20 minutes from the North Bus Terminal.  To get there take the Metro north to station Caribe.  Once you arrive there you will see the bus terminal to your left.  Leave the Metro station and head over the bridge on your left.  This takes you straight into the bus station.  Head downstairs and you will find the ticket offices.  The destinations for the buses are shown at each ticket window.  Find the window that says “Guatape” or “El Peñol”.  When you arrive at Guatape the bus station is just 2 blocks downhill from the main square.  From the ticket office there you can buy your return ticket to Medellin.  The cost is $15,000COP each way.