If you're searching for what to do in Guatape, this colorful Colombian town offers a perfect mix of nature, tradition, and culture. With hand-painted façades, a vast shimmering reservoir, and the iconic Piedra del Peñol towering above the landscape, Guatapé is a destination full of charm.
To make the most of your trip, we recommend staying in one of the best places to stay in Guatape, ideally near the Peñol Reservoir. From there, you’ll have easy access to panoramic hikes, boat rides, and all the vibrant streets the town has to offer.
Here are the top five things to do in Guatapé during your visit.
The heart of Guatapé beats in its lively historic center, one of the town’s most charming areas.
Since 1928, this social hub has been a gathering point for locals and tourists. Surrounded by cafés and the tourist office, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in everyday life.
Dating back to 1867, this beautiful church mixes Greco-Roman, Neo-Gothic, and Byzantine styles. Step inside to admire its stained glass windows and wooden arches. According to tradition, entering with your right foot while making a wish brings good luck.
Opening hours:
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. / 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Sunday: 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
This vibrant square, inaugurated in 2010, is one of Guatapé’s most photographed spots. Its colorful staircases and homes decorated with artistic baseboards make it ideal for photos, snacks, and local crafts.
A must on every what to do in Guatape list, this monolithic rock stands 240 meters tall and features 740 steps to the top. The views of the reservoir are breathtaking. At the base, you’ll find food stalls and artisan shops.
Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Entry fee: COP $30,000
Guatapé is known as an open-air gallery. Walking through its streets is one of the most rewarding ways to explore its local charm.
These colorful baseboard murals reflect local trades, traditions, and daily life. Introduced between 2000 and 2010, zócalos are now legally required on all façades in town, forming a distinctive part of Guatapé’s identity.
Located on Carrera 29, this nostalgic pedestrian street pays tribute to Guatapé’s past before the dam was built. It includes Umbrella Street, a colorful pedestrian lane lined with cafés and souvenir shops.
This vibrant street leads from the main square to the waterfront. It's full of flower arches, artisan shops, bakeries, and restaurants serving the town’s famous fried trout.
Another essential on your list of what to do in Guatape, the Malecón is a scenic boardwalk opened in 2019 along Carrera 32. It stretches over 900 meters and includes photo spots, benches, sculptures, and plenty of food stands. Don’t miss a boat ride from here to enjoy the view from the water.
Built in the 1970s, this reservoir is Colombia’s largest body of water and a paradise for water activities. Take a kayak, paddleboard, or boat tour to explore floating houses, islands, submerged ruins, and even Pablo Escobar’s former mansion, La Manuela.
Whether you're planning a short trip or a weekend getaway, this guide on what to do in Guatape covers the most exciting and authentic experiences. From the iconic Piedra del Peñol to colorful streets and cultural landmarks, Guatapé delivers on all fronts.
To enjoy it fully, we recommend booking one of the best places to stay in Guatape, like Wynwood House, located on the Peñol Reservoir with quick access to every major attraction.
Book now and experience the vibrant soul of Guatapé like never before!
You can climb the Piedra del Peñol, walk the zócalo-covered streets, enjoy lunch by the reservoir, take a boat ride, and watch the sunset from the Malecón.
Guatapé offers something for everyone—from hiking and street photography to kayaking and sampling traditional Antioquian food.