Guatapé

Less than two hours from Medellín, in the heart of the department of Antioquia, lies one of the most picturesque and charming towns in all of Colombia: Guatapé. This small village is a riot of colours, folk art and breathtaking landscapes, a destination that enchants everyone who sets foot there, thanks to its lively and authentic atmosphere.

A hand-painted town

Guatapé is famous worldwide for its zocalos, colourful hand-painted bas-reliefs that adorn the lower part of the houses’ facades. Each zocalo tells a story: some represent traditional crafts, others depict scenes from everyday life, religious symbols, animals or natural elements. Strolling through its cobbled streets is like leafing through an illustrated book that recounts the identity and traditions of the village.

The bright colours of the walls, the flower-filled balconies and the welcoming atmosphere make Guatapé a veritable open-air art gallery. The heart of the village is the Plaza de los Zócalos, with its colourful stairways, outdoor cafés and small shops selling local crafts. Don’t miss the Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, with its unmistakable red and white façade and the symbols of the four evangelists carved into the stone.

El Peñón de Guatapé: the stairway to heaven

But Guatapé is not just art and colour. A few kilometres from the centre stands El Peñón de Guatapé (or Piedra del Peñol), a colossal granite monolith over 200 metres high, which dominates the landscape with its imposing presence. Those who are brave enough (and have the legs!) can tackle the 740 steps of the zigzag staircase carved into the rock to reach the top. There, a spectacular 360-degree view of the artificial lake and the surrounding green hills opens up.

The rock, once considered sacred by the indigenous people, is now one of Colombia’s most iconic symbols and attracts thousands of tourists every year. At the summit, there is also a refreshment area, small shops and a viewing tower from which to enjoy the landscape.

Nature, adventure and relaxation

The large artificial lake surrounding Guatapé was created in the 1970s following the construction of a hydroelectric power station, which radically changed the local economy, transforming it from agricultural to tourist-based. Today, the lake is the ideal place for outdoor activities such as boat trips, kayaking, paddleboarding or simply relaxing on the shores.

Among the most unusual attractions are the remains of Pablo Escobar’s villa on the lake, which can be visited on organised tours, and the charming Fantasy Island, a retreat in the heart of the lake with cabins, swimming areas and spectacular views of the Peñón. There’s no shortage of adrenaline either: the more daring can try the lake zip line, which is very popular with thrill-seeking travellers.

An authentic village

Despite its growing popularity with tourists, Guatapé has managed to retain its authenticity. It is a place where tradition meets creativity, where every house tells a story, and where the hospitality of its inhabitants makes the experience even more special. With just 6,000 inhabitants, the village retains a genuine, family atmosphere, immersed in an extraordinary natural setting.

Visiting Guatapé means immersing yourself in the real Colombia, among vivid colours, lush nature and a history that can be felt in every corner. An unmissable stop for anyone travelling in South America and wishing to discover one of its most enchanting corners.

Photo by Depositphotos