Colombia’s El Peñol packs an impressive array of tour options into a compact region. The absolute must-do is climbing El Peñon Rock, a mammoth 200-meter monolith offering spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. For water lovers, guided boat excursions on Guatape Lake showcase the area’s stunning shoreline and hidden coves. My favorite combination tours pair the rock climb with visits to the colorful town of Guatape, where local guides share fascinating stories behind the town’s famous zocalos (decorative panels).
Active travelers will appreciate horseback riding through the verdant countryside, while coffee enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the small-group farm tours, where you’ll learn traditional brewing methods firsthand. Private tours tend to offer better flexibility and more personal attention than larger group options.
Check our recommended tours below for the most enriching El Peñol experiences.
Key Points
-
The 8-hour Guatapé Town and El Peñol Rock Tour offers breathtaking views from the 200-meter-high rock and exploration of the vibrant Guatapé town.
-
The 8-hour Horseback Ride & Tour Combo provides a guided tour of Guatapé’s historical center, a boat ride on the lake, and stunning countryside views.
-
The 8-hour Private Tour & Tasting Experience includes a private boat ride, a visit to a local coffee farm, and a guided exploration of Guatapé’s culture.
-
The 8-10 hour Luxury Yacht Tour to El Peñol offers a comfortable transfer, an elegant yacht sail, and a scenic cruise on the Guatapé reservoir.
-
The 8-hour Comprehensive Guatapé Private Tour includes a fruit tasting, a coffee-making experience, a climb of El Peñol, and a local lunch in Guatapé.
Guatape Town/Lake Tour and El Peñol Rock Hike
This Guatape Town/Lake Tour and El Peñol Rock Hike is a comprehensive 8-hour tour that takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to the stunning town of Guatape and the iconic El Peñol Rock.
Priced from $60.70 per person, the tour includes transportation from El Poblado to El Peñol, where guests can spend 3 hours exploring the breathtaking views from atop the 200-meter-high rock.
After, the tour continues to Guatape, where visitors can enjoy the vibrant town, visiting the Plaza de Zocalos, the colorful umbrellas street, and the bustling Commerce Street.
The tour is led by an experienced guide, Yurani, who’s over a year of guiding experience and 8 years of cycling in Medellin.
The personalized tour style focuses on joy and laughter, offering a unique experience compared to group tours.
Optional thrills, such as helicopter rides, jet skiing, and paragliding, are also available for those seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a must-do for those exploring the stunning landscapes of El Peñol and Guatape.
Read our full review: Guatape Town/Lake Tour and El Peñol Rock Hike Review
Book now: Check availability
Guatapé: Horseback Ride & Tour Combo
Explore the stunning landscapes of Guatapé beyond the iconic El Peñol Rock through an immersive horseback riding and town tour combo. This unique 8-hour experience allows visitors to discover the charming town and its serene lake by horseback.
The tour starts with a ride through the countryside, offering breathtaking views of the vibrant houses, lush vegetation, and tranquil waters.
After the horseback adventure, guests embark on a guided walking tour of Guatapé’s historical center, learning about the town’s rich culture and architecture. The tour includes a boat ride on the picturesque lake, where you can admire the impressive mansions and Pablo Escobar’s former residence.
With an average rating of 4.8 stars from 619 reviews, this combo tour provides an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty and local charm of the Guatapé region. Priced at £30.56 per person, it’s an excellent value for a comprehensive and immersive day trip from Medellín.
Read our full review: Guatapé: Horseback Ride & Tour Combo Review
Book now: Check availability
Guatapé Private Tour & Tasting With Local Bilingual Guide
Travelers seeking an immersive and personalized exploration of Guatapé can indulge in a private tour and tasting experience led by a local bilingual guide.
This 8-hour excursion offers a rundown of the region’s rich history, culture, and natural wonders. Guests will be treated to a private boat ride on the serene Guatapé Lake, where they’ll witness the iconic El Peñón rock formation up close.
The tour also includes a visit to a local coffee farm, where participants can learn about the art of coffee cultivation and enjoy a refreshing tasting.
Plus, the experience features a guided tour of Guatapé’s charming town, renowned for its vibrant colors and architectural heritage.
Priced at $133.55 per person, this private tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Guatapé, with the added benefit of a knowledgeable local guide to bring the destination to life.
Read our full review: Guatapé Private Tour & Tasting With Local Bilingual Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Medellín: Peñol & Guatapé Private Tour
Visitors to Medellín can enjoy the captivating landscapes of El Peñón and Guatapé on a private tour that offers a comprehensive exploration of these renowned destinations.
The 9-hour tour, rated 4.9 out of 5 stars, takes travelers to the iconic El Peñón rock formation, where they can climb the 740 steps to the summit for panoramic views of the serene Guatapé reservoir.
The tour also includes a boat ride on the tranquil waters, as well as breakfast and lunch.
For a more personalized experience, travelers can opt for a private Guatapé car tour with a coffee tasting, or a tour that combines the highlights of Guatapé and El Peñón with a visit to Pablo Escobar’s former estate.
With expert local guidance and tailored itineraries, these private tours provide an in-depth and immersive journey through the natural beauty and cultural riches of this captivating region.
Read our full review: Medellín: Peñol & Guatapé Private Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Tour Guatapé: Luxury Yacht to the Stone of Peñol.
Although Guatapé is renowned for its vibrant colors and colonial charm, this luxury yacht tour offers a unique way to experience the region’s natural wonders.
Priced at $162.44 per person, the 8-10 hour excursion includes a comfortable transfer, a sail on an elegant yacht, and a visit to the iconic Stone of Peñol. Guests can climb the 740 steps to the top for panoramic views before enjoying a scenic cruise on the Guatapé reservoir.
The tour includes a delicious lunch prepared by a talented chef, as well as two refreshing drinks. Afterward, visitors have free time to explore Guatapé’s local crafts and cultural attractions.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour provides a well-organized experience, as evidenced by its 5-star rating from previous participants.
With flexible cancellation policies and the ability to reserve without upfront payment, this luxury yacht tour is an enticing option for experiencing the best of Guatapé.
Read our full review: Tour Guatapé: Luxury Yacht to the Stone of Peñol. Review
Book now: Check availability
Medellin: Guatape, El Peñol Coffee Farm Private Tour & Fruit
What better way to experience the natural wonders and cultural richness of the Guatape region than through this private tour?
Departing from Medellin, this 8-hour excursion takes you to the charming towns of Marinilla, El Peñol, and Guatape.
Start with a fruit tasting in Marinilla, then visit a traditional coffee farm in El Peñol for a hands-on coffee-making experience.
Next, climb the iconic El Peñol rock, offering panoramic vistas.
In the colorful town of Guatape, explore the vibrant streets and enjoy a local lunch.
With a live guide, skip-the-line access, and all transportation included, this tour provides an immersive and seamless experience.
Customer reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and excellent value for money.
Whether you’re a couple, group, or solo traveler, this private tour is an ideal way to discover the best of the Guatape region.
Read our full review: Medellin: Guatape, El Peñol Coffee Farm Private Tour & Fruit Review
Book now: Check availability
Guatapé and the Rock Full Day Private Tour
This private tour offers an immersive experience in the stunning Guatape region, taking visitors beyond the charming town to explore the iconic El Peñol rock.
The 10-hour tour includes pickup from your Medellin hotel, providing a convenient and personalized experience. Highlights include a boat ride on the serene Guatape reservoir, a stop at the towering El Peñol rock for panoramic views, and a visit to a local coffee farm to learn about the region’s rich coffee culture.
Guests can also savor a traditional Colombian lunch during the tour. With a maximum group size of 10, this private experience provides an intimate and customizable adventure.
Priced at $289 for up to 4 people, it offers exceptional value for those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Guatape and the impressive El Peñol landmark. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded, hassle-free day trip from Medellin.
Read our full review: Guatapé and the Rock Full Day Private Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Guatape and El Peñon offer a range of exciting tour options. From hiking the iconic rock to exploring the picturesque town and lake, there’s something for all. Whether you prefer a private tour or a group experience, you can find a tour that suits your interests and budget. With stunning natural beauty and cultural experiences, these destinations are a must-visit on any trip to Colombia.