Let me cut right to the chase about El Peñol’s tours: this stunning Colombian destination offers serious bang for your buck. After testing numerous options, the standouts combine three essential experiences: the legendary 740-step climb up Peñon Rock (worth every step for those lake views), relaxing boat rides through the reservoir, and quality time in colorful Guatapé.
I especially love the private morning tours – you’ll beat the crowds and get fantastic photo ops. For budget travelers, the small-group options deliver great value while keeping the experience intimate. The top cultural tours serve up authentic local encounters, complete with traditional Colombian snacks and memorable stories from resident guides.
Let’s look at my hand-picked selection of El Peñol’s finest tours.
Key Points
- Climb the 740 steps of El Peñón for panoramic views of surrounding lakes and islands, with tours priced around £59.66 to £135.46 per person.
- Enjoy a personalized private or VIP tour with tailored experiences, high ratings, and additional activities like boat cruises and helicopter rides.
- Immerse in the local culture by visiting vibrant plazas, the Zocalos square, and the Malecón promenade, with options for traditional Colombian cuisine and farm visits.
- Explore the picturesque Guatapé countryside on an 8-hour horseback riding tour, complemented by relaxing boat rides on the lake.
- Experience a comprehensive 8-hour Guatapé tour that showcases the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local cuisine of the region.
Medellín: Peñol & Guatapé Private Tour
Discover the captivating Peñón rock and charming town of Guatapé on this private tour from Medellín. Spend 8 hours exploring the stunning landscapes and rich culture of this renowned destination.
Climb the 740 steps to the top of the majestic Peñón rock, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and islands. Then, embark on a boat cruise to admire the colorful, whimsical architecture of Guatapé.
Enjoy a delightful lunch and visit a local coffee farm to learn about the region’s coffee production. This private tour provides a personalized experience, with pickup and drop-off service available.
With a 5-star rating and over 40 reviews, it’s clear this tour offers an exceptional way to discover the highlights of Peñón and Guatapé. Priced at €96.79 per person, this private tour is a fantastic value for an unforgettable day.
Read our full review: Medellín: Peñol & Guatapé Private Tour Review
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Guatapé: Horseback Ride & Tour Combo
Although Guatapé offers a range of activities, a popular option is the Horseback Ride & Tour Combo. This unique experience allows visitors to explore the stunning scenery of the region from a different perspective. The tour typically lasts around 8 hours and includes a horseback ride through the picturesque countryside, as well as a guided visit to the iconic El Peñón rock formation.
During the horseback ride, participants can take in the serene natural beauty, spotting local wildlife and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.
The tour then continues with a visit to El Peñón, where guests can climb the 740 steps to the top of the rock for breathtaking vistas. Afterward, a delicious lunch is provided, allowing travelers to refuel and fully enjoy the local culture.
With its combination of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration, the Guatapé Horseback Ride & Tour Combo offers a unique and memorable way to experience the best of this picturesque region.
Read our full review: Guatapé: Horseback Ride & Tour Combo Review
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Guatape Town/Lake Tour and El Peñol Rock Hike
The Guatape Town/Lake Tour and El Peñol Rock Hike offers an 8-hour adventure that showcases the best of this picturesque region. Priced from Kč1,472 per person, this tour includes pickup from El Poblado, transportation by bus/coach, and a guided experience led by an experienced bilingual guide.
The highlights include climbing the iconic El Peñol Rock, exploring the vibrant streets of Guatapé, and visiting notable sites like the Plaza de Zocalos and Guatapé church. Participants can also opt for additional activities like helicopter rides, jet skiing, and boat tours.
With a focus on flexibility and culture, the tour provides ample free time for sightseeing and experiencing the local cuisine.
Preparation is key, with recommended items including cash, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Entrance to El Peñol Rock is an additional 25,000 Colombian Pesos.
Read our full review: Guatape Town/Lake Tour and El Peñol Rock Hike Review
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MEDELLIN: GUATAPE + OLD PEÑOL + MALECON + PARTY BOAT TOUR
This tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the best of Medellín’s picturesque surroundings.
Kicking off with a visit to the charming town of Guatapé, you’ll explore its colorful streets and admire the stunning El Peñón rock formation, the highlight of the day. After a relaxing boat ride on the lake, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious local lunch.
The tour then takes you to the historic Old Peñón, where you can stroll along the picturesque Malecón promenade and take in the stunning views.
To cap off the day, you’ll join a lively party boat cruise, complete with music, drinks, and the chance to mingle with fellow travelers.
This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing you to learn about the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant social scene of the Medellín region.
Read our full review: MEDELLIN: GUATAPE + OLD PEÑOL + MALECON + PARTY BOAT TOUR Review
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Tour to Guatapé With Visit to the Alto Del Chocho Farm
Departing from Medellín, this 8-hour tour takes you on an immersive journey to the picturesque town of Guatapé, where you’ll discover the captivating Alto del Chocho farm. Priced at $39.41 per person, this tour offers a wheelchair-accessible experience in English, French, and Spanish.
You’ll start with a breakfast stop in Marinilla before admiring the stunning El Peñon rock formation. Next, you’ll enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on the Guatapé reservoir, followed by a delicious lunch in the town.
Afterward, you’ll explore the vibrant Zocalos square and Guatapé park, soaking in the cultural atmosphere.
The highlight of the tour is the visit to the Alto del Chocho farm, where you’ll have the chance to interact with llamas, alpacas, goats, and horses. This unique experience allows you to connect with these gentle animals and capture breathtaking photos.
With round-trip transportation, meals, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Guatapé’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Tour to Guatapé With Visit to the Alto Del Chocho Farm Review
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Medellin: Guatape, El Peñol Coffee Farm Private Tour & Fruit
Enjoy Guatape’s natural beauty and cultural heritage on this private 8-hour tour from Medellin.
Discover the charming colonial town of Marinilla, where you’ll savor exotic fruits. Next, venture to a local coffee farm to learn about the production of 100% Colombian organic coffee and enjoy a tasting.
Climb the 700 steps of the 200-meter El Peñol monolith for panoramic vistas. Explore the colorful streets of Guatape before indulging in a delectable lunch.
This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all entry fees.
With a 5/5 overall rating based on 40 reviews, you can expect knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent value for money.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for this unforgettable experience. Tours are available in English and Spanish.
Read our full review: Medellin: Guatape, El Peñol Coffee Farm Private Tour & Fruit Review
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Guatapé Private Tour & Tasting With Local Bilingual Guide
Discover the charming colonial town of Guatapé and its remarkable natural landscapes on this private guided tour from Medellin. As you explore the town, you’ll be accompanied by a local bilingual guide who’ll provide insights into the area’s history, culture, and hidden gems.
The tour includes a visit to the iconic Stone of El Peñón, a massive 650-foot-tall rock formation with stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.
You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy a boat cruise on the tranquil waters of the Guatapé reservoir, where you can admire the colorful houses and lush vegetation along the shoreline.
Along With the sightseeing, the tour features a tasting of local specialties, allowing you to savor the flavors that make this region so unique.
With a duration of 9 hours and a price tag of $119.73 per person, this private tour offers an immersive and personalized experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and charm of Guatapé.
Read our full review: Guatapé Private Tour & Tasting With Local Bilingual Guide Review
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Tour Guatapé: Luxury Yacht to the Stone of Peñol.
What sets this tour of Guatapé apart is the opportunity to experience the iconic Stone of Peñol from the comfort of a luxury yacht. For $16,477 per person, you’ll embark on an 8-10 hour excursion that includes a transfer from your accommodation, a journey on the yacht with an experienced crew, and the chance to climb the 740 steps to the top of the stone for panoramic views.
Onboard, you’ll savor a delicious lunch prepared by a talented chef, accompanied by two refreshing drinks. The tour also grants you access to the stone itself.
Keep in mind, though, that this experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, as there’s no wheelchair accessibility.
Judging by the 5/5 rating from past guests, this tour promises an enjoyable and well-organized experience. The positive reviews highlight the quality of service and the overall delight of the excursion.
Read our full review: Tour Guatapé: Luxury Yacht to the Stone of Peñol. Review
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Guatapé and the Rock Full Day Private Tour
For those seeking a more personalized experience of Guatapé and the iconic Rock of El Peñón, the Guatapé and the Rock Full Day Private Tour is an excellent choice. This 8-10 hour tour offers the flexibility of a private or small group setting, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
With a rating of 4.7 from 7 reviews, this tour provides pickup from your accommodations in Medellín and promises an in-depth look at the stunning natural beauty of the region.
You’ll have the opportunity to climb the 740 steps to the top of the Rock, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.
The tour also includes a relaxing boat ride on the tranquil waters of Guatapé’s reservoir, as well as visits to the town’s charming plazas and colorful buildings.
At a price starting from £59.66 per person, this private experience offers exceptional value and a truly memorable day in one of Colombia’s most picturesque destinations.
Read our full review: Guatapé and the Rock Full Day Private Tour Review
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Skip The Crowds – Guatape Private Tour
- For those looking to skip the crowds and enjoy a more personalized El Peñón experience, a private tour is the way to go.
These tours offer a range of benefits, including pickup availability, skip-the-line access, and high customer ratings. The “Guatape, El Peñol Coffee Farm Private Tour & Fruit” stands out, with a 5-star rating from 40 reviews and a price of $135.46 for an 8-hour experience.
This tour includes a visit to El Peñón, as well as a coffee farm and the opportunity to try local fruits.
Another option is the “Private Guatapé Tour with Breakfast, Lunch & Cruise,” which lasts 9 hours and has a 4.9-star rating from 77 reviews, priced at $119.73.
These private tours allow you to customize your experience and avoid the larger group settings, ensuring a more exclusive and memorable visit to the iconic El Peñón.
Read our full review: Skip The Crowds – Guatape Private Tour Review
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Guatapé: Tour From Medellín. English-Speaking Guide. VIP
Those seeking a hassle-free and exclusive experience in Guatapé and El Peñón can opt for the “Guatapé: Tour From Medellín. English-Speaking Guide. VIP” package.
This full-day tour departs from Medellín and provides an English-speaking guide, ensuring seamless communication throughout the day. Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 10 reviewers, this VIP experience promises a personalized and premium excursion.
The 8-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, a boat ride on the Guatapé reservoir, and visits to the iconic El Peñón rock formation and the charming town of Guatapé.
Guests can enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch and have the opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and cultural attractions at their own pace.
With a price tag of $107.00, this private tour offers a comfortable and tailored experience for those who value exclusivity and quality over group dynamics.
Read our full review: Guatapé: Tour From Medellín. English-Speaking Guide. VIP Review
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Guatapé and Peñol Rock Private Tour (From Medellin)
Travelers seeking a more personalized and exclusive experience in Guatapé and El Peñón can opt for the “Guatapé and Peñol Rock Private Tour (From Medellin).”
This 8-hour private excursion departs from Medellín, providing round-trip transportation and an English-speaking guide to ensure seamless communication throughout the day.
The tour includes a visit to the iconic El Peñón, a towering rock formation with 649 steps to the top, offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and landscapes. Guests will also explore the charming town of Guatapé, known for its brightly colored buildings and vibrant local culture.
The private nature of the tour allows for a more tailored experience, with the flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on personal interests.
At €275.17 for a group of up to 4, this private tour provides an excellent value for those seeking an intimate and memorable adventure in the Guatapé region.
Read our full review: Guatapé and Peñol Rock Private Tour (From Medellin) Review
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Private Guatape Tour + Typical Colombian Lunch
For those seeking a more immersive experience in the charming town of Guatapé, the “Private Guatape Tour + Typical Colombian Lunch” offers an excellent choice. This private tour allows you to explore the town and the iconic El Peñón rock formation at your own pace.
The 8-hour tour includes a private driver and guide, ensuring personalized attention throughout the day. You’ll visit the town’s vibrant plazas, colorful houses, and the famous El Peñón, where you can climb 740 steps to the top for panoramic views.
The tour also includes a traditional Colombian lunch, allowing you to savor the local cuisine.
With a rating of 5 stars from 40 reviews, this private tour is a popular choice for those wanting to delve deeper into the cultural and natural wonders of Guatapé.
The price of $135.46 per person makes it a great value for the personalized experience.
Read our full review: Private Guatape Tour + Typical Colombian Lunch Review
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The Sum Up
The best tours in El Peñon offer a variety of experiences, from private tours to horseback riding and boat cruises. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town of Guatape, hiking the iconic El Peñon rock, or enjoying typical Colombian cuisine, there’s a tour to suit your interests. With knowledgeable guides and easy transportation from Medellin, these tours provide a convenient and engaging way to discover the natural beauty of this stunning region.