Guatapé is a small tourist town located in northwestern Colombia, about 80 km east of Medellín in the Antioquia region. It is known for its colorful houses and impressive natural setting. In this post, we will explore the best areas to stay in Guatapé.
The Andean town is famous for its zócalos—decorative bas-reliefs on the lower walls of its buildings—as well as its vibrant waterfront, the expansive Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir, and the imposing El Peñón de Guatapé, a 656-foot-high (200-meter-high) granite monolith offering one of the most stunning panoramic views in Colombia. Other attractions include the town’s malecón (boardwalk), the Plazoleta de Los Zócalos, and the Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen.
Guatapé is a popular weekend destination for people from Medellín, as well as for national and international travelers looking for nature, traditional paisa cuisine, and a lively local atmosphere. While many visitors arrive in the morning and return to Medellín in the afternoon, the town and its surrounding landscapes have enough attractions to make staying for a couple of days well worth it. Find accommodation in Guatapé.
With its location near the Andes Mountains, Guatapé enjoys a mild climate year-round, though rain is frequent, so bringing appropriate clothing is recommended.
Getting to Guatapé from Medellín is straightforward, with frequent bus services from the North Terminal of Medellín, operated by Sotrasanvicente Guatape La Piedra. The journey takes approximately two hours.
This guide explores the best areas to stay in Guatapé, whether you’re looking for a central hotel close to the zócalos, a lakeside retreat with outdoor activities, or a quiet stay near one of Colombia’s most famous landmarks.
What are the best areas to stay in Guatapé, Colombia?
If you’re wondering where to stay in Guatapé, your decision will depend on what kind of experience you want. The town center is ideal for those who want to be within walking distance of restaurants, markets, and the waterfront, making it easy to explore the lively streets and enjoy the local culture. For those seeking peace and direct access to nature, the lakefront areas offer boutique hotels and eco-lodges with stunning views of the reservoir, perfect for a relaxing escape. Another option is staying near El Peñón de Guatapé, which allows for an early morning climb to the summit before the crowds arrive.
1. Guatapé Town Center
A picturesque area to stay
Offering colorful streets, lively plazas and a scenic waterfront, Guatapé Town Center is the perfect base for your stay.
Staying in Guatapé Town Center puts you in the middle of the action, with its colorful streets, traditional architecture, and lively atmosphere. It’s the best spot to be close to restaurants, bars, and main attractions like the Plazoleta de Los Zócalos and the Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen. The malecón, a scenic boardwalk along the reservoir, is also nearby, perfect for boat tours, jet ski rentals, and waterfront dining.
Everything in town is within walking distance, making it easy to explore without worrying about transportation. The streets are packed with local eateries serving paisa dishes like bandeja paisa, fresh trout, and arepas. Small shops sell handcrafted goods, and the central square often comes alive with music and cultural events, adding to the town’s charm.
There’s a mix of places to stay, from budget-friendly guesthouses to boutique hotels, many with balconies overlooking the colorful streets. The town is buzzing during the day, but things quiet down at night, making it a comfortable and convenient area to stay.
If you’re up for a night out, there are a few laid-back bars where you can grab a drink and enjoy the social scene. The town center is also well-connected, with tuk-tuks and boat taxis making it easy to get around. El Peñón de Guatapé is just a short ride or a scenic walk away, so getting there early to beat the crowds is easy.
If you’re looking for a quieter stay with more nature, the lakefront areas might be a better fit. But if you want to be right in the heart of Guatapé’s food, culture, and energy, the town center is the best place to stay.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Guatapé Town Center
Hotel Santorini
Hotel Santorini offers accommodations in Guatapé, 1.9 miles from Piedra del Peñol. With free Wifi, this 4-star condo hotel has a rooftop pool and a garden. Outdoor seating is also available at the condo hotel.
2. Peñol de Guatapé
The best location in Guatapé for nature lovers
For those who want to be surrounded by nature while still being close to Guatapé’s top attraction, staying near Peñón de Guatapé is the best choice.
The surroundings of Peñol de Guatapé are perfect for hiking enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to escape the town’s livelier streets while still being easily accessible to its restaurants and shops.
The main draw here is, of course, El Peñón de Guatapé, a massive rock formation rising 656 feet (200 meters) above the landscape. Also referred to as Piedra del Peñol, its 700-step climb rewards you with one of Colombia’s most breathtaking panoramic views, stretching over the vast reservoir and surrounding green hills. Waking up in this area means you can get an early start to the climb before the crowds arrive.
Accommodations around Peñol de Guatapé lean toward eco-lodges, lakeside cabins, and boutique hotels with stunning views of the water and mountains. Many places offer direct access to nature trails, private docks for kayaking, and terraces perfect for watching the sunrise over the reservoir. If you’re looking for peace, fresh air, and an immersive experience in Guatapé’s natural beauty, this is one of the top areas to stay in Guatapé.
While the area is quieter than the town center, getting into Guatapé is easy with tuk-tuks, taxis, or even boat transfers. Some accommodations also provide shuttles to town for added convenience. If you love the outdoors and want a more relaxed, scenic stay, the Peñol de Guatapé area is the perfect base for your trip.
Our hand-picked accommodations near El Peñón de Guatapé
Ecolodge Bahia del Peñón
Located in Guatapé, a few steps from Piedra del Peñol, Ecolodge Bahia del Peñón offers free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Each room at the 4-star hotel has mountain views, and guests can enjoy access to a sauna and a hammam.
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