Tucked between lush green hills and iconic lakes, the colorful town of Guatapé, Colombia is a magnet for travelers exploring the country’s adventurous side. Most visitors come to snap photos of its vivid facades or climb the famed staircase of El Peñol, the towering monolith nearby. But what many don’t realize is that this granite giant offers more than just a view — it’s also one of Colombia’s top destinations for outdoor rock climbing.
Whether you're a seasoned climber or looking for your first outdoor experience, rock climbing in Guatapé delivers both thrill and breathtaking scenery.
Sergio, local climber and guide, helped us build this guide that covers the most frequently asked questions by travelers who booked a guided climb in Guatapé, and shared his vision of climbing in Guatapé:
It’s rock with exceptional friction that stimulates and helps develop your movement, imagination, awareness, and confidence. It’s open to climbers of all kinds, as it demands more mental strength and tenacity than raw power — though strong legs, good balance, and focus can make all the difference.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before booking your trip, including climbing options, gear, guides, weather, logistics, and more.
Climbing in Guatapé: The Basics
What Climbing Options Are Available in Guatapé?
There are two main types of guided climbing trips available in Guatapé:
- Half-Day Single-Pitch Climbing: Ideal for beginners or those short on time. These trips include 4 to 5 climbs and are tailored to your ability level. Expect routes starting at 5.9 YDS (5+ French grade), ranging from 15 to 35 meters, with bolted sport climbing on excellent granite.
- Multi-Pitch Climb to the Summit: This is the ultimate challenge for intermediate to advanced climbers. The main route, Lomo del Chango, is fully bolted and features six pitches leading all the way to the top of El Peñol (~200m). Route grades typically range from 5.9 to 5.11a, with a mix of slab and vertical climbing.
Insider tip from Sergio: Keep in mind that the descent is always done by rappelling — there’s no access from the top of the routes to the viewpoint.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Gear?
No gear? No problem. Most guides provide all the necessary equipment, including:
- Harness
- Helmet
- Climbing shoes (note: you may need to provide your size in advance)
- Chalk bag
Some climbers prefer to bring their own shoes, harness or chalk bags for comfort, but it's not required.
Regarding shoes, this is Sergio’s personal recommendation: "If possible, I recommend bringing comfortable climbing shoes — not too asymmetric, and with good soles — to move more easily when using friction smearing techniques on slab terrain."
What Is the Required Climbing Level?
Guatapé climbing is accessible for all levels:
- Beginners: The half-day tour is suitable for complete novices. The guide tailors the routes based on fitness level and comfort.
- Intermediate/Advanced: Those with prior outdoor or indoor climbing experience (5.10 and up) and good belaying technique can tackle the multi-pitch routes or even lead some pitches.
Your guide will assess your skill level and suggest routes accordingly.
Is It Beginner-Friendly?
Absolutely. Many first-time outdoor climbers choose Guatapé as their introduction to real rock. The slabby granite and good bolting make for a comfortable and secure experience. It’s also a great option for indoor climbers or those who haven't climbed in a while. Guides accommodate all levels.
The guide handles belaying, rope setup, and safety protocols, so you can focus on climbing.
Logistics & Preparation
How Do I Get There From Medellín? Where Do We Meet the Guide?
The typical meeting point is near the base of El Peñol, not in Guatapé town center.
From Medellín North Bus Terminal, buses to Guatapé leave frequently (every 30–60 minutes). You should:
- Take a bus toward Guatapé (~2 hours, ~COP 22,000).
- Ask the driver to drop you at Estadero La Mona. Estadero La Mona is a restaurant stop along the Medellín-Guatapé road, known by all drivers.
- From Estadero La Mona , take a rural path for 480 meters (5 minutes walk), starting at a concrete ramp. This is a pedestrian-only access, so vehicles must be left on the main road.
Some travelers take a taxi or arrange private transport for added convenience.
Is Transportation Included?
Typically, transportation is NOT included, but guides often help with directions or suggest the best bus times. Occasionally, private transport can be arranged for an additional fee.
What Time Does the Climbing Start?
Start time is usually after midday, but it might vary depending on:
- Season (rain patterns)
- Route type (single-pitch or multi-pitch)
- Your transportation
Expect:
- Half-day climbs: ~1:30 PM
- Multi-pitch climbs: ~1:30 PM
Sergio usually suggests to climb in the afternoon:
It's possible to start in the morning, but since we climb on a southeast-facing wall and there’s usually heavy rainfall at night combined with intense sunlight in the morning, it’s most common to climb in the afternoon when the wall is in the shade. The same goes for multi-pitch routes — even more so — because the rock heats up significantly, making climbing less comfortable.
What Happens if It Rains?
Weather is unpredictable in this region, especially during the rainy season (April–June and October–November).
- If it rains the night before: Rock may be wet and unsafe. That’s why the guides usually suggest climbing after midday.
- Guide's call: Only the guide decides whether to cancel or reschedule due to safety.
- Refunds: Typically offered minus a 5% service fee, though some guides may offer nearly full refunds depending on circumstances.
Is There a Fitness Requirement?
While there is no strict fitness requirement, climbers should:
- Be in basic physical health
- Have no serious knee or back issues
- Be able to walk 5–10 minutes uphill with gear
For multi-pitch climbs, some endurance is recommended, and it’s mandatory to know how to belay.
Expert Insights from Sergio, local guide and climber
Besides Lomo del Chango, which are some recommended single-pitch routes in Guatepé?
These are some recommended routes that I usually climb with clients:
- Doctora Peñolera, 5.10d, 35 mt
- Camelletes 5.9 (or 5.10a variation)
- La difusa 5.10d, 28 mt.
- Lomo -1 5.10c, 24 mt.
- La polaca 5.10c, 24 mt.
Are there any limitations regarding the shoe size you can provide?
Yes, we only have shoes up to size 44, so you must bring yours if you use bigger climbing shoes.
What is the best season to go climbing in Guatepé?
It’s possible to climb year-round here, since most days are usually sunny, with rains during the night. That’s why we usually go climbing after midday, to avoid climbing in the sunlight, and when the rock might be wet.
Do you have any accommodation suggestions near Guatapé for those wanting to stay overnight?
There are plenty of accommodation options in the town and surrounding area, but if you want to experience a bit of rural life in Colombia and connect with the local climbing community, the local climbers' association has a refuge — with kitchen access — right next to the rock.
Why Choose a Guided Climb in Guatapé?
Climbing in Guatapé isn’t just about the adrenaline — it’s about the view from the top, the thrill of the vertical journey, and the comfort of knowing you're in expert hands. Guides in the area are well-versed in local rock, safety systems, and flexible in adapting the day to your goals and experience.
Whether you're ticking off your first outdoor climb or planning a summit push via multi-pitch, Guatapé offers a world-class climbing experience in the heart of Colombia.
For experienced climbers, this is Sergio's final reflection on why climbing in Guatapé is a good idea:
The small and rugged holds, the footwork that requires subtle balance and deep trust, the sustained nature of its routes, the elusive slabs with positive angles or challenging micro-crimps — all of these qualities, born from the rock’s inherent difficulty, can truly test many climbers and make them reflect on the discipline they’ve chosen as their sport.
Lomo del Chango, the most famous multi-pitch route in El Peñol, Guatapé
Ready to Climb? Book Your Adventure Now
If you're planning a trip to Medellín or Guatapé, don't miss the chance to experience Colombia's vertical playground. Whether it's a half-day outing or a summit adventure to the top of El Peñol, Guatapé is one of Colombia's best-kept secrets for climbers. And now, you're ready to make the most of it.
👉 Explore guided rock climbing trips in Guatapé and secure your spot in advance.
No matter your skill level, there's a route with your name on it. And with expert guides to lead the way, you just need to show up and climb.
