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Peñol, Colombia: Home of El Peñón de Guatapé
One of the most beautiful tropical towns in Colombia, Peñol is a place of extraordinary beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Join us to explore this place of wonders, in the heart of Guatapé.
Rock of Peñol
The premier attraction of Peñol is El Peñón de Guatapé, also called the Stone of Peñol or the Rock of Peñol. The natural rock monolith formed over 65 million years ago, melding together layers of feldspar, quartz, and mica. But it became a marvel at the hands of the Tahami, the indigenous culture, who made the stone a site of worship and legends.
In 1954, Luis Eduardo Villegas Lopez was the first person known to climb the rock, using stick wedges to scale its face. Soon after, an extraordinary, winding staircase was built among the rock’s natural cracks and crevices.
In 2008, artist Mario Hernandez C installed a bronze sculpture of Lopez at the staircase’s base, to honor his historic achievement. As travelers move from the base up the 740 steps, there’s more art to engage with. A little over 300 stairs upward, there’s a shrine to the Virgin Mary.
At the rock’s summit, climbers can enjoy fresh juices and ice cream for sale, majestic views, and a close-up experience of rare bromeliad species. A railing and wall meant to prevent falls is decorated with traditional zocalos, a popular style of mural art.
Parque Temático Réplica del Viejo Peñol
Climbing the Rock of Peñol is a popular option, but even those who decline have plenty to enjoy. The nearby La Piedra offers local art, and travelers find opportunities to listen to local myths and legends.
In the town of Peñol itself, a warm, calm yet friendly atmosphere matches the lake’s tranquility. Lakeside, visitors will find Parque Temático Réplica del Viejo Peñol: one of the town’s most popular plazas. The amiable space is built with historically preserved colonial architecture, each building filled with shops, dining spaces, and rest areas.
Lakeside dining into the evening becomes a romantic experience, particularly at the clubs and fine dining restaurants like Mirador Del Peñol.
Part of Caravan’s 10-Day Colombia Tour
Caravan invites travelers to experience Peñol on our all-inclusive 10-day Colombia tour.
On Day 5 of the adventure, we guide our tour into the Andean Highlands, a mountainous tropical region, with lush soil uniquely suited to coffee farming. There, our guests enjoy a tasting of various coffees brewed directly from Colombia’s world-renowned beans.
After learning the art of coffee cultivation, we move onward to Peñol. The cobblestone streets pave the way to the next exciting phase of the adventure.
Exploring The Stone of Peñol Safely
Climbing the rock of Peñol is a challenge, so it’s important to be thoughtful if you choose to take it on. Carry plenty of water and a few lightweight snacks with you. Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes. And, be sure to take enough breaks to prevent overexertion.
Also, remember to carry cash if you want to purchase a drink or treat, either in Réplica del Viejo Peñol or at the summit of the Rock of Peñol. Vendors do not accept credit cards.
About Caravan
Caravan creates intriguing, all-in-one adventures travelers can afford. Since 1952, we’ve honed the art of cultivating inclusive, competitively priced tours guided by experts. Each experience is guaranteed to be safe, includes each day’s room and dining, and is planned completely by our professionals.
Enjoy stress-free travel. Call one of Caravan’s agents at 1 (312)-321-9800, or call 1-800-CARAVAN, and embark on your next adventure.
2025 Hotels
2025 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are usually rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Days 1, 2, 3 • Bogotá
Bogotá Marriott Hotel
The hotel is four miles from Bogota’s El Dorado International Airport, in the city’s financial and entertainment district. The Marriott has 24 hour front desk reception, two restaurants, a bar, fitness center, indoor lap pool and full service spa. Free Wifi.
Days 4, 5, 6 • Medellín
Estelar Square Hotel
The hotel is ideally located in El Poblado, Medellin’s most exclusive area. The Estelar Square Hotel is within easy walking distance of the Santa Fe and Oviedo Malls. The hotel has 24 hour front desk reception, a restaurant, bar, rooftop pool and fitness center. Free Wifi.
Days 7, 8, 9 • Cartagena
Estelar Cartagena de Indias Hotel
The hotel is in the upscale Bocagrande neighborhood. It directly faces the beach, and is just a 20 minute walk to the Walled City of Cartagena. The hotel has 24 hour front desk reception, two restaurants and a lobby and pool bar. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, full-service spa, and beauty salon. Free Wifi.
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
arrival Transfers
Transfer on your own from the El Dorado International Airport (BOG) to Bogota Marriott Hotel (Av. El Dorado #69 B-53, Fontibon) in Bogota. Once you have exited customs and collected your baggage at the airport, proceed to the official taxi service known as “Imperial”. The Imperial kiosk is located as you exit baggage claims. Here you can request your taxi. The driving time from the airport to your hotel, Bogota Marriott Hotel, is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. You can pay using US Dollars, Colombian Pesos, or with a credit card. Taxi fares range from 40,000 - 60,000 Colombian Pesos, or $15 - $20 US Dollars (depending on the exchange rate) plus tip. ATMs and a currency exchange are available at the airport. When you arrive at your hotel, please identify yourself as a Caravan tour member to the front desk personnel.
departure Transfers
Caravan includes fixed departure transfers from your hotel to Cartagena’s Rafael Nunez International Airport (CTG), scheduled to arrive at 5:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. These transfers are only available at these set times on the day the tour ends. If you extend your stay in Colombia or if you wish to go at a different time, you will need to transfer on your own, at your own expense. Please ask the hotel bellman to arrange a taxi. Fares are approximately $25 U.S. Dollars per taxi, plus tip. The driving time from the hotel to the airport is usually 15 - 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
Colombia requires a current U.S. passport valid for six months after your date of entry. Non U.S. citizens, please check passport and visa requirements. Note: If you are travelling with children under 18 years old without both parents or legal guardians, you should carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws.
Weather & Clothing
Weather & Clothing
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Bogotá | Medellín | Cartagena | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | |
| Jan | 66/44 | 1.6 | 77/62 | 4.4 | 87/76 | 0.1 |
| Feb | 66/46 | 2.6 | 77/63 | 4.6 | 87/76 | 0.1 |
| Mar | 66/48 | 4.2 | 78/63 | 5.5 | 87/77 | 0.1 |
| Apr | 65/49 | 7.7 | 78/64 | 9.3 | 87/78 | 1.0 |
| May | 65/49 | 7.8 | 78/64 | 10.5 | 88/79 | 3.4 |
| Jun | 64/48 | 5.4 | 78/63 | 8.5 | 88/79 | 3.4 |
| Jul | 63/47 | 4.0 | 78/62 | 7.5 | 88/79 | 3.6 |
| Aug | 63/47 | 3.9 | 78/62 | 8.3 | 88/79 | 4.0 |
| Sep | 64/46 | 5.1 | 78/62 | 9.1 | 88/79 | 4.8 |
| Oct | 65/47 | 7.2 | 77/63 | 10.3 | 87/78 | 6.1 |
| Nov | 65/48 | 6.0 | 77/63 | 9.3 | 87/78 | 4.3 |
| Dec | 65/46 | 3.3 | 77/63 | 6.3 | 87/77 | 1.4 |
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bogotá | ||||||||||||
| temp | 66/44 | 66/46 | 66/48 | 65/49 | 65/49 | 64/48 | 63/47 | 63/47 | 64/46 | 65/47 | 65/48 | 65/46 |
| rainfall | 1.6 | 2.6 | 4.2 | 7.7 | 7.8 | 5.4 | 4.0 | 3.9 | 5.1 | 7.2 | 6.0 | 3.3 |
| Medellín | ||||||||||||
| temp | 77/62 | 77/63 | 78/63 | 78/64 | 78/64 | 78/63 | 78/62 | 78/62 | 78/62 | 77/63 | 77/63 | 77/63 |
| rainfall | 4.4 | 4.6 | 5.5 | 9.3 | 10.5 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 8.3 | 9.1 | 10.3 | 9.3 | 6.3 |
| Cartagena | ||||||||||||
| temp | 87/76 | 87/76 | 87/77 | 87/78 | 88/79 | 88/79 | 88/79 | 88/79 | 88/79 | 87/78 | 87/78 | 87/77 |
| rainfall | 0.1 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 1.0 | 3.4 | 3.4 | 3.6 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 6.1 | 4.3 | 1.4 |
Clothing Tips
This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are never required.
Why Travel with Caravan?
Why Travel with Caravan?
Excellence Since 1952
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.
Caravan Care
For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.
Caravan's Proud History
In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.
Great Hotels
Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.
Meals
Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.
Complete Sightseeing
Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.
Fully Guided by Tour Directors
All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.
All-inclusive
Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.
Shopping Freedom
Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.
Great Value, Book Early
Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. In a typical year, most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best air fare.
How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?
Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.
Trade Association Memberships
Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).
