Guatape, El Peñol & Paragliding: Private Day Trip Medellin

Summary

Paragliding over waterfalls then climbing El Peñol before Guatape’s painted walls

You’ll feel Medellin’s mountains under your feet (and above them) as you paraglide with local pilots, climb El Peñol Rock’s wild staircase, and wander Guatape’s painted streets with a guide who knows every corner. Expect laughter, new tastes, and views that stick with you long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the wind — that restless, mountain kind that makes your shirt flap as you stand on the hillside outside Medellin, waiting for your turn to run off into nothing. Our guide, Camilo, kept things light (“Just don’t look down until you’re flying!”) and helped me with the harness while a local pilot checked the lines. I could smell wet grass and something sweet from a nearby food stall. When we finally lifted off, it was quiet except for my own heartbeat and the sound of the canopy catching air. Below us: green hills, a thin waterfall tumbling ninety meters down like a silver thread. That part went too fast — maybe fifteen minutes? — but I still think about how small everything looked from up there.

After landing (and laughing at my wobbly legs), we drove through fields where people were bent over onions and sugar cane. Camilo pointed out coffee plants and told stories about El Peñol Rock — apparently there’s some old feud about who owns it, which made me grin. The climb up those 749 steps is no joke; the stone felt warm under my hands and everyone was sweating together by step 400 or so. At the top, there were vendors selling cold beer and little bags of mango with salt. I just sat for a bit, legs dangling over the edge, trying to take in all those blue lakes dotted with islands. It didn’t feel real.

Guatape town was only a short drive after that — maybe ten minutes? The houses are painted every color you can imagine; even the sidewalks have these raised murals called zócalos. We wandered past kids playing fútbol in the square and stopped at a café where Camilo ordered something for me (I tried to say “arepa rellena” but butchered it; he laughed). Lunch wasn’t included but there were so many choices I just pointed at what looked good. Walking back to the van later, I caught myself smiling at nothing in particular — just full of sun and stories.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paragliding, El Peñol Rock, Guatape Town

• Pick up and drive to paragliding spot
• Register insurance and prepare for flight
• Enjoy 15-minute paragliding flight
• Drive to El Peñol Rock with scenic views
• Climb 749 steps to top of El Peñol Rock
• Admire views and visit shops at the top
• Drive 10-15 minutes to Guatape town
• Take narrated walking tour of Guatape landmarks
• Optional traditional lunch at local restaurant
• Return to Medellin with memories and photos

Top questions

How long is the Guatape & paragliding day trip from Medellin?

The tour lasts about 9.5 hours including all activities and transfers.

Is hotel pickup included in this private day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for hotels in El Poblado or Laureles districts.

How long does the paragliding flight last?

The paragliding flight usually lasts around 15 minutes depending on weather conditions.

How many steps are there to climb El Peñol Rock?

You’ll climb 749 steps to reach the top of El Peñol Rock.

Is lunch included in this tour?

No, lunch is not included but your guide will take you to a restaurant with many local options in Guatape.

Are guides bilingual?

Yes, certified bilingual guides accompany you throughout the tour.

What should I bring for paragliding near Medellin?

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; all paragliding equipment is provided by certified pilots.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with health issues?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with air conditioning, hotel pickup and drop-off in Medellin (El Poblado or Laureles), all parking fees covered, certified bilingual guide by your side throughout each stop, plus all necessary gear and support for your paragliding adventure before heading out to explore El Peñol Rock and Guatape town together.