Most tourists climb La Piedra, take a boat tour, and leave. They miss the fact that the hills surrounding the Peñol-Guatapé reservoir are threaded with trails leading to waterfalls, swimming holes, and viewpoints that see a fraction of the foot traffic. This is Eastern Antioquia — cloud forest and river valleys at 1,800–2,100 meters elevation, with enough rainfall to feed dozens of cascades.
These aren't Niagara. They're intimate, jungle-framed waterfalls reached by muddy trails through private land and secondary forest. That's exactly why they're worth seeking out.
Cascada La Ceja
The most accessible waterfall near Guatapé, about 20 minutes by moto-taxi from town. The trail is a moderate 40-minute walk through farmland and forest, ending at a multi-tier cascade dropping roughly 15 meters into a natural pool. Swimming is possible when the water level isn't too high.
The trail crosses private finca land. Be respectful — greet the landowners, don't leave trash, and stay on the established path. Some property owners charge a small entry fee (COP 5,000–10,000). This is fair.
Sendero Ecológico
A maintained ecological trail starting from the outskirts of Guatapé town, this 3–4 km loop climbs through secondary forest with reservoir views, passes through fern-covered ravines, and includes a small waterfall midway through. The trail is well-signed and manageable for moderate fitness levels. Allow 2–3 hours for the full loop with stops for photos.
Best done in the morning before afternoon clouds and rain roll in. Bring water and insect repellent — the mosquitoes in the ravine sections are persistent.
Vereda Trails & Guided Hikes
The veredas (rural hamlets) surrounding Guatapé have trail networks that predate tourism by centuries — footpaths between farms, along ridgelines, and down to the reservoir's many peninsulas. These are the best hikes in the region, but they're essentially unmarked.
A local guide is the right move here. Several operators in Guatapé run guided half-day and full-day hikes to waterfalls, viewpoints, and swimming holes that don't appear on Google Maps. Prices typically run COP 80,000–150,000 per person for a half-day guided hike including transport. Some include lunch at a finca along the route.
The guided hikes also solve the access problem: many of the best waterfalls are on private land, and a local guide has relationships with the landowners that let you through.
La Piedra del Peñol Surroundings
Don't overlook the area immediately around La Piedra itself. The road from the rock's base toward the reservoir has several informal trails leading down to the water's edge, where small cascades flow into the lake during rainy season. These aren't destination hikes — they're 15–20 minute detours that most climbers walk right past on their way back to the bus.
The vegetation around La Piedra's base is lush cloud forest with orchids, bromeliads, and hummingbirds. Take the trail behind the rock (away from the souvenir stalls) for a quieter experience.
What to Bring
Regardless of weather at departure: waterproof shoes with real tread (not sneakers), a rain jacket or poncho, 1.5L of water minimum, insect repellent, sunscreen, a dry bag for electronics. The trails are muddy even in "dry" season. Flip-flops for swimming holes if you plan to get in the water. Leave drones behind — most landowners don't appreciate them, and there are restricted flight zones near the reservoir's EPM infrastructure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Several waterfalls are accessible within 30-60 minutes of Guatapé town, including cascades along streams feeding the reservoir and trails through the surrounding cloud forest.
For well-marked trails close to town, no. For backcountry hikes to remote waterfalls, a local guide is strongly recommended both for safety and because many trails cross private land.
Waterproof hiking shoes or boots with good grip, quick-dry clothing, and a rain jacket regardless of forecast. Trails are often muddy and slippery, especially near waterfalls.