The climb
How many stairs does the Rock of Guatapé have?
Short answer: 740 steps to the very top. The longer answer explains the other numbers you will see and how hard the climb really is.
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- 740steps (management)
- 220 mtall
- 20 to 40 minto climb
- ~15 mindown
Why there are several numbers
The rock's management and a ProColombia guide list 740 steps to the top. Wikipedia says 708, a Colombia Travel page counts 649 to a viewpoint and other guides say 702. Nobody is lying: each one counts to a different point, because there is a tower with its own stairs at the top. To prepare yourself, plan for 740.
The steps are numbered along the way, which helps mentally. The staircase is concrete and brick, narrow, and for much of the climb it has separate lanes for going up and coming down.
How hard is it?
It is a short, steady effort, roughly like climbing 30 floors with breaks. A healthy person does it in 20 to 40 minutes; the way down takes about 15. There are landings to stop, drink water and photograph the reservoir as it opens up below you.
- Go early, before 10 am, or after 3 pm. The midday sun is strong at this altitude even when it is cloudy.
- Bring water, a hat and sunscreen. There are kiosks at the top, but do not count on them for the climb.
- Wear shoes with good grip: the stairs get slippery in the rain.
- If you have heart, knee or vertigo problems, think twice. There is no other way up.
Current prices and opening hours are in hours and tickets. If you are going in the rainy season, check the weather and best time to go too.
The view from the top
From the top you see almost the whole Peñol-Guatapé reservoir: arms of water reaching between the hills, islands dotted with farms and, on clear days, the mountains of eastern Antioquia. Guatapé town lies to one side and the road to El Peñol to the other. Up there you will find a platform, food stalls, souvenirs and toilets.
Curious about who climbed it first and how the stairs were built? Read the history of the rock. And if you like the idea of seeing it from your window, there are rock view hotels.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps does the Rock of Guatapé have?
How tall is it?
How long does the climb take?
Is there an elevator or cable car?
Sources
Checked on October 18, 2026. Prices and opening hours change: always confirm with the official source before you travel.