If you are planning a trip to Medellín, chances are you’ve already seen jaw-dropping photos of a massive green rock towering over a labyrinth of blue lakes. That’s El Peñol Rock (La Piedra del Peñol) in Guatapé. But right after the “Wow!” comes the most common question every traveler asks me: “Juan, how many stairs are there really, and am I going to survive the climb?”
Let’s be completely honest. Looking at that giant monolith from the base can be intimidating. You see a zigzagging staircase built right into a massive crack in the stone, and it looks like a stairway to heaven.
But don’t panic! As a local tour guide who has walked up and down this rock more times than I can count, I’m here to give you the real, insider breakdown so you can conquer it like a pro.
The Exact Number and What to Expect
Let’s clear up the mystery right away. The official count to reach the very top viewpoint is 740 steps. The staircase is numbered every 25 or 50 steps right on the stone, which is both a blessing and a curse! It helps you track your progress, but it also reminds you exactly how much work your calves are doing.
- Steps 1 to 650: This gets you to the main base at the top of the rock, where you’ll find a spacious platform with souvenir shops, restrooms, and a place to buy refreshing drinks.
- Steps 651 to 740: These final 90 steps are located inside the gift-shop tower. Climbing these is highly recommended because it takes you to the absolute highest 360-degree observation deck.
“The numbers on the steps are a psychological game, but when you reach the top, the view of the lake maze makes you forget about your legs instantly. It is worth every single breath.
Is It Too Difficult? (Real Talk from a Local Guide)
Here is the secret most big, impersonal travel sites won’t tell you: You don’t need to be an Olympic athlete to climb it.The staircase is completely made of sturdy, safe concrete. It is wide enough, has secure handrails all the way up, and is divided into two separate lanes—one strictly for going up and one for coming down. This means you never have to worry about crashing into people coming the other way.
The average time to reach the summit is between 20 to 30 minutes. If you are in great shape, you might smash it out in 15 minutes. If you prefer to take it easy, it might take you 40 minutes. And guess what? That is totally fine.
Insider Tips to Survive the Climb
- Take the resting breaks: Every hundred steps or so, there are wider spaces where you can step out of the lane, catch your breath, and snap some early photos. Never feel rushed by the crowd.
- Timing is everything: Climbing at 12:00 PM under the blazing Colombian sun is brutal. That’s why on our tours, we make sure to coordinate the day perfectly so you climb during the most comfortable hours.
What if I physically can’t do it? If you have knee issues, asthma, or simply decide it’s not for you, don’t skip the trip! The base of the rock has an incredible lively atmosphere. You can sit comfortably at a local restaurant, enjoy a cold Michelada beer or a fresh mango juice, and look at the gorgeous scenery while the rest of the group goes up. You will still have an amazing time.
The Reward at 740 Steps
Why do thousands of global travelers do this every day? Because the reward is arguably the best view in all of South America. Once you reach the top deck, you are rewarded with a spectacular view of a 2,200-hectare reservoir winding around green hills. It looks like an emerald puzzle floating on fresh water.
Ready to See it For Yourself?
Don’t worry about the logistics, the bus schedules, or finding the right tickets. Join our Guatapé All-Inclusive Group Tour! We take care of the comfortable transportation from Medellín, a traditional lunch to refuel your energy, a boat cruise on the lake, and a fully guided walk through the colorful town.
