Go early to avoid the crowds, specially at the top. We started at 9:30am and it was already starting to get crowded Bring cash as they do not take card anywhere on the rock. Bring plenty of water and comfortable shoes. Definitely not an easy trek, but totally doable take lots of breaks and one step at a time. The juice is worth the squeeze

Great private tour for the day from Medellin. We left our hotel at 10am and were back by 6pm, so it’s a long and full day. Guatape town is amazing in itself. The climb up the Penol steps is actually easier than it seems! Total 720 steps (actually just a little less). Amazing vistas from the top. Benefit of doing it earlier - less crowded and the sun is not beating down on you as much. Definitely try the local coco nut / caramel treats freshly prepared at the stall as soon as you finish your descent. Overall a great day!

Most beautiful view from the top of the mountain. There are lots of steps so take water with you. Wear a cap and wear sport shoes. It’s a good idea to visit under the week so less crowded as well as in the morning to avoid the heat peak. Sunscreen very important too.

Even if you’re out of shape (like me) , climb the mountain! It’s 700 steps with a lot of switchbacks, but the views are totally worth it! Take it slow; maybe 50 steps at a time. There’s oxygen halfway up, but you won’t need it. There’s a landing halfway up, but it’s not big - maybe eight people max - and it’s crowded. Stop at the top for drinks (alcoholic or nonalcoholic) and snacks, then enjoy the view - you earned it! It took us about 90 minutes round trip, but we were going faster than we should have. Go early! On our way down around 10 a.m., there was a solid line going up. Lots of restaurants and shops at the base. Note: they only take pesos - no cards - for the climb up.