Climbing the 740 Stairs of El Peñol
The 740 stairs of Piedra del Peñol are the most famous staircase in Colombia. They wind up the side of a 220 meter granite monolith and end at a panorama that has appeared on a million Instagram feeds.
Climbing them is easier than it looks if you pace yourself. This guide walks through what to expect, how long it takes and how to handle the climb if you are not in peak shape.
The climb up El Peñol is 740 stone steps and takes most people 20 to 40 minutes. If you would rather not organise the logistics, the Guatape Town & Peñol Rock & Exotic Fruit Tasting | Private Tour handles transport and timing from $140, rated 5.0 with 92 reviews over about 8 hours. There is no lift and no alternative route, the stairs are the only way up. Prices are estimates and vary with season.
- Duration: 20 to 40 minutes up, about 90 minutes at the rock
- Included on a tour: transport, guide and free time on top
- For whom: anyone able to climb 15 flights of stairs
- Go before 9:00 or after 15:00 to avoid queues on the narrow sections
- Steps get slippery after rain, wear shoes with grip
Private tour with the climb, the town and a tasting of Colombian fruit you will not find at home.
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Why 740 stairs
The original ascent was carved into a natural crack in the rock by three local climbers in 1954. Engineers later built the zigzag concrete staircase that visitors use today, designed to follow the same fissure on the safer side of the monolith.
The exact count is 740 going up plus a separate flight of 8 stairs at the very top. Most people lose track around step 300 and just keep going.
Book this tour: Guatape Town & Peñol Rock & Exotic Fruit Tasting | →
How hard is the climb
The stairs are steep but not technical. There are sturdy handrails the whole way and several flat landings every 100 to 150 steps where you can stop, drink water and let faster climbers pass.
An average adult in normal health takes 25 to 35 minutes from the base to the top. Slower climbers should plan 45 to 60 minutes without pressure, the rock is not going anywhere.
What to wear and bring
Closed shoes with grip are essential because the stone steps get slippery after rain. Light breathable clothing works best since you will warm up fast even on cool mornings.
Bring water, a snack and small bills in pesos. There are vendors on a few landings selling fresh fruit and isotonic drinks if you forget to pack.
Best moment to start the climb
Arrive between 8 and 9 AM and you will share the stairs with a handful of locals instead of large tour buses. The sun is also lower so the light on the lake is soft and the shots from the top read clearly.
Late afternoon, around 4 PM, is a second sweet spot for golden hour photography. Avoid the noon to 2 PM window when the heat peaks and crowds clog the upper section.
Coming down safely
The descent is faster but harder on the knees. Take it diagonally instead of straight on, hold the rail when you can and watch out for tired climbers stopping suddenly.
Allow 15 to 20 minutes for the way down. If your knees complain there is no shame in side stepping and resting on every landing, the staircase is wide enough to let others pass.
The 740 stairs are the kind of small challenge that pays off the moment you step onto the summit deck. Take your time, hydrate, and remember that every step up makes the view that much more earned.
Frequently asked questions
How hard is the climb up El Peñol?
Moderate. It is the equivalent of about 15 flights of stairs with wide steps, solid railings and several flat landings where you can stop and breathe.
Is there a lift at Piedra del Peñol?
No. The 740 steps built into the crevice of the rock are the only way to the summit, and there is no alternative access for wheelchairs.
What should I take up the stairs?
Water, sunscreen, a light jacket for the wind at the top and cash in small notes for the entry kiosk and the drinks stalls on the way up.
Can children climb El Peñol?
Yes, from around six years old with an adult. Younger children can be carried, but the narrow upper section makes that hard work on a busy day.
Ready to plan? Browse our Piedra del Peñol tours.