It’s a 650 stair climb up a rock some say was a meteor that fell to Earth. Every 25 steps the number of steps is indicated to give you a sense of progress and by the half-way point nearly everyone, young and old, needs to stop to catch their breath. In fact, there’s a shrine located at the halfway point, I’m assuming to offer prayers for the strength to make the remaining 325 steps up. Those finding the strength are offered a panoramic view of the area below, along with assorted refreshments.

An interesting side note: The towns of Guatapé and El Peñol have long disputed ownership of the rock, and the residents of Guatapé decided to settle the matter by painting the town’s name on the rock in huge white letters. It did not take long for the residents of El Peñol to notice the work, and a large mob was assembled to stop it. Only the “G” and part of the “U” were completed, so as one approaches by car or bus they see a large “GI” painted on the side of the rock for no discernible reason.

Photos taken December 30, 2013.