Why do websites disagree about the number of steps?
Because different sources appear to count different parts of the ascent. Colombia Travel currently describes 702 steps, while other visitor references and local reporting use 740. For practical purposes, plan for roughly 700–740 stairs and a sustained climb.
Sources checked Sep. 29, 2026: Colombia Travel and multiple current Piedra visitor references. Height is consistently reported as about 220 m.
What to bring
- Shoes with grip. Hiking boots are not necessary for most visitors.
- Water, but avoid carrying a heavy backpack.
- Sun protection and a light rain layer.
- Enough time to climb at your own pace rather than racing a tour clock.
Before paying
Admission price, operating hours and temporary closures can change. Confirm the current ticket and closing time at the attraction or with the operator you booked through rather than relying on an old screenshot or blog post.
Skipping the climb
Spend the extra time on town streets, the malecón, lunch, a reservoir activity, or an overnight. If part of your group climbs, agree on a meeting point rather than forcing everyone onto the stairs.
Booking a full day from Medellín?
Check whether rock admission is included or separate; tour products do not all bundle the same things.
Check current tour inclusions