Salt Cathedral & Guatavita Lake Tour: Towns + Meals & Tickets
Active
10h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This all‑inclusive cultural experience from Bogotá combines two of Colombia’s most iconic wonders — the sacred Guatavita Lagoon and the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, entry tickets, bilingual guide, private transport, a group photo, and a digital certificate — all designed to connect you with Colombia’s soul.
Travel through sacred landscapes, charming towns, and underground marvels as your passionate bilingual guide shares legends, history, and local life. From artisan streets to panoramic viewpoints, every moment blends storytelling, culture, and scenery into an unforgettable journey.
Why Travelers Love This Tour
- Bilingual Cultural Guides — Stories that immerse you in Colombian heritage.
- Memorable Keepsake — Group photo at an iconic viewpoint, sent via WhatsApp.
- Digital Certificate — Commemorate your visit to Colombia’s First Wonder.
Available options
Salt Cathedral & Guatavita Lake Tour: Towns + Meals & Tickets
What's included
- Digital certificate of experience
- Group photo sent via WhatsApp
Light snacks during the journey
Private transportation from the meeting point. Hotel pickup and drop-off not included — available upon request for an additional cost, depending on location.
Entry tickets to Salt Cathedral & Guatavita Lagoon
Professional bilingual tour guide
️ ️Traditional Colombian breakfast
Coffee and/or tea
Lunch at a local restaurant
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
➕ Flexible Route Start – Depending on Conditions
Our tour may begin in either Zipaquirá or Guatavita depending on road conditions, traffic, and guide logistics. This ensures we optimize the route for comfort and timing throughout the day.
Order may change | Admission not required | ⏳ No extra time added
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Itinerary Highlights
Before leaving Bogotá, enjoy a panoramic drive through the historic center — passing landmarks like Chorro de Quevedo, Plaza de Bolívar, and scenic viewpoints. Your guide shares cultural insights as you travel comfortably by private vehicle.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Meeting & Travel Time – 2 hours
We start the day at The Cranky Croc Hostel, located at Cl. 12d #3-56, La Candelaria, Bogotá. From this meeting point, we travel by private vehicle approximately 2 hours to reach the first destination.
Meeting location only | ⏳ Drive time: 2 hours
4
Begin your journey in the beautiful white town of Guatavita, nestled in the Cundinamarca highlands. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast and stroll through colonial architecture and artisan shops.
5
Stop 5
Explore the sacred Muisca territory with a native guide who shares ancestral stories, pre-Columbian history, and indigenous cosmology. A deep connection to the legend of El Dorado awaits at this mystical lake.
6
On our way to Zipaquirá, we pass through the picturesque town of Sesquilé. Take in the charm of its colonial square from your seat and snap a few photos on the go.
7
Stop for lunch in one of Zipaquirá’s most traditional restaurants. Then, visit the Virgin viewpoint, colonial streets, and the statue of the last Muisca Zipa, Tisquesusa, before heading to Colombia’s First Wonder.
8
Stop 8
Dive into the majestic underground Salt Cathedral. Discover its architectural beauty, religious symbolism, and the hidden secrets of this monumental salt mine.
9
Stop 9
Pass by
Return to Bogotá – 2 hours
After visiting the Salt Cathedral, we begin our 2-hour journey back to the meeting point in Bogotá.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off not included (available upon request)
Personal expenses or items not explicitly mentioned
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
57 reviews
5★
54
4★
1
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting Point
The Cranky Croc Hostel
Cl. 12d #3-56, La Candelaria, Bogotá, Colombia
Instructions
Once you arrive at the hostel, go to the reception desk and let them know you are here for The Salt Cathedral & Guatavita Lake Tour. Our guide will meet you there.
Important notes
please show the ticket to the guide :)
If you need to contact us please write us by whatsapp +573146321325 its the easy and fast way to contact.
About Bogotá
Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes Mountains. Known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and bustling urban life, it offers a unique blend of colonial charm and modern sophistication. The city's high altitude and pleasant spring-like climate make it an appealing destination year-round.
Top Attractions
La Candelaria
La Candelaria is Bogotá's historic center, known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It's home to museums, churches, and colorful houses.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, museum entry fees vary
Museo del Oro
The Gold Museum is one of the most important museums in Colombia, housing an extensive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts and offering insights into the region's indigenous cultures.
Museum
1-2 hours
COP 4,000 ($1 USD)
Montserrate
Montserrate is a mountain overlooking Bogotá, offering panoramic views of the city. Visitors can reach the summit by funicular, cable car, or hiking trail.
Nature
Half day
Funicular: COP 16,000 ($4 USD), Cable car: COP 18,000 ($4.50 USD)
Zona G
Zona G is Bogotá's upscale dining and shopping district, known for its high-end restaurants, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.
Cultural
Few hours
Varies by establishment
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bandeja Paisa
A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, ground beef, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, and arepa. A must-try for meat lovers.
Lunch
Not vegetarian or vegan
Ajiaco
A creamy chicken and potato soup with corn, capers, and guascas herb. A comforting and traditional dish.
Lunch
Can be made vegetarian with tofu
Arepa
A versatile cornmeal flatbread that can be stuffed with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or beans.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or vegan
Bogotá Brewing Company Craft Beer
Bogotá has a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries offering a variety of unique and flavorful beers.
Drink
Contains gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in Chingaza National Park
Paragliding in Zipaquirá
Spa day in Chapinero
Coffee tasting in La Candelaria
Visiting museums in La Candelaria
Attending a concert at Teatro Mayor Julio Mario Santo Domingo
Boat tour on Lake Guatavita
Skiing in Nevado del Ruiz (seasonal)
Best Time to Visit
December to February, June to August
These months offer the best weather with lower rainfall and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
12°C to 21°C (54°F to 70°F)
54°F to 70°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Bogotá has made significant improvements in safety in recent years, but it's still important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in certain areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less touristy areas
- • Use reputable transportation services, such as app-based taxis or official tour operators
- • Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- El Dorado International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal de Transportes de Bogotá
Getting around
Public transport
TransMilenio is Bogotá's primary public transport system, consisting of a network of bus rapid transit (BRT) lines and feeder buses. It is efficient but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
La Candelaria
Chapinero
Usaquén
Day trips
Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral
48 km (30 miles) from Bogotá • Half day
The Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral is an underground Roman Catholic church built within the tunnels of a salt mine. It's a unique and awe-inspiring attraction that offers a glimpse into Colombia's mining history.
Villa de Leyva
150 km (93 miles) from Bogotá • Full day
Villa de Leyva is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic plazas. It's a popular day trip destination for those looking to explore Colombia's colonial past.
Lake Guatavita
50 km (31 miles) from Bogotá • Half day
Lake Guatavita is a scenic lake known for its association with the legend of El Dorado. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, learn about its history, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Festivals
Bogotá International Book Fair • April
Bogotá Festival of Theater • June
Pro tips
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Visit the Museo del Oro early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and attractions
- Try the local street food, such as empanadas, arepas, and chorizos, for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Take a day trip to the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral or Lake Guatavita for a unique and unforgettable experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
