Tour with Monserrate and the Underground Salt Cathedral

Bogotá , Colombia

Tour with Monserrate and the Underground Salt Cathedral

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Get ready for an unforgettable day exploring the historical and cultural heart of Colombia.
We will guide you on a tour that begins in downtown Bogotá, visiting iconic sites such as Plaza de Bolívar, the Gold Museum, and the Botero Museum, where you will delve into the artistic and cultural soul of the country. Then, we will ascend Monserrate Mountain to amaze you with a panoramic view of the city, a true living map of its evolution.

Finally, we will embark on a journey to the Salt Cathedral, an underground wonder that will take your breath away with its architecture and spiritual significance. This full-day tour includes transportation, an expert guide, entrance fees, and lunch, so you can enjoy all the activities without any worries.

Available options

Guide in English

typical lunch: Pre-set typical lunch with one soft drink per person<br/>English guide<br/>Pickup included

Guide in Spanish

Guía en Español<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Typical lunch with a soft drink

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Continue at La Plaza de Bolivar walk along the streets and take a close look of the most important buildings of the city: Palacio Lievano, Catedral Primada, the National Capitol and La Casa de Nariño

Stop 2 Pass by

Located at the south end of the square is the National Capitol home of the Colombian Congress. The building was built by Thomas Reed between 1848 and 1926. Since 1975 it is considered a National Monument

Stop 3 Pass by

A Neoclasic building in the east side of the square. Built between 1807 and 1823 the Cathedral is home to the Archbishop

Stop 4 Pass by

La Casa de Nariño is the official residence of the President of Colombia and is the headquarter of the government of the country

With its French renaissance Style the building occupies the western side of the square and is Bogota’s city hall.

Stop 6

After walking a few blocks away from the square you will find the Botero Muesum. The Colombian artist Fernando Botero donated to the city 87 works of art from diverse artist which were part of his private collection plus 123 pieces made by him.

Stop 7 Pass by

Bogota’s Historical center is named la Candelaria, we will walk a little longer so you get to admire the colonial architecture of the district and the colorful houses.

Stop 8

Before we leave the historical center, we will take a cable car that will take us to Monserrate the highest point of the city and where it is possible to admire a beautiful view

Stop 9

Time to leave the city driving to the north and having a quick stop on the road for lunch before we arrive to the town of Zipaquira, which means 'city of our Father' in the language of the Chibcha. Back in pre-Columbian times, salt around the area was the most important commodity and the ‘salt cakes’ were the only currency for trading. Over time, technology improved and the muiscas began to extract larger amounts of salt. As a result, an underground salt deposit was formed and it is where the Salt Cathedral was built, 180 meters below the surface. Inside, there is a chapel, “capilla de los mineros” built as a tribute to the Virgin “Our Lady of the Rosary of Guasá” (Guasá means 'mine' in Chibcha). The time of the tour includes the transfer from Bogota to Zipaquira and back

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Any thing that doesnt have mencioned here

Unspecified and / or personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

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

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical condition, participants with back problems and pregnant women.

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Comfortable shoes are recommended

Sundays are the most busy days at Monserrate due to the Catholic mass offered on the church, so we recommend you not to visit it on this day

Botero Museum is closed on Tuesdays.

Gold museum and Quinta de Bolivar closed on Mondays, instead we visit Museo de Botero and Museo Casa de la Moneda.

Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required and have an addicional charge

Not recommended for travelers with movility disabilities

Not recommended for travelers with claustrophobic syndrome

Important notes

* Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
* Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical condition, participants with back problems and pregnant women.
* Comfortable shoes are recommended
* Sundays are the most busy days at Monserrate due to the Catholic mass offered on the church, so we recommend you not to visit it on this day
* Botero Museum is closed on Tuesdays.
* Gold museum and Quinta de Bolivar closed on Mondays, instead we visit Museo de Botero and Museo Casa de la Moneda.
* Wheelchair accessible, please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required and have an addicional charge

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