Zipaquira Salt Experience Salt Cathedral and Salt Ovens

Bogotá , Colombia

Zipaquira Salt Experience Salt Cathedral and Salt Ovens

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(18 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover the Magic of Salt in Zipaquira
Explore the captivating underground Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira, a true marvel of engineering and a symbol of Colombia’s rich salt heritage (Tickets not included). After visiting the Salt Cathedral, you'll head to a hidden gem: the only salt ovens that remain in Colombia, declared a national heritage site. Here, you'll step back in time as your guide explains how salt was traditionally extracted and processed.
As part of your tour, you’ll visit Zipaquira’s only craft brewery. During the visit, you’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and learn about the ingredients and techniques that make their beers special (optional)
This unforgettable tour includes a scenic drive through the beautiful Bogotá savannah, a free walking tour of Zipaquira's charming town center, and time to browse local crafts. You'll also get to taste delicious traditional Colombian dishes, making the experience even more authentic.

Available options

Zipaquirá Salt Experience: Salt Cathedral and Salt Ovens

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

New, comfortable vehicle transport included

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

At the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, you’ll descend into an underground world carved entirely out of salt. As you walk through the impressive tunnels and chambers, your guide will explain the history of the salt mines and how they were transformed into one of Colombia’s most iconic landmarks.

You’ll explore the Stations of the Cross, admire the main altar 180 meters underground, and discover stunning salt sculptures, illuminated walls, and massive columns that create a peaceful, almost spiritual atmosphere.

The tour includes time to enjoy the cathedral’s light show, visit its small salt museum, and browse the gift shop with local artisan products made from salt and stone. Whether you're there for the art, history, or wonder, the experience is unforgettable.

After visiting the Salt Cathedral, you'll head to a hidden gem: the only salt ovens that remain in Colombia, declared a national heritage site. Here, you'll step back in time as your guide explains how salt was traditionally extracted and processed long before the modern cathedral existed.

You'll walk through the historic oven structures, see the tools and techniques used by past generations, and learn how this site played a key role in the region’s economy and culture. It's a rare chance to connect with Colombia's ancestral salt-making traditions, still visible in these preserved ovens.

This part of the tour offers a quieter, more local perspective on Zipaquira’s salt history—far from the crowds and full of authentic stories passed down through the years.

As part of your tour, you’ll visit Zipaquira’s only craft brewery, where tradition and creativity come together to produce unique, flavorful beers. During the visit, you’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and learn about the ingredients and techniques that make their beers special.

Then, enjoy a guided beer tasting featuring a selection of their finest brews, all made right there on site. It’s the perfect chance to savor local flavors, discover new favorites, and unwind in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just curious, this experience adds a fun and authentic twist to your day in Zipaquira.

A walking tour at the historical center of the town

What's not included

Lunch

Alcoholic Beverages

Breakfast

Entry to Salt Cathedral doesn't included

Available languages

Audio guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Guide guide

EN ES

Written guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Juan Valdez parque de la 93

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