Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá & Lake Guatavita: Private or Shared
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
On the outskirts of Bogotá, there are two beautiful old towns that are worth visiting: Zipaquira and Guatavita. Come with us and explore its treasures with this two-in-one day trip. First, explore the halls of the Salt Cathedral, the only underground catholic church in the world. Then, venture into Guatavita’s natural park to learn about its cultural significance, as well as the legend of El Dorado. Choose a private or shared option.
• A full-day adventure outside Bogota city
• A guided tour at the salt mine and the lake (private options)
• A history lesson on indigenous cultures and its transition to Catholicism through salt
• Retelling of local legends, ancestral myths and indigenous folklore
Available options
Shared Tour
Shared Tour: Hotel pick-up and drop-off and entrance to the Salt Cathedral and Guatavita Lake<br/>Pickup included
Zipa & Guatavita with Lunch
Private Tour: Gran Colombia Tours guide, entry to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá & Village & Lake Guatavita, lunch & all-risk insurance.<br/>Pickup included
Zipa & Guatavita without Lunch
Private Tour: Gran Colombia Tours guide, entry to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá & Village & Lake Guatavita & all-risk insurance.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Entry to Lake Guatavita
Entry to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
All-risk insurance
Lunch (Optional) - Menu of the day available at the restaurant
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Tours Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Explore the depth of an amazing cathedral carved out of an enormous salt mine!
2
Stop 2
Learn about the legend of El Dorado and enjoy the amazing landscapes of Lake Guatavita.
3
Guided visti to New Guatavita town
4
Zipaquira Town is home to the Salt Cathedral where our adventure takes place
5
Guatavita Town is home to the Lake where our adventure takes place
What's not included
Extra purchases
Breakfast
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
11 reviews
5★
10
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
72 reviews
5★
69
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If you have a layover in Bogotá please select the airport as a pick-up point for the layover tour.
The Tour Guide will contact you the day before in case you have any questions or assist you with any requirements.
This tour offers a shared option without lunch. It includes pick-up and drop-off at your lodging, entrance to the Cathedral and Guatavita Lake, and risk insurance. A minimum of 2 people is required for the tour to operate. If only one person books and the minimum is not met, the customer will be offered either a change of date or a 100% refund
The pick-up for the shared tour will be between 8 and 9 AM, depending on the hotel route
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
