Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and Sabana Full-Day Tour Including Lunch

Bogotá , Colombia

Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and Sabana Full-Day Tour Including Lunch

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy an excellent trip to the Sabana of Bogotá in a 8 hours tour, viewing beautiful landscapes and listening to our guide stories about this places and how important has been the salt and the flowers in the development of this part of the country, also taste a delicious typical lunch in a traditional restaurant of the zone, as part of the tour you'll have a guided visit in the Salt Cathedral with an expert guide of this beautiful world wonder which is unique in its type. Also walking in the main squares of some towns of the Sabana and know a lot about the history and the culture of this places.

Available options

Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and Sabana Full-Day Tour Including Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), hotels located in north an centre

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The incredible Sal de Zipaquirá Cathedral, located 48 kilometers north of Bogotá, takes religious architecture to unexpected limits. A wonderful modern construction by Roswell Garavito Pearl in the nineties. It is 180 meters underground, inside a salt mine that has been exploited since 1801. The history of the cathedral begins in 1930, when the miners built an improvised chapel in one of the tunnels in order to pray, but it was closed in 1992 because it was considered unsafe. So in 1995 a new church was inaugurated. For its construction 250,000 tons of salt were extracted, and it was built to accommodate up to 10,000 pilgrims.
In the upper level a long tunnel 386 meters long and 13 meters high with 14 stations representing the different stages lived by Jesus until his death.

Representative site of the city of Zipaquirá, was the scene of the communal capitulations (1781), reason why it receives the name of Plaza de Los Comuneros, decorated in its frame by colonial houses with balconies, and republican.
The Plaza was paved in 1823, a remodeling and placement of pilera was carried out in 1938. In 2003 the Ministry of Culture signed the authorization for its remodeling for its transformation to Open Plaza.

Cajicá, one of the most important towns in the Gran Sabana. Since the arrival of the Spanish in 1537, it has completely transformed the social organization that existed there, which is why the history of Cajicá is divided into before and after this invasion. In fact, at the time of the conquest "it was a great centre of power with political, military, economic, religious, social and cultural organisation.
The meaning of Cajicá comes from the Chibcha language and means "fenced" and "stone wall". The locality took its name from the cacique Cajic, who governed a region where there were seven tribes.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Infant meals not included

May be operated by a bilingual guide

A minimum of 02 people per booking is required

A maximum of 10 people per booking

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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