Explore Zipaquirá’s Salt Cathedral and Guatavita’s Emerald Lake on a captivating day trip from Bogotá. Discover history, legends, and breathtaking landscapes.
Explore Zipaquirá’s Salt Cathedral and Guatavita’s Emerald Lake on a captivating day trip from Bogotá. Discover history, legends, and breathtaking landscapes.
- Zipaquira Salt Cathedral - Start your adventure with a hotel pickup and a picturesque drive through the northern outskirts of Bogotá. In just over an hour, you’ll reach one of Colombia’s true wonders: the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral. This breathtaking underground sanctuary, carved 180 meters below the surface in a former salt mine, is the world’s…
- Zipaquira Salt Cathedral - Start your adventure with a hotel pickup and a picturesque drive through the northern outskirts of Bogotá. In just over an hour, you’ll reach one of Colombia’s true wonders: the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral. This breathtaking underground sanctuary, carved 180 meters below the surface in a former salt mine, is the world’s only subterranean Catholic church. Stroll through shadowy tunnels, admire artistic salt sculptures, and learn about the ancient salt empire that once flourished here. With its spiritual atmosphere and stunning architecture, it’s more than a church—it’s a powerful emblem of Colombia’s cultural and geological wealth.
- Zipaquira - After your subterranean adventure at the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, explore the heart of Zipaquirá’s delightful colonial town. Meander through its cobblestone streets lined with vibrant facades, artisan shops, and inviting cafés. Take your time in the central square, where the aroma of fresh Colombian coffee mingles with the warm smiles of local artisans. This is your opportunity to engage with the town’s lively culture, appreciate handcrafted souvenirs, and experience small-town life just a short distance from Bogotá. Whether it’s a handwoven bag or a carved wooden memento, you’ll leave Zipaquirá with more than just memories—you’ll carry a piece of Colombia’s heritage with you.
- Guatavita - Next, visit the charming white-walled new town of Guatavita, nestled in the mountains near the lake of the same name. This picturesque village was rebuilt in the 1960s after the original town was submerged to create the Tominé Reservoir. With its cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial-style architecture, and panoramic views of the water, Guatavita offers a serene and visually stunning atmosphere. Wander through artisan markets, discover traditional crafts, and listen as your guide shares how this tranquil town became linked to the legendary tale of El Dorado. More than just a stop along the way—it’s a hidden gem with a story that intertwines myth, memory, and resilience.
- Laguna de Guatavita - Conclude your journey with a visit to the sacred Guatavita Natural Park, home to one of Colombia’s most legendary landscapes. At 3,100 meters above sea level, the emerald lagoon is nestled in the mountains—silent, mysterious, and rich in ancient Muisca mythology. This is the very site that inspired the El Dorado legend, where indigenous rituals once offered gold to the gods beneath the tranquil waters. Walk along scenic trails surrounded by high-altitude flora, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and feel the profound connection between nature and ancestral beliefs. With every step, you’re not just exploring a natural wonder—you’re entering a story that shaped the soul of a nation.

- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in private transportation
- Private Guide
- Entrance fees
- Lunch - Menu of the day available at the restaurant
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in private transportation
- Private Guide
- Entrance fees
- Lunch - Menu of the day available at the restaurant
- Breakfast
- Extra purchases.
- Breakfast
- Extra purchases.
Escape the hustle and bustle of Bogotá for a full day to explore the one-of-a-kind Zipaquira Salt Cathedral and the captivating Guatavita Lagoon. As you journey north through the Andean foothills, feel your stress dissipate, knowing an immersive adventure awaits both underground and beyond the city.
Descend 180 meters into the core of the Salt Cathedral,…
Escape the hustle and bustle of Bogotá for a full day to explore the one-of-a-kind Zipaquira Salt Cathedral and the captivating Guatavita Lagoon. As you journey north through the Andean foothills, feel your stress dissipate, knowing an immersive adventure awaits both underground and beyond the city.
Descend 180 meters into the core of the Salt Cathedral, where salt-carved altars and glowing chambers showcase a sacred blend of indigenous traditions and Catholic symbolism. An expert guide will bring history to life with ancestral myths, local legends, and a fascinating story of how this local marvel gained worldwide recognition.
Next, ascend to the emerald waters of Guatavita Lagoon, situated 11,000 feet (3,100 meters) above sea level, a natural gem linked to the El Dorado legend. By the end of the day, you’ll take home more than just photos—you’ll have stories, connections, and memories of Colombia’s vibrant heritage.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.