Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral and Guatavita Lagoon Private Tour

5.0 (35 reviews) 10 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

35 reviews

5.0

Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral and Guatavita Lagoon Private Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral and Guatavita Lagoon Private Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Want to see two of Colombia’s most extraordinary sites in just one day? This private tour takes you to the world-famous Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá and the legendary Guatavita Lagoon — a perfect mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Travel in comfort with your own driver-guide, enjoy flexible timing, and skip the hassle of public transport.

From Bogotá, head first to the Salt Cathedral, an awe-inspiring underground church carved entirely from salt. Then continue to Guatavita Lagoon, the sacred lake tied to the legend of El Dorado. Along the way, you’ll enjoy personalized service, local stories, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

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At a glance

Duration: 10 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Operated by: Cielo.Travel

Ages: Children (2–8 years) · Youth (9–17 years) · Adults (18–64 years) · Seniors (65–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Lunch - Menu of the day available at the restaurant.
Included: Entrance fees: Entrances fee for Salt Cathedral and Lake Guatavita.
Included: Private Guide.
Included: Hotel pick-up and drop-off in private transportation.

Not included

Not included: Breakfast
Not included: Extra purchases.

Itinerary

Zipaquira Salt Cathedral

3 min Admission included

Begin your journey with a hotel pickup and a scenic drive through Bogotá’s northern outskirts. After just over an hour, you'll arrive at one of Colombia’s true marvels: Zipaquira’s Salt Cathedral. This awe-inspiring underground sanctuary, carved 180 meters beneath the earth inside a former salt mine, is the world’s only subterranean Catholic church. Walk through shadow-lit tunnels, marvel at artistic salt carvings, and hear stories of the ancient salt empire that once thrived here. With its spiritual ambiance and striking architecture, it’s more than a church—it’s a powerful symbol of Colombia’s cultural and geological richness.
Zipaquira

one hour

After your underground journey at Zipaquira’s Salt Cathedral, step into the heart of Zipaquirá’s charming colonial town. Wander its cobbled streets lined with colorful facades, artisan shops, and cozy cafés. Take your time exploring the central square, where the scent of fresh Colombian coffee mixes with the warm smiles of local artisans. This is your chance to connect with the town’s vibrant culture, admire handcrafted souvenirs, and experience small-town life just a short ride from Bogotá. Whether it’s a handwoven bag or a carved wooden keepsake, you’ll leave Zipaquirá with more than just memories—you’ll carry a piece of Colombia’s heritage with you.
Stop 3

one hour

Next, visit the picturesque white‑walled new town of Guatavita, nestled in the mountains near the lake of the same name. This charming village was rebuilt in the 1960s after the original town was submerged to create the Tominé Reservoir. With its cobbled streets, Spanish colonial-style architecture, and panoramic views of the water, Guatavita offers a peaceful and visually striking atmosphere. Stroll through artisan markets, discover traditional crafts, and listen as your guide shares how this quiet town became linked to the legendary tale of El Dorado. More than a stop on the way—it’s a hidden gem with a story that blends myth, memory, and resilience.
Laguna de Guatavita

2 hours Admission included

End 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 rests cradled in the mountains—silent, mysterious, and steeped in ancient Muisca mythology. This is the very site that gave birth to the El Dorado legend, where indigenous rituals once offered gold to the gods beneath the still waters. Walk along scenic trails surrounded by high‑altitude flora, breathe in crisp mountain air, and feel the powerful 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.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Macarena Hostal San Gil
Pristime International Holiday Hotel
Hotel oasis home
VOU Suites
Hotel y Restaurante Casa Medina
H C De Quevedo
Hotel Platinum Suite
Hotel Torre Central
Mercure Bogota BH Zona Financiera
Hotel Lido
Ibis Bogota Museo
Hotel Embajada Bogota Dc

and 654 more pickup points

Your full-day Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral & Guatavita Lagoon tour begins with private hotel pickup in Bogotá, arranged about one hour before the activity start. Relax on the scenic drive north as your guide welcomes you, shares insights, and prepares you for an unforgettable journey into two of Colombia’s most iconic landmarks.