Duration: | 10 Hour(s) - 0 Minute(s) |
Tour Category: | Full Day Tours |
Leave the hustle and bustle of Bogotá behind you as you venture 590 ft (180 m) below ground to discover a world unlike any you have seen before in the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral. Stroll the streets of the wonderfully charming town center of Zipaquirá and enjoy your lunch in this delightful colonial town. Uncover the legend of El Dorado, the Musicas Indians, and the colonial town of Guatavitá.
Zipaquira
You’ll be collected early from your accommodation in Bogotá, with a 7 am pickup, and driven the 60-90min to the Zipaquirá Salt Mine Cathedral. Here you’ll descend down under to explore the tunnels in this salt mine first used by the pre-Colombian Musicas culture 5 centuries BCE. As you roam through the underground passages an expert guide will explain the full history of this marvel that has its beginnings 250 million years ago.
Upon arrival to the daylight above ground, you will make the short trip to the town of Zipaquirá where you will enjoy a walking tour around the center of this beautiful colonial town. You’ll encounter the Plaza (main square) of Zipaquirá, the Plaza de la Independencia, one of the oldest churches in Colombia, along with many other stunning colonial-style buildings. Once you’ve seen all the best places and taken many photos in this great town you’ll head to your next stop on today's adventure; Lake Guatavita.
Guatavita
You’ll relax in our comfortable vehicle for the scenic drive through the wonderful Cundinamarca countryside towards the giant crater lake, known as the birthplace of the El Dorado legend. Here you will trek through the nature reserve for approximately 90 minutes while learning of the history of the local indigenous Musicas Indians and why the conquistadors and many others thought this location was full of golden treasures beyond their wildest dreams.
Next, you’ll make the trip to the famous Guatavitá city, where you’ll marvel at the whitewash colonial buildings and tiled roofs situated next to the beautiful setting of the Tomine Dam. You’ll take some absolutely stunning photos of this idyllic setting before you start your journey back to Bogotá.
What's included?
Pickup and Drop-off from your Bogota accommodation
Transport in a private air-conditioned vehicle
Guatavita Reserve Tour including Lake Guatavita
Photo Stop in Guatavita Town
Zipaquirá Salt Mine Cathedral Tour
Zipaquirá Town
Entrance fees
Bilingual Tour Guide
Exclusions
Experiences and Transportation not mentioned in the plan
Personal expenses and tips