Why Zipaquira & Guatavita Private Day?
Not another combo tour—this is a private, all-inclusive day designed for travelers who don’t speak Spanish and want Colombia’s icons with zero hassle. From hotel pickup to your last photo, your English-speaking guide is your storyteller, interpreter, and local connector—so you don’t just see these places, you understand them and the people who keep their traditions alive.
Your journey begins underground at Zipaquira’s Salt Cathedral, a modern architectural jewel carved from living rock salt. As you walk through chapels and sculptures of salt and marble, your guide’s immersive storytelling connects faith, mining, and art—why this space became Colombia’s celebrated wonder, how it was built, and the rituals that still resonate here.
Then trade the underground for the Andean highlands at Lake Guatavita. Walk the trail above 3,000 m as your guide shares a complete, engaging account of the El Dorado legend—the Muisca ceremony, the offerings, the myths and facts that made this lagoon world-famous.
What makes this experience different? Everything is included—both sites, all tickets, lunch, private round-trip transport, and an expert guide dedicated to English-speaking visitors. There are no upsells, no “choose one” compromises, and no language barrier. Just a seamless, insight-rich day that blends icons, context, and real human moments.
If you want Colombia’s contrasts—carved in salt, crowned by a sacred lake—with premium comfort and genuine connection, this is the day trip that delivers.
What to Expect
Private Hotel Pickup & Transfer to Zipaquirá:
Enjoy early pickup and ride 1:30h to Zipaquirá’s Salt Cathedral.
Explore Zipaquirá Town & Local Artisan Crafts:
Stroll colonial streets and shop handcrafted local souvenirs.
Discover New Guatavita Town’s History & Legend:
Learn town’s story and ties to the El Dorado legend.
Enjoy Authentic Colombian Lunch at Local Restaurant:
Taste regional dishes and learn their cultural origins.
Explore Guatavita’s Natural Park & Iconic Lagoon:
Breathe fresh air and visit the legendary Lake Guatavita.
Return Journey to Bogotá & Hotel Drop-off:
Relax on the drive back and enjoy hotel drop-off service.
Private Hotel Pickup & Transfer to Zipaquirá:
Enjoy early pickup and ride 1:30h to Zipaquirá’s Salt Cathedral.
Explore Zipaquirá Town & Local Artisan Crafts:
Stroll colonial streets and shop handcrafted local souvenirs.
Discover New Guatavita Town’s History & Legend:
Learn town’s story and ties to the El Dorado legend.
Enjoy Authentic Colombian Lunch at Local Restaurant:
Taste regional dishes and learn their cultural origins.
Explore Guatavita’s Natural Park & Iconic Lagoon:
Breathe fresh air and visit the legendary Lake Guatavita.
Return Journey to Bogotá & Hotel Drop-off:
Relax on the drive back and enjoy hotel drop-off service.
Why Book With Us?
1
Two Icons, One Day—No Compromises
Both Zipaquira’s Salt Cathedral and Lake Guatavita are included—tickets, timing, and transfers handled for you.
2
English-Led Storytelling
Immersive narration inside the Salt Cathedral and a complete, engaging El Dorado narrative at Guatavita—clear, vivid, unforgettable.
3
All-Inclusive Comfort (Lunch Included)
Private round-trip transport, all entries, and a Colombian-style lunch—zero upsells, zero guesswork.
4
Designed for Non-Spanish Speakers
Your guide bridges any language gap, helping you interact confidently with vendors, artisans, and park staff.
5
Photo & Moment Curation
We point out the best low-light angles underground and the top lake lookouts—so you capture the day at its peak.
6
Altitude-Smart, Smooth Pacing
Practical guidance for trails over 3,000 m—hydration, rests, and timing—so the high-Andes feel easy.
1
Two Icons, One Day—No Compromises
Both Zipaquira’s Salt Cathedral and Lake Guatavita are included—tickets, timing, and transfers handled for you.
2
English-Led Storytelling
Immersive narration inside the Salt Cathedral and a complete, engaging El Dorado narrative at Guatavita—clear, vivid, unforgettable.
3
All-Inclusive Comfort (Lunch Included)
Private round-trip transport, all entries, and a Colombian-style lunch—zero upsells, zero guesswork.
4
Designed for Non-Spanish Speakers
Your guide bridges any language gap, helping you interact confidently with vendors, artisans, and park staff.
5
Photo & Moment Curation
We point out the best low-light angles underground and the top lake lookouts—so you capture the day at its peak.
6
Altitude-Smart, Smooth Pacing
Practical guidance for trails over 3,000 m—hydration, rests, and timing—so the high-Andes feel easy.
Tour Highlights
All-inclusive & private: Both sites, lunch, tickets, transport included.
Expert English-speaking guide: Included to bring every story to life.
Immersive storytelling: Inside the Salt Cathedral—faith, art, mining lore.
Complete El Dorado narrative: at Guatavita, with the best lookout spots.
Clear, curated moments: Food tips, photo cues, and effortless logistics.
All-inclusive & private: Both sites, lunch, tickets, transport included.
Expert English-speaking guide: Included to bring every story to life.
Immersive storytelling: Inside the Salt Cathedral—faith, art, mining lore.
Complete El Dorado narrative: at Guatavita, with the best lookout spots.
Clear, curated moments: Food tips, photo cues, and effortless logistics.
Key Details
Duration
10 hours, crafted to enjoy the Salt Cathedral, lunch, and Lake Guatavita.
Format
Private, door-to-door experience with pre-booked entries and timed stops.
Language
English-speaking guide throughout—clear stories, tips, and translation.
Inclusions
Tickets to both sites + Colombian-style lunch and all-risk insurance.
Route
Hotel pickup in Bogotá → Zipaquirá (underground cathedral) → lunch → Guatavita.
Altitude
Trails above 3,000 m at the lake; gentle pacing, breaks, and hydration guidance.
Duration
10 hours, crafted to enjoy the Salt Cathedral, lunch, and Lake Guatavita.
Format
Private, door-to-door experience with pre-booked entries and timed stops.
Language
English-speaking guide throughout—clear stories, tips, and translation.
Inclusions
Tickets to both sites + Colombian-style lunch and all-risk insurance.
Route
Hotel pickup in Bogotá → Zipaquirá (underground cathedral) → lunch → Guatavita.
Altitude
Trails above 3,000 m at the lake; gentle pacing, breaks, and hydration guidance.
What Past Guests Say
“The Cathedral of Salt is a fascinating place. It is perfect for visiting with family or friends. The way they tell the story of the place and its internal architecture leaves anyone speechless. Best of all, it's pet-friendly!”.
Gabriela M.
“The salt mine is great!! I've been several times and it never ceases to seem like an amazing place. The walls, the sculptures, the history, in general it is an impressive place. It's worth visiting”.
Alejandra L.
“It is an incredible place, considered as one of the wonders of Colombia. Lighting highlights his sculptures and majestic architecture”.
Juan S.
“Visiting the Salt Cathedral as a family was a unique experience: a magical place underground that combines faith, culture and architectural wonder”.
Cristian P.
“I visited the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral and the experience was amazing. The place has a unique energy, walking underground between lights and sculptures is something that is not forgotten easy. Then I went to the Guatavita Lagoon and was delighted with the tranquility of the landscape and the history that surrounds it”.
Brayan S.
“I visited the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá and it was an incredible experience. The underground church, carved entirely in salt, is breathtaking and unique. Walking through the tunnels and admiring the impressive architecture and lighting made me feel amazed. It’s truly a place full of history, spirituality, and beauty. A must-see in Colombia!”.
Santiago V.
“The Cathedral of Salt is a fascinating place. It is perfect for visiting with family or friends. The way they tell the story of the place and its internal architecture leaves anyone speechless. Best of all, it's pet-friendly!”.
Gabriela M.
“The salt mine is great!! I've been several times and it never ceases to seem like an amazing place. The walls, the sculptures, the history, in general it is an impressive place. It's worth visiting”.
Alejandra L.
“It is an incredible place, considered as one of the wonders of Colombia. Lighting highlights his sculptures and majestic architecture”.
Juan S.
“Visiting the Salt Cathedral as a family was a unique experience: a magical place underground that combines faith, culture and architectural wonder”.
Cristian P.
“I visited the Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral and the experience was amazing. The place has a unique energy, walking underground between lights and sculptures is something that is not forgotten easy. Then I went to the Guatavita Lagoon and was delighted with the tranquility of the landscape and the history that surrounds it”.
Brayan S.
“I visited the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá and it was an incredible experience. The underground church, carved entirely in salt, is breathtaking and unique. Walking through the tunnels and admiring the impressive architecture and lighting made me feel amazed. It’s truly a place full of history, spirituality, and beauty. A must-see in Colombia!”.
Santiago V.
FAQs
What’s included—and what isn’t?
Included: private hotel pickup/drop-off, English-speaking guide, entry tickets for Zipaquira’s Salt Cathedral and Lake Guatavita Natural Park, Colombian-style lunch, and all-risk insurance. Not included: breakfast, extra drinks, souvenirs, and gratuities.
How demanding is the day?
The cathedral visit is mostly flat, underground walking; the lake involves a short high-altitude trail above 3,000 m. We keep an easy pace with breaks. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and a light jacket.
Are closures or weather an issue?
Lake Guatavita is closed on Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday). On closure dates we adjust timing or offer comparable cultural stops. The tour runs rain or shine; the cathedral is underground and the lake area can be cool and breezy.
Will the guide help me connect locally?
Yes—your guide leads in English from start to finish, explains menus at lunch, and helps you interact with vendors and park staff so you feel confident ordering, asking questions, and getting the most from each stop.