Salt Cathedral—First Wonder in Colombia— Zipaquira Town

The Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira, Colombia has long been hailed as the "First Wonder of Colombia." This breathtaking underground marvel, carved entirely from salt, features over 2 km of tunnels and 14 illuminated chapels. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s stunning marble sculptures and mesmerizing light displays, all while gaining insights into the country’s rich cultural heritage. But the Salt Cathedral is just the beginning – the historic town of Zipaquira, with its charming colonial architecture and vibrant local markets, provides the perfect backdrop for a deeper dive into the wonders of Colombian life.

Good To Know

• The Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira is a globally renowned attraction and the first wonder of Colombia, featuring over 2 km of tunnels and 14 illuminated chapels.

• Guided tours of the Salt Cathedral include transportation, historical insights, and a comprehensive experience lasting approximately 4.5 hours, including exploration of Zipaquira town.

• The Salt Cathedral boasts an impressive average rating of 5.0 from 17 reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides, awe-inspiring nature of the cathedral, and seamless organization.

• The tour is accessible for all visitors, with no age restrictions and wheelchair accessibility, and includes hotel pickup, drop-off, entrance fees, and professional guides.

• Zipaquira, the historic town serving as the backdrop to the Salt Cathedral, offers a glimpse into the indigenous and Spanish colonial heritage, with its picturesque colonial streets, plazas, and local markets.

Overview of the Salt Cathedral Tour

The Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira is a globally-recognized attraction that draws visitors from Bogotá and beyond.

Recommended by 100% of travelers based on 17 reviews, the guided tour includes transportation, insights into the cathedral’s history, and sightseeing in Zipaquira.

The tour features over 2 km of tunnels in a former salt mine, 14 chapels connected by an illuminated labyrinth, marble sculptures, and a Water Mirrors lighting show.

Lasting 4.5 hours, the experience also allows visitors to stroll through Zipaquira’s colonial streets and learn about the town’s indigenous and Spanish colonial history.

Tour Details and Inclusions

The Salt Cathedral tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Along with the transportation, the tour offers a professional guide to provide insights into the cathedral’s history. Entrance fees are included, and gratuities are optional.

The tour duration is approximately 4.5 hours, with 3 hours spent at the Salt Cathedral and 1.5 hours exploring the town of Zipaquira.

Visitors can expect to discover the elaborate tunnels, chapels, marble sculptures, and unique lighting displays that make the Salt Cathedral a globally recognized attraction.

The tour also includes a stroll through Zipaquira’s colonial streets and an overview of the town’s indigenous and Spanish colonial heritage.

Highlights of the Salt Cathedral

Descending into the former salt mine, visitors can explore over 2 kilometers of tunnels that house the remarkable Salt Cathedral. Carved entirely out of salt, the cathedral features 14 chapels connected by an illuminated labyrinth. Visitors will marvel at the marble sculptures created by an Italian artist, as well as the captivating Water Mirrors lighting show. The experience is truly breathtaking, as shown in the table below:

Highlights	Details
Tunnels	Over 2km in length
Chapels	14 connected by labyrinth
Sculptures	Marble by Italian artist
Lighting	Mesmerizing Water Mirrors show

Zipaquira Town Exploration

After exploring the captivating tunnels and chapels of the Salt Cathedral, visitors can shift their focus to Zipaquira, the historic town that serves as the cathedral’s backdrop.

Strolling through Zipaquira’s colonial streets, travelers can admire the town’s traditional architecture, which reflects its indigenous and Spanish colonial heritage.

The guide will share insights about Zipaquira’s storied past, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural fabric.

From the picturesque plazas to the bustling local markets, Zipaquira offers a glimpse into the everyday life of Colombians, complementing the awe-inspiring experience of the salt mine-turned-cathedral.

Traveler Ratings and Feedback

Overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore the Salt Cathedral tour’s exceptional quality, with travelers consistently praising the experience.

The tour boasts an impressive 5.0 average rating, with 16 five-star reviews and only a single four-star rating.

Key highlights from travelers include:

1. Knowledgeable and engaging guides who provide valuable insights into the cathedral’s history and architecture.

2. The awe-inspiring nature of the cathedral itself, with its intricate sculptures, labyrinthine tunnels, and captivating lighting displays.

3. The seamless organization and transportation, making for a stress-free and enjoyable excursion.

4. The opportunity to explore the charming town of Zipaquira and learn about its rich cultural heritage.

Transportation and Accessibility

The Salt Cathedral tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience for travelers.

The tour is accessible to all, with no age restrictions. Wheelchair users can participate, making it an inclusive experience.

The guided tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with 3 hours spent at the Salt Cathedral and 1.5 hours exploring the charming town of Zipaquira.

The tour package includes professional guide services, entrance fees, and the option to add gratuities, providing a comprehensive and hassle-free excursion for visitors to this remarkable Colombian wonder.

Tour Duration and Itinerary

The Salt Cathedral tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, divided between 3 hours spent exploring the cathedral itself and 1.5 hours dedicated to discovering the charming town of Zipaquira.

The tour includes:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle.
2. A professional guide who provides insights into the cathedral’s history and the town’s indigenous and colonial influences.
3. Entrance fees to the Salt Cathedral and access to its remarkable features, such as the 14 chapels, marble sculptures, and Water Mirrors lighting show.
4. Ample time to stroll through Zipaquira’s colonial streets and admire its traditional architecture.

Booking Confirmation and Policies

Confirmation is received upon booking the Salt Cathedral tour, ensuring a seamless experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to all visitors. There are no age restrictions, making it suitable for guests of all ages.

With an average rating of 5.0 from 17 reviews, the Salt Cathedral tour has overwhelmingly positive feedback. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the incredible subterranean cathedral experience.

The tour’s logistics, including transportation and entrance fees, are all included, providing a hassle-free trip from Bogotá.

Whether you’re seeking a cultural adventure or an architectural marvel, the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira delivers an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Accommodate Large Groups?

The tour can accommodate large groups. It includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees, making it a convenient and inclusive option for group experiences of the Salt Cathedral.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts or promotions. However, it provides excellent value with its comprehensive inclusions like transportation, guided tour, and entrance fees. Customers can enjoy the Salt Cathedral experience at a reasonable price.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Salt Cathedral?

The best time to visit the Salt Cathedral is during the dry season, typically from December to March. This ensures ideal weather conditions and fewer crowds for an optimal sightseeing experience.

Can Visitors Explore the Cathedral on Their Own?

Visitors can’t explore the Salt Cathedral on their own. The tour includes a guided visit, with a professional guide providing insights into the cathedral’s history and features. Independent exploration is not allowed for safety and logistical reasons.

Are There Any Dining or Shopping Options at the Site?

There are no dining or shopping options at the Salt Cathedral site itself. However, visitors can explore the nearby town of Zipaquira, which offers a variety of dining and shopping experiences after the cathedral tour.

The Sum Up

The Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira is a captivating underground marvel that transports visitors on a cultural journey through Colombia’s rich heritage. Explore the intricate salt sculptures, mesmerizing light displays, and charming colonial town, all while immersing in the country’s unique identity. This must-see attraction offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to uncover the wonders of Colombia.