Salt Cathedral & Lake Guatavita • Private Car 12H • Tickets Guide

Discover the natural and architectural wonders of Colombia’s Salt Cathedral and Lake Guatavita on a private 12-hour car tour. This immersive experience includes round-trip transportation, admission tickets, and expert guides who’ll share their insights. Descend underground to marvel at the intricate salt sculptures and peaceful salt pool of the cathedral. Then, hike to the serene Lake Guatavita for breathtaking vistas. With a hassle-free booking process and flexible pricing, this tour offers a chance to uncover the hidden gems that few visitors get to explore. What secrets might these remarkable sites hold?

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Private Car With Driver Services in Bogota.

Good To Know

• Private car tour to Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and Lake Guatavita, including round-trip transport, entrance tickets, and guided tours.
• Pre-paid admission allows skipping lines at the Salt Cathedral, and the tour is led by a professional mine worker and a forest ranger.
• Scenic 70 km drive from Bogota to Guatavita, with moderate physical fitness required for the hiking trail around Lake Guatavita.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of the sites.
• Pricing starts at $54.00 per person, with reserve-now-pay-later options and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview and Inclusions

The private car tour to the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and Lake Guatavita provides a comprehensive day-long experience.

It includes round-trip transport, entrance tickets, and guided tours at both destinations. Travelers can skip the lines at the Salt Cathedral with pre-paid admission.

The tour is led by a professional mine worker and a forest ranger, ensuring an informative and engaging experience.

While meals at a traditional Colombian restaurant aren’t included, private transportation in a premium vehicle with hotel/Airbnb pick-up and drop-off is provided.

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of these two iconic Colombian landmarks.

Tour Details and Itinerary

A scenic 70 km drive from Bogota takes visitors to the picturesque town of Guatavita, where they’ll explore the Laguna de Guatavita, a national reserved park with a challenging hiking trail.

The tour includes:

1. Admission ticket for the Lake Guatavita.
2. A guided tour led by a professional mine worker and a forest ranger.
3. A total duration of 12 hours.
4. Moderate physical fitness level required for the hiking trail.

Travelers can expect a well-organized experience with private transportation, pre-paid admission, and knowledgeable guides to enhance their understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

Pickup and Meeting Information

Pickup is available from any hotel or Airbnb in the greater Bogota area. Travelers will receive confirmation of their booking details. It’s important to note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.

Feature	Details
Pickup	From any hotel or Airbnb in greater Bogota area
Confirmation	Received at booking
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Infant Seats	Available
Tour Duration	12 hours

The pickup and meeting information ensures a seamless start to the Salt Cathedral and Lake Guatavita adventure.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Starting at $54.00 per person, the pricing for this private car tour varies based on group size.

The tour company offers reserve-now-pay-later options, allowing for payment flexibility. Plus, they provide free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts, giving customers the freedom to adjust their plans if needed.

The tour’s pricing policy is as follows:

1. Group of 1-2 people: $54.00 per person
2. Group of 3-4 people: $49.00 per person
3. Group of 5-6 people: $44.00 per person
4. Group of 7+ people: $39.00 per person

This flexibility and cancellation policy ensure a hassle-free booking experience for travelers.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Based on the 4 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars. Customers praised the informative tours and knowledgeable guides, with highlights including the flexibility, quality service, and enjoyable experiences. Specific recommendations were given for tour guides Luis and Alejandro for their exceptional service.

Feedback	Positive	Negative
General	Informative tours, knowledgeable guides	N/A
Tour Highlights	Flexibility, quality service, enjoyable experiences	N/A
Tour Guides	Luis and Alejandro provided exceptional service	N/A

Highlights of the Salt Cathedral

Visiting the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is a captivating experience for its sheer grandeur and the fascinating history behind its construction. This 200-meter-deep underground cathedral, carved entirely from salt, is a true engineering marvel.

Highlights include:

1. The massive central nave, with its towering salt crystal chandeliers and intricate carvings.
2. The 14 stations of the cross, each sculpted from salt and illuminated with dramatic lighting.
3. The tranquil salt pool, where visitors can dip their hands in the mineral-rich water.
4. The stunning Dome of Light, a circular chamber with a dazzling display of multicolored lights.

The Salt Cathedral’s unique blend of natural wonder and religious significance makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Colombia’s cultural riches.

Exploring Lake Guatavita

After exploring the captivating Salt Cathedral, the tour continues to the stunning Lake Guatavita. Nestled within the Andes Mountains, this natural wonder is a highlight of the day.

Visitors will embark on a challenging hike to the national reserve, where they’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the emerald-green lake. The admission ticket is included, providing easy access to this natural gem.

With moderate fitness required, travelers can enjoy the tranquil environment and learn about the lake’s rich history and cultural significance from the expert forest ranger guide.

The scenic 70 km drive from Bogotá sets the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Lake Guatavita.

Tour Guides and Expertise

With their deep expertise and extensive experience, the tour guides lead visitors on an enlightening exploration of the Salt Cathedral and Lake Guatavita.

The tour is led by a professional mine worker and a forest ranger, who provide:

1. Insider knowledge of the Salt Cathedral’s fascinating history and intricate design.
2. Insights into the unique geological formations and mining techniques used to create this underground marvel.
3. Expertise in navigating the challenging trails and terrain surrounding Lake Guatavita.
4. Comprehensive explanations of the lake’s cultural significance and ecological importance as a protected national reserve.

Their knowledge and passion ensure an engaging and educational experience for all visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Difficult Is the Trail to the Laguna De Guatavita?

The trail to the Laguna de Guatavita is challenging, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness. Travelers should be prepared for a steep and strenuous hike through the National Reserve Park to reach the lake.

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a light jacket, and a small day pack for essentials. It’s also recommended to bring water and snacks, as the trail to the lagoon can be moderately challenging.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs During the Tour?

The tour price includes round-trip transport, entrance tickets, and a guided tour. However, meals at the traditional Colombian restaurant are not included and will incur an additional cost. Travelers should budget accordingly for these optional expenses during the tour.

Can I Opt-Out of the Restaurant Meal?

Yes, travelers can opt-out of the traditional Colombian restaurant meal. This is not a mandatory inclusion, and the tour price does not cover the cost of the meal. Travelers can choose to have lunch elsewhere or bring their own food.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Visitors should be prepared for outdoor activities and possible dirt or moisture from the salt cathedral and lake.

The Sum Up

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and Lake Guatavita offer a captivating blend of natural and cultural wonders. This private 12-hour tour provides a seamless experience, with round-trip transport, entrance tickets, and knowledgeable guides leading the way. Explore the stunning underground cathedral, then hike to the breathtaking Lake Guatavita for panoramic vistas. With flexible pricing and personalized service, this tour is an unforgettable adventure.