2-Day Tour of Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and Villa De Leyva

Set out on a captivating 2-day adventure that immerses you in the rich cultural tapestry of central Colombia. Uncover the salt-carved wonders of the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. Then, journey to the charming colonial town of Villa de Leyva, where cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture offer a glimpse into the country’s storied past. This private tour promises personalized experiences, allowing you to explore at your own pace and uncover the hidden gems that make this region truly special. Prepare to be enchanted by the natural beauty and captivating history that await.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best 2 Day Tours In Bogota.

Key Points

• Set out on a 2-day private tour that visits the iconic Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and the charming colonial town of Villa de Leyva in central Colombia.
• Experience the architectural wonders of the Salt Cathedral, featuring towering ceilings and intricate salt sculptures, and explore the well-preserved 16th-17th century architecture of Villa de Leyva.
• Discover the artisanal hub of Raquira, known for its colorful pottery and handicrafts, as part of the customizable tour itinerary.
• Enjoy comprehensive inclusions such as breakfast, lunch, all-risk insurance, hotel pickup/drop-off, and entrance fees for a seamless and enriching exploration.
• Tailor the tour to your interests, with flexibility for comfort breaks and personalized adjustments, ensuring a stress-free journey through central Colombia’s highlights.

Exploring the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

Exploring the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, visitors descend underground into a stunning cathedral carved entirely from salt.

Discovered in the 1950s, the cathedral is a feat of engineering and artistry, with towering ceilings, intricate sculptures, and chapels illuminated by soft lighting.

Visitors can marvel at the cathedral’s unique architecture, which blends traditional Catholic design with the natural beauty of the salt formations.

The highlight is the main altar, where a massive cross made of salt dominates the space.

After exploring the cathedral’s winding tunnels, guests can learn about the salt mining history that shaped this remarkable site.

The Salt Cathedral offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Colombia’s rich cultural heritage.

Discovering the Beauty of Villa De Leyva

After marveling at the architectural wonders of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, the tour moves on to the charming town of Villa de Leyva.

This quaint colonial town is renowned for its well-preserved 16th and 17th-century architecture, with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and spacious central plaza.

Visitors can explore the town’s museums, galleries, and traditional handicraft shops, or simply soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and visiting nearby archaeological sites.

With its picturesque setting and rich history, Villa de Leyva provides a delightful contrast to the salt cathedral and a chance to experience the cultural heritage of central Colombia.

Tailor-Made Tour Itinerary

With a tailor-made tour itinerary, travelers can customize their experience to match their interests and preferences.

The 2-day private tour from Bogotá offers flexibility, allowing visitors to explore the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, the charming Old Town of Villa de Leyva, and the pottery village of Raquira at their own pace.

Participants can take comfort breaks as needed and tailor the itinerary to their liking. This personalized approach ensures an enriching and memorable journey, catering to the unique needs and desires of each traveler.

The tour’s inclusions, such as breakfast, lunch, and all-risk insurance, further enhance the overall experience, making it a convenient and stress-free way to discover the highlights of central Colombia.

Pickup and Accommodation Details

The tour provides pickup from any location within Bogotá, including hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, points of interest, and even El Dorado International Airport. This ensures a seamless start to the journey, allowing travelers to relax and focus on the adventure ahead.

Included
Breakfast	✓
All-risk insurance	✓
Gran Colombia Tours guide	✓
Hotel pickup and drop-off	✓
Entrance fees	✓
One night accommodation	✓
Two lunches	✓

With these comprehensive inclusions, travelers can enjoy a worry-free and enriching exploration of the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira and the charming Villa de Leyva.

Packing and Preparation Recommendations

To make the most of the 2-day tour, comfortable and waterproof hiking footwear is recommended. A light bag with comfortable clothes is also advised, as the tour will involve some walking and exploration.

Participants should bring water, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historical sites. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

Most travelers should be able to participate, though those with mobility concerns may want to check with the tour operator beforehand. By packing the right gear, travelers can ensure they’re prepared to fully enjoy this immersive experience in central Colombia.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour’s price starts at $419.00 and varies depending on group size.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour guide will contact participants the day before to address any questions or provide assistance.

This 2-day private tour from Bogotá allows travelers to explore the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, Villa de Leyva Old Town, and Raquira, with the option to tailor the itinerary and take breaks as needed.

The tour includes breakfast, all-risk insurance, a Gran Colombia Tours guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, one night’s accommodation, and two lunches.

Tour Highlights and Inclusions

During this 2-day private tour, travelers can explore the captivating Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, wander through the charming Villa de Leyva Old Town, and visit the pottery hub of Raquira.

The tour includes breakfast, all-risk insurance, and a Gran Colombia Tours guide. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Bogotá, entrance fees, one night’s accommodation, and two lunches are also provided.

Comfortable waterproof hiking footwear is recommended, along with a light bag and personal essentials like water, sunscreen, and a camera.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most travelers.

Pricing starts at $419 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Off the Beaten Path in Central Colombia

Nestled in the heart of central Colombia, this 2-day private tour offers travelers the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Beyond the well-trodden tourist routes, this tour showcases the charm and authenticity of central Colombia. Visitors can expect to:

1. Discover the quaint town of Villa de Leyva, a picturesque colonial gem untouched by mass tourism.

2. Explore the vibrant artisanal hub of Raquira, known for its colorful pottery and handicrafts.

3. Explore the fascinating history and architecture of the Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, a unique underground wonder.

This immersive experience allows travelers to connect with the local culture, customs, and natural beauty that define the heart of Colombia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Salt Cathedral?

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira. Visitors can take photos to capture the unique, illuminated salt carvings and architectural features of this subterranean religious site.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is comfortable and casual. The tour operator recommends wearing lightweight, waterproof hiking footwear and packing light, comfortable clothing. Sunscreen and a camera are also suggested to make the most of the experience.

Can the Tour Be Modified to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can be modified to accommodate dietary restrictions. Participants can notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking, and the operator will work to provide appropriate meals and accommodations during the tour.

What Is the Group Size for This Private Tour?

The group size for this private tour is flexible and can accommodate your party. The tour pricing starts at $419.00 and varies based on the number of people in your group.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Additional Locations?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility to tailor the itinerary and visit additional locations based on the traveler’s interests. This private tour can be customized to include more destinations in central Colombia beyond the standard Zipaquira and Villa de Leyva stops.

Recap

Set out on a captivating 2-day tour to uncover the wonders of central Colombia. Marvel at the intricate salt carvings of the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira, then learn about the charming colonial town of Villa de Leyva. This private tour offers personalized experiences, ensuring comfort and adventure as you discover the beauty of this off-the-beaten-path region.