Embark on an unforgettable adventure in just one day, exploring the stunning Salt Cathedral and the breathtaking Guatavita Lagoon. This 12-hour excursion offers a seamless experience, including round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide, and a delicious local lunch. Hike through the picturesque landscapes at high altitude, marvel at the intricately carved underground church, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Colombia. But the real surprise lies in discovering the true beauty that awaits you at the stunning Guatavita Lagoon, a natural wonder that will leave you captivated and eager to explore more.
Key Points
- This 12-hour tour takes you to the stunning Guatavita Lagoon and the impressive Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, covering the top attractions in just one day.
- Enjoy round-trip transportation, professional Spanish-speaking guide, entrance tickets, and a local lunch as part of this comprehensive excursion.
- Hike to the scenic Guatavita Lagoon, situated at an elevation of 3,100 meters, and explore the underground Salt Cathedral carved from salt.
- The tour is suitable for participants with good physical fitness, as it involves 4 hours of walking and hiking on uneven terrain.
- Explore the colonial town of Guatavita, as well as the landscapes of La Calera and Tomine reservoir, for a complete sightseeing experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
Offering an immersive 12-hour excursion, this tour invites adventurers on a captivating journey to the renowned Guatavita Lagoon and the impressive Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá.
Priced at just £67.92 per person, the tour accommodates a small group of up to 10 participants, with a Spanish-speaking guide leading the way.
Flexibility is key, as the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Participants can also reserve their spot without upfront payment, making it an accessible option for many.
The itinerary includes round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, and a local lunch, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Zipaquira.
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour begins with a 2.25-hour journey by car to the renowned Lake Guatavita, where you will spend approximately 2 hours exploring the area.
The itinerary includes:
- Hiking to an elevation of 3100 meters to admire the stunning views of the lagoon
- Visiting the historic Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, an underground Catholic church carved out of salt
- Enjoying a 1.5-hour lunch at a local restaurant
- Witnessing the scenic landscapes of La Calera and the Tomine reservoir
- Exploring the colonial town of Guatavita
Throughout the 12-hour tour, you will be accompanied by a professional Spanish-speaking guide, ensuring a rich and informative experience.
Included in the Tour
The tour package includes round-trip transportation, ensuring a seamless journey for participants.
A professional guide accompanies the group, providing insights and sharing the history of the sites visited.
Entrance tickets to the Guatavita Lagoon and the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá are included, allowing visitors to fully experience these iconic destinations.
Lunch at a local restaurant is also part of the tour, providing an opportunity to savor regional cuisine.
With all these inclusions, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, allowing participants to make the most of their day exploring the natural and architectural wonders of the region.
Participant Requirements
Although the tour offers a comprehensive experience, it may not be suitable for all participants.
The tour requires a good level of physical fitness, as it involves approximately 4 hours of walking. It isn’t recommended for children under 8 years, pregnant women, individuals in wheelchairs, or those with poor health conditions.
Participants should be prepared for:
- Hiking to an elevation of 3,100 meters
- Navigating uneven terrain and stairs
- Spending extended periods of time on their feet
- Tolerating the high-altitude environment
- Adhering to the tour’s restrictions, such as no alcohol or drugs allowed.
Preparation and Restrictions
Before embarking on the tour, participants should ensure they are well-prepared. It’s important to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, as well as biodegradable sunscreen to protect against the sun’s rays. Comfortable clothing and a hat or cap are also recommended. Participants should also be aware that alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited on the tour. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s essential to check the availability of start times and the meeting point at the main entrance on 72nd Street.
What to Bring | Restrictions |
---|---|
Camera | No Alcohol |
Biodegradable Sunscreen | No Drugs |
Comfortable Clothing | – |
Hat or Cap | – |
Starting Location and Transportation
The tour begins at Avenida Chile, where you will meet their guide and board the transportation for the day. The journey will take approximately 2.25 hours by car to reach the first destination, Lake Guatavita.
The transportation for the tour includes:
- Round-trip transportation from Avenida Chile
- Comfortable vehicles with air conditioning
- Professional drivers experienced in navigating the scenic routes
- Room for all participants and their belongings
- Prompt and reliable pick-up and drop-off at the designated meeting point
This seamless transportation ensures that the participants can sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views along the way to the first stop, Lake Guatavita.
Lunch and Local Cuisine
After the scenic drive, the tour participants are treated to a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where they can enjoy the region’s culinary traditions.
The meal features an array of authentic Colombian dishes, showcasing the diverse flavors and ingredients of the area. From hearty stews to fresh salads, the lunch provides a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
The tour group has the opportunity to savor local specialties, explore the vibrant flavors, and gain a deeper appreciation for the local cuisine.
This lunch break not only nourishes the body but also enhances the culture of the overall tour experience.
Additional Information
Aside from the captivating visits to Lake Guatavita and the Salt Cathedral, the tour offers additional highlights that enrich the overall experience.
During the scenic journey, travelers will pass through the charming town of Guatavita and witness the stunning Tomine reservoir. The tour is designed with participants’ comfort and safety in mind, ensuring that it isn’t suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility challenges.
Guests are advised to come prepared with essential items like cameras, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. To ensure an enjoyable and hassle-free experience, it’s recommended to check availability and meeting point details in advance.
Additional highlights include:
- Scenic drive through La Calera
- Visit to the colonial town of Guatavita
- Views of the Tomine reservoir
- Suitability restrictions for certain groups
- Preparation and packing recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a private tour for an additional fee. The private tour offers a customized experience with a dedicated guide and flexibility to adjust the itinerary to the customer’s preferences.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour organizers offer an option to extend the duration of the tour. Guests can request an extended itinerary with additional activities or more time at each site, though this may incur an additional cost.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. However, a lunch at a local restaurant is included in the tour package. Carrying your own snacks or beverages is not permitted on this particular excursion.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is fixed at £67.92 per person, regardless of age or student status.
Can I Leave the Group at Any Point During the Tour?
The tour is a group activity, so participants are expected to remain with the group throughout the day. Leaving the group at any point is generally not allowed, as it could disrupt the tour logistics and the experience for other guests.
Recap
This immersive tour showcases the best of Colombia’s stunning natural and cultural wonders. Explore the awe-inspiring Salt Cathedral, learn about the rich history of the Guatavita Lagoon, and savor delectable local cuisine, all while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of La Calera and Guatavita. With round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this day-long adventure is the perfect way to discover the hidden gems of this remarkable destination.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Zipaquira
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