Visit to Guatavita Private Tour From Bogotá (7 Hrs.)

The Guatavita region outside Bogotá offers a captivating glimpse into Colombia’s rich history and culture. This 7-hour private tour invites travelers to uncover the legends of the Guatavita Lagoon, explore the charming colonial architecture of New Guatavita, and explore the origins of the famed El Dorado myth. With an expert guide leading the way, guests can expect an immersive and seamless experience, complete with lunch, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an enriching day trip from the capital, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the wonders that lie just beyond Bogotá’s bustling streets.

Key Points

• A 7-hour private tour from Bogotá that focuses on the historical and architectural treasures of the Guatavita region.
• Includes visits to the Guatavita Lagoon, linked to the El Dorado legend, and the charming town of New Guatavita.
• Opportunity to learn about the Muisca people’s sacred rituals and the origins of the El Dorado myth.
• Optional visits to Zipaquirá or Nemocón for browsing local handicrafts.
• Tour includes private guide, entrance fees, lunch, and round-trip transportation from Bogotá.

Tour Overview

This 7-hour private tour from Bogotá explores the historical and architectural treasures of the Guatavita region.

Travelers will discover the New Guatavita’s charming architecture and the famed Guatavita Lagoon, known for its connection to the El Dorado legend and Muisca rituals.

Optional visits to Zipaquirá or Nemocón offer opportunities to browse local handicrafts.

The tour includes a private guide, entrance fees, lunch, and round-trip hotel transportation.

Highlights encompass learning about the lagoon’s history, experiencing the town’s architectural appeal, and gaining insights into the origins of the El Dorado myth.

Personalized attention from the guide ensures an enriching and memorable experience.

Highlights of the Tour

Visitors can discover the historically significant Guatavita Lagoon, where the Muisca people once performed sacred rituals.

They’ll experience the charming architecture of New Guatavita and learn about the origins of the legendary El Dorado. The personalized attention of a private guide ensures an enriching and informative experience.

Whether it’s exploring the lagoon’s history or browsing local handicrafts, this tour offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests can also opt to visit Zipaquirá or Nemocón for additional shopping opportunities, making this a well-rounded excursion from Bogotá.

Exploring Guatavita Lagoon

The Guatavita Lagoon lies at the heart of this immersive tour, offering a captivating glimpse into the sacred rituals of the ancient Muisca people. Guests spend up to 3 hours exploring the lagoon’s history and significance, learning about its role in the El Dorado legend.

Significance of Guatavita Lagoon
Site of Muisca rituals and ceremonies	Home to gold artifacts and offerings	Inspiration for the El Dorado legend	Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site	Stunning natural beauty and tranquil setting

Visitors can admire the stunning natural beauty of the lagoon, surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs. The historical context provided by the knowledgeable guide enhances the experience, offering a deeper understanding of the lagoon’s cultural importance.

Architecture of New Guatavita

After exploring the historic Guatavita Lagoon, the tour takes guests to the charming town of New Guatavita.

This quaint town boasts well-preserved colonial architecture, transporting visitors back in time. The town’s plaza features whitewashed buildings with red-tiled roofs, typical of the region’s style.

Guests can wander the streets, admiring the intricate details and craftsmanship that have been maintained over the centuries. The town’s architectural heritage provides a glimpse into the region’s past, complementing the cultural significance of the nearby Guatavita Lagoon.

This stop on the tour offers a chance to experience the blend of history and modern life that characterizes the Guatavita region.

El Dorado Legend Origins

The Guatavita Lagoon holds a special significance as the birthplace of the legendary El Dorado myth.

According to historical accounts, the indigenous Muisca people conducted an annual ceremony at the lagoon’s shores, where the newly appointed Muisca leader would be covered in gold dust and then dive into the waters as an offering to the gods.

This ritual inspired the myth of a golden king, or "El Dorado," who’d submerge himself in a lake filled with gold.

Over time, the legend of El Dorado grew, fueling expeditions and explorations across South America in search of the elusive city of gold.

Optional Shopping Destinations

On the return journey, the tour may optionally include stops at the charming towns of Zipaquirá or Nemocón, known for their local handicrafts and artisanal goods.

In Zipaquirá, guests can browse colorful stalls selling traditional weavings, pottery, and leather items. The town’s quaint plazas and colonial architecture add to the authentic shopping experience.

Alternatively, Nemocón offers a peek into the region’s indigenous craftsmanship, with vendors showcasing handmade jewelry, wooden carvings, and vibrant textiles.

These optional stops provide an opportunity to take in the local culture and bring home unique souvenirs from the Guatavita tour.

Tour Inclusions and Pricing

The Guatavita Private Tour from Bogotá includes an array of inclusions to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within Bogotá, providing convenient transportation to and from the tour. Lunch is included for the 7 or 9-hour tours, with a vegetarian option available to accommodate dietary needs.

Local taxes and gratuities are also covered, so guests can enjoy the tour without worrying about additional costs. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for travelers.

Guest Reviews and Feedback

Guests have consistently praised the Guatavita Private Tour from Bogotá, awarding it a stellar 5.0 rating based on 9 reviews.

Travelers have highlighted the knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and enjoyable family outings. Reviewers appreciated the historical context provided during the tour and the overall quality of service.

One guest noted, "Our guide was fantastic – very informative and accommodating."

Another remarked, "The Guatavita Lagoon was breathtaking, and learning about the Muisca rituals was fascinating."

Visitors can also take advantage of the free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Total Tour Last?

The total tour lasts 7 hours. It includes 3 hours exploring Guatavita Lagoon, 20 minutes at Plaza Sesquile, and optional stops at Zipaquirá or Nemocón for local shopping. Transportation, lunch, and entrance fees are included.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Needs?

The tour can be customized to individual needs. Guests can opt for additional stops or shorter/longer durations. The private guide is available to tailor the experience based on the traveler’s interests and preferences.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Guatavita?

The best time to visit Guatavita is during the dry season, typically between December and February. This ensures clearer weather and lower water levels, allowing for optimal views of the lagoon and its cultural significance.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?

There are no hidden costs for this tour. The inclusions cover hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, lunch, and local taxes. However, gratuities for the guide are not included in the tour price.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but a lunch is already included in the tour price. Bringing additional snacks or beverages is generally permitted, as long as they don’t disrupt the group.

Recap

This private tour from Bogotá offers an enriching 7-hour experience that immerses travelers in the historical and architectural wonders of the Guatavita region. Guests will explore the legendary Guatavita Lagoon, learn about the origins of the El Dorado myth, and admire the charming colonial architecture of New Guatavita. The tour includes lunch, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation, making it a seamless and culturally rich excursion just outside the capital.